Tallahassee, Florida is quickly emerging as a hotbed for solar trade careers, with 28 solar-related job openings currently available and projected for 2025, including roles like Solar Consultant, Quality Technician, and Automation Engineer1. The city's commitment to achieving 100% renewable energy by 20502 is fueling growth in this sector, creating abundant opportunities for skilled professionals. With the average solar technician salary in Tallahassee at $85,150 annually - significantly higher than the statewide average of $49,680 - this field offers both meaningful work and competitive compensation3.
Whether you're just starting your career or looking to make a change, the solar industry in Tallahassee provides a path forward. Interested in exploring job openings? You can start your search right now on Gild, check current listings on Indeed, or learn more about local solar projects via WFSU News.
Solar professionals in Tallahassee work with renewable energy systems, primarily focusing on photovoltaic (PV) solar panels and thermal energy systems. Their responsibilities span installation, maintenance, and optimization of solar power solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial applications. For more insights, visit SEIA for national trends influencing local jobs.
Key roles in the field include:
To succeed in this field, professionals need strong technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and a commitment to clean energy initiatives.
Yes! In Florida, working independently as a solar professional typically require specific qualifications and the Florida Certified Solar Contractor License is mandatory for individuals who wish to install solar thermal or photovoltaic (PV) systems directly for homeowners45. For full details on licensing, refer to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation website.
To become a Certified Solar Contractor in Florida:
Alternatively, licensed electrical contractors can perform solar PV installations but must subcontract other specialty work, such as roofing, to licensed solar contractors6.
Although not mandatory, obtaining the NABCEP PV Installation Professional certification is highly recommended4. The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) certification distinguishes you in the industry and demonstrates a commitment to excellence.
Additionally, local electrical permits are generally required for solar installations, so professionals should be familiar with permitting processes specific to Tallahassee4.
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 18 years or older |
| Experience | 4 years with at least 1 year in supervisory role (can substitute with college coursework) |
| Exams Required | Solar PV trade exam, Business & Financial Management exam |
| Additional Certifications (Recommended) | NABCEP PV Installation Professional certification |
If you're looking to qualify for these roles, it’s essential to start gaining the required experience and consider enrolling in relevant training programs. Let’s explore the educational options available to you, including resources from Florida A&M University for certification prep.
To prepare for a career in solar trades, there are specialized training programs and educational pathways available in Tallahassee. These programs are designed to equip individuals with the necessary skills and align with state licensing and industry certification requirements. You can find more programs through ed2go or local listings.
Online Solar Panel Installer Training by Tallahassee State College:
NABCEP Certification – PV Installation Professional by Florida A&M University:
Florida Solar Energy Apprenticeship Program:
Training programs such as these ensure individuals gain job-specific skills and enhance their credentials for licensure and industry certifications, improving employability and career prospects in Tallahassee's growing solar sector.
To move further in the field and secure independent roles, completing the licensing process is essential. After accumulating the necessary experience, you will need to take exams that are directly aligned with solar industry standards and best practices. For more on advancement, check Florida Politics.
Begin by accumulating 4 years of experience working in the field, including at least one year of supervisory experience. You can also opt for related college coursework to meet a portion of this requirement6.
Additionally, participating in the Florida Solar Energy Apprenticeship Program3 provides a structured approach to gaining this experience. This is the first and only solar apprenticeship program registered with the U.S. Department of Labor, offering both classroom instruction and hands-on training3.
To become formally licensed, you must prepare for and pass two exams:
These exams ensure both technical and managerial competence, offering broader capabilities for professionals looking to run their own solar businesses.
Once you have passed the required licensing exams, the next step is submitting your application for the Florida Certified Solar Contractor License to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).
This step finalizes your standing as a professional solar contractor, certifying you to legally perform solar installations under Florida law46.
While not mandatory, certifications like the NABCEP PV Installation Professional certification can set you apart in a competitive job market and enhance credibility within the industry4.
Familiarity with local permitting and regulatory requirements in Tallahassee is essential. Many solar projects require permits, so understanding these processes will streamline your ability to manage and grow projects4.
This roadmap provides a path to professional growth and qualifies you to join the 14,000+ solar employees working across Florida, contributing to the state’s expanding clean energy landscape8.
If you're ready to take the first step toward an exciting career in Tallahassee's solar trade sector, jumpstart your search for employment and training opportunities on Gild, Indeed, or similar platforms.
One of the most compelling reasons to pursue a solar trade career in Tallahassee is the attractive salary. The average solar technician earns $85,150 annually here, significantly higher than the statewide average of $49,6803. Hourly pay averages around $25.91, with job listings in the region typically advertising between $20 and $30 per hour74. For real-time salary insights, visit ZipRecruiter.
Higher-end positions, such as solar sales consultant, demonstrate strong earning potential, with salaries ranging from $75,000 to over $250,000 annually6. This suggests opportunities for career advancement in Tallahassee’s growing solar industry, especially for individuals aiming to transition beyond technical work into operational or business development roles.
In addition to competitive wages, many full-time solar trade jobs may offer comprehensive benefits, such as healthcare insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities.
Several key factors are driving the demand for solar professionals in Tallahassee by 2025:
Tallahassee’s Clean Energy Resolution aims to achieve 100% net clean renewable energy by 20503. This goal, combined with the operation of two large solar farms (20 MW and 40 MW) at the Tallahassee International Airport, creates continuous opportunities for solar technicians, consultants, and maintenance professionals. Learn about specific projects at Origis Energy.
With over 14,000 solar professionals now working in Florida, the state remains among the fastest-growing solar job markets. According to recent data, Florida’s solar jobs sector experienced a 15% growth rate in 2023, adding 1,841 solar-related jobs4.
This growth trajectory has direct implications for Tallahassee, as the region plays a significant role in solar energy production and infrastructure development.
The decreasing cost of solar technology and the rising affordability of battery storage and electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure also facilitate job creation through more accessible and scalable solar projects3.
These combined factors create a dynamic and expanding job market for skilled solar professionals in Tallahassee.
If you're ready to begin your journey in the solar industry, the first step is finding the right opportunities to gain experience and launch your career.
One of the most effective ways to start is by exploring apprenticeship programs and job openings. The Florida Solar Energy Apprenticeship Program offers hands-on learning while earning, and is approved by both the U.S. Department of Labor and the Florida Department of Education 3.
Still figuring out your direction? Start your exploration right now on Gild, Indeed, or check SEIA for broader resources. Whether you're seeking employment or interested in training, this resource streamlines the process for getting started.
If you're looking to break into the field or take the next step in your career, Tallahassee’s thriving solar market provides a platform for meaningful, in-demand work. With opportunities growing, competitive salaries, and the chance to contribute to a sustainable future, now is the ideal time to begin your solar trade career journey.
https://www.indeed.com/q-solar-jobs-l-tallahassee,-fl-jobs.html ↩
https://news.wfsu.org/wfsu-local-news/2024-03-21/a-tallahassee-plan-for-net-100-renewable-energy-by-2050-starts-with-solar ↩
https://energyresearch.ucf.edu/solar-certification/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8
Florida Solar Contractor Licensing: Complete Guide | Lumber ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8 ↩9
https://www.greenlancer.com/post/solar-licensing ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6
https://www.myfloridalicense.com/intentions2.asp?chBoard=true&SID=&boardid=06&professionid=0611 ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5
