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Solar Thermal Installers and Technicians

Job Zone 3 - Medium preparation needed

Install or repair solar energy systems designed to collect, store, and circulate solar-heated water for residential, commercial or industrial use.

Pay & job outlook

Median pay: $63,800/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)

$44,150$108,420

Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.

Job outlook: +4.5% projected growth, 20242034 — about as fast as average.

About 44,000 openings per year, on average, over the decade.

Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.

Top skills
InstallationQuality Control AnalysisReading ComprehensionActive ListeningSpeakingCritical ThinkingOperations MonitoringMonitoringTroubleshootingJudgment and Decision Making
Top knowledge areas
MechanicalBuilding and ConstructionCustomer and Personal ServiceEnglish LanguageEngineering and TechnologyEducation and TrainingDesignPublic Safety and Security
Core tasks

Test operation or functionality of mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and control systems.

Apply weather seal, such as pipe flashings and sealants, to roof penetrations and structural devices.

Install solar collector mounting devices on tile, asphalt, shingle, or built-up gravel roofs, using appropriate materials and penetration methods.

Install copper or plastic plumbing using pipes, fittings, pipe cutters, acetylene torches, solder, wire brushes, sand cloths, flux, plastic pipe cleaners, or plastic glue.

Identify plumbing, electrical, environmental, or safety hazards associated with solar thermal installations.

Demonstrate start-up, shut-down, maintenance, diagnostic, and safety procedures to thermal system owners.

Install circulating pumps using pipe, fittings, soldering equipment, electrical supplies, and hand tools.

Install flat-plat, evacuated glass, or concentrating solar collectors on mounting devices, using brackets or struts.

Frequently asked questions

What's the median pay for Solar Thermal Installers and Technicians?

The median pay for Solar Thermal Installers and Technicians is $63,800 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What's the job outlook for Solar Thermal Installers and Technicians?

Employment for Solar Thermal Installers and Technicians is projected to change +4.5% from 2024 to 2034 - about as fast as average.

What education is typically required for Solar Thermal Installers and Technicians?

Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.

How many job openings are there each year for Solar Thermal Installers and Technicians?

About 44,000 openings per year, on average, over the decade.