12 Reasons You Might Want to Become a Solar Technician

Key Takeaways

Thinking about switching careers? Becoming a solar technician could be the perfect move for you! In this blog, we’ll explore why this in-demand field offers job security, competitive pay, and the chance to make a real impact on the environment.

If you’ve ever thought about turning your career toward something meaningful where your work directly impacts the environment and future generations, becoming a solar technician might be the right path for you.

What if you could wake up each day knowing that your efforts are helping to reduce the world's carbon footprint, all while you’re working in a field that’s rapidly growing and in high demand?

We all want to feel like what we do matters, and in the solar industry, you can see the tangible results of your work almost immediately.

Whether you’re looking for job stability, a good income, or the satisfaction of being part of the renewable energy revolution, there’s a lot to consider. So, let’s talk about why this might be the right move for you.

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1. Job Growth in a Growing Industry

One of the most appealing aspects of becoming a solar technician is the rapid growth within the solar industry. As energy companies continue shifting away from fossil fuels, renewable energy sources like solar power are experiencing unprecedented demand.

With job growth projected to increase significantly over the coming years, becoming a solar installer positions you in a job market full of opportunities.

"Solar power is already rapidly growing in the U.S. and is forecast to far outpace natural gas in terms of new power plant additions this year."

Whether you're interested in installing solar photovoltaic panels or working with solar water heating systems, the career path in this growing industry has never been more promising.

Jumpstart Your Solar Technician Career with Unmudl: Ready for a fast track into the solar industry? Unmudl offers flexible courses designed to get you job-ready quickly, with direct connections to companies hiring solar technicians. Explore our courses today and start your new career!

2. Environmental Benefits of Solar Energy

We all want to leave the world a better place, and working as a solar technician offers you the chance to reduce carbon emissions while providing power to homes and businesses. Solar systems have the potential to decrease our reliance on fossil fuels, leading to lower carbon footprints.

Climate Central analyzed historical data on solar and wind energy over a 10-year period (2014 to 2023)... The amount of electricity produced from solar and wind power increased across the U.S., generating 238,121 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of electricity from solar in 2023 — more than eight times the amount generated a decade earlier in 2014... Renewable energy sources generated enough electricity in 2023 to power the equivalent of more than 61 million average American homes.

By helping to install solar panels, you contribute to electricity generation that doesn’t harm the environment.

The environmental benefits of focusing sunlight for power generation are substantial, making this career not just a job but a way to make a tangible difference in the fight against climate change.

3. Solar Technicians Are in High Demand

As the demand for solar energy continues to rise, so does the need for skilled solar technicians.

This job market offers more opportunities than ever before. Solar energy industries association reports show a growing demand for workers who can install panels, maintain solar photovoltaic systems, and repair solar equipment.

Employment of solar photovoltaic installers is projected to grow 22 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 3,500 openings for solar photovoltaic installers are projected each year, on average, over the decade.

If you want a stable career that’s in high demand, becoming a solar technician might be the way to go.

4. You Can Get Started Without a College Degree

Many people assume you need a bachelor's degree or advanced education to break into the renewable energy field. However, as a solar technician, you can often enter the field with just a high school diploma and trade school training.

You also have the chance to gain experience on the job, learning installation techniques for photovoltaic panels and solar collectors. This means you can start your career faster, without spending years in college. That being said, pursuing further education, like a degree in renewable energy, can enhance your career prospects.

Get Job-Ready as a Solar Technician with Unmudl’s Career-Focused Courses Unmudl’s technician courses are designed for people like you—career changers seeking quick, effective training that leads to real job opportunities. Our courses are built with flexibility in mind, so you can balance life while preparing for your next career move.

5. On-the-Job Training Provides Hands-On Experience

One of the most attractive aspects of this career is the extensive on-the-job training you’ll receive. As you learn to install solar panels, repair solar water heating systems, and work with advanced solar technology, you’ll be gaining valuable hands-on experience.

Demand for solar jobs is growing in response to clean-energy goals and government incentives. Many entry-level solar jobs don't require higher education, and they offer on-the-job training.

This training is invaluable, giving you the practical skills needed to succeed in the field. Whether you’re working with solar photovoltaic panels or helping design solar power energy systems, you’ll learn as you go, which can be a huge benefit compared to more traditional careers.

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6. A Career That Makes a Difference

We all want to feel like our work matters, and as a solar technician, you’ll be able to see the direct impact of your efforts. By installing solar power systems and helping reduce carbon emissions, your work contributes to a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Unlike many jobs, where it can be hard to measure your impact, working in solar energy allows you to see the environmental benefits of what you do. This sense of purpose can make each day more fulfilling and meaningful.

7. Excellent Job Opportunities in Remote Locations

Solar energy isn’t limited to urban areas. In fact, many solar technicians find opportunities in remote locations where traditional power grids don’t reach.

Using solar panels to provide power to remote homes, businesses, or even entire communities opens up unique opportunities for work in various settings.

Whether you prefer to live in the city or want to explore more rural, off-the-grid environments, there are job opportunities in the solar industry to suit your preferences.

8. Competitive Pay and Benefits

Another reason to consider becoming a solar technician is the competitive pay. With the growing demand for renewable energy professionals, many solar installers enjoy salaries that reflect the high demand for their skills.

The estimated total pay for a Solar Installer is $60,115 per year, with an average salary of $55,470 per year.

Whether you’re just starting or have years of experience, solar companies are often willing to offer competitive wages and benefits to attract and retain top talent.

As you gain experience and develop your expertise in areas like solar water heating systems and photovoltaic effect technology, your earning potential increases.

Connect with Employers Looking for Solar Technicians When you enroll in Unmudl’s technician programs, you’re not just getting top-notch training—you’re also connecting with businesses ready to hire. Don’t wait to start your new career in renewable energy. Unmudl makes the process simple, fast, and flexible.

9. Contribute to Cutting-Edge Technology

The renewable energy sector is full of innovation, and solar technology is at the forefront. As a solar technician, you’ll be working with new technology that’s constantly evolving.

The solar energy industry is on the brink of a revolution... Advancements in PV technology are setting the stage for a transformative era in renewable energy.

From advancements in solar panel efficiency to breakthroughs in how we focus sunlight to generate more energy, this career allows you to be part of a rapidly developing field.

As a solar energy technician, you work with solar cells and solar photovoltaic systems that push the boundaries of what’s possible, making it an exciting and ever-changing job.

10. Job Security in an Ever-Expanding Industry

The shift toward alternative energy sources is here to stay. With global demand for clean energy and the push to combat climate change, the renewable energy industry is growing at an impressive rate.

“The transition to clean energy is happening worldwide and it’s unstoppable. It’s not a question of ‘if’, it’s just a matter of ‘how soon’ – and the sooner the better for all of us,” said IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol.

Solar panel installations are expected to continue rising, providing ongoing job security for those working in the industry. As a solar technician, your role is critical in helping individuals and businesses transition to solar power, ensuring long-term job stability.

11. Flexibility to Work Across Various Sectors

Solar energy is used in many different sectors, from residential homes to large industrial facilities. This flexibility means that as a solar technician, you can work on diverse projects, including installing solar water heating systems in homes or working with photovoltaic panels on commercial buildings.

Solar jobs are in high demand and have a low barrier to entry — now is the time to break into the industry.

The versatility of this career allows you to explore various sectors, whether you prefer residential solar installations or working with large-scale solar energy projects.

12. You’ll Help Reduce Electric Bills and Promote Sustainability

One major reason people choose solar energy is to reduce their electric bill. As a solar technician, you play a crucial role in helping individuals and businesses save money on energy costs. Solar panels provide a long-term solution to rising electricity costs while promoting sustainability.

"This is not stopping," he said. "This is a force that is changing the way we work, the way we power our life, and, as such, is a great employment opportunity."

-Martin Pochtaruk, the CEO of Heliene

This career is part of a movement that encourages people to shift toward renewable energy, reducing their reliance on fossil fuels and lowering their carbon footprint.

High-Demand Careers in the Solar Industry

Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Installers

As a Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Technician, your role is to install, maintain, and repair solar photovoltaic panels that convert sunlight into electricity.

You work on residential, commercial, and sometimes industrial solar power systems, ensuring they are functioning optimally. A typical day involves inspecting solar panels, wiring systems, and related equipment, and troubleshooting any issues that might arise.

Salary Outlook: The median annual wage for solar photovoltaic installers is around $48,000, with potential to earn more as you gain experience or work in high-demand areas.

Renewable Energy System Installer

If you’re interested in hands-on work that covers a wide range of renewable energy technologies, becoming a Renewable Energy System Installer could be the right fit.

You install systems such as solar panels, wind turbines, and energy storage systems. You may work on both residential and commercial projects, ensuring that systems are installed correctly and operate efficiently.

Salary Outlook: Renewable energy system installers typically earn between $40,000 and $65,000, depending on the specific technology and the location.

Fast, Flexible Learning for Future Solar Technicians: Looking for a career change that’s both rewarding and in-demand? Unmudl provides fast and flexible solar technician training, giving you the skills needed to excel in the renewable energy sector. As a student, we help you connect directly with employers hiring from Unmudl.

Solar Thermal Installer and Technician

If you’re drawn to working with solar energy beyond just electricity, becoming a Solar Thermal Installer and Technician might be a great choice.

You install and maintain solar water heating systems that use sunlight to provide hot water for homes and businesses. Your job involves working with plumbing and mechanical systems to ensure efficient energy transfer.

Salary Outlook: Solar thermal installers earn an average salary of about $50,000, though more experienced technicians can earn upwards of $65,000.

Electrical Power-Line Technician for Renewable Sources

As an Electrical Power-Line Technician for Renewable Sources, you maintain and repair the power lines that connect renewable energy systems, such as solar and wind, to the electrical grid. Your responsibilities include inspecting power lines, repairing damaged equipment, and ensuring the electrical grid can handle the influx of renewable energy.

Salary Outlook: The median wage for power-line technicians is about $70,000 per year, with opportunities for higher earnings based on location and demand.

Renewable Energy Maintenance Technician

As a Renewable Energy Maintenance Technician, your job is to ensure that renewable energy systems, such as solar photovoltaic panels and wind turbines, continue to operate at peak efficiency. You perform routine inspections, troubleshoot system issues, and make necessary repairs to prevent downtime.

Salary Outlook: Maintenance technicians earn between $45,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on their level of experience and the type of renewable energy they maintain.

Energy Storage Technician

With the rise of solar and wind energy, the need for effective energy storage solutions has grown, making Energy Storage Technicians increasingly important.

In this role, you install, maintain, and repair energy storage systems like batteries that store energy from renewable sources.

Salary Outlook: Energy storage technicians earn a median salary of $55,000 to $75,000 per year.

Renewable Energy Construction Technician

As a Renewable Energy Construction Technician, you’ll work on the construction of large-scale renewable energy projects, such as solar farms, wind turbine installations, and geothermal plants. You operate heavy equipment, build the necessary infrastructure, and ensure everything is installed to meet industry standards.

Salary Outlook: The average salary for construction technicians ranges from $45,000 to $65,000, depending on the complexity of the projects and location.

Grid Integration Technician

A Grid Integration Technician ensures that renewable energy sources like solar and wind seamlessly integrate with the existing electrical grid. You’ll work with advanced software and hardware systems to monitor and control the flow of electricity, ensuring stability and efficiency.

Salary Outlook: Grid integration technicians typically earn between $60,000 and $80,000 per year.

Renewable Energy Field Technician

Renewable Energy Field Technicians are the boots on the ground in renewable energy systems.

You install, maintain, and repair various renewable systems, such as solar panels, wind turbines, and geothermal units. Field technicians often travel to remote locations to ensure that renewable energy systems are operating efficiently.

Salary Outlook: The average salary for field technicians in the renewable energy sector is around $55,000, with potential for higher earnings depending on experience and the specific technology.

Unmudl: Your Partner in Career Change Success

If you’re considering a career change, you know how important it is to find the right path that offers flexibility and real job opportunities. Unmudl understands that making this leap can feel overwhelming, and that’s why we’ve designed our courses with career changers in mind.

Whether you’re looking to transition into the fast-growing solar industry or any other field, Unmudl provides the tools you need to succeed.

Flexible Learning Tailored to You

Unmudl’s platform offers flexible, online courses that allow you to learn at your own pace, fitting into your busy life. You won’t be stuck in a rigid schedule, and that’s a game-changer for anyone balancing work, family, or other commitments.

Plus, our courses are designed to quickly give you the skills you need, so you’re job-ready in no time.

Connect with Employers Ready to Hire

What sets Unmudl apart is our direct connection to employers eager to hire skilled workers straight from our courses. If you’re training to become a solar technician or exploring other high-demand fields, you’ll have the opportunity to make those connections while you learn. That means less time searching for jobs and more time building your future.

Ready to start your new career? Visit Unmudl today to explore how our flexible courses and employer connections can help you take the next step with confidence.

Solar

Technician

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated on:

August 22, 2024

Contributor(s)

Unmudl Skills Team

The Unmudl Skills Team is a team of experts with decades of experience in helping learners acquire the skills needed to secure meaningful employment in the workforce.

12 Reasons You Might Want to Become a Solar Technician

Key Takeaways

We help people in Texas find high-paying trade jobs.

We help people in New Mexico find high-paying trade jobs.

We help people in New Mexico find high-paying trade jobs.

1. Job Growth in a Growing Industry

2. Environmental Benefits of Solar Energy

3. Solar Technicians Are in High Demand

4. You Can Get Started Without a College Degree

5. On-the-Job Training Provides Hands-On Experience

We help people in Arizona find high-paying trade jobs.

6. A Career That Makes a Difference

7. Excellent Job Opportunities in Remote Locations

8. Competitive Pay and Benefits

9. Contribute to Cutting-Edge Technology

10. Job Security in an Ever-Expanding Industry

11. Flexibility to Work Across Various Sectors

12. You’ll Help Reduce Electric Bills and Promote Sustainability