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Solar Photovoltaic Installer

Operational-level

Also known as: Electro-Mechanical Solar Technician (Electro-Mechanical Solar Tech), Installation Technician (Installation Tech), Installer, Journeyman Electrician PV Installer (Journeyman Electrician Photovoltaic Installer)

ConstructionBachelor's Degree

Job Description

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.
Solar EnergyPhotovoltaicsRenewable EnergyElectrical TradesConstruction TradesConstructionEngineering TechnologySustainabilityTechnicalBuilding

Skills employers are looking for in 2027

Software and technologies flagged by O*NET as Hot or In-Demand for this role.

Hot technologies
Extensible markup language XMLMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft WordSalesforce software
In-demand software
Microsoft ExcelMicrosoft Office software

Job Outlook 2025-2035

Bright Outlook

O*NET flags this career as a Bright Outlook occupation: grows rapidly over the next decade.

Projected growth

+36.5%

US average: +3.5%

Job openings

4,200

per year (US)

Jobs today

31,100

in 2025 → 42,400 (2035)

Typical entry education

High school diploma or equivalent

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections; O*NET Bright Outlook. Read the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook

Work Environment

How this work is typically performed, based on O*NET work context data.

Email & digital communication
High
Working in a team
High
Contact with others
High
Freedom to make decisions
High
Time pressure
High
Time spent sitting
Low
Working outdoors
High
Indoor, climate-controlled
Moderate
Dealing with customers
Moderate
Level of competition
Moderate

Source: O*NET Work Context (v31.0)

Future Perspective

Growing Job Market

This field is experiencing expansion with increasing job opportunities and career advancement potential. Market demand is rising, with new positions being created.

Career ladder

Often before this role

  • Construction Laborer
  • Apprentice Electrician Helper
  • General Installer Helper

Where it can lead

  • Solar Project Manager
  • Master Electrician
  • PV System Designer

Impact of AI on this Job

AI will enhance this career by automating site assessments through drone imagery and AI analytics, improving design efficiency, and optimizing installation logistics. Predictive maintenance systems powered by AI will also reduce manual diagnostic time, allowing installers to focus on complex installations and repairs rather than routine checks.

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Salary

$53,140

Median annual wage, BLS 2025

Required Education

Bachelor's Degree

Minimum educational requirement for this position

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