Entry-level Solar Installer
A Comprehensive Guide to the job of an entry-level Solar Installer / PV Installer
A Solar Basic Installer or Assembler is responsible for installing and assembling solar panels on residential, commercial and industrial properties. This involves preparing the site, laying out panels, wiring and connecting components, and ensuring that the system is properly installed and functioning. You may also see titles such as “Solar Laborer” as you are searching for jobs.
Overview of the Entry-level Solar Installer Job
There is tremendous growth in demand for skilled workers in the field of solar energy. The most common entry-level position is that of a Solar Basic Installer or Assembler, which can be a stepping stone to becoming a solar power expert.
Entry-level Solar Installer Salary
This is an entry-level job to get into the solar industry and most organizations are willing to take you on if you have some experience in construction and demonstrate strong interest and knowledge in construction. As such, you should generally expect to receive less than the national median annual salary for a PV installer, which is $45,230 with a distribution depending on location and experience from $35,520 in the lowest 10% of salaries to $63,330 in the top 10% of salaries per the BLS 2022 data. With hard work and experience, you can expect to progres an become a leading PV installer within your org
Common Entry-level Solar Installer Job Descriptions
The key responsibilities of a Solar Basic Installer or Assembler include:
Site Preparation: This involves preparing the site for installation, which may involve cleaning the area, laying down protective coverings, and ensuring that the site is safe for workers.
Panel Layout and Assembly: The installer will be responsible for laying out the panels and assembling them in a manner that ensures optimal performance and longevity.
Wiring and Connections: The installer will be responsible for wiring and connecting the panels to the inverter and other components, ensuring that the system is properly connected and functioning.
System Testing and Maintenance: Once the system is installed, the installer will be responsible for testing the system to ensure it is working properly, and performing routine maintenance to ensure that the system continues to function optimally.
Entry-level Solar Installer Job and Skill Requirements
To become a Solar Basic Installer or Assembler, there are several requirements that must be met, but more than anything, you’ll need to demonstrate that you’ve done research to understand how solar panels work and that you are a hard worker that is willing to learn. These include:
Construction Experience: Generally, companies are willing to hire inexperienced workers, but you’ll want to have experience or show that you know your way around a construction site and how to use a variety of tools ranging from hand tools, pumps, drills, jackhammers, and more. Be able to speak to a passion project you’ve built in your backyard if nothing else.
Electrical Skills: The installer must have a basic understanding of electrical wiring and connections, as well as a knowledge of the different components that make up a solar energy system.
Strong Teamwork: You’ll be working day in day out with your team and dealing with difficult challenges. You can keep a problem-solving attitude
Physical Fitness: As the job involves working at heights and in outdoor environments, a certain level of physical fitness is required.
Safety Training: As the job involves working at heights and with electrical components, it is important that the installer has received proper safety training.
What's the day-to-day of an entry-level Solar Installer?
A day in the life of a Solar Basic Installer or Assembler typically involves a routine schedule, but a variety of projects. Residential installations generally take less than a week (and can even be done in 1 day), so you’ll quickly build a muscle like a PV installer.
Typical daily schedules:
Traveling to worksite with your team after preparing and organizing any materials that need to be transported
Working closely with the lead PV installers and project managers on site who will guide you through the detailed project and site requirements for the installing
Preparing the site for installation, laying out and assembling the panels, wiring and connecting components, and testing the system to ensure it is functioning properly.
Lifting and carefully placing the solar panels on rooftops, ensuring you’ve followed directions and project plan
Preparing for the following day if the project has not been completed by gathering materials, covering, and storing them in an organized fashion
Cleaning and organizing the site after an installation is complete.
Job Outlook beyond entry-level Solar Installers
This is an incredible entry-level position in a booming industry which is forecasted to more than double in number of employees over the next decade. Beginning as a solar installer/assembler will give you many opportunities discussed below.
Career Opportunities for Solar Installers
Once you have gained experience as a Solar Basic Installer or Assembler, there are many career opportunities available, including becoming a Lead Installer, Project Manager, or Sales Representative. With continued education and training, there is also the potential to advance into more technical roles, such as a Systems Designer or Engineer.
As this is an entry-role, absorb as much information and knowledge from all your teammates on site. You’ll see all sorts of challenges that will stick with you throughout your career in solar and the on the ground experience will be invaluable to further your career.
How to get your first job as a solar installer
The best way to find a job as a Solar Basic Installer or Assembler is to network with those in the industry, attend job fairs, and search for job listings on industry-specific job boards like Work in Solar. You should also reach out to local solar energy companies and inquire about any available positions. In addition, obtaining certification through organizations such as the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) can also increase your chances of finding a job in the industry. As you’re job hunting, be sure to read about the technology online. There are invaluable solar courses online like Coursera’s Solar Energy Basics that will show your enthusiasm for getting into the industry.
How to keep learning more
Starting your solar career as a Solar Basic Installer or Assembler offers a wealth of opportunities for those interested in the renewable energy sector. With a positive job outlook, opportunities for advancement, and the chance to work on exciting and impactful projects, this entry-level position is well worth considering for anyone interested in a career in the solar industry.