Career path
Solar Technician
Power the clean energy revolution
Solar techs install, maintain, and repair photovoltaic systems on homes and commercial buildings. One of the fastest-growing trades in America with 25%+ annual growth.
Median salary
$52,400
Job growth
+25%
Training time
3–6 months program
Work style
Hands-on skilled work
Next step
Turn this career path into a practical next step.
Use this page to understand the work, then compare training programs or look for real jobs and apprenticeships connected to this direction.
Earning potential
$36,000 – $82,000
Pay can vary by region, experience, certifications, union status, employer, and whether the worker becomes self-employed.
Typical preparation timeline
3–6 months program
Day in the life
What the work can look like
Install a rooftop solar array on a residential home, test inverters and connections, commission the system, meet with a homeowner to explain their new setup.
Key skills
- Panel installation
- Electrical basics
- Roofing
- System design
- Safety
Credentials to research
- NABCEP PV Installation
- OSHA 10
- First Aid/CPR
Common work settings
- SunPower
- Sunrun
- Tesla Energy
- Local solar companies
Why this path can be a good fit
- Fastest-growing trade
- Shorter training time
- Green energy mission
- Growing pay
- Tech-forward work
Things to consider
- Rooftop work risks
- Market depends on incentives
- Summer heat
Career seeker next step
Compare preparation options before applying.
Once a career path looks promising, compare training programs, build your readiness profile, and then review real jobs or apprenticeships that fit your direction.