Solar Energy System Installation and Repair Technology: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Designed for emerging professionals in the clean energy sector, this program equips learners with the technical expertise required to design, install, and maintain solar power systems across residential, commercial, and industrial applications. Students gain hands-on experience in system integration, performance optimization, and safety protocols, preparing them for direct entry into a rapidly growing industry.
- Photovoltaic System Design and Sizing – Learn to assess site conditions, calculate energy demands, and select appropriate components to create efficient, code-compliant solar arrays.
- Solar Panel Installation and Mounting Techniques – Master the structural and electrical integration of photovoltaic modules on rooftops, ground mounts, and tracking systems with attention to weather resistance and load distribution.
- Inverter and Electrical System Integration – Understand the function and configuration of inverters, disconnects, and electrical conduits to ensure safe and efficient conversion of DC to AC power.
- System Commissioning and Performance Testing – Develop skills in diagnostic procedures, performance verification, and troubleshooting using industry-standard tools like IV curve tracers and multimeters.
- Maintenance and Repair Protocols – Gain proficiency in preventive maintenance, fault detection, and repair of components including wiring, connectors, and monitoring systems to extend system lifespan.
- Code Compliance and Safety Standards – Study national and local electrical codes (NEC), OSHA regulations, and best practices to ensure installations meet safety and regulatory requirements.
Solar Energy System Installation and Repair Technology Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Solar Energy System Installation and Repair Technology Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Solar Energy System Installation and Repair Technology degrees, including First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers, Solar Photovoltaic Installers and Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers, All Other. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 812,650 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers 49-1011 | $78,300 | $48,460 - $124,280 | 600,680 | $37.64 |
| Solar Photovoltaic Installers 47-2231 | $51,860 | $39,070 - $80,150 | 28,280 | $24.93 |
| Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers, All Other 49-9099 | $48,640 | $35,270 - $77,150 | 183,690 | $23.39 |
Solar Energy System Installation and Repair Technology Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $54,253 in Arkansas to $89,630 in Alaska—a 65% difference. The highest-paying states include Alaska, Rhode Island, and Hawaii. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 812,650 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Solar Energy System Installation and Repair Technology by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 4 institutions offering Solar Energy System Installation and Repair Technology programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Solar Energy System Installation and Repair Technology is found at Mountain Empire Community College (MECC) (10 graduates), El Paso Community College (EPCC) (8 graduates), Western Technical College (WTC) (4 graduates), and Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC) (3 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 25 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mountain Empire Community College (MECC) |
Other Award
|
10 | Big Stone Gap, Virginia | Public | mecc.edu |
| El Paso Community College (EPCC) |
Other Award
|
8 | El Paso, Texas | Public | epcc.edu |
| Western Technical College (WTC) |
Other Award
|
4 | La Crosse, Wisconsin | Public | westerntc.edu |
| Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC) |
Associate's
|
3 | Green Bay, Wisconsin | Public | nwtc.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Solar Energy System Installation and Repair Technology programs
How much can I earn with a Solar Energy System Installation and Repair Technology degree?
Salaries for Solar Energy System Installation and Repair Technology graduates vary by role and location. First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers earn a median of $78,300 annually, while Solar Photovoltaic Installers earn around $51,860. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in Alaska average $89,630 compared to $54,253 in Arkansas. Approximately 812,650 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Solar Energy System Installation and Repair Technology programs?
Currently 4 accredited institutions offer Solar Energy System Installation and Repair Technology degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Mountain Empire Community College (MECC) (10 graduates), El Paso Community College (EPCC) (8 graduates), and Western Technical College (WTC) (4 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
What career paths are available with a Solar Energy System Installation and Repair Technology degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers, Solar Photovoltaic Installers, and Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers, All Other. Related occupations employ approximately 812,650 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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