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With more than 4.2 million homes adopting solar technology, there is a high demand for solar installation technicians.
Nearly 105-126 million solar panels need to be installed nationwide yearly.
As you can see, there is a high demand for the job, which makes it a perfect career choice.
Below, we’ll walk you through the steps you’ll need to take to become a solar installation technician.
Steps to Become a Solar Installation Technician
The steps to becoming a solar installation technician will depend on a few factors, mainly because there are a few ways.
For example, some may have on-the-job training, while others may attend a certificate program or related field.
No matter which route you take, you’ll be able to work as a solar installation technician in the industry.
Solar Installation Technician Certificate
While not required, a solar installation technician certificate can be a good way to get into the field.
Some states require that those working as installers have the certificate, while other states only require an electrical license or training.
To be sure, you’ll need to first check your state’s laws and regulations.
Step 1: Meet Minimum Requirements
Many companies in the United States require solar installation techs to be at least 18 years of age due to the technicality of the job.
In addition, companies will also want to see a high school diploma or relevant education.
Other than that, the job is physically demanding and requires those applying to be physically fit.
Step 2: Attend Prerequisite Courses
Not all certificate programs will require prior courses, but some might.
Courses that require prerequisites generally cover advanced topics.
So, if you want to apply to a certificate program, be sure to check to see if you need to take any courses prior.
Step 3: Enroll in an Accredited Program
The third step to becoming a solar installation technician is to enroll in an accredited program.
An accredited program allows you to sit for certification, which is the best method to demonstrate competency.
Solar installation technicians will learn critical skills for working in the solar industry.
Accredited programs will require a minimum of 10 hours of OSHA construction industry safety training, solar energy training, and other installation basics.
Aside from that, students will need to pass the written exam which is given at the end of the course.
It is necessary to get a certificate of completion before attempting to get certified through the NABCEP.
Step 4: Pass the NABCEP Certification Exam
The NABCEP is the accredited board for PV installation professionals.
You’ll need to attend a program and then test for the PV installation professional (PVIS) certificate.
If passed, you’ll be allowed to work as a solar installation technician.
However, you may also need to work as an apprentice before working on your own.
Step 5: Apply
Once you pass the NABCEP certificate exam, you’ll be able to apply for solar installation technician jobs.
Having a certificate will show potential employers that you’re competent enough to work on the job.
That said, jobs want to see competency.
If you’re applying, look for entry-level positions or ones offering an apprenticeship with a mentor.
Solar Installation Technician On-the-Job Training
The second method to becoming a solar installation technician is through on-the-job training.
For states that don’t require licensure, you’ll be able to gain on-the-job training and work under a mentor.
Here, you will learn all about the basics and also get hands-on experience.
Below, we’ll highlight what could affect the training length.
1. Expertise
Training may be shortened if the applicant has prior experience in a related field.
This can include working in construction, electrical, or other roles in the solar industry.
That said, it’s a must to have at least a basic understanding of electrical systems and associated tools.
2. Training Programs
Solar companies are known for developing their training programs, which can vary in length.
Two types of programs may be implemented, either a structured training program or a mentorship.
Structured programs will focus both on hands-on experience and the fundamentals of solar installation.
Other necessary components that will be taught are:
- Safety procedures
- Electrical wiring
- System Design & Layout
- Troubleshooting
- Maintenance
Solar Installation Technician Other Routes
Besides on-the-job training and certificate programs, there are also alternative ways you can become a solar installation technician without going the traditional route.
Having a strong background in a related field such as a degree or extended experience throughout the years can be enough to demonstrate competency.
Below are some of the few degrees that are suitable substitutions.
Electrical Engineering
An electrical engineering degree can be substituted as it relates to the field.
For example, electrical engineering programs often cover electrical theory, circuit design, and much more, which are important elements when installing solar panels.
However, you will still need to go through either mentorship or on-the-job training to ensure competency in all tasks.
Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical engineering degrees also cover some aspects of a solar installation technician program.
Common areas of training include aspects of solar installations, mounting systems, and panel orientation.
That said, on-the-job training or mentorship will be required.
Construction Management
Lastly, construction management can also be useful, as the job requires that you manage projects and coordinate with your team.
This can ensure that projects are done promptly and installed correctly.
However, this route lacks most of the other technical knowledge for solar installation tech.
So, training, certificates, or more will be necessary.
Licensing Requirements to Become a Solar Installation Technician
To work as a solar installation tech, you will need to gain certification by passing the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) certificate exam.
The NABCEP is currently considered the “golden standard” for PV-related jobs.
That said, there are other certificate boards, but they are not as sought after by employers.
Here are the following certificates:
- MCS certification – If you’re located in the UK, an MCS certificate can suffice. This is often the equivalent of the NABCEP, except it embodies full training for renewable technologies.
- Solar Energy International (SEI) – Those outside of the United States may end up getting an SEI, which oversees solar design, PV systems, and more internationally. Some companies in the United States may take this degree, but you will need to check with your employer.
Online Training Programs
Online courses are an excellent way to get NABCEP certified.
Learning from online programs will give you the foundational skills needed to be successful in the field and sit for the NABCEP certificate exam.
Below, we’ve listed a few different online training programs that are accredited and can help you sit for the NABCEP certificate examination.
HeatSpring Online PVIS Certificate
HeatSpring offers an online NABCEP PV Installer Specialist (PVIS) certification prep course that is split into two courses.
The bundle includes 30 hours of PVIS coursework aimed at experienced solar professionals.
The second course offered is a PVIS NABCEP practice exam, which allows students to practice before taking their official NABCEP exam.
Midwest Renewable Energy Association
The PV Installer Specialist (PVIS) is a self-paced course offered by the Midwest Renewable Energy Association.
Before taking it, students will need to take the NABCEP PV Associate Credential.
After that, they can apply to take the PVIS.
The course consists of 18 hours of advanced PV training and will also include six hours of NEC training.
This is designed to meet the requirements of the NABCEP exam.
However, some elements are missing due to it only being an online course.
Students will need to gain additional experience or training to prepare for the certificate exam.
Wor-Wic Community College
Wor-Wic Community College offers a complete online PV Installation Professional program.
It spans three months and is self-paced. Students will be expected to complete 70-course hours within the three months.
Those who do will be able to sit for the NABCEP certificate exam.
That said, the exam price is not included.
The course tuition is $2,195 and students must pay it to access the material.
The college does not offer payment plans.
While the price is steep, it’s worth it due to the instructor being Chris Boggiano, who is a professional in the field.
He has a background in engineering and education and is the President of Everblue.
So, this justifies the steep pricing compared to other courses, as you’ll get insider knowledge.
Salary
The average salary for a solar installation technician in the United States is $91,943 with the low-end making $76,209 and the high-end making $111,615.
Unlike other jobs, a solar technician will make more in high-demand areas.
Those with extra education, related experience in a similar field, or strong team management skills will often make more and become heads of projects.
Another component of the high pay is the length and scope of the project.
Large solar installation projects, such as commercial ones, will often pay more.
On the other hand, smaller residential installations will pay less.
That said, also location, company, and prior experience can make a big impact on salary.
