What does a solar installer do?
- Plan panel layouts and install racking and mounts.
- Place and secure solar panels on roofs and the ground.
- Connect panels to inverters and the building's power.
- Test, maintain and repair systems.
Where do solar installers work?
- Rooftops of homes and businesses
- Large solar farms
- Attics and crawl spaces for wiring
Is a career as a solar installer right for you?
It could be a good fit if:
- You like working outdoors and with your hands.
- You're comfortable on roofs and ladders.
- You want to work in clean energy.
How to become a solar installer
Most installers have a high school diploma and learn through on-the-job training that can last up to a year. Some take courses at a technical school or community college first.
How much do solar installers make?
The median pay for solar installers in the U.S. was $53,140 a year in May 2025, and most earned between $41,600 to $79,970 a year. Median pay describes the whole trade, not a first-year wage: pay usually rises with experience, licenses and specialty.
Solar installer pay by state
| State | Median annual wage |
|---|---|
| United States | $53,140 |
| Massachusetts | $59,180 |
Job outlook for solar installers
U.S. employment of solar installers is projected to change by +37% (much faster than average) from 2025 to 2035, with about 4,200 openings each year on average. There were 31,100 solar installer jobs in the U.S. in 2025.
Things to know
- Median pay describes the whole trade, not a first-year wage. Pay rises with experience and skills.
- It's one of the fastest-growing jobs in the U.S. (about 37%), from a small base of about 31,100 jobs.
- Installers travel between job sites and spend a lot of time on roofs.
Solar installer FAQ
What does a solar installer do?
Solar photovoltaic (PV) installers assemble, set up and maintain rooftop and ground systems that turn sunlight into electricity. Typical work includes: plan panel layouts and install racking and mounts; place and secure solar panels on roofs and the ground; connect panels to inverters and the building's power; test, maintain and repair systems.
How do you become a solar installer?
Most installers have a high school diploma and learn through on-the-job training that can last up to a year. Some take courses at a technical school or community college first.
How much do solar installers make?
The median pay for solar installers in the U.S. was $53,140 a year (May 2025, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook: Solar Photovoltaic Installers). Most earn between $41,600 to $79,970 a year. Pay varies by state, experience and specialty.
Are solar installers in demand?
U.S. employment of solar installers is projected to change by +37% (much faster than average) from 2025 to 2035, with about 4,200 job openings each year on average (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Sources
Figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Wayforge is a career-planning tool, not an official licensing source; always confirm requirements with your state licensing board.