Solar Panel Installer Salary in the USA: Pay, State-Wise Salary and Career Guide
Solar panel installers are becoming an important part of the U.S. construction and clean energy workforce. If you are looking for a Solar Panel Installer Salary, Solar Installer Salary, or want to know how much a solar panel installer makes in the USA, the pay can be different depending on the state, experience, type of solar work and employer. In May 2025, the median annual pay for solar photovoltaic installers was about $53,140, or around $25.55 per hour. Some workers earn less when starting out, while experienced installers can earn considerably more. This job normally involves installing solar panels, setting up support structures, checking wiring and testing solar PV systems. It is also a hands-on job, so people who like outdoor work, construction and practical tasks may find this career interesting.
📑 Table of Contents
What Is a Solar Panel Installer?
A solar panel installer, also called a solar photovoltaic installer or PV installer, puts solar panels and related equipment on homes, buildings and solar farms. The job is not only about putting panels on a roof. Installers also measure the work area, prepare mounting structures, connect equipment, check the system and make sure the installation is done properly.
On a normal workday, a solar installer may use drills, wrenches, saws and other hand tools. Residential installers often work on rooftops, while workers on larger solar farms may spend most of the day at ground-level sites. The work can be physical and may require travel to different job locations.
State Wise Solar Panel Installer Salary
The salary of a solar panel installer can change a lot from one state to another. Location is one of the important factors in pay, along with experience, employer and type of work. The table below uses the latest available May 2025 wage data and shows the annual median salary where a published state estimate is available.
| State | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Alabama | N/A |
| Alaska | N/A |
| Arizona | $51,160 |
| Arkansas | $44,820 |
| California | $60,600 |
| Colorado | $49,730 |
| Connecticut | $55,590 |
| Delaware | N/A |
| Florida | $50,550 |
| Georgia | $47,790 |
| Hawaii | $70,370 |
| Idaho | N/A |
| Illinois | $59,630 |
| Indiana | $46,140 |
| Iowa | $56,740 |
| Kansas | $49,990 |
| Kentucky | N/A |
| Louisiana | N/A |
| Maine | $61,210 |
| Maryland | $45,430 |
| Massachusetts | $59,180 |
| Michigan | $47,080 |
| Minnesota | N/A |
| Mississippi | N/A |
| Missouri | N/A |
| Montana | N/A |
| Nebraska | N/A |
| Nevada | $67,810 |
| New Hampshire | N/A |
| New Jersey | $78,950 |
| New Mexico | $48,490 |
| New York | $56,160 |
| North Carolina | $43,860 |
| North Dakota | N/A |
| Ohio | $62,400 |
| Oklahoma | N/A |
| Oregon | $66,320 |
| Pennsylvania | $47,760 |
| Rhode Island | N/A |
| South Carolina | $50,490 |
| South Dakota | $42,380 |
| Tennessee | N/A |
| Texas | $48,240 |
| Utah | $49,980 |
| Vermont | $49,490 |
| Virginia | $49,190 |
| Washington | $61,630 |
| West Virginia | N/A |
| Wisconsin | $49,770 |
| Wyoming | N/A |
Note: N/A means a published statewide median estimate was not available in the May 2025 wage data used for this article. It does not mean that solar installers do not work in that state.
Solar Panel Installer Salary in California
California is one of the states where solar installation is a visible part of the energy and construction market. The median annual salary for solar photovoltaic installers in California was about $60,600 in the May 2025 data. For someone searching for solar installer salary in California or solar panel installer salary in California, it is also important to remember that actual pay can be different between cities and employers.
- Median annual salary: about $60,600
- Solar PV installation is used in residential and larger projects
- Experience with electrical and construction work can be useful
Solar Panel Installer Salary in New Jersey
New Jersey shows a higher median wage for this occupation compared with the national median. The May 2025 data puts the state median at about $78,950 per year. This makes Solar Panel Installer Salary in New Jersey an important search topic for people checking solar trade jobs in the state. Still, salary is not the only thing to look at because local living costs, overtime, benefits and the type of employer can change the actual value of a job offer.
- Median annual salary: about $78,950
- Hourly median: about $37.96
- Pay can change by local area and experience
Solar Panel Installer Salary in Hawaii
Hawaii also has a relatively high median salary for solar photovoltaic installers. The May 2025 data shows a median annual pay of about $70,370. People searching for solar installer salary in Hawaii should also compare the local cost of living before judging a salary offer. A higher salary number does not automatically mean more money left after normal living expenses.
- Median annual salary: about $70,370
- Solar installation work can include residential projects
- Roof and outdoor work can be part of the daily job
Solar Panel Installer Salary in Nevada
Nevada is another state with a higher reported median wage for solar photovoltaic installers. The May 2025 median was about $67,810 per year. Solar installers in Nevada can work on residential systems as well as larger solar projects. The exact solar panel installer salary depends on the company, experience and type of installation work.
Solar Panel Installer Salary in Oregon
In Oregon, the May 2025 median salary for solar photovoltaic installers was about $66,320 per year. This gives job seekers another useful number when searching for solar installer jobs in Oregon or checking the solar PV installer salary in the state. Workers with construction, roofing or electrical experience may have useful skills when entering this field.
What Does a Solar Panel Installer Do?
The daily work of a solar panel installer can be different depending on whether the worker is installing panels on a home, commercial building or a large solar farm. The basic goal is to safely put the PV system in place and make sure it works as expected.
Some common duties include:
- Measuring the installation area
- Preparing and installing mounting structures
- Installing solar modules and panels
- Connecting panels and related equipment
- Checking wiring, grounding and system components
- Testing the solar PV system after installation
- Doing routine maintenance when needed
- Following building and safety requirements
Solar Installer Hourly Pay
For workers who search by hourly income instead of yearly salary, the national median for solar photovoltaic installers was about $25.55 per hour in May 2025. The national wage range is wide because new workers and experienced installers can have very different pay. The lowest 10 percent earned less than about $41,600 per year, while the highest 10 percent earned more than about $79,970 annually.
So, when somebody asks how much does a solar panel installer make, there is not one fixed answer. A new installer may start closer to the lower part of the wage range, while an experienced worker with good installation skills can move toward higher pay.
Solar Panel Installer Starting Salary
A starting salary for a solar panel installer is normally lower than the pay of an experienced installer. New workers often learn many parts of the job while working with experienced installers. The training can include safety, tools, panel installation methods and basic PV system knowledge.
People coming from construction jobs may already know how to use common tools and work safely on a jobsite. That experience can be useful when starting a solar installation career.
Solar Installer Salary by Experience
Experience can make a noticeable difference in solar installer pay. A person who is just entering the trade may earn less while learning the work, but pay can move up as the installer becomes faster and more comfortable with different solar systems. Experience with roofing, electrical work, construction or other hands-on jobs can also be helpful.
The national wage data gives a wide range for solar photovoltaic installers. In May 2025, the median annual wage was about $53,140. The lowest 10 percent earned less than about $41,600, while the highest 10 percent earned more than about $79,970 per year.
- Entry-level solar installer: usually starts near the lower part of the wage range
- Experienced solar installer: can move closer to the middle or upper wage range
- Senior or highly skilled installers: may earn above the normal installer wage range in some jobs
- Overtime, travel work and employer benefits can also change total earnings
This is why someone searching for solar panel installer salary should not look at only one salary number. Experience and the kind of solar installation work are both important.
How Much Does a Solar Panel Installer Make?
So, how much does a solar panel installer make in the United States? The national median pay was around $53,140 a year in May 2025, which is about $25.55 an hour. But an actual paycheck can be higher or lower depending on the state, company, experience and job duties.
For example, a residential solar installer may spend most of the day working on rooftops and installing systems for homeowners. Another installer may work on a large solar farm where the job setup and daily work can be quite different. These differences can affect the salary offered by an employer.
Solar Panel Installer Salary Per Hour
Hourly pay is another common way people search for this job. The national median hourly wage for solar photovoltaic installers was about $25.55 per hour in May 2025. Workers who are new to the trade may earn less than this amount, while experienced workers can earn more.
Hourly pay can also become more important when a job includes overtime. Some solar installation companies work on project schedules, so the number of hours worked in a week may change from one project to another.
- National median hourly pay: about $25.55
- National median annual pay: about $53,140
- Actual hourly rate depends on location and employer
- Overtime can increase total yearly earnings
How to Become a Solar Panel Installer
Becoming a solar panel installer does not always require a four-year college degree. This is one reason the job gets attention from people looking for a hands-on career. A high school diploma or equivalent is normally the typical education level for entering this occupation, followed by practical training on the job.
A new worker may learn by working with an experienced installer. Training can include how to use tools, how to install mounting systems, how to handle solar panels and how to follow workplace safety rules.
A simple path into the trade can look like this:
- Complete high school or an equivalent program.
- Learn basic construction and workplace safety.
- Get entry-level solar or construction experience.
- Learn solar PV installation through employer training or a training program.
- Build experience with residential or commercial solar systems.
- Look for higher-level installer positions as skills improve.
Solar Panel Installer Education and Training
Most solar installers learn a large part of the job through practical training. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, on-the-job training for solar photovoltaic installers can range from about one month to one year depending on the job.
Some workers also take technical classes or attend solar training programs before looking for a job. These programs can help a beginner understand solar PV systems, electrical basics, tools and installation methods.
Training is especially useful for people who have never worked in construction before. The work can involve heights, outdoor conditions and electrical equipment, so learning the correct safety procedures is important.
Solar PV Installer Certification
Certification is not the same thing as a college degree, and requirements can vary by employer and location. Some solar workers choose professional certification to show that they have learned specific solar PV skills.
One certification organization in this field is the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). NABCEP offers professional credentials for people working in the renewable energy industry. Certification requirements should always be checked directly with the organization because they can change.
Certification may be useful for a worker who wants to move beyond basic installation work. It can also give an employer another way to understand a worker's training and knowledge.
Skills Needed for a Solar Panel Installer
A solar installer needs more than just the ability to use a drill. The job combines construction work, physical work, basic electrical knowledge and careful attention to installation details.
- Basic construction skills
- Ability to use hand and power tools
- Basic electrical understanding
- Ability to read measurements and follow instructions
- Good balance and comfort working at heights
- Physical strength and stamina
- Problem-solving skills
- Attention to safety
- Ability to work as part of a crew
- Willingness to work outdoors
Good communication also matters. Solar installers often work with other installers, electricians, roofers, supervisors and sometimes customers. A person who can explain a problem clearly can be more useful on a busy jobsite.
What Does a Solar Installer Do Every Day?
The daily work depends on the project. On a residential job, the crew may arrive at a customer's home, check the roof, bring equipment up and install the mounting system. After that, solar panels and other system components are installed and checked.
On a larger project, the work can be more repetitive because many panels may need to be installed across a large area. Workers may spend long hours outdoors and may have to deal with heat, cold, wind or changing weather conditions.
Typical work can include:
- Checking the work area before installation
- Measuring roof or ground locations
- Installing racking and mounting equipment
- Placing solar modules
- Connecting components according to the installation plan
- Checking the completed installation
- Keeping tools and work areas organized
- Following company and jobsite safety rules
Solar Installation Technician Salary
The title Solar Installation Technician is also used by some employers for jobs that involve installing and maintaining solar energy systems. Pay for these positions can be different from one company to another because the job title may include additional technical duties.
A technician who has experience with solar PV systems, electrical components or troubleshooting may have a different pay level than someone doing basic panel installation. When searching for jobs, it is useful to compare the full job description instead of looking only at the title.
Solar PV Installer Jobs
Solar PV installer jobs can be found in residential solar companies, commercial solar contractors and utility-scale solar projects. Some companies mainly install rooftop systems, while others work on large ground-mounted solar projects.
The type of job can affect the daily routine. Residential installers may travel from house to house, while utility-scale crews may spend weeks or longer at a project location.
- Residential solar installer
- Commercial solar installer
- Solar PV installation technician
- Solar farm installer
- Solar construction worker
- Solar maintenance worker
Solar Panel Installation Jobs and Work Environment
Solar panel installation is a physical job. Installers may spend a lot of time standing, climbing, bending, lifting equipment and working outside. Rooftop work can also mean working at considerable heights, so proper fall protection and other safety equipment are important.
Weather is another part of the job that should not be ignored. A solar installer may work in direct sunlight during summer, while other projects can involve cold or windy conditions. The exact conditions depend on the location and project.
People looking for solar panel installation jobs should understand that this is not normally a desk job. It is better suited to someone who is comfortable with physical work and practical tasks.
Is Solar Panel Installation a Good Career?
Solar installation has become a growing part of the U.S. energy and construction workforce. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment for solar photovoltaic installers to grow 37 percent from 2025 to 2035, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.
The same BLS data estimates about 4,200 openings per year for solar photovoltaic installers over the 2025–2035 period. Some openings are expected because of employment growth and others because workers leave the occupation or move to other jobs.
For someone comparing trade careers, the combination of hands-on work and the expanding solar industry can make this occupation worth researching. At the same time, the job involves physical work, outdoor conditions and working at heights, so those parts should also be considered.
Solar Installer Career Growth
A worker does not have to stay at the basic installer level forever. With more experience, a person may take on more responsibility on a crew or move into related solar and construction positions.
- Entry-level solar installer
- Experienced solar PV installer
- Lead installer
- Solar installation supervisor
- Solar project-related positions
- Related electrical or construction careers
The exact career path depends on the company, training, experience and local licensing requirements. Workers who develop additional electrical or construction skills may have more job options as their career moves forward.
What Affects Solar Panel Installer Salary?
There is no single salary for every solar panel installer in the USA. Two people doing similar work can still have different pay because of their location, experience, employer and the type of solar project. This is normal with many skilled trade jobs.
When checking a solar panel installer salary, these are some of the main things that can affect the final pay:
- Experience: Experienced installers may earn more than new workers.
- Location: Pay can be different from one state or local area to another.
- Type of project: Residential, commercial and utility-scale projects can have different work and pay structures.
- Skills: Electrical, roofing and construction skills can be useful for solar installation work.
- Employer: Large contractors and small local companies may offer different pay and benefits.
- Overtime: Extra working hours can increase total yearly earnings when overtime is available.
- Certifications: Some employers may value additional solar training or professional credentials.
Residential vs Commercial Solar Installer Salary
Solar installers can work on different types of projects. Residential solar usually means installing systems on houses, while commercial solar can involve larger buildings and more equipment. Utility-scale projects can be much bigger and may involve large teams working across a solar farm.
Because the job duties are different, the salary can also be different. A person looking for a solar installer salary should read the complete job description before comparing two offers.
Residential Solar Installer
Residential installers normally work at homes and may spend a lot of time on rooftops. The work can include mounting panels, installing racking and helping with the system connections. Customer-facing work can also be part of the job depending on the company.
Commercial Solar Installer
Commercial solar installation can involve larger buildings, more panels and bigger crews. The installer may work with other trades and follow a detailed project plan. Experience with larger construction sites can be useful.
Utility-Scale Solar Installer
Utility-scale solar projects can cover a large area and contain a very high number of panels. Installers may work outdoors for long periods and may travel to project locations. The work can be more project-based compared with residential installation.
Solar Installer Benefits and Total Compensation
Salary is only one part of what a worker receives from a job. Some solar installation companies may offer benefits along with hourly or annual pay. The benefits are different from employer to employer, so workers should check the job offer carefully.
- Health insurance
- Dental or vision coverage
- Paid time off
- Retirement plans
- Overtime opportunities
- Paid training
- Travel pay for some jobs
- Performance or project bonuses at some companies
For this reason, a job with a slightly lower base salary may have a different total compensation package than another job with a higher hourly rate. Comparing the full offer is usually more useful than comparing salary alone.
Can Solar Installers Make More With Overtime?
Overtime can be one way for some solar installers to increase their yearly earnings. Solar projects can have deadlines, and working hours may become longer during busy periods. However, overtime is not guaranteed and depends on the employer, project schedule and applicable wage rules.
Workers should not assume that every solar installation job will provide the same overtime opportunity. When applying for a job, it is better to ask the employer about normal working hours, overtime policy and travel requirements.
Solar Panel Installer Work Schedule
A solar installer's schedule depends on the company and project. Many installers work full time, but the daily hours can change when a project has a deadline or when weather affects the work.
Residential crews may visit several job sites during a normal week. Large solar projects can have a more fixed work location for a longer period. Early morning starts are also common on some construction jobs, especially when crews want to avoid the hottest part of the day.
Physical Requirements of a Solar Installer Job
Solar installation is a hands-on trade and can be physically demanding. Workers may lift equipment, climb ladders, bend, kneel and stand for long periods. Rooftop installers also need to be comfortable working at heights.
Safety is an important part of this occupation. Workers need to follow company procedures and use the required protective equipment. A person who is not comfortable with heights or outdoor physical work should understand these requirements before choosing this career.
Solar Panel Installer Tools and Equipment
Solar installers use different hand tools and power tools during installation. The exact tools depend on the type of project and the employer. Workers normally receive training on how to use equipment safely.
- Drills and impact drivers
- Wrenches and sockets
- Measuring tools
- Levels
- Ladders and access equipment
- Safety harnesses and fall protection equipment
- Electrical testing equipment
- Other construction hand tools
Knowing how to use common construction tools can make the transition into a solar installer job easier for someone coming from another trade.
Solar Panel Installer Jobs Near Me
People searching online for solar panel installer jobs near me can check local solar companies, construction contractors and job websites. Solar jobs may be listed under several different titles, so searching only one job title can sometimes miss opportunities.
Useful job search terms include:
- Solar Panel Installer
- Solar Installer
- Solar PV Installer
- Solar Installation Technician
- Solar Technician
- Solar Construction Worker
- Solar PV Technician
It is also useful to search by city or state. For example, someone may search for solar installer jobs in Texas, solar panel installer jobs in California or solar PV installer jobs in Arizona.
Solar Installer Salary by State: Why Location Matters
State location can make a real difference when comparing solar installer wages. The salary table in this article shows that reported median wages are not the same across the country. Some states have median wages above the national figure, while others are below it.
However, salary should always be viewed together with local living costs. Housing, transportation, taxes and other daily expenses can be very different between states. A higher annual salary does not automatically mean that a worker will have more money left after expenses.
Solar Energy Installer Salary and Related Job Titles
When looking for salary information online, you may see several job titles that are close to solar panel installer. These titles can describe similar work, but the exact duties can be different between employers.
- Solar Panel Installer Salary
- Solar Installer Salary
- Solar PV Installer Salary
- Solar Photovoltaic Installer Salary
- Solar Installation Technician Salary
- Solar Energy Installer Salary
- PV Installation Technician Salary
- Solar Technician Salary
If you are comparing salaries, make sure the occupation and job duties match. A job called “solar technician” at one company may have more technical responsibilities than a basic installation position at another company.
Solar Panel Installer Job Outlook
The job outlook is one of the biggest reasons this occupation gets attention. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment of solar photovoltaic installers to grow 37 percent from 2025 to 2035. That is much faster than the average growth projected for all occupations.
BLS also projects around 4,200 openings each year for solar photovoltaic installers during this period. These openings can come from new jobs as well as workers leaving the occupation or moving into other jobs.
Growth in solar energy projects can create demand for workers who can install and maintain photovoltaic systems. Still, job availability can vary by state and local market, so workers should check current local job listings when planning a move or career change.
Solar Panel Installer Salary Summary
For anyone researching how much solar panel installers make, the latest national BLS data gives a useful starting point. The median annual wage for solar photovoltaic installers was approximately $53,140 in May 2025, equal to about $25.55 per hour. The exact salary can be higher or lower depending on experience, state, employer and type of solar installation.
The occupation can be a practical option for people interested in construction and renewable energy without going through a traditional four-year college route. The work is physical and sometimes involves rooftops, heights and outdoor conditions, but the projected employment growth is strong.
Before accepting a job, it is a good idea to compare the base salary, hourly rate, overtime, benefits, travel requirements, training and local cost of living. Looking at all of these details gives a more realistic picture of what a solar installer job can provide.
Frequently Used Solar Panel Installer Salary Searches
People researching this career often use different search terms to find salary and job information. These related keywords also describe the main questions workers have when entering the solar industry.
- Solar Panel Installer Salary in USA
- Solar Panel Installer Salary by State
- Average Solar Panel Installer Salary
- Solar Installer Salary per Hour
- Solar PV Installer Salary
- Solar Photovoltaic Installer Salary
- Solar Installation Technician Salary
- Solar Installer Starting Salary
- How Much Does a Solar Panel Installer Make
- Solar Panel Installer Jobs
- Solar PV Installer Jobs
- Solar Installation Jobs
Final Words on Solar Panel Installer Salary
Solar panel installation is a hands-on career connected with the growing solar energy industry in the United States. The national median salary of around $53,140 gives a useful benchmark, but the actual pay can be quite different depending on where you work and how much experience you have. State, employer, project type, overtime and extra skills all matter when looking at a solar installer salary.
For a person starting out, learning basic construction and solar PV skills can be a practical first step. As experience grows, there may be opportunities to take on more responsibility or move into related solar, electrical and construction positions. Anyone considering this trade should look at both the earning potential and the physical nature of the work before making a career decision.
Sources
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook — Solar Photovoltaic Installers.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics — Solar Photovoltaic Installers, May 2025.
CareerOneStop, U.S. Department of Labor — Solar Photovoltaic Installers wage data.