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Solar Panel Cleaner Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

Solar Panel Cleaner information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$6

$20

$27

How much do solar panel cleaner jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for solar panel cleaner in Rio Rancho, NM is $20.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.22 and $23.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a solar panel cleaner do?

A solar panel cleaner is responsible for maintaining the efficiency of solar panels by removing dirt, dust, bird droppings, and other debris from their surfaces. Regular cleaning ensures that the panels receive maximum sunlight, which helps them generate more electricity. This job often involves using specialized equipment and cleaning solutions to avoid damaging the panels. Solar panel cleaners may work for solar installation companies, cleaning services, or as independent contractors. Their work helps extend the lifespan of solar panels and improve overall system performance.

What are some common challenges faced by solar panel cleaners in the field?

Solar panel cleaners often work outdoors and must navigate various weather conditions, such as extreme heat or rain, which can affect both safety and efficiency. Accessing rooftop panels can sometimes require additional safety equipment and careful planning to prevent accidents. Additionally, cleaners must be mindful to use the correct cleaning methods and products to avoid damaging sensitive panel surfaces while ensuring optimal energy output. Coordination with facility managers or homeowners is also essential to schedule cleanings at appropriate times without disrupting regular activities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a solar panel cleaner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Solar Panel Cleaner, you need a solid understanding of cleaning techniques, basic knowledge of photovoltaic systems, and physical fitness, often supported by on-the-job training or relevant safety certifications. Familiarity with cleaning equipment, water-fed poles, safety harnesses, and occasionally lift systems is important for efficiency and safety. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong communication skills help ensure thorough work and positive client relationships. These skills are crucial for maintaining optimal panel performance, ensuring safety, and delivering quality service to clients.

What is the difference between Solar Panel Cleaner vs Solar Panel Technician?

AspectSolar Panel CleanerSolar Panel Technician
CredentialsNone typically required, safety training preferredCertifications often required, such as NABCEP
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, on rooftops or ground-mounted systemsOutdoor, may include installation, maintenance, troubleshooting
Job ResponsibilitiesCleaning solar panels to optimize efficiencyInstalling, repairing, maintaining solar systems

While both roles work outdoors on solar systems, Solar Panel Cleaners focus solely on cleaning to improve efficiency, whereas Solar Panel Technicians handle installation, repairs, and maintenance. The Technician role typically requires certifications and broader technical skills, while Cleaners usually need safety training. Both jobs are essential in the solar industry but serve different functions.

Is solar panel cleaning a good business to start?

Starting a solar panel cleaning business can be profitable due to increasing solar installations and demand for maintenance. It requires knowledge of cleaning techniques, safety protocols, and sometimes specialized tools or certifications. Success depends on local market demand, competition, and effective marketing strategies.

What are popular job titles related to Solar Panel Cleaner jobs in Rio Rancho, NM?

For Solar Panel Cleaner jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Solar Panel Cleaner jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for?

The top searched job categories for Solar Panel Cleaner jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:

Infographic showing various Solar Panel Cleaner job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,416 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Technician I-III, Ops Support - Facilities

Rocket Lab Corporation

Albuquerque, NM

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Rocket Lab rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we're not just launching rockets - we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it's a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space - our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions

TECHNICIAN I-III, OPS SUPPORT - FACILITIES

Based at Rocket Lab's site in Albuquerque, New Mexico the Ops. Support Technician - Facilities is responsible for facilities maintenance and ERT team support. You will support the Facilities Manager and operations organization, with deliverables required for internal leadership, board of directors, and investors.

(Please note: this position can be hired at the Ops. Support Technician I, Ops. Support Technician II, OR Ops. Support Technician III level)

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

  • Troubleshooting and repair of all facility/HVAC equipment and systems
  • Monitors and assures that environmental standards for clean room operation are being kept
  • Performs facilities and process equipment operational and preventive maintenance procedures
  • Works with engineers to resolve issues or plan for acquiring/installing new equipment or systems
  • Install new facilities and process equipment
  • Assumes leadership role in training and support of new technicians
  • Monitors facility/HVAC systems and suggests modifications for improvement
  • Maintain facility data collection requirements and procedures
  • Identifies nonconformance when they occur and participates in finding the solution to the nonconformance
  • Deploys the Quality Management System as it applies to the scope of work
  • Serve as member of Emergency Response Team.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A TECHNICIAN I, OPS SUPPORT:

  • 2+ years of experience in a highly regulated manufacturing/production environment
  • Experience in the maintenance and repair of Industrial and commercial HVAC, electrical, mechanical and building support equipment
  • Experience using a respirator
  • High School Diploma

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A TECHNICIAN II, OPS SUPPORT:

  • 5+ years of experience in a highly regulated manufacturing/production environment
  • Experience in the maintenance and repair of Industrial and commercial HVAC, electrical, mechanical and building support equipment
  • Experience using a respirator
  • High School Diploma

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A TECHNICIAN III, OPS SUPPORT:

  • 8+ years of experience in a highly regulated manufacturing/production environment
  • Experience in the maintenance and repair of Industrial and commercial HVAC, electrical, mechanical and building support equipment
  • Experience using a respirator
  • High School Diploma

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • Associate's degree in a related field of study
  • Building automation system experience
  • Plumbing, pipe fitting and irrigation experience
  • Low and/or high voltage electrical experience
  • Forklift experience
  • OSHA and/or safety training
  • Working knowledge of HVAC systems maintenance
  • Must be able to follow verbal and written instructions including drawing and print interpretation and application
  • Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral or diagram form
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals
  • Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, interest, commissions, proportions, percentages, area, circumference and volume. Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry
  • Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations
  • Previous Clean Room work environment
  • Understanding of mechanical, electro-pneumatics, digital and analogue electronics, and working knowledge of Automated Building Controls
  • Familiar with motor controls, compressed air and gas systems, and gas control systems
  • Familiarity with CCTV, fire and security alarm systems

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

  • Stand and walk for entire shift (8+ hours) on various work surfaces
  • Climb ladders and work at elevated height small spaces, awkward positions, and tight areas as needed
  • Perform repetitive motions including bending, twisting, reaching, grasping, pushing, pulling, and stooping
  • Use hands with precision to handle, control, and operate tools, instruments, and equipment
  • Lift, carry, push, and pull materials and equipment up to 25 lbs.
  • Work in varied environments including production floors, equipment areas, and field locations with exposure to noise, temperature variations, and moving machinery
  • Flexibility to work extended hours, weekends, and varied shifts as operational needs require

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