6 Benefits of Working in the Solar Industry
Following the growth of renewable energy production, career opportunities in the solar industry are soaring in the U.S. Drivers of that growth: cheaper solar photovoltaic costs, supportive regulations and most recently, $62 billion in clean energy funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. This massive investment points to the need for thousands of more workers to install, maintain, operate and repair the solar energy systems that will help fuel a cleaner energy future.
If you have ever wondered if a career in the solar industry is right for you, we’ve featured six key benefits to consider.
- Opportunities abound. Solar photovoltaic installers are among the top five fastest-growing occupations in the country, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2020-30 employment projections. The Department of Energy (DOE) predicts that as many as 1.5 million people could be working in solar energy by 2035. And, highlighting the potential for public sector jobs, the DOE announced in early 2022 that it would recruit 1,000 employees to be part of its Clean Energy Corps initiative. It’s safe to say that opportunities are plentiful throughout the industry!
- Jobs are financially rewarding. Solar photovoltaic installers, one of the most readily available entry-level jobs, often start at $18 per hour and you can boost your pay with experience. Other positions in the field that require additional training, certifications or college degrees—such as project managers, safety supervisors and solar engineers—can pay well upwards of $70,000. Competitive starting wages and room for salary growth are powerful reasons to consider solar energy careers!
- Careers provide meaning. Working in the solar industry positively impacts climate change and our environment by reducing carbon emissions. If you have a passion for renewable energy, natural resources and sustainability—and want to make a difference through the work you do every day—a career in solar energy could be a great fit. You’ll be helping the world run on clean, renewable energy—something that can help generations to come.
- On-the-job training is available. Many entry-level jobs in this field require only a high school diploma or equivalent. And here’s the best part: given the high demand for workers, companies are often willing to provide on-the-job training. CareerOneStop shows that solar photovoltaic installers are usually hired with no work experience and that 70 percent of these workers don’t have a college degree. So, if you prefer to earn while you learn, a solar energy career could be exactly what you’re looking for.
- There’s room for advancement and movement. Don’t let the ease of entry give you the wrong impression. There’s no shortage of opportunities for growth, and with many solar energy career paths between roles and sectors, you can have a long, rewarding career here. You’ll also have flexibility in the future. If your interests change, you can take what you’ve learned and apply it to other jobs or industries. But we think you’ll like it here!
- Veterans are in high demand. Military leadership and technical skills translate well to many solar jobs, and it’s a great option if you enjoy working outdoors. Approximately 20,000 vets are already employed in the solar industry and employers are eager to recruit more. If you’re ready to take the next step, reach out to our team at PeopleReady Skilled Trades. We’d love to help! Solar Ready Vets Network is another great organization helping veterans and transitioning military members to connect with training, professional development and employment opportunities in the industry.
With momentum building behind renewable energy and funding in place for clean infrastructure development and jobs, it’s the perfect time to consider a career in solar energy!
Working with PeopleReady Skilled Trades
PeopleReady Skilled Trades has installed more than 20GW of new solar and placed more than 20,000 solar energy workers on job sites across the U.S. With onsite management and a company-wide commitment to safety, you can be assured we take our workers’ safety and well-being seriously. We also make finding work easy by bringing opportunities to you. So, whether you already have solar experience or aspire to begin a rewarding career in renewable energy, we are your source for solar jobs.
