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The solar industry offers a wide range of career opportunities, from installers and engineers to manufacturers. Depending on your area of interest within the industry, you may require different skills, training, or certifications.
Ready to kickstart your career? Continue reading this comprehensive article to discover more about jobs in the solar industry.
Exploring Career Opportunities in the Solar Industry
The solar industry offers diverse career opportunities across multiple sectors, each requiring unique skill sets and levels of education. Here are a few key areas to consider.
Solar Photovoltaic Installers
- Average Salary Range: $17.50 – $25 per hour
- Credentials: Prior related experience, training, or certifications recommended. Some companies may require specific licenses or certifications.
- Job Description: Solar PV installers are responsible for installing solar panels on rooftops. This role is widely available due to the nationwide presence of solar installation companies. Installers handle tasks such as setting up the solar racking system, installing panels, and wiring. They may also work on battery installations, site assessments, and roofing tasks.
Ready to start your career in the solar industry? Keep reading this comprehensive guide to learn more about available jobs and how to get started.
Solar Salesperson
- Average Salary Range: $100,000 – $300,000 (salary + bonuses)
- Credentials: Bachelor’s degree in a related field or relevant experience. Some companies may require extensive training.
- Job Description: A solar salesperson’s primary responsibility is selling their company’s solar products to residential customers. Sales efforts may involve door-to-door visits, scheduled consultations, or telemarketing.
While making sales is crucial, educating customers and having an in-depth understanding of the solar industry is equally important. Many solar sales positions are commission-based, meaning the more you sell, the more you earn.
Solar Research
- Average Salary Range: $73,200 – $120,800+
- Credentials: Bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in a related field
- Job Description: As the solar industry continues to grow, researchers and developers play a crucial role in advancing new technologies. This field includes physicists, chemists, and material scientists who focus on developing theories and making discoveries to enhance solar panel efficiency and improve overall solar technology.
Solar Power Engineering
- Average Salary Range: $100,000 – $140,000+
- Credentials: Bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in engineering or a related field. Depending on the employer or specific engineering discipline, certain licenses or certifications may be required.
- Job Description: Engineers in the solar industry typically work in manufacturing offices, laboratories, or industrial plants. A variety of engineering roles are essential, including:
- Material Engineers
- Chemical Engineers
- Electrical Engineers
- Industrial Engineers
- Mechanical Engineers
- Computer Software Developers
- Engineering Technicians
These engineers are primarily responsible for designing, evaluating, and analyzing new solar products.
Manufacturing
- Average Salary Range: $49,300 – $99,000+
- Credentials: Most positions offer on-the-job training, with some formal training programs required. Management positions may require a college degree.
- Job Description: The manufacturing sector of the solar industry is responsible for producing solar panels and related technology and equipment. This field requires many skilled workers, including tool operators, glaziers, welders, assemblers, and more.
As more solar panel manufacturers plan to open facilities in the United States, manufacturing jobs are set to become more abundant. The coming years present a prime opportunity to enter the solar manufacturing industry.
Average salary rates as of July 2024 according to job search service indeed.com. Keep in mind that starting a career often means lower initial salaries.
Key Skills for a Career in the Solar Industry
Experience and Certifications
Certificates from organizations such as SEI or NABCEP are highly valuable. Moreover, many solar incentives have it among requirements from solar installer, who will install solar panels for you.
Quality Control
Identifying imperfections during installation, manufacturing, or research is crucial for success in the solar industry.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Good communication minimizes mistakes and ensures quality service, whether interacting with customers or collaborating with team members.
Understanding the Industry
In an ever-evolving industry, staying informed about trends, news, and legislation is essential.
Self-Motivation
The drive to pursue extra courses or advanced degrees will set you apart from other candidates. Taking additional steps to enhance your qualifications can only benefit you in the long run.
Is a Career in the Solar Energy Industry a Good Choice?
Absolutely! Working in the solar industry offers numerous advantages, making it a compelling career path for many reasons.
Many roles in the solar industry, such as those in manufacturing, installation, or sales, do not require a college degree to get started. Additionally, solar certification courses are widely available and often can be completed online, making entry into the field more accessible.
For those interested in the development side of solar, more extensive credentials may be required, but the potential rewards can be significant.
In summary, if you’re looking for a career with a strong starting salary in a rapidly growing industry, solar jobs could be an excellent fit for you.
How to Kickstart Your Career in the Solar Industry
If you’ve decided to pursue a career in the solar industry, here’s how to get started:
Choose Your Sector
Decide which area of solar you’re interested in—research, development, manufacturing, or installation. Each sector offers various job opportunities with different education and certification requirements.
Obtain Credentials
Depending on your chosen sector, you may need to pursue specific certifications or a degree. For many roles, certification courses are available, and some positions may require more advanced education.
Gain Experience and Certification
Acquire the necessary experience or credentials to qualify for your desired position.
Start Your Career
With a strong job market and high demand for solar professionals, now is a great time to enter the field.
Don’t hesitate – there are plenty of opportunities in the solar industry waiting for you!
