Solar Thermal Installer/ Technician
Install or repair solar energy systems designed to collect, store, and circulate solar-heated water for residential, commercial or industrial use.
Annual openings
1,079
BLS median wage
$63,240
Typical education
Associate's degree
10-year growth
+7%
Career requirements
What does this career require?
The education, credentials, and on-the-job competencies Colorado employers expect for this role.
Typical education
Associate's degree
Credential requirement
No specific credential listed yet
Credential detail
Many employers value certifications from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners, though they are often obtained after working in the industry. OSHA 10 certification is valued, though not usually required before you get into the industry.
Work experience
This is an entry-level role so no experience is required.
Training
Some employers value Solar Energy International training.
Employer competency information
- Lifelong Learning - Renewables is a growing industry. Careers can go many different directions if employees want to learn more.
- Working with Tools and Technology — The ability to use tools to construct things in a safe manner, mechanical/electrical aptitude, the ability to solve problems, the use of computers, and the ability to read schematics are valuable.
- Communication and Teamwork — You will be working as part of a team, so good communication and teamwork skills and a positive attitude are important.
- Working outdoors — Installation work is generally outdoors and involves physical activity, so an interest in working outside is a plus for many of the jobs.
Is this work a fit?
What the work actually feels like
How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.
Work style
- With kids/peopleOccasionally
- On a computerOccasionally
- Outdoors / on-siteSometimes
- With your handsOccasionally
Interests it draws on
- Trades
- Plumbing
- Renewable Energy
Automation exposure
High exposure
Many tasks are repeatable, so technology could reshape the day-to-day over time.
A typical day
- Test operation or functionality of mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and control systems.
- Install copper or plastic plumbing using pipes, fittings, pipe cutters, acetylene torches, solder, wire brushes, sand cloths, flux, plastic pipe cleaners, or plastic glue.
- Install flat-plat, evacuated glass, or concentrating solar collectors on mounting devices, using brackets or struts.
- Install solar thermal system controllers and sensors.
- Design active direct or indirect, passive direct or indirect, or pool solar systems.
- Install heat exchangers and heat exchanger fluids according to installation manuals and schematics.