Solar Installer Career Guide in Michigan
Explore solar installer salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Michigan.
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How to Become a Solar Installer in Michigan
Michigan solar installers commonly enter through electrical technology programs, renewable-energy courses, registered electrical apprenticeships, or employer-provided installation training. OSHA fall-protection, electrical-safety, roof-access, and manufacturer-equipment training are strongly recommended.
Note: Training pathways vary by employer, program sponsor, and licensing category. Classroom education may provide useful technical preparation, but it does not automatically replace supervised work experience unless the applicable licensing authority specifically allows that credit.
Solar Installer Salary in Michigan
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Michigan median wage for solar installer workers, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational wage data. A median wage is the point at which half of workers earn more and half earn less. It is not a guaranteed starting salary.
Actual earnings may vary by experience, license level, metropolitan area, employer, industry, overtime, and union agreement.
Compared with the national median of $51,860, the median wage in Michigan is approximately $4,780 lower. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Solar Installers in Michigan
Note: Licensing rules, fees, examinations, exemptions, and renewal requirements may change. Applicants should verify current requirements directly with the authority listed above before beginning work, applying for an examination, or enrolling in a training program.
CAREER PREPARATIONSolar Installer Training Requirements in Michigan
Solar installers in Michigan generally need a high school diploma or equivalent and technical instruction in photovoltaic systems, construction safety, roof work, and basic electricity.
- Complete solar photovoltaic, electrical technology, or renewable-energy coursework.
- Receive supervised field training in system layout, racking, module installation, grounding, testing, and commissioning.
- Complete OSHA construction and fall-protection training before performing rooftop work.
- Electrical wiring and grid connections must be completed by or under the supervision of appropriately licensed electrical personnel.
- NABCEP PV Associate or PV Installation Professional certification is voluntary but can improve employment opportunities.
Solar Installer Training Providers in Michigan
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Lansing Community College | Lansing | View Program |
| Grand Rapids Community College | Grand Rapids | View Program |
| Henry Ford College | Dearborn | View Program |
| Northwestern Michigan College | Traverse City | View Program |
Note: Program availability, admission requirements, tuition, and credit toward licensing requirements may change. Verify current details directly with the provider and the applicable state licensing authority before enrolling. Listings are informational and do not constitute rankings or endorsements.
PAID TRAINING OPPORTUNITIESSolar Installer Apprenticeship Programs in Michigan
Detroit Electrical Industry Training Center Apprenticeship
Organization: IBEW Local 58 / NECA
Michigan Registered Apprenticeship Opportunities
Organization: Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity
Solar Installer Licensing Requirements in Michigan
Michigan does not issue a separate solar-installer license. However, photovoltaic wiring, connections, and other regulated electrical work must be performed by or under the supervision of a Michigan-licensed electrician. An electrical contractor license is generally required for businesses contracting to perform electrical work.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSSolar Installer Job Outlook in Michigan
Michigan projects employment for solar photovoltaic installers to increase from approximately 200 workers in 2022 to 250 in 2032, representing 25% growth and about 30 annual openings.
Note: State employment projections may use a different base period from national BLS projections. Projected growth is an estimate rather than a guarantee of employment, and local demand may vary by metropolitan area, industry, construction activity, and employer investment.
CAREER QUESTIONSFrequently Asked Questions
What is the solar installer salary in Michigan?
The statewide median wage for solar installers in Michigan is approximately $47,080 per year, or $22.63 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Michigan require solar installer licensing?
Yes. Michigan requires individuals performing regulated, non-exempt solar installer work to hold the appropriate license or credential. Applicants should verify the current license category, experience, examination, and renewal requirements with Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs — Electrical Division.
How long does it take to become a solar installer in Michigan?
The time required depends on the license pathway and training program. A typical training pathway takes approximately Up to 1 Year, although licensing, apprenticeship, and employer requirements may differ.
Are solar installers in demand in Michigan?
Michigan projects solar installer employment to grow by approximately 25% from 2022 to 2032, with about 30 openings per year. Projections include both new positions and openings created when workers leave the occupation.
Career Data Sources
State wage, employment outlook, and licensing information is reviewed using government and official regulatory sources. Data and requirements may change after publication.
- May 2024 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. May 2024 State OEWS
- Michigan Wages for Solar Installer (SOC 47-2231) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Michigan Solar Installer Wages
- Michigan Solar Installer Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Michigan Solar Installer Employment Trends
- Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs — Electrical Division — Licensing authority. Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs — Electrical Division