EV Charger Installer

Working Schedule

• EV Charger Installers may work full- or part-time, and they could be called in to fix problems at any time.  

Typical Duties

• Respond to work request calls and emails
• Travel to different locations to review work sites and determine any special needs
• Install Level 1, Level 2, or Level 3 (DC fast charging) station equipment, as applicable 
• Configure and troubleshoot charging station software
• Connect smart chargers to a network. Configure devices using routers, modems, or cellular signal repeaters
• Help wireless carriers establish Virtual Private Networks 
• Perform testing of circuits and insulation
• Work with EV Charger Technicians during installations or maintenance 
• Find and isolate ground faults
• Conduct electrical and mechanical preventative maintenance and repairs
• Determine causes of network connection failures
• Correct issues related to credit card payment systems
• Fix or replace broken screens and damaged plugs
• Investigate power disruptions
• Follow maintenance schedules 
• Discuss home installation needs with homeowners 
• Ensure work orders are done in a timely fashion

Additional Responsibilities

• Assess safety hazards at job sites and fill out the necessary documentation 
• Document all work done and generate service reports for employers or customers
• Respond to unplanned/emergency issues 
• Stay familiar with the employer’s portfolio of equipment and accessories
• Upgrade equipment when requested
• Demonstrate and sell equipment to customers, as authorized
• Stay up to date on changes in software and technology

Soft Skills

• Attention to detail
• Compliance-oriented 
• Critical thinking
• Independent
• Initiative
• Normal color vision
• Organized
• Problem-solving
• Quality assurance
• Reliable
• Resourcefulness 
• Results-driven
• Safety conscious 
• Self-sufficient 
• Stamina
• Strong communication skills 
• Time management

Technical Skills

• Training in electricity and electrical systems
• Ability to understand technical books 
• Familiarity with EV software, E3 wireworks, and Visio
• Familiarity with Computerized Maintenance Management Systems

• General knowledge of lithium-ion batteries
• Knowledge of tools such as power analyzers, multimeters, cable crimpers, cutters, plyers, soldering irons, ohmmeters, voltmeters, and EV charging test sets
• Knowledge of equipment like routers, modems, or cellular signal repeaters
• Knowledge of OSHA safety (Lockout/Tagout, or LOTO, Arc Flash, JHA/JSA)

• Private companies 
• Government agencies 

EV Charger Installers must drive to different locations to perform work, either installing public charging station equipment or private chargers for home use. Many installers also do repair and maintenance work, which can require responding to after-hours problems. 

Stations are often outdoors, so installers must be ready to work in all sorts of weather conditions. Because they’re working with high voltages and currents, they need to be very cautious, wear appropriate personal protective equipment, and follow OSHA and manufacturer safety guidelines to avoid mishaps, injuries, or worse! 

There isn’t much standardization when it comes to EV charging stations, which is a problem for the entire industry. As S&P Global highlights, “the lack of a standard governing how EVs from different manufacturers can use the same charging networks are draining energy from the goal of juicing up any car at stations across the U.S.” This problem makes it challenging to train for a career in EV Charger Installation, as installers need to learn the ins and outs of different equipment makes and models they deal with. 

The job outlook for EV Charger Installers looks bright, considering McKinsey research suggests the US needs 28 million private EV chargers by 2030. But just adding more stations isn’t enough. Auto consumers and industry experts are concerned about interoperability and the number of different charging systems that aren’t compatible with every vehicle. Customers are weary of buying EVs and driving great distances if there isn’t a reliable network of stations with plugs that will fit their vehicle. 

EV Charger Installers are electricians, so they may have enjoyed working with electrical gadgets or computers growing up. They might have been hands-on tinkerers whose hobbies kept their attention focused on detail-oriented work. Because of the physical requirements of this job, they could have developed stamina from exercising or playing sports in their youth.