For those seeking alternative energy paths with strong job growth prospects, The Villages, FL offers one of the most promising solar trade career opportunities in the US. According to recent reports, the solar job market in The Villages is expected to grow by about 10% over the next five years, far outpacing many other regions1. In fact, The Villages already employs approximately 1,000 local workers in solar-related trades, with projections indicating that this number will continue to rise2. And perhaps even more compellingly, solar sales jobs in The Villages can pay anywhere from $60,000 all the way up to $300,000 annually, greatly surpassing national averages for similar positions3. So, whether you're considering a career change or simply exploring new job opportunities in renewable energy, explore openings on Indeed Jobs or check ZipRecruiter for Florida Solar Salaries.
If you're intrigued and ready to take your first steps into this fast-growing industry, you can begin by searching open solar apprenticeship roles or job opportunities in The Villages directly through Gild.com — a leading resource for green trade careers and apprenticeships.
Before diving into your journey as a solar technician, sales professional, or installer, it's essential to understand what being in the solar trade entails. Solar professionals are responsible for installing, maintaining, and selling solar energy systems that power homes, businesses, and public facilities.
These roles include:
This diverse job market allows for multiple entry points and career growth, whether your strengths lie in sales, customer service, or hands-on technical work.
Yes! To legally install and maintain solar equipment in The Villages, individuals must obtain the Florida Certified Solar Contractor License through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR)6.
Key requirements for the licensing exam include:
Additionally, Florida recognizes NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) certification as a valuable credential that further enhances your employment prospects5.
To be fully qualified in the solar industry in Florida, becoming part of the Florida Solar Energy Apprenticeship Program, the first and only U.S. Department of Labor-registered apprenticeship in solar energy, is strongly recommended3. This program offers a structured path to becoming a certified Florida solar contractor.
The typical apprenticeship lasts 4 to 5 years, balancing on-the-job training with technical instruction. During this period, apprentices earn a living wage while mastering critical skills in photovoltaic (PV) and solar thermal installation.
| Educational Step | Typical Duration |
|---|---|
| Online Solar Installer Course (e.g., UCF or Florida State College) | 40 hours |
| Apprenticeship Program | 4 to 5 years |
| Major Exams (Trade and Business Finances) | 5 hours |
| NABCEP Preparation & Elective Training | 2 to 6 months |
Once this path is complete, you can take the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation's required exam and officially qualify as a solar contractor in The Villages and throughout Florida6.
To find reputable solar apprenticeship opportunities in The Villages:
Like any trade-based career, there are minimum requirements for starting in the solar industry:
Before applying for your license, a minimum of 40 hours in a solar basics and installation training program is required. Hands-on training is preferable, and institutions like Florida State College at Jacksonville or the University of Central Florida provide accredited solar career preparation courses that can help jumpstart your resume7.
Once certified at an entry level, candidates can apply for this only state-approved solar apprenticeship program in Florida. This hands-on experience provides invaluable skills and also connects apprentices with employers committed to hiring solar professionals3.
After completing your apprenticeship, it’s time to pass the Florida Solar Trade Licensing exams. As previously mentioned, these include:
For solar technicians and sales consultants, the NABCEP PV Installation Professional certification delivers a competitive edge in the market. While not mandatory, it is increasingly preferred by employers5.
| Role | Average Weekly Income | Annual Earnings Range |
|---|---|---|
| Solar Energy Installer | $750 per week | ~$39,000 |
| Solar Sales Consultant | $1,500+ per week | $60,000 - $300,000 |
| Solar Panel Electrician | ~$30/hour | $62,000 annually |
As you can see from the above table, there's significant earning potential, particularly in sales or high-demand installation roles2. Compared to broader Florida averages, where solar installers earn approximately $18.31/hour, The Villages consistently offers above-average wages2.
Moreover, residential solar adoption is strong in the area, with the average home solar system size at 11.71 kW costing $26,031 before incentives, and falling to about $18,222 post-federal tax credits7. With energy savings averaging $66,163 over 25 years, this growing trend of solar homeownership drives continuous demand for qualified installers, consultants, and tech professionals7.
While the solar trade in The Villages offers excellent opportunities, it's not without challenges:
However, with strong growth, increasing adoption of smart solar systems, next-generation battery storage, and the Florida Solar Energy Apprenticeship, the solar trade in The Villages offers thriving potential for long-term careers.
Florida supports solar growth through several state-level initiatives:
These state policies help ensure that the solar trade market continues to expand and remain viable for future professionals.
Starting a solar career requires a mix of education, experience, and persistence. But given the explosive growth of opportunities in The Villages, FL, now is an ideal time to enter the field. Whether you're pursuing solar installation, maintenance, or sales, a well-planned strategy involving certification, licensing, and ongoing training can secure a fulfilling and potentially high-paying career.
If you're serious about entering this fast-growing sector, start by searching solar apprenticeship programs in The Villages via Gild Job Feed, connecting with local professionals, and enrolling in solar education options. The solar future in The Villages is bright — and for those ready to act, your next career could be powered by the sun.
https://www.indeed.com/q-solar-sales-l-the-villages,-fl-jobs.html ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5
https://www.indeed.com/q-solar-sales-l-the-villages,-fl-jobs.html ↩
https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Jobs/Full-Time-Solar-Panel-Electrician/-in-The-Villas-at-University-Village,FL ↩ ↩2 ↩3
https://www.floridapowerservices.com/the-villages-solar-power-company/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7
https://www.energysage.com/local-data/solar-companies/fl/sumter-county/the-villages/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3
