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Solar Panel Helper Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Ability to read, develop, and update electrical schematics, control-panel drawings, and technical ... solar, refrigeration and outdoor products markets. We are A Part of Something Bigger by improving ...

Controls Engineer

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

$115K - $125K/yr

Ability to read, develop, and update electrical schematics, control-panel drawings, and technical ... solar, refrigeration and outdoor products markets. We are A Part of Something Bigger by improving ...

Controls Engineer

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

$115K - $125K/yr

Ability to read, develop, and update electrical schematics, control-panel drawings, and technical ... solar, refrigeration and outdoor products markets. We are A Part of Something Bigger by improving ...

Showing results 21-26

Solar Panel Helper information

What does a solar panel helper do?

A Solar Panel Helper assists with the installation, maintenance, and repair of solar panels and related equipment. Their tasks typically include carrying materials, setting up tools, preparing work sites, and supporting technicians or electricians during the installation process. They may also help with wiring, mounting panels, and ensuring the site is clean and safe. This entry-level role is essential for the smooth and efficient completion of solar energy projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a solar panel helper?

To thrive as a Solar Panel Helper, you need basic knowledge of electrical systems, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, safety harnesses, and OSHA safety standards is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to follow instructions make someone stand out in this position. These skills and qualities ensure solar panels are installed safely and efficiently, supporting successful renewable energy projects.

What are some typical challenges faced by solar panel helpers on installation sites?

Solar Panel Helpers often work outdoors and must adapt to varying weather conditions, which can be physically demanding. They may encounter tight schedules, requiring efficient teamwork and communication to meet project deadlines. Additionally, helpers need to be attentive to safety protocols due to the use of ladders, electrical equipment, and rooftop work. Adapting quickly to different site layouts and assisting with heavy lifting or panel positioning are also common challenges.

What is the difference between Solar Panel Helper vs Solar Installer?

AspectSolar Panel HelperSolar Installer
CredentialsNone required, on-the-job trainingCertification or license often preferred
Work EnvironmentAssists on installation sites, often outdoorsLeads installation, works outdoors and at heights
Job RoleSupports installation tasks, handles equipmentPerforms complete solar panel system installation
Industry UsageEntry-level support role in solar industrySkilled technician responsible for installations

The Solar Panel Helper typically assists with installation tasks, requiring minimal credentials and working under supervision. In contrast, the Solar Installer performs the full installation process, often needing certifications. Both roles work outdoors in the solar industry, but the Helper is more support-focused, making it a good entry point for those starting in solar careers.

How to become a solar panel helper?

To become a solar panel helper, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and basic knowledge of electrical systems. On-the-job training is common, and physical fitness is important for working outdoors and handling equipment; some roles may require safety certifications such as OSHA training.

What are popular job titles related to Solar Panel Helper jobs in Minnesota?

For Solar Panel Helper jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Solar Panel Helper jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Solar Panel Helper jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Solar Panel Helper jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Solar Panel Helper job openings:

Infographic showing various Solar Panel Helper job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Controls Engineer

Saint Cloud, MN

Quanex
Construction Materials Wholesalers • 5 - 10K employees

$115K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Quanex rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Quanex is looking for a Controls Engineer to join our team located in St. Cloud, Minnesota.

The Controls Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, implementing, troubleshooting, and continuously improving industrial control systems and automated manufacturing equipment. This position provides technical leadership for PLCs, HMIs, robotics, motion-control systems, industrial networks, and related electrical and automation technologies.

The Controls Engineer partners with Maintenance, Engineering, Operations, IT, EHS, and equipment suppliers to improve equipment reliability, production efficiency, product quality, and workplace safety. The successful candidate combines strong technical expertise with a hands-on approach to diagnosing equipment issues and implementing sustainable solutions

Salary: $115,000 - $125,000 annually, starting salary varies based on your experience

Work Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00am -5:00pm, hours may vary based on business needs

We Offer You!

  • Medical, dental & vision start the 1st of the month after hire
  • Medical coverage featuring wellness incentives that may significantly reduce employee premiums
  • PTO, ESST, paid holidays & paid training — starts right away
  • 401(k) with company match & vesting
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Life insurance provided
  • Tuition assistance
  • Wellness resources & onsite physical therapist
  • Referral bonuses

What’s attractive about the Controls Engineer role?  

  • Collaborative and Team-Oriented environment
  • World Class Safety records
  • Clean and well-lit work environment.
  • On-site, hands-on physical therapy

 

What Success Looks Like:

  • Design, program, configure, test, and maintain PLC-based control systems and related automation equipment.
  • Develop and modify PLC, HMI, SCADA, robotics, servo, and motion-control programs.
  • Identify opportunities to reduce downtime, improve cycle time, increase throughput, and improve overall equipment effectiveness.
  • Provide hands-on technical and installation support to Maintenance and Operations during equipment failures and production disruptions, and new equipment installs.
  • Serve as an escalation resource for difficult or recurring controls and electrical problems.
  • Design, modify, and maintain control systems in accordance with applicable electrical, machine-safety, and company standards.
  • Maintain accurate electrical drawings, network diagrams, program documentation, equipment manuals, and change records.
  • Travel up to 15% of the year to other Quanex facilities and OEM sites to provide technical support, commissioning services, and machine build acceptance testing.

What You Bring:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical field; an equivalent combination of education and directly relevant experience may be considered.
  • Minimum of five years of hands-on controls engineering or industrial automation experience in a manufacturing environment.
  • Working knowledge of electrical controls, instrumentation, sensors, variable-frequency drives, servo systems, industrial networks, and machine-safety systems.
  • Ability to read, develop, and update electrical schematics, control-panel drawings, and technical documentation.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead root-cause analysis and implement sustainable corrective actions.

About Quanex, A Part of Something Bigger

Quanex (NYSE: NX) is a global, publicly traded manufacturing company primarily serving OEMs in the fenestration, cabinetry, solar, refrigeration and outdoor products markets. We are A Part of Something Bigger by improving the performance and aesthetics of end products through continuous innovation, helping customers achieve greater production efficiencies, dedication to giving back to communities where we operate, producing shareholder value and helping our employees learn, grow, and thrive. Learn more at Quanex.com.

 

NOTE: For individuals with nut allergies, please be advised that there is the potential to be exposed to nut products when working in our facilities.

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