CA median pay
$60,600 a year
U.S. median pay
$53,140 a year
Projected growth
37% (2025–35)
Training
Weeks to 1 year on the job
California had about 6,830 solar installers in May 2025, and they earned a median of $60,600. The work is a mix of construction and electrical: planning layouts, mounting racking and panels, wiring, and testing systems.
Long-term career or stepping stone?
From the dean’s desk
It can be both. In some states with licensing requirements, like Washington, solar used to be a way for people to get their hours quickly. Nowadays, with rebates for panel installs harder to come by, that’s less the case, but it’s still a great career.
— Lester Burkes, Dean of Trades, Transportation & Apprenticeship
Those incentives have changed. The federal Residential Clean Energy Credit, which helped homeowners pay for solar, is not available for property placed in service after December 31, 2025. At the same time, BLS still projects 37% growth for solar installers nationally from 2025 to 2035, much faster than average.
If you want options, treat solar as a way into the electrical trade. Installers who can also do electrical work, or who go on to become certified electricians, have more ways to grow. See How to Become an Electrician in California.
What solar installers do
- Plan system layouts based on the roof or site
- Measure, cut and assemble support structures
- Install panels and racking to code
- Connect panels to the electrical system, where state law allows
- Test, activate and maintain systems
How to become a solar installer in California
1
Finish high school
A diploma is typically required. Construction or electrical classes help.
2
Get training
Community colleges and technical schools offer courses from a few days to several months. Many installers learn on the job in one month to one year.
3
Start on a crew
Most installers start as helpers on an installation team and learn from experienced installers.
4
Add credentials
Industry certification can help you stand out. If you want to do electrical work for a C-10 contractor, you’ll need California electrician certification.
5
Go into business, if you want
To contract solar work yourself, California requires a C-46 Solar Contractor license from the Contractors State License Board, which includes experience requirements and exams.
Frequently asked questions
How much do solar installers make in California?
The median was $60,600 in May 2025, compared with $53,140 nationally.
Is solar installation a good career?
It can be. BLS projects 37% growth from 2025 to 2035, though incentives for homeowners have changed. Pairing solar with electrical skills gives you the most options.
Do I need a license to install solar panels in California?
Installers usually work for licensed contractors. To run your own solar business, you need a C-46 license from the CSLB. Electrical work for C-10 contractors requires state electrician certification.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Solar Photovoltaic Installers
- BLS: OEWS, California, May 2025
- IRS: Residential Clean Energy Credit
- California Contractors State License Board
Related: Electrician in California · All California guides
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