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Solar Apprentice Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Electrical Apprentice

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$26.40 - $35.21/hr

It's why we've become the #1 home solar and battery company in America. We're unlike any other residential energy company. Our vertically integrated model gives us total control over every part of ...

It's why we've become the #1 home solar and battery company in America. We're unlike any other residential energy company. Our vertically integrated model gives us total control over every part of ...

It's why we've become the #1 home solar and battery company in America. We're unlike any other residential energy company. Our vertically integrated model gives us total control over every part of ...

Completion of an apprenticeship or equivalent work experience (8,000 hours) Travel: 60-75% Work Schedule: Between the hours of 6 am to 6 pm, Monday through Friday. May vary based on customer demands ...

Electrical Trainee

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$26 - $44/hr

Position Summary The Electrical Trainee supports the installation of residential solar and battery storage systems by assisting Foremen and Electricians with a variety of electrical and construction ...

Completion of an apprenticeship or equivalent work experience (8,000 hours) Travel: 60-75% Work Schedule: Between the hours of 6 am to 6 pm, Monday through Friday. May vary based on customer demands ...

Completion of an apprenticeship or equivalent work experience (8,000 hours) Travel: 60-75% Work Schedule: This position works between the hours of 6 am to 6 pm, Monday through Friday. May vary based ...

Completion of an apprenticeship or equivalent work experience (8,000 hours) Travel: 60-75% Work Schedule: This position works between the hours of 6 am to 6 pm, Monday through Friday. May vary based ...

Superintendent, Solar

Chicago, IL · On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Completion of an apprenticeship or equivalent work experience (8,000 hours)Travel: 60-75%Work Schedule: This position works between the hours of 6 am to 6 pm, Monday through Friday. May vary based on ...

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Solar Apprentice information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$19

$24

How much do solar apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for solar apprentice in Chicago, IL is $19.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $21.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a solar apprentice?

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.

What does a solar apprentice do?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a solar apprentice?

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.

Is it hard to get a job in solar?

Getting a job as a solar apprentice can be competitive but is generally accessible with relevant skills, such as basic electrical knowledge and safety training. Entry-level positions often require a high school diploma or equivalent, and some employers may prefer candidates with technical certifications or prior experience in construction or renewable energy environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Solar jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Solar jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Solar Apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Solar Apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Solar Apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Solar Apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Solar Apprentice job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $40,335 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Renewable Energy Estimator

LiveWire Construction

Westmont, IL • On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Job Description - Renewable Energy Estimator
LiveWire Construction is seeking an
Estimator to support our growing Renewable Energy Division. This role is responsible for reviewing project documents, performing takeoffs, developing cost estimates, and helping prepare competitive bids for commercial, community solar, rooftop, and ground-mount solar projects.
Direct solar estimating experience is valuable, but we will also consider candidates with solar installation experience, solar preconstruction, solar project engineering, solar project coordination, solar field supervision, solar design, solar equipment procurement, solar apprenticeship program graduates, or other related experience who are willing to learn solar estimating.
Ideal Candidate Profile:
The ideal candidate is organized, detail-oriented, comfortable working with solar project drawings and estimating software, and able to communicate clearly with project managers, field teams, vendors, and subcontractors. We value practical construction knowledge, problem-solving ability, and a willingness to learn our estimating process.
Compensation:
  • $85K- $110K salary range. Actual compensation will depend on level of experience
  • Sign-on bonus may be available depending on experience
  • Potential for individual performance bonus
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Paid time off
  • Training and growth opportunities in solar estimating and preconstruction

Primary Responsibilities:
  • Review electrical drawings, specifications, site plans, one-lines, equipment schedules, and other project documents to understand project scope.
  • Perform quantity takeoffs for labor, materials, equipment, and subcontractor scope using drawings, estimating software, spreadsheets, or other available tools.
  • Assist in preparing detailed estimates, bid summaries, scopes of work, and project bills of material.
  • Coordinate with preconstruction, project management, field operations, procurement, accounting, vendors, and subcontractors to clarify scope and pricing assumptions.
  • Request and evaluate vendor and subcontractor quotes for major equipment, materials, rental equipment, and specialty scopes.
  • Coordinate RFP for subcontracted scopes, along with developing the scope, descope the estimates to ensure accuracy and completeness, along with identifying any gaps that may exist.
  • Help identify scope gaps, constructability concerns, cost risks, alternates, value-engineering options, and opportunities to improve project profitability.
  • Support the preparation and submission of competitive project bids in relation to internal deadlines and bid requirements.
  • Maintain estimating files, takeoff records, quote logs, and cost data so project information is organized and easy to review.
  • Update labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor cost information as market conditions change.
  • Participate in bid review meetings, project handoff meetings, and lessons-learned discussions.

Skills and Experience:
  • Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, including electrical plans, one-line diagrams, site plans, layout drawings, equipment details, and specifications.
  • General understanding of electrical construction, solar PV systems, conduit, wire, feeders, combiner boxes, inverters, switchgear, transformers, grounding, and related equipment.
  • Familiarity with NEC requirements, electrical installation practices, wiring methods, conductor sizing, conduit sizing, derating, grounding, labeling, and electrical safety standards is helpful.
  • Experience with estimating software such as ConEst, Planswift, Accubid, McCormick, Bluebeam, Excel, or similar tools is helpful but not required for every candidate.
  • Ability to build or adjust estimating assemblies, spreadsheet pricing tools, or unit-cost assumptions is a plus.
  • Strong math, analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to communicate clearly, ask questions, document assumptions, and meet bid deadlines.
  • High attention to detail with a practical understanding that estimates must be accurate, organized, and buildable.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Experience in solar, electrical construction, estimating, project engineering, preconstruction, procurement, field supervision, drafting/design, or related construction role.
  • Ability to work with drawings, specifications, spreadsheets, and project documents.
  • Comfortable learning estimating software, pricing databases, and internal bid procedures.
  • Strong work ethic, reliability, communication skills, and willingness to learn.

Preferred, But Not Required:
  • 1-3+ years of solar or electrical estimating experience.
  • Hands-on electrical construction or solar field experience.
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field; equivalent field or estimating experience will also be considered.
  • Experience with ConEst or other electronic estimating software.
  • Experience estimating commercial solar, community solar, rooftop solar, ground-mount solar, BESS, or commercial electrical projects.

Equal Opportunity Statement:
LiveWire Construction LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing a workplace free of discrimination and harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.