Solar Photovoltaic Installers
Solar photovoltaic (PV) installers assemble, set up, and maintain rooftop or other systems that convert sunlight into energy.
Is solar photovoltaic installers a good career?
It scores 71/100 and ranks #12 of 825 occupations on pay, growth, employment and openings. Here's what the federal data says, with no editorializing.
Advantages
- Faster-than-average projected growth (+42.1% through 2034)
- No college degree typically required to enter
Possible tradeoffs
- Pays below the U.S. median wage ($53,140 vs $61,390)
What solar photovoltaic installers earn
Wages: BLS OEWS May 2025Pay is a range, not a number. Half of U.S. solar photovoltaic installers earn between $46,700 and $62,870 a year.
Best-paying states
Best-paying metros
Strongest employment concentration
Live solar photovoltaic installers jobs
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- Typical education
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Work experience
- None
- On-the-job training
- Moderate-term on-the-job training
- Outlook
- Employment is projected to grow much faster than average through 2034.
Education
PV installers typically need a high school diploma. Some PV installers take courses at local community colleges or technical schools to learn about solar panel installation. Courses range from basic safety and PV knowledge to system design. Although course length varies, most usually last a few days to several months.
Some candidates, especially those with construction experience, enter the field by taking online training courses.
Training
Some PV installers learn their trade on the job by working with experienced installers. On-the-job training usually lasts between 1 month and 1 year. During training, PV installers learn about safety, tools, and PV system installation techniques.
Electrician and roofing apprentices and journey workers may complete photovoltaic-specific training modules through apprenticeships.
Solar PV system manufacturers may also provide training on specific products. Such training usually includes a system overview and proper installation techniques for the manufacturer’s products.
Licenses, certifications & registrations
Some states require a license for PV installers. Contact your state’s licensing board
PV installers must travel to jobsites, so employers may require them to have a driver’s license.
Although not required for employment, certification demonstrates competency in solar panel installation. Some states require that for projects to qualify for solar-related subsidies, all PV installers working on the projects must have certification.
Advancement
PV installers may advance to become a project supervisor or project manager after gaining experience in the trade. PV installers may also transition to sales roles within the industry, given their knowledge of and experience with PV installation. They also may choose to start their own PV installation business.
Important qualities
Ability to work at heights. PV installers often must work on roofs, ladders, or lifts that are far above the ground.
Communication skills. PV installers need to convey information effectively to clients, team members, and other workers.
Detail oriented. PV installers must carefully follow instructions to ensure that the system works properly.
Math skills. PV installers use algebra, geometry, and trigonometry to calculate angles, measurements, and areas.
Mechanical skills. PV installers work with complex electrical and mechanical equipment in order to build support structures for solar panels, connect the panels to the electrical system, and troubleshoot problems.
Physical stamina. PV installers are often on their feet carrying panels and other heavy equipment. Especially when installing rooftop panels, workers may need to climb ladders many times throughout the day.
Physical strength. PV installers must lift heavy equipment and materials weighing up to 60 pounds.
Related occupations
How much do solar photovoltaic installers make?
The national median wage is $53,140 a year, with the middle half earning between $46,700 and $62,870 (BLS OEWS May 2025).
Is solar photovoltaic installers a good career?
On the Jobs.best index it scores 71 of 100 and ranks #12 of 825 occupations, weighing pay, growth, employment and openings. Employment is projected to change +42.1% through 2034.
What education do you need to become a solar photovoltaic installer?
The typical entry-level education is high school diploma or equivalent.
Where do solar photovoltaic installers earn the most?
Among states, New Jersey pays the highest median ($78,950). Local pay for every state and metro is below.