Explore Solar Energy Jobs
Solar energy jobs lead the renewable energy revolution, offering stability, growth and the chance to make a real impact on the environment. With the world transitioning away from fossil fuels, the solar industry is becoming one of the fastest growing sectors for job opportunities worldwide.
Job Market Overview
According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), solar energy is now the leading job creator in the renewable energy sector, with nearly 4.9 million jobs worldwide in 2022. The demand for solar energy professionals spans engineering, sales, project management and maintenance, reflecting the diverse needs of the sector being propelled forward by the global shift towards cleaner energy sources.
For those transitioning from other energy sectors, particularly fossil fuels, solar offers a promising way to apply existing skills or learn new ones, ensuring career longevity. The solar industry is expanding rapidly and there is a growing need for professionals who are into long-term growth and sustainability.
Fig 1 - Solar photovoltaic employment in 2022: Top ten countries. Source: IRENA, 2024
Careers in Solar Energy
The solar industry offers a wide range of career pathways along the value chain.
Installation and Maintenance: These hands-on roles are the backbone of the solar industry. Solar panel installers, for example, are essential for setting up residential, commercial and utility-scale solar projects. Maintenance technicians ensure that these installations operate efficiently throughout their lifespan, preventing energy loss and maximising output.
Engineering and design: Engineers and designers are at the heart of solar energy innovation. They work to improve the efficiency of solar panels, reduce costs and develop new technologies that drive the industry forward. Solar engineers often work with other professionals to design systems that meet specific energy needs, from small residential installations to large solar farms.
Sales and Marketing: Convincing the public and businesses of the benefits of solar energy is a key role within the industry. Sales and marketing professionals not only sell solar products, but also educate potential customers about the long-term economic and environmental benefits of going solar. This requires both a passion for sustainability and strong sales skills.
Salary Insights
Salaries in the solar sector vary depending on the role, level of experience and location. Below is a comparison of salary ranges in the United States (US), United Kingdom (UK) and Germany (DE):
| Role | US | UK | DE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solar Panel Installer | $44,000 - $69,000 | £27,000 - £42,000 | €29,000 - €53,000 |
| Project Manager | $60,000 - $104,000 | £37,000 - £64,000 | €38,000 - €55,000 |
| Electrical Engineer | $73,000 - $115,000 | £32,000 - £49,000 | €49,000 - €65,000 |
| Sales Consultant | $65,000 - $108,000 | £22,000 - £38,000 | €39,000 - €70,000 |
| Operations Manager | $55,000 - $96,000 | £34,000 - £64,000 | €49,000 - €74,000 |
Fig 2 - Salaries in the solar energy industry. Source: glassdoor.co.uk 2024
These figures provide a snapshot of the competitive salaries available in the solar energy sector in key markets. As the industry grows, there is ample room for salary increases and career progression.
Making an Environmental Impact
Every megawatt hour produced by renewable energy brings humanity closer to sustainability. And every solar job contributes to this mission, as solar energy is a key component of the global strategy to combat climate change.
Below you will find the latest solar energy jobs listed on Rejobs.
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