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Apprentice Solar Installer Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset ... Journeyman's Card from an accredited apprentice ship program preferred. Required Skills ...

Apprentice Solar Installer information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$10

$17

$22

How much do apprentice solar installer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice solar installer in Decatur, AL is $17.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $19.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Solar Installer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Solar Installer, you need basic electrical and mechanical skills, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or GED. Familiarity with hand and power tools, personal protective equipment (PPE), and exposure to OSHA safety standards are typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn help individuals excel in this entry-level role. These skills ensure safe and efficient installation of solar systems and lay the foundation for career growth in the solar industry.

What are some typical challenges faced by Apprentice Solar Installers during their first year on the job?

As an Apprentice Solar Installer, adjusting to working outdoors in various weather conditions and safely handling heavy equipment are common challenges. New apprentices often find it demanding to quickly learn technical installation procedures while adhering to strict safety standards. Additionally, collaborating effectively with experienced team members and communicating clearly on-site are essential skills that develop over time. With hands-on training and guidance from seasoned installers, most apprentices overcome these challenges and build confidence as they progress.

What does an Apprentice Solar Installer do?

An Apprentice Solar Installer assists in the installation, maintenance, and repair of solar panel systems under the supervision of experienced technicians. Their duties often include preparing work sites, assembling and mounting solar panels, connecting wiring, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. This role provides hands-on training and experience in renewable energy, making it a great starting point for a career in the solar industry. Apprentices also learn about electrical systems and may be required to use various hand and power tools. Over time, they gain the skills needed to become a fully qualified solar installer.

What is the difference between Apprentice Solar Installer vs Solar Installer?

AspectApprentice Solar InstallerSolar Installer
CertificationsMay have basic safety and technical certifications, on-the-job trainingTypically holds certifications like NABCEP, advanced technical skills
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, construction sites, installation sitesActive installation sites, maintenance, troubleshooting
Experience LevelEntry-level, learning on the jobExperienced, responsible for complete installations

The main difference is that an Apprentice Solar Installer is in training and gaining skills under supervision, while a Solar Installer is fully qualified to perform installations independently. Apprentices focus on learning, whereas Solar Installers handle the full scope of installation tasks.

What are the most commonly searched types of Solar Installer jobs in Decatur, AL? The most popular types of Solar Installer jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Solar Installer jobs in Decatur, AL? For Apprentice Solar Installer jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Apprentice Solar Installer jobs in Decatur, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice Solar Installer jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Apprentice Solar Installer jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Apprentice Solar Installer job openings:
Controls Technician - Night Shift

Controls Technician - Night Shift

First Solar

Trinity, AL

$23.37 - $32.69/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


First Solar rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 71 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

392nd of 511 rated manufacturers


Job description

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset.

Basic Job Functions:

  • Implements, tests, and maintains all manufacturing equipment controls
  • Performs as directed, all necessary maintenance of equipment in a timely and cost efficient manner
  • Assist in the installation and qualification of manufacturing equipment, troubleshoot day-to-day manufacturing issues, identify and/or implement system improvements that contribute to the achievement of throughput, yield and product performance goals.

Education/Experience:

  • 3-7 years of electrical/electronic/controls experience
  • Associate Degree in Electrical, Robotics, or Electronic Engineering (preferred)
  • If no Degree - Must have 5+ years verifiable experience in a related field, (i.e. Semiconductors, Automotive etc.)
  • Journeyman's Card from an accredited apprentice ship program preferred.

Required Skills/Competencies:

  • Ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks and set priorities required
  • Proficient in CMMS.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in troubleshooting and problem solving on the manufacturing line.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in robotics, electrical/electronic, mechanical and vacuum systems.
  • Ability to read prints and suggest modifications as required.

Essential Responsibilities:

  • Troubleshoot, repair, problem-solve, and maintain all electrical control problems for all manufacturing equipment.
  • Test all equipment and control functions of new controls established or designated by First Solar Controls dept.
  • Download new software changes/upgrades specified by the Controls Dept. and maintain current software databases for Base Plant
  • Assist IT Dept. with the set up, installation, and testing of all communication devices for PLC's. 
  • Identify, research, prepare and present solutions to control problems and continuous improvement projects
  • Document and follow-up problems relating to controls
  • Provide all written documentation for indication of proper testing on all projects submitted from the Controls Dept.
  • Assist new equipment commissioning technicians to verify that their testing of control systems is done correctly and efficiently completed
  • Research, prepare and present solutions to problems
  • Responsible to interface with other Company and Supplier Representatives
  • Maintains effective communications levels and fosters team work
  • Ensures adherence to all safety procedures and good housekeeping standards
  • Interfaces effectively and cooperatively with other Departments
  • Performs predictive and preventative maintenance on any or all production equipment
  • Develops and implements new electrical preventative maintenance tasks, procedures, and schedules
  • Perform troubleshooting of robotic, electrical and mechanical systems.
  • Proficient in Maximo reporting and parts search
  • Perform additional tasks as assigned, from the Maintenance Supervisor or Maintenance Lead.

Reporting Relationships:

  • This position will not have direct reports.

Travel:

  • No travel is required

Estimated Salary Range:

  • $23.37 - $32.69, Hourly

US Physical Requirements:

Manufacturing & Maintenance Physical Requirements:

  • Will sit, stand, or walk short distances for up to 12 hours per day.
  • Will climb stairs or steps on a frequent basis.
  • Will lift up to 58 pounds on an occasional basis, according to work instruction.
  • Will lift up to 37 pounds on a frequent basis.
  • Will push or pull up to 50 pounds of force on an occasional basis.
  • Will push or pull up to 37 pounds of force on a frequent basis.
  • Required to use hands to grasp, lift, handle, carry or feel objects on a frequent basis.
  • 20/40 vision in each eye separately and both eyes (with or without correction), the ability to distinguish between red, yellow, and green and peripheral vision >70 degrees is required.
  • May reach above shoulder heights and below the waist on a frequent basis.
  • May stoop, kneel, or bend, on an occasional basis.
  • Must comply with all safety standards and procedures.
  • Ability to wear personal protective equipment is required (including, but not limited to: steel-toed shoes, cut-resistant gloves, jackets, aprons &/or arm guards, safety glasses or goggles, hearing protection & respirators) as a condition of employment and continued employment (requires little or no facial hair). thus, the ability to wear a respirator is a condition of employment and continued employment (requires little or no facial hair)            
     

Potential candidates will meet the education and experience requirements provided on the above job description and excel in completing the listed responsibilities for this role.   All candidates receiving an offer of employment must successfully complete a background check band any other tests that may be required.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: First Solar is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values and respects the importance of a diverse and inclusive workforce. It is the policy of the company to recruit, hire, train and promote persons in all job titles without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity. We recognize that diversity and inclusion is a driving force in the success of our company.


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