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Career Profile

Solar Photovoltaic Installers

What they do:

Assemble, install, or maintain solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on roofs or other structures in compliance with site assessment and schematics. May include measuring, cutting, assembling, and bolting structural framing and solar modules. May perform minor electrical work such as current checks.

Also Called:

Journeyman Electrician PV Installer (Journeyman Electrician Photovoltaic Installer), PV Installation Tech (Photovoltaic Installation Technician), PV Installer (Photovoltaic Installer), Solar Designer, Solar Electric Installer, Solar Installer, Solar Panel Installation Technician (Solar Panel Installation Tech), Solar PV Installer (Solar Photovoltaic Installer), Solar PV Integrator (Solar Photovoltaic Integrator), Solar Technician (Solar Tech), Journeyman Electrician PV Installer (Journeyman Electrician Photovoltaic Installer), PV Installation Tech (Photovoltaic Installation Technician), PV Installer (Photovoltaic Installer), Solar Designer, Solar Electric Installer, Solar Installer, Solar Panel Installation Technician (Solar Panel Installation Tech), Solar PV Installer (Solar Photovoltaic Installer), Solar PV Integrator (Solar Photovoltaic Integrator), Solar Technician (Solar Tech)

NC Employment Data

*State data provided by O*NET & BLS
Compare State Data      Compare Metro Area Data   
$37,440
Starting Salary (2025)
$43,860
Median Salary (2025)
42.1%
Projected Job Growth
710
NC Employment (2025)

Typical Tasks

Install module array interconnect wiring, implementing measures to disable arrays during installation.
Install required labels on solar system components and hardware.
Install photovoltaic (PV) systems in accordance with codes and standards, using drawings, schematics, and instructions.
Apply weather sealing to array, building, or support mechanisms.
Assemble solar modules, panels, or support structures, as specified.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Realistic
Practical, Physical Work
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work
Investigative
Studying, Research based work

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Cooperation
Dependability
Attention to Detail
Integrity
Initiative
Self-Control

What key skills are needed for this job?

Installation
Active Listening
Critical Thinking
Monitoring
Time Management
Troubleshooting

Expected Knowledge

Mechanical

Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.

Building and Construction

Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.

English Language

Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Common Activities

Handling and Moving Objects

Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.

Performing General Physical Activities

Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.

Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials

Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.

Education & Preparation

Some occupations may require additional education, advanced degrees, and years of experience in the field.
Talk to your support team on campus about this career pathway and additional degree information.
Job Zone 2

Some Preparation Needed

Education

These occupations usually require a high school diploma.

Experience

Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed.

Training

Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.

Typical Education Required

Education a new hire may need

  • High school diploma 56%
  • Associate's degree 16%
  • Post-secondary certificate 14%
  • Less than high school 12%
  • Some college 2%
  • Other 0%
Source: O*NET Education, Training & Experience data

Related Careers

Solar Thermal Installers and Technicians
Solar Energy Installation Managers
Wind Turbine Service Technicians
Geothermal Technicians
Lighting Technicians

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*Data on career profiles are based on information supplied by the O*NET Program, sponsored by U.S. Department of Labor, Employment, and Training Administration.