If you're looking to jumpstart a career in solar trades in Jacksonville, NC, you've come to the right place. As the solar industry expands nationwide, Jacksonville is positioning itself as a growing hub for renewable energy jobs. With the average solar installer salary at approximately $22.26 per hour, or about $46,300 annually, and state licensing requirements clearly defined, this career path presents solid opportunities for aspiring professionals 12.
To become a solar installer or PV technician, the first step is typically completing a structured apprenticeship under experienced professionals, while also obtaining relevant NABCEP certifications and state Electrical Contractor licenses 34. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know—from licensing requirements to career growth prospects—so you can start your journey into the solar trades.
Before diving into the steps, it's essential to understand what working in the solar trade industry entails. Solar trade professionals install, maintain, and repair solar energy systems, which convert sunlight into electricity for residential, commercial, and utility-scale applications. This includes tasks like:
Solar workers must have a strong understanding of electrical systems, basic engineering principles, and safety protocols to ensure installations are efficient and up to code.
Yes! While licensing requirements vary by specific role, solar installers in North Carolina must meet state-level qualifications, particularly if working with electrical systems.
Licensing ensures legal employment, safety compliance, and market competitiveness in the growing solar sector of Jacksonville, NC.
Like many skilled trades, entering the solar workforce often starts with a structured apprenticeship, blending on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Apprenticeships typically last 2–4 years, depending on the program and whether you're pursuing a general solar technician track or specializing in PV installation, electrical work, or project management.
| Role | Average Duration | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level Solar Installer | 1–2 years | High school diploma/GED |
| Solar PV Technician (Apprentice) | 2.5–4 years | Electrical training + field experience |
| Electrical Solar Installer | 3+ years | Electrical contractor license + apprenticeship credits |
For those just starting out, completing an apprenticeship provides valuable hands-on experience, mentorship, and the skills needed to qualify for journeyman-level positions.
Use Gild: Search for apprenticeship positions and entry-level solar installer jobs in Jacksonville, NC on Gild.com, where thousands of trades opportunities are listed daily 2
Contact Local Community Colleges or Technical Schools: Programs at institutions like Coastal Carolina Community College may list or offer solar-focused training curricula
Join Industry Associations: Groups such as Solar Foundation’s Solar Ready Vets Network or the NABCEP directory offer training pathways and job placement services 4
Apply Directly at Solar Companies: Demand Construction and Cape Fear Solar Systems, LLC, among others, frequently recruit solar apprentices based on project availability in Jacksonville, NC and Onslow County 2
Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide you can follow to begin a fulfilling career in solar, whether as an installer, field technician, or project coordinator.
Before applying for any apprenticeship or full-time job in solar, here are the baseline requirements:
While not mandatory, many entry-level candidates increase their employability by attending a formal solar technician training course. These programs, often offered at technical colleges or online platforms, cover essentials like:
Many training programs also help students apply for apprenticeships or job placements directly after program completion.
You can begin browsing training programs and apprenticeships on Gild.com, where you’ll find curated opportunities in Jacksonville, NC and surrounding areas that include structured on-the-job training 2.
Apprenticeships are the standard on-ramp to a professional solar career. They combine classroom learning with supervised field work under licensed professionals.
During this multi-year phase, you'll gain exposure to:
Apprentices often receive a percentage of the journey-level wage, making it a practical way to earn as you learn.
To find an apprenticeship:
After completing a year or more in an apprenticeship, you’ll be ready to work at a field technician or solar installer level, often under supervision while building skills in areas like:
This experience is critical to qualifying for advanced roles or certifications such as NABCEP PV Installation Professional, which can significantly improve salary potential and career trajectory in North Carolina, where experienced installers earn $50K to over $65K annually based on certification and expertise 156
If you choose to work with electrical systems, you’ll need to pursue the Electrical Contractor License in North Carolina through the State Licensing Board for General Contractors 4. You can select from license classes based on your career direction:
Obtaining your journey-level certification enables you to work independently, take on more advanced projects, and potentially start your own solar contracting business.
Once you're established as a journey-level technician, there are multiple career paths:
With the solar photovoltaic installer occupation projected to grow 48% from 2023 to 2033, now is an excellent time to secure your role in this booming industry 3.
Jacksonville, NC, is well-positioned for solar trade job growth due to a combination of strong local incentives and increasing demand.
These incentives not only benefit homeowners but also increase job availability, career stability, and project funding in the local solar market.
Here’s a quick snapshot of salary expectations for solar jobs in and around Jacksonville, NC:
| Role | Average Hourly Rate | Estimated Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level Solar Installer | $17.50 - $22 | $35,000 - $45,000 |
| Certified Solar Installer | $22.26 average | $46,000 average |
| Project Manager / Lead Installer | $26 - $32 | $55,000 - $65,000+ |
| Electrical Solar Installer (Licensed) | $24 - $30 | $50,000+ with experience |
Note that these figures vary based on whether you're working for a general contractor, residential installer, or utility-scale solar company, and whether you’ve obtained NABCEP certification 562.
Starting a career in solar trades in Jacksonville, NC, offers a clear path into a growing, in-demand industry with competitive pay and meaningful work helping build a cleaner future. Whether you're just finishing high school or considering a career change, following a structured apprenticeship and completing relevant certifications can help you build a long-term career with increasing independence and professional growth.
Now that you understand the requirements, opportunities, and salary expectations, your path to becoming a solar installer, field technician, or certified PV technician starts with applying for apprenticeships on Gild or local solar companies in Jacksonville, NC.
Ready to get started?
✅ Start your apprenticeship search today at Gild.com/jacksonville
✅ Connect with local solar companies like Cape Fear Solar Systems, LLC
✅ Explore NABCEP-certified training programs and electrical license tracks
✅ Leverage the 30% Federal Tax Credit, Duke Energy rebates, and NC Solar for All initiatives to gain exposure to real projects
Whether you're interested in entry-level solar installation or advanced electrical specialization, the demand for skilled solar workers is rising—and Jacksonville, NC is ready to welcome new professionals to the field.
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