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Solar Apprentice Jobs in Alabama (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 ...

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 ...

Solar Apprentice information

See Alabama salary details

$10

$17

$21

How much do solar apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for solar apprentice in Alabama is $17.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.38 and $18.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Solar Apprentice position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Solar Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of electrical systems, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, an OSHA safety certification, and the ability to read blueprints are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work well in a team are valuable soft skills for this position. These qualifications ensure safe, accurate installation and maintenance of solar systems while supporting effective collaboration on job sites.

How much solar power does it take to run a house?

A Solar Apprentice working in the solar industry learns that the amount of solar power needed to run a house depends on the home's energy consumption, typically ranging from 4 to 8 kilowatts for an average household. This requires installing a solar panel system with the appropriate capacity, considering factors like location, roof space, and energy efficiency. Proper system design and installation are essential to meet the household's energy needs reliably.

What does solar mean?

In the context of a Solar Apprentice, 'solar' refers to solar energy, which is power generated from sunlight using solar panels. The role involves installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting solar photovoltaic systems, often requiring knowledge of electrical work and safety protocols.

Why are people getting rid of their solar panels?

People may remove or replace solar panels due to system malfunctions, aging equipment, or changes in energy needs. Solar apprentices often assist with maintenance, troubleshooting, and upgrades to ensure optimal performance and safety of the solar energy system.

What does a typical workday look like for a Solar Apprentice?

As a Solar Apprentice, your typical day involves assisting with the installation and maintenance of solar panels, preparing materials and tools, and following safety protocols under the guidance of experienced technicians. You may work outdoors on rooftops or construction sites, often as part of a crew, and collaborate with electricians and installers to complete projects efficiently. Daily tasks can include mounting panels, running wiring, checking system performance, and cleaning up job sites. This hands-on experience is designed to build your skills and knowledge, preparing you for more advanced roles in the solar industry.

What is a Solar Apprentice job?

A Solar Apprentice is an entry-level position in the solar industry where individuals learn how to install, maintain, and troubleshoot solar panel systems under the guidance of experienced technicians. This role involves hands-on training in electrical work, roofing, and safety procedures. Apprentices typically assist with mounting panels, wiring systems, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. The position provides valuable experience toward becoming a certified solar installer or electrician.

Does rain affect solar panels?

For a solar apprentice, rain can temporarily reduce the efficiency of solar panels by washing away dirt and debris, which can improve performance over time. However, heavy or prolonged rain can cause safety concerns and may require inspections to ensure panels and electrical components remain in good condition after weather events.
What are the most commonly searched types of Solar jobs in Alabama? The most popular types of Solar jobs in Alabama are:
Controls Technician - Night Shift

Controls Technician - Night Shift

First Solar

Trinity, AL • On-site

$23.37 - $32.69/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


First Solar rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 72 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

428th of 519 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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