How to Become a Solar Installer
Install and maintain rooftop and ground-mount solar systems in one of the fastest-growing green trades. It typically requires a postsecondary certificate, with a median salary of $53,140 per year and much faster than average projected job growth.
Median pay
$53,140/yr
Job growth
7%
Openings / yr
4,100
Majors that lead here
Common majors include Solar Energy Technology, Electrical Technology, Construction Trades.
Key skills
- PV Installation
- Roof Work Safety
- Electrical Wiring
- System Testing
- Blueprint Reading
Helpful certifications
- NABCEP PV Associate/Installation Professional
Is this career a fit?
Remote-friendly
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Work-life balance
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Stress level
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Satisfaction
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Related careers
- Electrical Engineering Technician$78,190 median
- Mechanical Engineering Technician$74,510 median
- Civil Engineering Technician$64,950 median
- Wind Turbine Technician$64,120 median
- Plumber$63,800 median
- Electrician$63,190 median
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Solar Installer make?
The median pay for a Solar Installer is $53,140 a year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). Actual pay varies with experience, location, and employer.
What degree do you need to become a Solar Installer?
The usual entry point is a postsecondary certificate. Common majors are Solar Energy Technology, Electrical Technology, and Construction Trades.
Is Solar Installer a growing field?
The BLS projects much faster than average demand for this role, about 7% over the decade, with roughly 4,100 U.S. openings a year.
What skills does a Solar Installer use most?
Common skills for this role are PV Installation, Roof Work Safety, Electrical Wiring, System Testing, and Blueprint Reading.
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Take the major quizSalary and job-growth figures: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O*NET OnLine (median annual wages May 2025; employment projections 2024-2034). National figures; actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.