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Solar Panel Installation Jobs in Bellingham, WA (NOW HIRING)

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Solar Panel Installation information

See Bellingham, WA salary details

$7

$24

$31

How much do solar panel installation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for solar panel installation in Bellingham, WA is $24.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.01 and $27.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by solar panel installers on the job, and how can they be managed?

Solar panel installers often encounter challenges such as working at heights, dealing with unpredictable weather, and ensuring precise system placement for optimal efficiency. Safety is a top priority, so installers must consistently use proper equipment and follow safety protocols. Additionally, collaborating with electricians and other team members is essential to ensure that installations meet both technical and regulatory standards. Effective communication and ongoing training can help address these challenges and ensure smooth project completion.

Is becoming a solar panel installation technician worth it?

A solar panel installation technician installs and maintains solar energy systems, often requiring technical skills and safety training. The job offers growing demand due to increased renewable energy adoption and can provide competitive wages, especially with certifications and experience.

Is there a demand for solar panel installers?

Solar panel installation is a growing field due to increasing adoption of renewable energy, with strong job prospects projected over the next decade. The demand is driven by government incentives, falling equipment costs, and expanding solar markets, requiring installers to have technical skills and safety certifications. Job opportunities are available in residential, commercial, and utility-scale projects worldwide.

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

To thrive as a Solar Panel Installer, you need a solid understanding of electrical systems, basic construction skills, and often a high school diploma or vocational training in solar technology. Familiarity with hand and power tools, safety equipment, and knowledge of industry certifications such as NABCEP are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are important soft skills for ensuring safe and precise installations. These competencies are crucial for delivering efficient, reliable solar solutions while maintaining safety and regulatory compliance.

Is solar panel installation a good career?

Solar panel installation is a growing field with increasing demand for skilled workers, offering opportunities for employment in renewable energy. It typically requires technical skills, physical work, and safety awareness, with certifications often enhancing job prospects. The career can provide stable employment and the chance to work outdoors on various projects.

What does a solar panel installer do?

Solar panel installers, also known as solar photovoltaic (PV) installers, are responsible for setting up solar panels on rooftops or other structures to convert sunlight into energy. Their job includes assembling, installing, and maintaining solar panel systems, ensuring they are correctly oriented and securely mounted. Installers also connect panels to electrical systems and may perform troubleshooting or repairs as needed. This role requires technical skills, knowledge of electrical systems, and attention to safety protocols.

What is the difference between Solar Panel Installation vs Solar Panel Maintenance?

AspectSolar Panel InstallationSolar Panel Maintenance
CertificationsPV Installer Certification, OSHA safety trainingPV Maintenance Certification, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, rooftops, outdoor locationsIndoor facilities, outdoor sites, system sites
Job FocusInstalling new solar systems, wiring, mountingInspecting, cleaning, repairing, troubleshooting
Employer & Industry UsageSolar installation companies, contractorsMaintenance service providers, solar companies

Solar Panel Installation involves setting up new solar systems, focusing on wiring and mounting, while Solar Panel Maintenance centers on inspecting, cleaning, and repairing existing systems. Both roles require similar certifications and often work in outdoor environments, but their primary tasks differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Solar Panel Installation jobs in Bellingham, WA? For Solar Panel Installation jobs in Bellingham, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Bellingham, WA are hiring for Solar Panel Installation jobs? Cities near Bellingham, WA with the most Solar Panel Installation job openings:
Solar Panel Installation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Solar Panel Installation job openings in Bellingham, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,035 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Control Engineer

Imagine Staffing Technology

Burlington, WA

$90K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Control Engineer
Location: Burlington, WA
Hire Type: Direct Hire
Pay Range: $90,000 - $105,000
Work Type: Full-time
Work Model: Onsite
Work Schedule: Monday – Friday, 10pm – 6:30am
Recruiter Contact: Tanny | 716.256.2157 | TWashington@imaginestaffing.net
Nature & Scope:
Positional Overview
The Imagine Group is recruiting for a Control Engineer on behalf of our client, a leading North American manufacturer of high-efficiency solar panels in Burlington, WA, dedicated to advancing clean energy through innovative design, engineering, and automated production processes. With decades of industry expertise, the organization delivers premium-quality solar solutions for residential, commercial, and utility-scale applications while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability, reliability, and technological innovation.
In this role you will be responsible for designing, programming, troubleshooting, and optimizing industrial control systems to support automated manufacturing operations. You will collaborate with engineering, maintenance, and production teams to improve equipment performance, implement process enhancements, and ensure reliable, safe, and efficient operation of manufacturing systems while supporting continuous improvement initiatives. As part of the team, you will enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including:
  • Paid Time Off (vacation, sick, and holiday)
  • 401(k)Retirement Plan
  • Medical/Dental/VisionInsurance Plans
  • Health Savings Accountoption
  • Supplemental/Voluntary InsurancePlans
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program
  • Employee Recognition Programs
  • Employee PV Panel Purchase Program
Role & Responsibility:
Tasks That Will Lead to Your Success
  • Create electrical drawings for systems, including control and power circuits, and panel layout.
  • Prepare and maintain electrical drawings in AutoCAD Electrical.
  • Design and program safety systems (Safety PLC and Controllers).
  • Design and develop PLC programming (AB, Omron, Siemens, Beckhoff, etc.).
  • Design of industrial networks (Ethernet/IP, EtherCAT, Profinet, DeviceNet, Profibus, RS-232).
  • Program and implement HMI (AB, Siemens, Omron, Proface, Automation Direct, etc.).
  • Servo motion systems configuring and programming (AB, Omron, Siemens, ClearPath, etc.).
  • Machine vision design (Cognex, Keyence, Banner, Omron).
  • Assist with machine start-ups (I/O checks, devices setup, program upload, safety system checks, and machine test and debugging).
  • Provide instructions and technical scope of work for other controls personnel, electrical panel builders and machine assemblers.
  • Initiate preliminary PHSR’s with Safety Engineers as required.
  • Complete system documentation including drawing updates, operation manuals, and electronic settings.
  • Design and develop new machine controls including electrical, electronic, hydraulic, pneumatic and vision systems.
  • Analyze project requirements and perform basic controls troubleshooting to support equipment operations.
  • Interface with production, quality, safety and engineering on changes and improvement ideas.
  • Support electrical installation by interacting with installers.
  • Work with others to detect problems and implement solutions.
  • Assist in defining controls architecture, platform, and functionality.
  • Identify controller hardware to meet I/O and computational requirements.
  • Utilizes PLC/HMI skills and knowledge to resolve problems, contribute to development of new products/processes and maintenance/improvement of existing equipment/processes.
  • Completes the actual PLC programming and HMI screen programming for production projects.
  • Collects and analyzes data, justify procedural changes or process modifications, and established operating procedures for the plant throughout the life of continuous improvement projects.
  • Improve the safety of manufacturing equipment by implementing a controls reliable system in place.
  • Contributes to project teams to ensure the successful completion of team objectives.
  • Identify procedural changes to improve manufacturing efficiencies.
  • Assist management team in the execution and completion of CIP Projects.
  • Update, modify, and continuously improve existing controls systems including ladder logic programs, relay logic, electrical distribution, motor controls, operator interface, hydraulics, and pneumatics distribution and control.
  • Create, maintain, and keep current all hard copies and electronic data bases: all electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic schematics; panel layouts; PLC, operator display, operator interface, and robot programs; machine power distribution and all related vendor controls component part documentation.
  • Implement and maintain data collection system from shop floor processing equipment.
  • Maintain and update controls portion of machine standards.
  • Understanding of servo, stepper, or VFD motor control techniques and implementation.
  • Designs systems that are compliant with all current environmental and safety regulations, including OSHA, OHSA NEC, NFPA, CSA and Arc Flash
Skills & Experience
Qualifications That Will Help You Thrive
  • Experience working with and troubleshooting robotics / controls systems, Control Logix PLCs and plant application controls and automation.
  • Solid understanding of safety systems design.
  • Good oral and written communication skills. Must exhibit professional and courteous communication interaction under pressure.
  • Strong technical aptitude working with industrial electrical systems regulations, design and maintenance, particularly automation and control systems.
  • Strong organizational skills and a high level of self-motivation.
  • Demonstrated technical project management experience.
  • Strong logical and methodical reasoning capabilities.
  • Familiarity with Variable Frequency Drives and HMIs.
  • Ability to effectively manage multiple issues in a fast-paced work environment.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to resolve complex issues.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills (both written and oral).
  • Skilled in Microsoft Office applications and AutoCAD software.
  • Demonstrated experience in the application of various part sensing technologies, machine vision systems, PLC’s and motion control systems.
  • Able to effectively work with external machine builders and system integrators for detail design, build and integration of later stages of machine system implementation.
Traits
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively with cross-functional team members.
  • Mechanical aptitude/interest.
  • Excellent inter-personal and communication skills both written and verbal.
  • Team oriented.
  • Commitment to continuous learning.
  • High degree of attention to detail, precision and follow-through.
  • Willing and able to work rotating shifts.
  • Be able to conceive and manage small projects.
Education and/or Experience
  • University or College degree/diploma in Mechatronics, Electromechanical, Computer Science, Electrical, Engineering, System Design, Controls Technology or equivalent work experience.
  • Minimum 5 years in system controls development, design and integration of factory automated equipment.
  • Proficiency with AutoCAD and electrical ladder diagrams.
  • Strong Control/PLC skills with demonstrated experience in the successful implementation of automation, robotics, and control system integration technologies in manufacturing processes preferred.
  • Familiarity with design standards in Canada and US (i.e. CSA, NEC, etc.) preferred.
Physical Requirements
  • Must be able to lift and move materials up to 25 pounds independently and participate in team lifts of approximately 60 pounds as required for essential production tasks.
  • Must be able to remain in a stationary position or move throughout the production floor for extended periods (for the duration of the shift up to 8+ hours per shift).
  • Must be able to operate, position, adjust, or move equip