Solar Installer: A Career Choice That's Both Environmentally Friendly and Highly Paid
As the world pays more attention to renewable energy, the solar industry is growing rapidly, and the demand for solar installers continues to rise. Solar installers are responsible for installing and maintaining solar panel systems to ensure that residential, commercial and industrial buildings can effectively utilize solar energy. Due to the promotion of green energy and government policy support, the prospects for this industry are very optimistic.
his article will take you to understand the employment situation, salary and benefits, work content, career challenges and opportunities of solar installers, and help you find a suitable solar installation position.
Employment Demand and Growth
The employment prospects of solar installers are very optimistic, especially in the context of the government and enterprises vigorously promoting renewable energy policies, the solar industry has a strong growth momentum. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in the solar installer industry is expected to continue to grow in the next few years. It is expected that by 2033, the employment of solar installers will increase by about 48% , which is much higher than the average for all occupations. There are an average of 4,100 job vacancies for solar photovoltaic installers each year
This growth is mainly driven by the following factors:
• Government policy support: Federal, state and local government incentives for solar energy investment and subsidies
• Green building demand for businesses and homes: More and more companies and households choose to install solar energy systems to reduce energy costs and carbon emissions.
• Increasing awareness of energy independence and environmental protection: As people's awareness of environmental protection increases, solar energy has gradually become a mainstream energy choice.
Salary and Benefits
The salary level of solar installers is relatively stable, and as the industry grows, the salary is also rising. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary of solar installers in 2023 is about $53,140 .
• Apprentice/Assistant: Solar installers as apprentices or assistants have an annual salary of about $30,000-$35,000 .
• Entry-level salary: New solar installers typically make around $35,000 - $40,000 per year.
• Experienced solar installers: Experienced solar installers, especially those with advanced skills or in leadership positions, typically make $60,000 - $70,000 per year. Salaries can be higher in areas with high demand.
The solar industry sometimes offers additional benefits and subsidies, especially for large-scale commercial projects and highly skilled positions.
Job Responsibilities
Install and connect solar panels, inverters, battery storage systems and other solar components.
Measure and plan the installation location of solar systems to ensure optimal energy output.
Handle electrical wiring and electrical systems during installation to ensure safe operation of the system.
Perform system tests to ensure the performance and safety of solar systems.
Regularly maintain and inspect installed solar systems to ensure their efficient operation.
Provide system operation training and usage guides to customers to ensure that they can use solar systems efficiently and safely.
Solar Installer Education and Training
Becoming a solar installer usually requires certain professional training and experience accumulation:
Generally speaking, the requirements to become a roofer are not high. There are no age and experience restrictions, but most people need to receive professional technical training.
• Vocational training (paid training): Many solar installers obtain the required skills by attending vocational schools, technical colleges, or apprenticeship programs. Solar installation apprenticeships usually last 1 to 2 years, during which time apprentices will perform practical operations under the guidance of experienced installers. Apprentices receive training and gain practical work experience while receiving a generous salary.
• Certification: Although not mandatory, obtaining certification is very important to improve employment opportunities. There are some solar industry certification programs in the United States, such as the North American Association of Solar Energy (NABCEP) certification. This type of certification can prove that you have professional knowledge and skills, which is a very recognized qualification in the solar industry and may help improve employment opportunities and salary levels.
• Electrical background: People with a background in electrical engineering or electricians may have an advantage when entering the solar industry, especially in the process of connecting solar panels to the electrical system, where electrician skills are very important.
Job Challenges and Opportunities
• Challenges: Solar installers' work usually needs to be carried out outdoors and may face unstable weather conditions such as heat, cold, rain and snow. In addition, high-altitude work and electrical system connections during installation also increase risks, so safety requirements are very high.
• Career Development: With the accumulation of experience, solar installers can be promoted from ordinary installers to senior technicians, project managers, or become self-employed solar experts. For those with an electrical engineering background, it is also possible to enter higher-level positions such as solar system design and engineers.
• Innovation opportunities: As solar technology continues to develop, new solar solutions (such as rooftop integrated solar systems, more efficient designs of solar panels, etc.) continue to emerge. Solar installers need to keep up with the pace of technological development, learn new technologies, and apply them to practical work.
Do you want to find a job as a solar installer?
Solar installers are a promising and competitively paid career, especially with the global trend of transitioning to renewable energy, demand is increasing. If you are interested in this industry, you can visit the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), SunPower and Craigslist (local recruitment platform). Through these websites, you can find the latest solar installer career recruitment information and apprentice recruitment information, understand the application process and join the relevant apprenticeship training program.