Solar Installer Career Guide in New Mexico
Explore solar installer salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in New Mexico.
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How to Become a Solar Installer in New Mexico
Solar installers commonly study photovoltaic systems, electrical fundamentals, mounting methods, fall protection, and the National Electrical Code. Technical-college programs, paid electrical apprenticeships, and solar-specific workplace training provide entry routes.
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 New Mexico
The salary figure shown on this page represents the New Mexico 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 New Mexico is approximately $3,370 lower. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Solar Installers in New Mexico
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 New Mexico
Solar installers in New Mexico typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, photovoltaic training, and supervised field experience.
- Study PV modules, inverters, racking, system layout, electrical fundamentals, and the National Electrical Code.
- Practice roof and ground-mount installation, fall protection, electrical safety, and OSHA construction safety procedures.
- Gain hands-on experience through a technical program, solar training project, or paid electrical apprenticeship.
- Perform regulated PV electrical installation under the appropriate New Mexico license and supervision; NABCEP certification alone is not a state contractor license.
Solar Installer Training Providers in New Mexico
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Central New Mexico Community College | Albuquerque | View Program |
| Santa Fe Community College | Santa Fe | View Program |
| Doña Ana Community College | Las Cruces | View Program |
| University of New Mexico Continuing Education | Albuquerque | 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 New Mexico
Electrical Apprenticeship
Organization: Southern New Mexico Independent Electrical Contractors
Solar Installer Licensing Requirements in New Mexico
New Mexico regulates contracting for solar photovoltaic electrical installations. A business bidding or contracting for that work must hold the applicable Construction Industries Division electrical classification, including EE-98 or ER-1. Installation workers may train and work under appropriately licensed supervision; a course certificate or voluntary NABCEP credential does not replace a required state license.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSSolar Installer Job Outlook in New Mexico
Employment for solar photovoltaic installers in New Mexico is projected to grow 48% from 2022 to 2032, with approximately 50 job openings annually.
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 New Mexico?
The statewide median wage for solar installers in New Mexico is approximately $48,490 per year, or $23.31 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does New Mexico require solar installer licensing?
Licensing requirements for solar installer workers in New Mexico vary by work scope, license category, and jurisdiction. Applicants should verify current requirements with New Mexico Construction Industries Division before beginning work or applying for an examination.
How long does it take to become a solar installer in New Mexico?
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 New Mexico?
New Mexico projects solar installer employment to grow by approximately 48% from 2022 to 2032, with about 50 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
- New Mexico Wages for Solar Installer (SOC 47-2231) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. New Mexico Solar Installer Wages
- New Mexico Solar Installer Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. New Mexico Solar Installer Employment Trends
- New Mexico Construction Industries Division — Licensing authority. New Mexico Construction Industries Division