The 5 Top Paying Jobs in the Solar Industry

Solar power is an increasingly popular way to generate electricity. Green energy, including solar power, is growing at a rapid pace. The solar industry now employs more than 200,000 people in the United States alone —and that number is only going to increase. This article lists the top paying jobs in the solar industry with annual wages above $50,000 and explains why each one could be an excellent option for you. Solar energy companies need qualified employees to fill a variety of roles from sales representatives to engineers. If you’re interested in working for a company that focuses on renewable energy—specifically solar—check out these top five jobs that pay well and offer promising career opportunities.

1. Solar Installer

A solar installer (also known as a photovoltaic engineer or PV installer) installs and repairs solar panels. Solar installers are tasked with ensuring panels are correctly installed on rooftops or freestanding structures, such as fields. The job can be physically demanding and employees often work outdoors in all types of weather. Solar installers must complete training to earn a certification from the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) and the National Solar Certification Board. The job often requires experience in electrical work, although some companies may hire entry-level workers to assist in installation. The average annual wage is $43,120. The Solar Foundation predicts solar installer will be one of the fastest-growing occupations in the solar industry between now and 2023 due to increased demand for residential solar systems. The growing popularity of solar energy, paired with the number of existing systems that need repairs or need to be replaced, means the demand for qualified installers is increasing and incomes are increasing as a result.

2. Quality Control Inspector

Quality control inspectors review work from contractors. They check to see if the work meets the required standard and is done correctly, but do not actually do the work themselves. Quality control inspectors make sure solar panels are installed correctly. They also review solar panel installation plans to ensure safety precautions are in place and the panels will be installed in a way that maximizes efficiency. Because of their critical role in the installation process, quality control inspectors must have excellent attention to detail and knowledge of relevant building codes and regulations. The average annual wage is $50,851. In general, solar panel installation is expected to increase by more than 10% over the next five years. This means the demand for quality control inspectors is expected to increase as well. Quality control inspectors typically need a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field. However, some employers may hire candidates with an associate degree or who have experience in quality control.

3. Project Manager

The project manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of a solar installation. He or she must ensure the project is completed correctly while meeting the client’s budget and timeline. Project managers also have to keep track of all relevant documentation to make sure the project is up to code and the company is meeting all necessary regulations. The average annual wage for project managers is above $55,000. The solar industry is expected to see a 10% increase in employment over the next five years. This increase in demand is due to an increase in residential solar installation. More homeowners are choosing to install solar panels on their homes, which means more solar installation projects are being created and more project managers are needed. The increasing demand for solar energy and the increasing popularity of residential solar panels make the project manager position an excellent choice for anyone interested in the solar industry.

4. Sales Representative

Sales representatives sell solar products to clients. They must know about the products and be able to explain their benefits to potential clients. Some solar companies specialize in selling panels specifically designed for residential use, while others sell panels for commercial use. Solar sales representatives may also sell solar installation services. Because solar panels and installation services are big purchases, sales representatives must be able to answer clients’ questions and help them understand the benefits of solar power. The average annual wage for sales representatives is $56,412. The solar industry is expected to see a 10% increase in employment over the next five years. This increase in demand is due to an increase in residential solar installation. More homeowners are choosing to install solar panels on their homes, which means more solar installation projects are being created and more sales representatives are needed.

5. Engineer

Solar engineers design and build solar power plants, including the equipment and structures used to collect and store solar energy. The work may entail designing new solar plants or improving existing ones. Engineers also design solar panels and other equipment used to capture and store solar energy. There are several types of engineers in the solar industry, including electrical engineers and mechanical engineers. Electrical engineers focus on solar panels and systems, while mechanical engineers focus on the equipment used to store solar energy, such as solar panels and heat exchangers. The average annual wage for engineers is above $65,000. The solar industry is expected to see an increase in employment of over 10% over the next five years. This increase in demand is due to an increase in residential solar installation. More homeowners are choosing to install solar panels on their homes, which means more solar panels need to be created. This leads to an increase in demand for engineers and a rise in income for those in the field.

6. Solar Installer

Solar power is a growing industry and has many career options that pay well above $50,000 per year. The best way to find a job in the solar industry is to research companies in your area and apply for positions. Remember that although solar power is a new industry, it is very important. Choosing to work in the solar industry means you are helping to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and protect our environment. These are important things to consider if you want to work in this industry.