Solar Technician Trades

Updated April 13, 2025 | Brad Fishbein

Solar technicians are powering the future—literally. As demand for renewable energy grows, solar installers are becoming essential to the shift toward sustainable living. If you want a hands-on job with purpose and strong long-term growth, solar may be the right path for you.

What Do Solar Technicians Do?

Also known as photovoltaic (PV) installers, solar techs set up and maintain systems that convert sunlight into electricity. Common responsibilities include:

Installing solar panels on roofs or ground systems
Connecting PV systems to electrical infrastructure
Performing routine inspections and maintenance
Troubleshooting and replacing faulty components
Educating clients on system usage and care

Solar techs may work in residential, commercial, agricultural, or off-grid settings.

Salary & Job Outlook

Role	Median Salary	Job Growth (2024–2032)
Entry-Level Installer	$40,000–$50,000	🌱 Growing
Certified PV Installer	$50,000–$60,000	🔋 Very High
Lead Installer / Solar Electrician	$65,000–$80,000+	☀️ Explosive Growth

📊 According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, solar installer jobs are projected to grow 22% from 2024 to 2032—one of the fastest-growing trades.

How to Become a Solar Technician

Here’s the typical path to entering the solar trade:

Graduate high school or earn a GED
Complete a solar installation training program (3–9 months)
Earn OSHA and NABCEP certifications (recommended)
Gain experience on job sites through entry-level work or apprenticeships
Advance into leadership or electrical licensing tracks

State Licensing & Requirements

Each state has different requirements for solar technicians.

We’ve written state-by-state guides that walk you through exactly what’s required.

State	Step-by-Step Guide
Florida	Become a Solar Technician in Florida
Texas	Become a Solar Technician in Texas
California	Become a Solar Technician in California

Explore more: All State Licensing Pages »

Training Options

Solar techs train through:

Solar Trade Schools or Community Colleges
Online PV training programs with hands-on labs
Contractor-sponsored apprenticeships

💡 Many programs are eligible for green energy grants and tuition aid.

Certifications & Licensing

While not federally required, certifications boost your career:

NABCEP PV Installation Professional Certification
OSHA 10 or 30 for jobsite safety
State electrical licenses for those working with wiring

Skills Needed

Basic electrical and mechanical aptitude
Comfort working outdoors and at heights
Problem-solving and critical thinking
Familiarity with tools, schematics, and meters
Customer service and teamwork

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Fast-growing, purpose-driven career
Low barrier to entry with quick training options
Opportunities to grow into electrical or project management roles
Contributes to sustainability and clean energy

Cons:

Physically demanding, especially on rooftops
Weather can affect work conditions
Certification costs and licensing may be needed

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Meet the author: Brad Fishbein is a Florida Licensed Mold Assessor and council-certified Microbial Investigator. He’s the founder of TradeCareerPath.com and has completed over 5,000 mold inspections since 2009. Brad now helps homeowners and tradespeople make smart decisions about mold, licensing, and skilled career paths.