Solar Energy Industry Workers

Certification or Licensing

Many technicians choose to become certified by the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies. To become certified, a technician must have a specific amount of job-related experience and pass a multiple-choice examination.

The Society of Manufacturing Engineers offers certification to manufacturing engineers. The Association of Energy Engineers also offers certification in a variety of specialties. To be considered for certification, a candidate must meet eligibility standards such as a minimum of three years of relevant work experience and membership in a professional organization. Most programs consist of classroom work and examination.

Engineers who work on projects that affect the property, health, or life of the public typically pursue licensure. There are two levels of licensing for engineers. Professional Engineers (PEs) have graduated from an accredited engineering curriculum, have four years of engineering experience, and have passed a written exam. Engineering graduates need not wait until they have four years experience, however, to start the licensure process. Those who pass the Fundamentals of Engineering examination after graduating are called Engineers in Training (EITs) or Engineer Interns (EIs). The EIT certification usually is valid for 10 years. After acquiring suitable work experience, EITs can take the second examination, the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam, to gain full PE licensure. For more information on licensing and examination requirements, visit https://www.ncees.org. The National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (http://www.ncees.org) also provides licensure to engineers.

Many solar installers are licensed as general contractors. Solar thermal installers and photovoltaic installers can also receive voluntary certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). The National Roofing Contractors’ Association’s Roof Integrated Solar Energy program certifies photovoltaic installers. The Electronics Technicians Association offers three career-track certification pathways in renewable energy technology: installer, integrator, and maintainer. The NABCEP offers certification to photovoltaic technical sales professionals.

Certification and licensing requirements for other jobs in the solar energy industry vary according to the position. Contact professional associations in your area of interest for more information.

The Solar Energy Industries Association reports that some states require specific licenses to perform solar work. A solar certification typically is a specialty area for a general plumbing or electrical license. Some atmospheric and environmental scientists may need to be licensed. Those who are employed in positions that may affect the power grid must be certified by the North American Energy Reliability Corporation.

Other Requirements

Some employers may require power plant operators to undergo a background check and submit to periodic drug testing.