Solar Photovoltaic Installers: Salary, Job Outlook & How to Become One (2026 Parent Guide)

Solar Photovoltaic Installers fall under the Construction and Extraction category in the U.S. occupational classification. Solar Photovoltaic Installers earn a median salary of $51,860 per year, ranking in the top 59% of all U.S. occupations. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects +42.1% job growth through 2034, projected to grow far faster than the US average. Entry into this field typically requires an apprenticeship, technical certification, or postsecondary training, with specific licensing or certification depending on the state and employer. For parents whose teenager is exploring this path, the most actionable step is mapping the education requirements to specific colleges and majors before junior year — not waiting until application season.

What do solar photovoltaic installers earn?

The median annual wage for solar photovoltaic installers is $51,860. That puts solar photovoltaic installers at #480 on the BLS ranked list of all U.S. occupations by median pay. This salary is around or below the U.S. median for individual workers, so career growth often depends on advancement into supervisory roles, specialization, or additional credentials. Actual pay varies meaningfully by state, employer type, and years of experience — entry-level salaries are typically 30–40% below the median, while top-decile earners often exceed it by 50% or more.

Is solar photovoltaic installers a growing career?

The 10-year outlook for solar photovoltaic installers is +42.1%, projected to grow far faster than the US average. Employment is projected to move from approximately 28K positions in 2024 to 40K in 2034, a net change of 12K. Very fast growth indicates significant talent shortages and unusually strong hiring momentum — often the most resilient outlook a teenager can plan toward.

What education does my child need to become solar photovoltaic installer?

Solar Photovoltaic Installers typically enter the field through a formal apprenticeship, technical certification, or vocational training program — a strong fit for teens who prefer hands-on learning over traditional college. For parents helping a teen prepare, the highest-leverage step before junior year is identifying colleges and programs that feed reliably into this occupation — Solyo's college search lets parents filter by major and admissions data side by side.

Related careers your child might also consider

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• Boilermakers
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• Construction and Building Inspectors
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• Pile Driver Operators
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Common questions parents ask about solar photovoltaic installers