The increasing demand for solar technicians opens up more job opportunities in the renewables and trades sector. If you’re considering electrical apprenticeships in the future, becoming a solar technician provides you with a great headstart to a fulfilling career.

Getting started in the trades as a solar technician provides you with a useful set of skills necessary to succeed in a career as an electrician. It can give you a jump start, and help you see first hand if the job suits you well in the long run. Also, apprenticeship programs are available for you to transition into either a limited energy technician or an inside wireman.

Job Opportunities as a Solar Technician

The demand for solar technicians has been increasing due to the rising interest in renewable energy and the global shift toward sustainable practices. In the U.S., jobs in the solar industry have increased up to 167% over the last decade. This includes jobs as a solar technician or installers – one of the fast-rising occupations with a 22% job growth outlook according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

A solar technician is responsible for setting up solar panels on residential, commercial, or industrial buildings. The job entails installing solar panels, mounting structures, and electrical components according to design specifications. You will be working with inverters, wiring, and other necessary equipment.

After the installation, solar systems require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. Maintenance technicians inspect, troubleshoot, and repair solar panels and associated components. You will be performing routine maintenance to ensure that solar installations perform well and prevent damage from happening. This may involve cleaning panels, inspecting components, and replacing faulty parts. Technicians are also responsible for diagnosing and repairing system malfunctions.

Solar technicians play a vital role in the renewable energy sector, contributing to the adoption of clean energy solutions. The work helps reduce reliance on traditional energy sources and promotes sustainability while addressing the transition toward renewable energy.

Qualifications and Education

Some general guidelines and common qualifications that are often sought after in the solar industry include having a high school diploma or equivalent. While not always mandatory, some employers prefer candidates with postsecondary education, such as an associate degree or certificate in renewable energy, solar technology, electrical engineering, or a related field.

Solar technicians need a basic understanding of electrical systems and components as they work with wiring, inverters, and other electrical elements. Many employers prefer or require certifications related to photovoltaic system installation. The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) offers certifications for solar PV installation professionals.

Safety is a priority in the solar industry – thus the need for an OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Certification. Having an Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) certification demonstrates awareness of safety protocols.

As for the skills required, you will be required to gain knowledge in electrical, mechanical, and troubleshooting activities. You can gain practical experience through on-the-job training. This may involve working alongside experienced technicians or participating in apprenticeship programs.

Apprenticeship Career Paths to Look Forward to:

Limited Energy Technician

Limited energy technicians typically work with low-voltage systems, which may include areas like telecommunications, security systems, audio-visual systems, and other low-power electronic systems. This is in contrast to high-voltage systems used in electrical power transmission or distribution.

If you decide to pursue this path, you will need to undergo an apprenticeship program specifically for the job position. The apprenticeship could cover various aspects of limited energy systems, including security and surveillance systems, fire alarm systems, communication systems, and more.

Inside Wireman

These electricians are responsible for installing and maintaining electrical systems within structures, and handling a variety of tasks related to power, lighting, and control systems. Inside wireman apprenticeships typically involve a combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction. Apprentices work under the supervision of experienced journeyman or master electricians while attending classes to learn the theoretical aspects of the trade.

If you are interested in pursuing an Inside Wireman Apprenticeship, there are electrical contractors’ associations where you can inquire about available programs in your area. They can provide specific information about the application process, requirements, and the structure of the apprenticeship program.

Emerging Industry Technologies

Solar technologies continuously evolve to meet the demand for greener energy sources. Aside from the installation of photovoltaic cells, major advancements in energy storage, smart grids, and energy systems also coincide with innovations in renewables.

Advanced solar panels include panels that can capture sunlight from both sides, increasing energy yield by reflecting light off surfaces like rooftops. There is also the integration of solar technology into roofing materials for efficient energy generation. Improved energy storage technologies, such as lithium-ion batteries and flow batteries, enable efficient storage of excess solar energy for use during periods of low sunlight.

Solar EV charging is also being integrated into the electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. Smart solar technologies include Internet of Things (IoT) devices and sensors for the real-time monitoring, analytics, and remote management of solar installations.

As the solar industry evolves, technicians who are well-versed in the latest technologies will be better positioned to contribute to the growth and success of the sector.

Addressing Workforce Challenges

Recruiting and retaining skilled solar technicians can be challenging due to various factors. The renewable energy sector, including solar, is growing rapidly, and there may be a shortage of skilled workers. Recruiting becomes challenging when there are not enough qualified candidates available in the job market.

There may be a lack of awareness among potential candidates about the opportunities and benefits of a career in solar technology. Encouraging interest in the field and promoting its long-term sustainability can be a recruitment challenge.

To address these challenges, solar companies and industry stakeholders implement various strategies to attract more talent. This includes investing in education and training programs that specifically focus on training individuals for careers in solar technology. Companies are also offering competitive salaries, benefits, and opportunities for career advancement to attract and retain skilled technicians. They may offer ongoing training and development opportunities to keep technicians abreast of the latest technologies and industry trends.

Prioritizing safety is also one of the concerns, with contractors implementing and maintaining robust safety protocols to create a safe and attractive working environment for technicians.

All of these initiatives are done to attract more skilled solar technicians to enter the job market. If you’re considering this career path, you will have access to various opportunities that companies are offering left and right in the bid to attract more talent in the sector.

Continuous Learning and Professional Development

The field of solar technology is constantly evolving, with more innovations and advancements arriving. Continuous learning ensures that solar technicians stay updated on the latest technologies, materials, and equipment used in solar installations. Technicians who invest in learning and acquiring new skills are more likely to be considered for leadership roles, specialized positions, or management roles within the solar industry.

Another possibility is transitioning to electrician jobs, which can be a limited energy technician or an inside wireman. Your skills and training as a solar technician will help prepare you for these jobs. You can then start undergoing apprenticeships and training programs, adding more high-caliber knowledge and skills to the profession. This opportunity provides you with more options in following a lucrative and rewarding career path in the trades.