U.S. Skilled Trade Career Profile
Solar Installer Career Guide
Start your career as a skilled Solar Installer in the United States
Updated Reviewed by Career In Trades Editorial Team
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Career Overview
Solar photovoltaic installers assemble, install, test, and maintain systems that convert sunlight into electricity. They work on residential and commercial rooftops, ground-mounted arrays, and utility-scale solar projects.
Installers measure and assemble mounting structures, position PV modules, apply weather sealing, install permitted interconnect wiring, and test system components. Depending on state law and the scope of the project, licensed electricians may complete service-panel, building electrical, or utility-grid connections.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics tracks this occupation as SOC 47-2231, Solar Photovoltaic Installers. The occupation is growing quickly, although the national workforce remains relatively small compared with larger construction trades.
What Does a Solar Installer Do
- Install PV modules, racking, interconnect wiring, and support structures
- Check wiring, polarity, grounding, and equipment operation within the installer’s permitted scope
- Coordinate utility-grid and building electrical connections with licensed electricians when required
How to Become a Solar Installer
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Earn a High School Diploma or GED
Complete high school or GED. Focus on math, physics, and basic electrical knowledge.
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Join Solar or Electrical Training Program
Enroll in solar installation training or electrical apprenticeship programs that cover photovoltaic systems.
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Gain Hands-On Installation Experience
Work under experienced solar installers to learn rooftop installation, wiring, and system setup.
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Learn Electrical Safety and Certifications
Voluntary industry credentials, including eligible NABCEP credentials, may demonstrate competency or satisfy certain employer, customer, or incentive-program requirements. They do not replace state or local licenses where those licenses are required.
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Start Working as a Solar Installer
Begin working in solar installation companies or electrical contracting firms installing PV systems.
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Advance to Senior Installer or Solar Technician
With experience, installers may advance to lead installer, crew supervisor, project manager, operations and maintenance technician, site assessor, system designer, or solar sales roles. Becoming an electrical or engineering professional requires additional education, training, and licensing where applicable.
Skills & Requirements
- Electrical wiring and system connection skills
- Roofing and structural installation knowledge
- Solar PV system installation
- Blueprint and site plan reading
- OSHA safety compliance (roof work safety)
- Troubleshooting electrical systems
- Physical stamina and outdoor work ability
Salary Breakdown
Entry-level and experienced salary figures are approximate national estimates intended to illustrate potential earning progression. Actual pay varies by location, experience, licensing level, union status, industry, employer, and overtime. The salary figure shown at the top of this page is the May 2024 national median annual wage reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Job Outlook & Demand
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment of solar photovoltaic installers to grow 42% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Employment is projected to increase from approximately 28,600 jobs in 2024 to 40,600 jobs in 2034, an increase of about 12,000 jobs. Around 4,100 openings are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many openings are expected to result from both employment growth and the need to replace workers who leave the occupation.
Continued adoption of residential, commercial, and utility-scale solar PV systems is expected to support demand. Falling equipment costs, solar leasing, state and local incentives, and the need to install and maintain new systems may contribute to growth. Demand can vary significantly by location, permitting rules, utility policy, incentives, construction activity, and interest rates.
Work Environment
Solar installers work primarily outdoors on rooftops, construction sites, and solar farms.
The job involves working at heights, exposure to weather conditions, and physical labor.
Safety training is critical due to electrical systems and rooftop installation risks.
Examples of Major Employers
Sunrun
LocationSan Francisco, California
Tesla Energy
LocationAustin, Texas
First Solar
LocationTempe, Arizona
Freedom Forever
LocationTemecula, California
Sunnova Energy
LocationHouston, Texas
Enphase Energy
LocationFremont, California
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a solar installer?
On-the-job training usually lasts from 1 month to 1 year. Short technical courses may last from a few days to several months, while electrical or roofing apprenticeships take longer because they cover a broader trade.
Do solar installers need a license?
Requirements vary by state, locality, and job scope. Some jurisdictions require a solar or electrical license, and licensed electricians may be required to complete certain grid or building electrical connections. Employers may also require a valid driver’s license.
Can I become a solar installer without college?
Yes. Most installers learn through trade schools or on-the-job training.
What is the average salary of a solar installer?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median annual wage for solar photovoltaic installers was $51,860 in May 2024. Actual pay varies by location, industry, experience, project type, and electrical qualifications.
Is solar installation a good career in 2026?
Solar installation may be a good fit for people who enjoy outdoor, physical, and construction-related work. Employment is projected to grow 42% from 2024 to 2034, but workers should also consider travel, weather exposure, heavy lifting, roof work, fall hazards, and electrical risks.
Career Data Sources
Career information is reviewed using government, certification, and industry sources. Data may change after publication.
- Solar Photovoltaic Installers — Occupational Outlook Handbook — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (Data: May 2024 wages; 2024–2034 projections) Supports: Median annual wage, employment, job growth, annual openings, training duration, licensing, duties, work environment, safety risks, advancement, and employing industries. Accessed July 22, 2026.
- 47-2231.00 — Solar Photovoltaic Installers — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor (Data: Updated 2026) Supports: Occupation mapping, reported job titles, PV installation duties, minor electrical work, system testing, safety tasks, tools, skills, and work context. Accessed July 22, 2026.
Note: Salary figures displayed on this page use the national median annual wage reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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