The use of solar energy is quickly expanding around the world with many job seekers looking for work in this blossoming industry.

Find work can seem overwhelming, especially if you are unfamiliar with solar energy systems. Plus, many jobs in this industry require frequent travel.

Never fear! Keep reading to learn more about how per diems work, where to find solar jobs and jobs in the solar industry you should consider:

What Exactly is a Per Diem?

When you are expected to travel for work, as many of those who work for the solar industry do, you are usually given a fixed amount per day to cover lodging, meals and other costs of travel.

For those who work in the oil and gas industry, it’s difficult to set solid per diems because there are too many variables involved in work situations. It all depends on the nature of your job and what expenses are automatically covered by the employer.

When it comes to working in the solar industry, many jobs require frequent travel. For this reason, you can usually expect most jobs to offer a per diem.

How to Find a Solar Job

While you can certainly hit the job boards looking for solar jobs, here are some specific places you should be looking if you are seeking a career in this industry:

  • Solar Training Network. This tool, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, provides a platform in which solar job seekers can network with companies seeking new hires.
  • Solar Business Hub Canada. This business directly promotes companies in the solar industry and connects solar industry professionals to solar companies around the globe.
  • Solar Power Events. This website hosts North America’s largest solar trade show and provides a huge resource for solar job searches.
  • North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. This board provides certification programs to solar industry professionals as well as a career center where you can post your resume and apply for jobs.
  • Solar Jobs on Energy Job Shop. Yes! Our own website will help you find positions in the solar industry.

5 Solar Jobs You Should Check Out

 

1. Solar Installer

Solar installers prep roof or ground mount sites, run wires and install rails and solar panels. They are also responsible for connecting meters, panels and routers as well as meeting with inspectors.

This job involves assessing locations by measuring the area and making adjustments to fit solar panels but it can also require you to perform maintenance and system checks at various locations.

While you can become a solar installer with a high school diploma or GED, many companies also look for construction or electrical experience.

2. Solar Site Surveyor

Surveyors travel around to project sites to complete technical design documents for solar systems by conducting physical site audits using related equipment.

This may involve climbing on roofs, using apps to complete audits and piloting drones to collect data.

A high school diploma, GED or trade school degree is enough to get you in this field but construction-related experience, site audit experience and solar installation experience is a plus.

3. Solar Field Service Technician

Field service technicians diagnose, troubleshoot and perform maintenance services to solar systems, energy storage units and electric vehicle charging stations. They respond to maintenance issues as well as write reports.

This job often involves diagnosing and repairing faulted inverters as well as troubleshooting issues with mechanical and electromechanical components.

Previous experience with power tools and electrical equipment is usually required. However, you can become a solar field service technician with a high school diploma or equivalent but most jobs may look for an associate degree or vocational school certificate.

4. General Laborer

In the solar industry, general laborers assist crews with various duties including cleaning up and moving items and equipment as required. They also perform operations, maintenance and technical support.

The tasks may include hoisting equipment and supplies, installing dampeners and setting solar modules.

Experience with construction projects is usually preferred but not required. However, knowing how to use related equipment and supplies is a plus, although you can become a general laborer with a high school education or GED.

5. Solar Electrician

If you’re an electrician, you could easily get into the solar industry. Job duties of a solar electrician include running and bending conduit, working underground, writing panels and installing lights and plugs.

Most solar electrician positions require that you have a journeyman license and experience working as an electrician, particularly in the solar industry. If you don’t have an electrical license, some companies will consider appropriate electrical certifications.

Interested in an Exciting Career?

Maybe you’re new to the energy sector or looking for a career change. Either way, there are some very exciting and rewarding careers to be found in the solar industry!