CONSTRUCTION & ARCHITECTURE
BECOME A
Solar Photovoltaic Installer
"The sun provides more energy in an hour than humanity uses in a year. We just have to harness it."
— Dr. Richard Komp
Program Start:
Coming Soon
Program Duration:
TBA
PAY SNAPSHOT
2023 Median National Annual Pay
$48,800
2023 Top Decile National Annual Pay
$73,560
6 Month Advertised Salary Growth
n/a
12 Month Advertised Salary Growth
1%
What Is A Solar Installer?
A Solar Photovoltaic Installer installs solar energy systems, mounting panels on roofs and other surfaces, and handling electrical wiring, battery connections, and inverter installations. They ensure proper system performance, inspect structures, and comply with safety codes, supporting the transition to renewable energy sources. Installers assess site conditions, configure panel placements for maximum efficiency, and maintain system components. They must understand electrical principles, structural integrity, weatherproofing techniques, and grid connection requirements. Installers may also troubleshoot faulty systems and educate clients on solar energy benefits.
What Could I Earn?
National median annual pay (2023) for solar installers in the top industries in which they worked were as follows
How Do I Become A Solar Installer?
Becoming a Solar Photovoltaic Installer requires a combination of education, hands-on experience, and technical skill. These can typically be acquired through a trade school or vocational program, community college, or 4-year university, depending on the breadth of knowledge and experience required. A short curriculum may read as follows:
Solar Energy Fundamentals
Students learn the principles of solar energy, photovoltaic (PV) technology, and system components. Training covers solar panel types, energy conversion, and efficiency optimization.
Battery Storage & Grid Integration
Technicians learn about energy storage systems, grid-tied vs. off-grid setups, and hybrid solar solutions. Training includes working with charge controllers and lithium-ion batteries.
System Design & Installation
Training includes site assessment, load calculations, and system sizing. Students learn to install solar panels, inverters, and mounting structures for residential and commercial applications.
Electrical Wiring & Safety
Students gain expertise in wiring PV systems, working with electrical codes, and ensuring proper grounding. Training covers OSHA safety regulations and handling high-voltage components.
Maintenance & Troubleshooting
Students develop skills in diagnosing system failures, performing routine inspections, and ensuring peak efficiency. Training covers inverter maintenance, wiring checks, and panel cleaning techniques.
Certification & Career Advancement
Students prepare for NABCEP certification, enhancing job prospects. Training includes renewable energy policies, solar industry trends, and career pathways in installation, sales, and system design.
Students learn the principles of solar energy, photovoltaic (PV) technology, and system components. Training covers solar panel types, energy conversion, and efficiency optimization.
Training includes site assessment, load calculations, and system sizing. Students learn to install solar panels, inverters, and mounting structures for residential and commercial applications.
Students gain expertise in wiring PV systems, working with electrical codes, and ensuring proper grounding. Training covers OSHA safety regulations and handling high-voltage components.
Technicians learn about energy storage systems, grid-tied vs. off-grid setups, and hybrid solar solutions. Training includes working with charge controllers and lithium-ion batteries.
Students develop skills in diagnosing system failures, performing routine inspections, and ensuring peak efficiency. Training covers inverter maintenance, wiring checks, and panel cleaning techniques.
Students prepare for NABCEP certification, enhancing job prospects. Training includes renewable energy policies, solar industry trends, and career pathways in installation, sales, and system design.
What Could I Earn?
National median annual pay (2023) for solar installers in the top industries in which they worked were as follows
$50,660
Utilities
$50,420
Plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning contractors
$49,780
Power and communication line and related structures construction
$49,560
Electrical contractors and other wiring installation contractors
What Skills Are Important?
Solar Photovoltaic Installer
Valid Driver's License
# of Trailing 5 Month Job Postings:
2,113
A valid driver's license is an official documentation that certifies an individual's ability to operate a motor vehicle on public roads. It is issued by a government agency after an individual passes a driving test and meets certain requirements such as age, vision, and knowledge of traffic laws.
Troubleshooting (Problem Solving)
# of Trailing 5 Month Job Postings:
1,760
Troubleshooting is the skill of identifying, analyzing, and resolving issues. It’s crucial for overcoming challenges, improving processes, and achieving goals in work and life by diagnosing causes and implementing effective solutions.
Solar Energy Systems Installation
# of Trailing 5 Month Job Postings:
1,579
Solar energy systems installation is a specialized skill that involves setting up solar panels and equipment to generate electricity. It requires expertise in electrical work, roofing, and construction to ensure safe, effective, and professional implementation.
Roofing
# of Trailing 5 Month Job Postings:
1,498
Roofing is a specialized skill that involves installing, repairing, and maintaining roofs using various materials and techniques. It ensures durability, functionality, and protection from weather, enhancing a property's value, energy efficiency, and safety.
Communication
# of Trailing 5 Month Job Postings:
1,489
Communication is the skill of conveying information clearly and collaborating effectively. It simplifies complex ideas for diverse audiences, fostering understanding, problem-solving, and cooperation in personal, academic, and professional settings.
How Are Job Postings Trending?
Solar Photovoltaic Installer
What Industries Are Experiencing Growth?
Solar Photovoltaic Installer
Utilities
185
Postings
6%
Change from last year
Specialty Trade Contractors
93
Postings
7%
Change from last year
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
57
Postings
68%
Change from last year
Administrative and Support Services
35
Postings
-75%
Change from last year
Merchant Wholesalers, Durable Goods
22
Postings
29%
Change from last year
Construction of Buildings
18
Postings
-36%
Change from last year
Heavy and Civil Engineering Construction
16
Postings
-56%
Change from last year
Repair and Maintenance
8
Postings
-65%
Change from last year
Building Material and Garden Equipment and Supplies Dealers
7
Postings
-22%
Change from last year
Educational Services
7
Postings
250%
Change from last year
What Industries Are Experiencing Growth?
Solar Photovoltaic Installer
Top Companies
Where Are The Top Companies Hiring?
Solar Photovoltaic Installer
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