Welcome to the rapidly expanding world of solar trade careers in Nashville, TN, where the renewable energy revolution is creating compelling opportunities for skilled professionals. With 62 solar jobs and 56 solar energy jobs listed in early 2025 [source 6], Nashville is emerging as a hub for solar industry professionals. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming a solar technician, solar panel installer, or other solar-related professional in Music City.
Whether you're starting fresh or looking to transition into this booming sector, Nashville offers accessible pathways into solar careers. From Goodwill Industries' free four-week solar installer training program with OSHA 10 certification [source 5] to advanced career opportunities at top employers like ReNew Solar Solutions, Silicon Ranch, and LightWave Solar, this guide will help you navigate the complete career journey.
If you're ready to launch or advance your career in the exciting solar industry, explore resources like Gild and let's dive into the landscape of solar trade careers in Nashville, TN.
Solar trade professionals in Nashville play a crucial role in advancing renewable energy adoption. The most common job types include Solar Technicians, Solar Panel Appointment Setters, Lead Solar Technicians, and Solar System Designers [source 1]. These roles span the full spectrum of the solar energy industry, from customer acquisition to installation and system design.
The field is supported by major employers in the Nashville area:
With growing initiatives like the EPA's Solar for All program, which emphasizes solar workforce needs in the Southeast [source 5], the demand for skilled solar professionals in Nashville is on the rise. For more details on local opportunities, check Nashville Solar Companies.
While Tennessee does not require formal licensing specifically for solar trade professionals, certifications are the industry-standard pathway to qualify for jobs. Essential credentials include:
These certifications demonstrate your skills and commitment to the field. The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) offers a credentialing pathway that begins with the Associate designation and progresses to full certification through experience and examination [source 8]. Learn more about NABCEP at NABCEP Resources.
Structured training programs provide the foundation for success in solar trade careers. Goodwill Industries of Middle Tennessee offers a free, four-week Solar Installer Training program that covers essential skills like mounting, wiring, troubleshooting, safety protocols, and maintenance of solar systems [source 5]. This comprehensive program prepares candidates specifically for installation roles and meets industry safety standards.
For those seeking more advanced training, there are multiple pathways:
The most effective entry point for many is through Goodwill's program followed by on-the-job training. Gild is an excellent resource for finding local solar trade opportunities in Nashville. For additional training insights, visit GreenLancer Salary Info.
To start a career in solar trades in Nashville:
Participating in a structured program gives you a significant advantage in the job market. Goodwill Industries' free solar installer training program provides practical skills and valuable certifications like OSHA 10 [source 5]. This four-week program meets industry safety standards and prepares candidates specifically for installation roles.
Beyond Goodwill, other training options include Gild's job search platform for local opportunities and industry certification programs for long-term career growth.
During your initial training phase, you'll gain practical experience in:
This hands-on preparation is critical for roles like Solar Technician Level 1, which serves as a common starting point in the industry [source 6]. Through programs like Goodwill's, you'll develop the foundation needed to begin your career and advance in the field. For more Tennessee-specific data, refer to SEIA Tennessee Report.
Career progression in the solar industry follows clear pathways:
| Career Level | Key Advancement Requirements | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Solar Technician Level 1 | Basic training and OSHA 10 [source 5] | $49,000-$57,000 |
| Lead Solar Technician | Experience and NABCEP Associate credential [source 8] | $57,000-$65,000+ |
| Solar System Designer | Advanced design knowledge and electrical licensing [source 9] | $70,000-$90,000 |
| Project Manager | Comprehensive experience and multiple certifications [source 9] | $80,000-$120,000+ |
With experience and additional certifications such as full NABCEP certification or electrical licensing, professionals can advance to roles like Lead Solar Technician, Solar Engineer, or Operations & Maintenance Manager [source 8]. Installers with advanced electrical credentials can earn upwards of $65,000 annually and are in higher demand for complex commercial or utility-scale projects [source 10].
The solar trade industry in Nashville offers competitive compensation with significant earning potential based on role and experience level.
Here's a breakdown of average salaries for various solar trade careers in Nashville:
Nationally, the solar industry saw 5.9% job growth from 2022 to 2023 [source 6], a trend that is positively influencing Nashville's expanding market. The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation's initiatives, along with local utility programs like Nashville Electric Service's Music City Solar program, are further driving growth in solar infrastructure and job creation [source 6]. For current job openings, visit Indeed Nashville Solar Jobs.
Starting a career in the solar trades in Nashville, TN, offers exciting opportunities in a rapidly growing industry. With accessible training through programs like Goodwill's four-week course [source 5], and companies like LightWave Solar offering opportunities in the region [source 8], the path to becoming a solar professional is more accessible than ever.
If you're ready to begin your journey, use Gild to find local solar trade apprenticeships and jobs in Nashville. For government incentives and additional resources, check Government Rebates for Solar. As you gain experience and build your credentials, the opportunities in solar will continue to grow. Good luck on your journey into renewable energy!
