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Entry Level Solar Installer Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset ... Basic Job Functions: Entry level Network administration Experience: * Minimum 1 year of related ...

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset ... The following is an entry level Automation Technician controls position where a successful ...

Technician- Automation I USA

Perrysburg, OH · On-site

$39K/yr

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset ... The following is an entry level Automation Technician controls position were a successful candidate ...

Technician- Automation I USA

Perrysburg, OH · On-site

$39K/yr

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset ... The following is an entry level Automation Technician controls position where a successful ...

Entry Level Solar Installer information

See Ohio salary details

$14

$23

$34

How much do entry level solar installer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level solar installer in Ohio is $23.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $25.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

Entry level solar installer roles typically pay around $2,500 to $3,500 per month, depending on location and experience. These jobs often require physical work, basic technical skills, and on-the-job training, with some companies offering certifications that can increase earning potential.

What is the difference between Entry Level Solar Installer vs Solar Technician?

AspectEntry Level Solar InstallerSolar Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentOutdoor installation sites, rooftops, ground mountsMaintenance and troubleshooting in various settings
Employer & Industry UsageSolar installation companies, construction firmsSolar service companies, renewable energy firms

Entry Level Solar Installers primarily focus on installing solar panels and systems, often working outdoors and learning on the job. Solar Technicians typically handle system maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs, requiring some technical certifications. While both roles work within the solar industry and share similar environments, the Installer role emphasizes installation, whereas the Technician role centers on system upkeep and diagnostics.

How hard is it to become a solar installer?

Becoming an entry-level solar installer typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and some technical training, which can be obtained through vocational programs or on-the-job training. Many employers also value familiarity with tools, safety procedures, and basic electrical knowledge; certifications like OSHA safety training can improve job prospects. The role often involves physical work outdoors and may require working in various weather conditions, but formal education requirements are generally minimal for entry-level positions.

What Does an Entry-Level Solar Installer Do?

As an entry-level solar installer, you install solar panel equipment or photovoltaic (PV) systems. Your responsibilities are to adhere to building codes during installation, configure PV systems based on customer needs, and assemble solar panel support structures. You place photovoltaic systems on a roof, allowing a structure to convert sunlight into energy using semiconducting materials. Working in this entry-level position requires you to perform basic tasks like installing support structures or placing panels for a more experienced installer. Your duties are to aid them in each project, working with various carpentry tools to create sound structures.

What is the 120% rule for solar?

The 120% rule in solar installation refers to the guideline that the total system capacity should not exceed 120% of the inverter's rated capacity. This ensures the inverter can handle the maximum expected power output without overloading, which is important for safe and efficient system design. Entry level solar installers should understand inverter sizing and system design standards to comply with this rule.

How do I start a career in solar energy?

To start a career as an entry-level solar installer, you should obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, complete a training program or apprenticeship in solar panel installation, and learn to operate tools and safety equipment. Certification from organizations like the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) can improve job prospects. Gaining hands-on experience and understanding electrical systems are also valuable for advancing in this field.

What challenges might an Entry Level Solar Installer face during their first few months on the job?

New Entry Level Solar Installers often encounter challenges such as adapting to outdoor work in various weather conditions, learning to safely handle specialized tools and equipment, and understanding electrical safety protocols. Additionally, they may need to quickly become familiar with reading blueprints and following installation plans accurately. Teamwork is essential, as installers frequently collaborate with experienced technicians and electricians to ensure projects are completed efficiently and safely.

What is the 20% rule for solar?

The 20% rule in solar installation refers to the guideline that the total system capacity should not exceed 20% of the property's annual energy consumption, ensuring efficient sizing and cost-effectiveness. Entry level solar installers often learn to evaluate energy needs and apply this rule when designing systems to optimize performance and compliance with industry standards.

What does an Entry Level Solar Installer do?

An Entry Level Solar Installer is responsible for assisting with the installation of solar panels and related equipment on rooftops or other structures. Their tasks typically include preparing the installation site, mounting panels, connecting electrical components, and following safety protocols. They work under the supervision of experienced installers or electricians and learn on the job. This role is a great starting point for those interested in a career in renewable energy and offers opportunities for advancement as skills and experience grow.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Solar Installer, you need basic electrical and mechanical skills, physical fitness, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, basic safety certifications like OSHA 10, and experience reading blueprints or schematics are often required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and a willingness to learn help individuals excel in this role. These abilities ensure safe, efficient installation of solar systems and support career growth in the renewable energy sector.

How to get into solar with no experience?

Entry level solar installers typically start by gaining basic knowledge of solar systems through online courses or training programs. Many employers offer on-the-job training, and obtaining certifications like the NABCEP entry-level certificate can improve job prospects. Physical fitness and comfort working outdoors are also important for this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Solar Installer jobs in Ohio? The most popular types of Solar Installer jobs in Ohio are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Solar Installer jobs in Ohio? For Entry Level Solar Installer jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Solar Installer jobs in Ohio look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Solar Installer jobs in Ohio are:
What cities in Ohio are hiring for Entry Level Solar Installer jobs? Cities in Ohio with the most Entry Level Solar Installer job openings:
Administrator- Network I USA (1st Shift)

Administrator- Network I USA (1st Shift)

First Solar

Perrysburg, OH • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


First Solar rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 73 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

423rd of 527 rated manufacturers


Job description

Basic Job Functions:

Entry level Network administration

Education/Experience:

  • Minimum 1-2 years of relevant working experience in a manufacturing environment
  • Bachelor's degree in Information Technology or related field or equivalent years of work experience

Required Skills/Competencies:

  • Knowledge of Cisco IOS software upgrades/patch management best practices in an Enterprise Cisco environment.
  • WAN network infrastructure and protocols
  • Experience with Cisco Call Manager or another VoIP provider desired
  • Knowledgeable and experienced in ITIL practices and methodologies (i.e., Change Management).
  • Experience managing or assisting with the management of a Cisco production environment, including switches, routers, firewalls, VPN devices, QoS, network sniffers and network performance monitoring and wireless network.
  • WAN network infrastructure and protocols
  • Ability to quickly learn new technologies.
  • Ability to perform tasks with minimum supervision.
  • Good oral and written communication
  • Must be team orientated.
  • Must be customer orientated.
  • Possess good analytical thinking.
  • Possess good continuous thinking capability.

Essential Responsibilities:

  • Research, plan, implement, support, monitor, troubleshoot and maintain Global infrastructure services including Cisco Routers, PIX Firewall, VPN Concentrator, ASA, Catalyst Switches, CallManager, CallManager Express, Wireless, Storage Array Networks, Network Monitoring, Intrusion detection/prevention systems, LAN/WAN performance, WAN packet acceleration and many facets of the Microsoft BackOffice suite of products.
  • Strong project management skills while incorporating the ability to handle multiple projects with competing priorities across the globe.
  • Support network and internet protocols and applications including WINS, DNS, DHCP, TCP/IP, IIS, SNMP, SMTP, Routing, BGP, E/IGRP, H.323, Link Aggregation, Network Redundancy, PEAP, Spanning Tree and VLans utilizing a fiber/copper/MPLS backbone.
  • Evaluate, diagnose and troubleshoot complex hardware/software issues.
  • Create, modify and keep network documentation with an emphasis on detail.
  • Installs or removes hardware and/or software, and associated connections, using supplied installation instructions and tools. Conducts tests and corrects malfunctions, calling on help from more experienced colleagues if required. Documents results in accordance with agreed procedures. Assists with the evaluation of change requests. Contributes, as required, to investigations of problems and faults concerning the installation of hardware and/or software and confirms the correct working of installations. 
  • Monitors service component capacity and initiates actions to resolve any shortfalls according to agreed procedures. Applies techniques to modify demand for a particular resource or service.
  • Monitors service delivery performance metrics and liaises with managers and customers to ensure that service level agreements are not breached without the stakeholders being given the opportunity of planning for deterioration in service.
  • Develops, documents and implements changes based on requests for change. Applies change control procedures.
  • Uses the tools and techniques for specific areas of release and deployment activities. Administers the recording of activities, logging of results and documents technical activity undertaken. May carry out early life support activities such as providing support advice to initial users.
  • Reviews system software updates and identifies those that merit action. Tailors' system software to maximize hardware functionality. Installs and tests new versions of system software. Investigates and coordinates the resolution of potential and actual service problems. Prepares and maintains operational documentation for system software. Advises on the correct and effective use of system software.
  • Investigates minor security breaches in accordance with established procedures. Assists users in defining their access rights and privileges and operates agreed logical access controls and security systems. Maintains agreed security records and documentation.
  • Investigates problems in systems and services. Assists with the implementation of agreed remedies and preventative measures.
  • Collects and collates evidence as part of a formally conducted and planned review of activities, processes, products or services. Examines records as part of specified testing strategies for evidence of compliance with management directives, or the identification of abnormal occurrences.

Reporting Relationships:

  • This position will report to the IT Infrastructure Operations Manager

Travel:

  • 0-5%, as needed.
  • If hired during plant start up, you will be expected to travel to other First Solar locations for training.

Estimated Salary Range:

  • 62,500 - 89,000, Annually

US Physical Requirements:

All positions in our office require interaction with people and technology while either standing or sitting. In order to best service our customers, internal and external, all associates must be able to communicate face-to-face and on the phone with or without reasonable accommodation. First Solar is committed to compliance with its obligations under all applicable state and federal laws prohibiting employment discrimination. In keeping with this commitment, it attempts to reasonably accommodate applicants and employees in accordance with the requirements of the disability discrimination laws. It also invites individuals with disabilities to participate in a good faith, interactive process to identify reasonable accommodations that can be made without imposing an undue hardship.

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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