EvergreenJobs
Solar & EnergySkilledInstallation

Solar Installer

You mount racking, set panels, and land basic connections. This is the backbone role of the industry and the fastest route to a real trade wage.

What you'd actually do

  • Lay out and mount racking to spec
  • Set and secure modules
  • Make module-level DC connections
  • Flash and seal roof penetrations

The facts

Training time
6-12 months
Experience expected
6 months to 1 year
Physical demand
high
Room to advance
strong
Path to ownership
moderate
Level
Skilled

Work environment

Outdoors · Rooftops · Physical · Team-based

Skills

Core to the job

  • Hand & power tools
  • Measuring & layout
  • Ladder & roof work
  • Jobsite safety
  • PV system knowledge
  • Waterproofing & sealing

Helps you stand out

  • Electrical fundamentals
  • Blueprint & plan reading
  • Troubleshooting

Education & credentials

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Employer training or short course
  • OSHA 10/30Commonly expected
  • NABCEP PV AssociateCommonly expected

    Optional, but respected by employers.

Licensing rules vary by state, county, and job scope. Always confirm what applies where you plan to work.

Shortest route from the ground up

The usual ladder people climb to reach this role.

  1. Solar Installer Helper
  2. Solar Installer

Where this leads

Lead Installer / Crew Lead

Solar & EnergyLead

You run the crew and own the install. Quality, safety, and hitting the day's plan are yours.

Training:
2-4 years from entry
Experience:
2-4 years
View path

Solar Service Technician

Solar & EnergySkilled

You diagnose underperforming systems and fix them. Steady year-round work as the installed base keeps growing.

Training:
1-2 years
Experience:
1-3 years
View path

Electrical Apprentice

Solar & EnergyEntry level

A paid apprenticeship: you earn while you learn one of the most portable trades there is. Works in solar, renovation, agriculture, and industrial.

Training:
4-5 year apprenticeship
Experience:
None
View path

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