Real Career Opportunities: Solar Power Technicians — What the Job Is, Who’s Hiring, and How Much It Pays

As solar surges to become the fastest-growing source of U.S. electricity, technicians are the people making it possible. Here’s how to break into one of the most accessible and future-proof careers on

Utilities and developers are racing to meet record demand for clean power. Solar generation grew nearly 30% in 2024 and is expected to remain the fastest-expanding source on the grid. But none of that growth happens without skilled workers to install, test, and maintain solar panels and supporting systems. That means thousands of openings across the country. Jobs that don’t always require a four-year degree, but do require skill, focus, and a willingness to work with your hands.

This week in our Real Career Opportunities series, we spotlight: Solar Power Technicians.

Solar Power Technicians

Whether you’re a recent high school graduate, a skilled tradesperson looking for stability, or a mid-career worker eyeing a transition, solar offers a path with low barriers to entry and high potential for advancement. Solar technicians are the hands and minds behind the panels that power everything from single-family homes to massive utility-scale farms.

For those who enjoy working with their hands and want a career tied directly to the future of the grid, solar is a clear way in.

The work blends physical skill with technical knowledge — mounting panels, wiring systems, inspecting installations, and troubleshooting issues to keep energy flowing. It’s a job that takes you outdoors, often on rooftops or in open fields, and places you at the center of America’s clean energy boom.

Salary Snapshot

• Median pay U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): $51,860/year ($24.93/hour)

• Growth: Supervisors, project leads, or solar project managers often earn $80K–$100K+

Who’s a Fit

• Construction or electrical tradespeople

• High school graduates or certificate holders (training programs in under a year)

• Veterans and mid-career workers with mechanical or technical backgrounds

Who’s Hiring

At the time of this posting, companies like Sunrun and Sunnova are actively hiring solar technicians, along with major utilities such as Duke Energy, NextEra, and Dominion Energy, which are expanding large-scale solar projects. Regional contractors — from Blattner Energy and Mortenson to hundreds of local installers across the U.S. — are also seeking technicians to meet growing demand.

The Bottom Line

Solar Power Technicians are at the frontlines of the clean energy transition. It’s an accessible, well-paying role with demand in every corner of the country. For workers seeking stability and purpose, it offers both: a steady paycheck and the chance to help reshape America’s energy future.

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