Solar Energy Industry Workers

High School

If you plan to work in a technical position in the solar energy industry, you should take classes in computer science, mathematics, physics, and shop. Aspiring science workers will benefit by taking chemistry, earth science, environmental science, physics, and related classes. Those interested in management careers should take business and accounting classes. Communication skills and the ability to use computers are key to success for all workers in the solar energy industry, so be sure to take as many English, speech, and computer science classes as possible.

Postsecondary Education

Educational requirements vary by career. The following paragraphs detail educational requirements for selected workers in the major subsectors of the solar energy industry.

Scientific Research

Most solar engineers have a bachelor of science degree in an engineering specialty, such as electrical, civil, mechanical, or chemical engineering. Engineering programs typically include mathematics, physical and life sciences, and computer or laboratory courses. Classes in social sciences or humanities are usually required as well. Many companies prefer to hire engineers with master of science degrees, so those who pursue advanced degrees may have better odds of securing work. A bachelor’s degree is sufficient for many environmental scientist positions; those who work as professors or researchers typically have graduate degrees. Software developers usually have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software design, or a related field. Engineering technicians prepare for the field by earning an associate’s degree in engineering technology or a related field and completing on-the-job training.

Manufacturing for Solar Power

Most production workers receive on-the-job training, although more skilled workers, such as computer-controlled machine tool operators, obtain their skills via postsecondary technical training or apprenticeships. Industrial production managers usually have bachelor’s degrees in industrial technology, business administration, management, or engineering.

Solar Power Plant Development

Real estate brokers usually have at least a bachelor’s degree in real estate, business, law, engineering, or a related field. Atmospheric and environmental scientists have bachelor’s degrees in earth science, environmental science, meteorology, or related fields. Some positions require applicants to have master’s degrees or doctorates.

Solar Power Plant Construction

Construction managers typically have bachelor’s degrees in construction management. business management, or management, along with experience in the construction industry. Civil engineers usually possess a bachelor’s degree in civil or structural engineering. Lead engineers have a master’s degree and specialized training and experience in the construction of solar power plants. Construction workers learn their skills via on-the-job training, through apprenticeships, or by earning technical degrees or certificates. 

Solar Power Plant Operations

Power plant operators prepare for the field via a combination of education, on-the-job training, and practical experience.

Solar Panel Installation and Maintenance

Solar photovoltaic installers train for the field in a variety of ways. Many have a background in the construction industry or experience working as electricians. Courses in solar installation are offered by professional associations, trade schools, apprenticeship programs, and photovoltaic module manufacturers. Installers might also learn skills in roofing and plumbing in order to master all the skills needed to complete an installation. Site assessors prepare for the field by receiving on-the-job training and specialized training in site assessment. They also typically have previous experience in roofing, electrical, or solar photovoltaic installation work. Plumbers and electricians train via apprenticeship programs or through technical education at community colleges. Roofers receive on-the-job training or participate in apprenticeship programs.

Support Positions

Training for support workers ranges from on-the-job training for secretaries and receptionists, to a bachelor’s degree in computer science or related fields for computer professionals, to a law degree for lawyers.

A small, but growing, number of colleges offer classes, certificates, and degrees in renewable energy. Visit the following Web site for more details: https://irecusa.org/workforce-development/.

The Solar Living Institute, a nonprofit organization, offers solar training via online and traditional courses. Visit its Web site, https://www.solarliving.org, for more information. Also, many large solar energy equipment manufacturers offer training and certification programs.

Other Education or Training

The American Solar Energy Society, Solar Electric Power Association, Solar Energy Industries Association, and The Solar Foundation offer continuing education (CE) opportunities via webinars, classes, and conference workshops. The Association of Energy Engineers, Interstate Renewable Energy Council, Midwest Renewable Energy Association, and the National Society of Professional Engineers also provide professional development opportunities. Contact these organizations for more information.

Other professional associations provide CE classes, webinars, and conferences in their particular specialty. For example, the American Institute of Chemical Engineers offers webinars and conference seminars on a variety of topics. Contact the associations for more information.