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Solar Energy Installation Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Solar Energy Installation information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$13

$22

$33

How much do solar energy installation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for solar energy installation in Decatur, AL is $22.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.70 and $24.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Solar Energy Installer, you need a background in electrical systems, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or relevant technical certification. Familiarity with photovoltaic (PV) systems, electrical tools, and safety protocols—plus certifications like NABCEP—are typically required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and attention to detail help installers work efficiently and safely on varied job sites. These skills ensure proper system installation, reliable performance, and compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

Where do solar installers get paid the most?

Solar installers tend to earn higher wages in regions with strong renewable energy policies, higher living costs, and greater demand for solar projects. States or areas with active solar markets and advanced infrastructure often offer higher pay rates for experienced installers with certifications and specialized skills.

What is solar energy installation?

Solar energy installation refers to the process of setting up solar panels and related equipment to generate electricity from sunlight. This job involves assessing a site, designing the system, mounting panels, wiring electrical components, and ensuring proper connection to the power grid or battery storage. Solar energy installers work on residential, commercial, and sometimes industrial properties to help reduce reliance on traditional power sources and lower energy costs. The installation process also includes safety checks and may require maintenance services after setup.

What is the difference between Solar Energy Installation vs Solar Panel Technician?

AspectSolar Energy InstallationSolar Panel Technician
CertificationsPV Installation Certification, OSHA safety trainingPV Installation Certification, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, rooftops, outdoor locationsFieldwork, troubleshooting, maintenance
Job FocusDesign, planning, installing solar systemsServicing, repairing, maintaining solar panels

Solar Energy Installation involves planning and installing solar systems, requiring certifications like PV installation and safety training. Solar Panel Technicians focus on maintaining and repairing existing systems. While both roles share certifications and work environments, installation is more project-based, whereas technicians handle ongoing system upkeep.

How hard is it to become a solar installer?

Becoming a solar energy installer typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or an apprenticeship that lasts several months to a year. Certification programs, such as the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), can improve job prospects but are not always mandatory. Physical fitness and comfort working outdoors are also important for success in this field.

Is solar energy a good career?

Solar energy installation is a growing field with increasing demand for skilled workers who can install and maintain solar panels. It offers opportunities for hands-on work, technical training, and certifications, often with a flexible schedule and potential for career advancement. The industry is expected to continue expanding as renewable energy becomes more widely adopted.

What are some common challenges faced by solar energy installation technicians on the job?

Solar energy installation technicians often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, ensuring precise placement of panels, and managing heavy equipment on rooftops or uneven terrain. Effective teamwork and communication are essential, as installations typically require coordination with electricians, site managers, and sometimes clients. Staying up-to-date with safety protocols and new technologies in the rapidly evolving solar industry can also be demanding but rewarding for career development.

How do I start a career in solar energy?

To start a career in solar energy installation, gain relevant skills through technical training or apprenticeships, and obtain certifications such as the NABCEP Solar PV Installer Certification. Experience with electrical systems and safety procedures is also valuable, and many entry-level positions provide on-the-job training in solar panel installation and maintenance.
What are popular job titles related to Solar Energy Installation jobs in Decatur, AL? For Solar Energy Installation jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Solar Energy Installation jobs in Decatur, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Solar Energy Installation jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Solar Energy Installation jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Solar Energy Installation job openings:
Infographic showing various Solar Energy Installation job openings in Decatur, AL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,766 per year, or $23 per hour.
Electrical Power Systems Engineer 2 (Top Secret Clearance Required)

Electrical Power Systems Engineer 2 (Top Secret Clearance Required)

Blue Origin

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$107K - $149K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Blue Origin rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 91 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 61 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Application close date:

Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.

At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We're working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight!

The role is part of the In-Space Systems business unit, which is focused on addressing two of the most compelling challenges in spaceflight today: space infrastructure and increasing mobility on-orbit.

Engineer - Electronics/Electrical Systems II

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The role is part of the In-Space Systems business unit, which is focused on addressing two of the most compelling challenges in spaceflight today: space infrastructure and increasing mobility on-orbit.

Join our elite team developing cutting-edge power systems for spacecraft supporting critical national security missions. Your expertise in solar array technology will directly contribute to our Blue Ring spacecraft platform, designed for today's most demanding space environment needs.

Special Mentions:

  • Position includes relocation assistance

  • Travel expectations: Occasional travel (up to 20%) to support production and operations

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Support development of spacecraft electrical power subsystems

  • Perform critical EPS analyses: Energy Balance Analysis, power budgeting, voltage drop, and bus stability

  • Drive technical decisions for solar array development, including cell selection and deployment mechanisms

  • Generating component level requirements from higher level

  • Develop component level requirements including verification methods

  • Develop and validate power budgets optimized for mission requirements

  • Partner with engineering leadership to achieve program goals with acceptable risk

  • Evaluate and qualify space-grade solar cell technologies

  • Design for manufacturability to support production rates and cost efficiency

  • Support hardware testing activities in the development lab

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Active Top Secret security clearance

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field

  • 3+ years of spacecraft electrical power subsystem design experience with solar array emphasis

  • Experience with spacecraft EPS architecture in Earth-centered orbits and deep space

  • Experience with EPS components: PMAD, batteries, solar arrays, wire harnessing, and SADAs

  • Scripting in Python or other language

  • Experience performing EPS analyses and maintaining power budgets

  • Excellent technical communication skills and team collaboration abilities

  • Experience in mission-critical environments and Design for Manufacturing & Cost

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master's degree or PhD in relevant engineering discipline

  • Experience with high voltage and dual-voltage power bus

  • Experience with spacecraft power systems for national security applications

  • Familiarity with Claude based coding


Base Pay Range for:

CA applicants is $107,136.00 - $149,990.40 CO applicants is $98,208.00 - $137,491.20 WA applicants is $107,136.00 - $149,990.40

Other site ranges may differ

Culture Statement

Don't meet all desired requirements? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At Blue Origin, we are dedicated to building an authentic workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every desired qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

Export Control Regulations

Applicants for employment at Blue Origin must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S.as a refugee or granted asylum.

Background Check

  • Required for all positions: Blue's Standard Background Check

  • Required for Certain Job Profiles: Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires one to be on a military installation

  • Required for Certain Job Profiles: Drivers who operate Commercial Motor Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or combination of power unit and trailer that meets or exceeds 10,001 lbs. and/or transports placardable amounts of hazardous materials by ground in any vehicle on a public road while in commerce, may be subject to additional Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations including: Driver Qualification Files, Medical Certification (obtained before onboarding), Road Test, Hours of Service, Drug and Alcohol Testing (CDL drivers only), vehicle inspection requirements, CDL requirements (if applicable) and hazardous materials transportation/shipping training.

  • Required for certain Job Profiles: Ability to obtain and maintain Merchant Mariner Credential, which includes pre-employment and random drug testing as well as DOT physical

Benefits

  • Benefits include: Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability, 401(k) with a company match of up to 5%, and an Education Support Program.

  • Stock Options for all regular employees (working at least 20 hours/week)

  • Paid Time Off: Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up to 14 company-paid holidays.

  • Dependent on role type and job level, employees may be eligible for benefits and bonuses based on the company's intent to reward individual contributions and enable them to share in the company's results, or other factors at the company's sole discretion. Bonus amounts and eligibility are not guaranteed and subject to change and cancellation. Please check with your recruiter for more details.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Blue Origin is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified and dedicated work force. Blue Origin hires and promotes people on the basis of their qualifications, performance, and abilities. We support the establishment and maintenance of a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local law. Blue Origin will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the Washington Fair Chance Act, the California Fair Chance Act, the Los Angeles Fair Chance in Hiring Ordinance, and other applicable laws. For more information on "Know Your Rights," please see here.

Affirmative Action and Disability Accommodation

Applicants wishing to receive information on Blue Origin's Affirmative Action Plans, or applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in the application and/or interview process, please contact us atEEOCompliance@blueorigin.com. Please note this is a publicly managed inbox. Please do not include any personal medical information in your request.


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About Blue Origin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Blue Origin is a private aerospace manufacturing and suborbital spaceflight services company based in Kent, Washington, USA. Established in 2000 by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, the company operates in the cutting-edge aerospace industry aiming to build a future where millions of people can live and work in space. They develop a variety of technologies, with a focus on reusable rocket systems which significantly reduce the cost of space travel. Blue Origin's core mission is to make this vision come to life by incrementally building on its successes with an ultimate vision of dramatic cost reduction and increased reliance on reusable spacecraft.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Kent, WA, US

Year founded

2000