Solar Installation Instructor ​/ Technical Trainer

Description

AOE International is a nonprofit organization focused on community support, workforce development and education. We partner with public agencies, employers and community organizations to expand access to career training, industry credentials and employment opportunities.

Our workforce-development programs prepare participants for sustainable careers in construction, clean energy and related skilled trades.

AOE International is seeking an experienced Solar Installation Instructor / Technical Trainer to provide hands-on solar installation and construction-trades training to adult learners at the Vienna Correctional Center in Vienna, Illinois.

The instructor will prepare students for entry-level employment in the solar and clean-energy industries by teaching the fundamentals of photovoltaic systems, jobsite safety, construction skills, tools, equipment and workplace expectations. The position combines classroom instruction, instructor-led demonstrations and supervised hands-on training.

The ideal candidate is an experienced solar installer, lead installer, foreman, electrician, site supervisor or technical trainer who enjoys developing new workers and sharing practical industry knowledge. Formal classroom teaching experience is welcomed but is not required for candidates who have experience training apprentices, new installers or field crews.

This position offers an opportunity for an experienced solar professional to transition from full-time field production, roof work or project travel into a stable training role while helping prepare the next generation of clean-energy workers.

• Deliver classroom and hands-on instruction covering the fundamentals of residential and commercial solar photovoltaic installation.
• Teach students how solar energy systems operate, including the basic functions of modules, racking systems, inverters, wiring, disconnects, batteries and balance-of-system components.
• Introduce students to the major career paths within the solar and clean-energy industries.
• Demonstrate proper methods for measuring, laying out, assembling and installing solar mounting and racking systems.
• Provide instruction in basic electrical concepts, including voltage, current, resistance, series and parallel circuits, grounding and electrical safety.
• Teach students how to identify and safely handle common solar installation tools, materials and equipment.
• Introduce students to system plans, electrical diagrams, equipment specifications, installation manuals and construction drawings.
• Explain basic site-assessment considerations, including roof condition, orientation, shading, structural limitations and equipment placement.
• Teach proper wire management, equipment labeling, system inspection and quality-control practices.
• Provide introductory instruction in system testing, commissioning, maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Connect technical instruction to current solar-industry practices, employer expectations and entry-level job opportunities.

• Deliver applicable NCCER Core curriculum, including basic safety, construction math, hand and power tools, construction drawings, communication, employability skills and material handling.
• Prepare students to complete required written assessments and hands-on performance profiles.
• Deliver or support OSHA-10 Construction or General Industry training in accordance with program and authorized-trainer requirements.
• Deliver or coordinate First Aid/CPR instruction and skills assessments leading to a recognized certification.
• Align lesson plans, hands-on activities and assessments with applicable credentialing standards and clean-energy workforce-program requirements.
• Prepare printed instructional packets and independent assignments to support continuity of learning during facility lockdowns or scheduling interruptions.

• Plan and supervise realistic solar installation exercises in a controlled training environment.
• Demonstrate proper use of personal protective equipment, fall-protection equipment, ladders,…