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Solar Panel Laborer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Oak Electric Service, Inc.

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Lead Solar Installer/Journeyman Electrician

Waterford, MI · On-site

$1.3K - $1.6K/wk

Lead and supervise solar panel and battery storage installations on residential, commercial, and ... Ability to work on roofs, handle heights, and perform physical labor standard in renewable energy ...

TERREPOWER

Servo Systems Manager

Chesterfield, MI · On-site

Drive performance improvements across key KPIs: revenue, material cost, labor efficiency, and ... Recognizing that demand for solar panels would exceed availability and 100,000 tons of waste would ...

BBB

Servo Systems Manager

Chesterfield, MI

Drive performance improvements across key KPIs: revenue, material cost, labor efficiency, and ... Recognizing that demand for solar panels would exceed availability and 100,000 tons of waste would ...

All JobsSolar Panel Laborer JobsSolar Panel Laborer Jobs in Michigan

Solar Panel Laborer information

See Michigan salary details

$9

$15

$20

How much do solar panel laborer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for solar panel laborer in Michigan is $15.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.41 and $16.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a solar panel laborer do?

A solar panel laborer assists in the installation, maintenance, and removal of solar panels at residential, commercial, or industrial sites. Their responsibilities include preparing work areas, mounting panels, securing equipment, and following safety protocols. They work as part of a team under the supervision of experienced installers or electricians. The job often requires physical labor, working outdoors, and sometimes traveling to different sites.

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

To thrive as a Solar Panel Laborer, you need basic construction skills, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, as well as OSHA safety certifications, is typically required for safe and effective installation. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn new techniques help individuals stand out in this hands-on field. These skills ensure installations are completed safely, efficiently, and to quality standards in a rapidly growing industry.

What are some common challenges faced by solar panel laborers on installation sites?

Solar Panel Laborers often work outdoors and can face challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, lifting heavy equipment, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols. Coordinating with electricians, site supervisors, and other crew members is essential to keep installations on schedule. Attention to detail is important, as even small mistakes in panel alignment or wiring can impact system performance. Being adaptable and maintaining good communication skills can help overcome these challenges and ensure successful project completion.

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

AspectSolar Panel LaborerSolar Installer
CertificationsBasic safety and OSHA trainingAdditional technical certifications often required
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, outdoor, physically demandingOn-site installation, outdoor, technical tasks
Job RoleAssists with equipment handling, site prep, cleanupPerforms installation, wiring, system setup

While both roles work in solar energy projects, Solar Panel Laborers mainly assist with physical tasks and site preparation, whereas Solar Installers handle the technical installation and wiring of solar systems. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right position based on skills and certifications.

How much do solar panel laborers get paid to work on solar panels?

Solar panel laborers typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the installation. Entry-level workers may start at the lower end, while experienced laborers or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Overtime and benefits may also be part of compensation packages in some regions.

How to become a solar panel laborer?

To become a solar panel laborer, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should gain experience in construction or electrical work. Physical fitness, the ability to work outdoors, and familiarity with safety protocols are important, and some employers may require OSHA safety training or certifications. On-the-job training is common, and basic knowledge of tools and equipment used in solar installation is beneficial.

What are popular job titles related to Solar Panel Laborer jobs in Michigan?

For Solar Panel Laborer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Solar Panel Laborer jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Solar Panel Laborer jobs in Michigan are:

Solar Panel Laborer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Solar Panel Laborer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,763 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

Lead Solar Installer/Journeyman Electrician

Oak Electric Service, Inc.

Waterford, MI • On-site

$1.3K - $1.6K/wk

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

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Job description

Lead Solar Installer (Journeyman Electrician) – Solar & Storage

Job Overview

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Lead Solar Installer / Journeyman Electrician to join our team and drive the successful installation of solar energy systems and energy storage solutions. As a Lead Solar Installer, you will oversee the installation process, coordinate with team members, and ensure all projects—including solar PV, battery backup integration, and main panel upgrades—meet safety standards, quality expectations, and project timelines.

This role offers an exciting opportunity to lead a skilled team in advancing renewable energy and grid-resilience solutions while maintaining a strong focus on safety, craftsmanship, and efficiency. Your expertise will help us deliver sustainable energy solutions that empower communities and protect the environment.

Key Responsibilities

  • Team & Site Leadership: Lead and supervise solar panel and battery storage installations on residential, commercial, and industrial sites, ensuring strict adherence to project specifications, site safety protocols, and timelines.
  • Energy Storage & Battery Systems: Install, configure, and commission battery backup systems (e.g., Tesla Powerwall, Enphase, SolarEdge, Generac) and essential circuit panels to ensure seamless power transition during grid outages.
  • Electrical Execution & Code Compliance: Manage high-voltage and low-voltage electrical connections, main panel upgrades (MPUs), inverter configurations, and utility grid interconnections in full compliance with National Electrical Code (NEC) standards.
  • Blueprint & Schematic Interpretation: Read and interpret electrical schematics, line diagrams, blueprints, and technical drawings to accurately execute installation plans on-site.
  • Cross-Trade Coordination: Coordinate with construction teams to integrate roofing work, fixture installation, structural attachments, and other related trades as needed.
  • Equipment Safety: Safely and efficiently operate power tools, hand tools, roofing equipment, forklifts, and specialized electrical testing machinery on construction sites.
  • Quality Control & Inspections: Conduct thorough quality control inspections throughout the installation process and coordinate with municipal/utility inspectors for final system sign-offs.
  • Mentorship & Documentation: Train and mentor junior installers, fostering a collaborative team environment while maintaining detailed work progress, safety logs, and compliance records.

Skills & Qualifications

  • Licensing: Active Journeyman Electrician License (Required).
  • Solar & Storage Expertise: Deep understanding of NEC regulations relevant to solar PV (Article 690) and energy storage systems (Article 706). Practical experience or certified training with energy storage systems (ESS).
  • Technical Proficiency: High-voltage systems experience, advanced blueprint and single-line diagram reading, and panel upgrade expertise.
  • Hands-on Craftsmanship: Skilled in using standard electrical hand tools, power tools, conduit benders, roofing equipment, and operating site machinery (forklifts, boom lifts).
  • Leadership & Communication: Strong leadership abilities to direct crews, coordinate multiple trades on-site, solve complex troubleshooting issues, and deliver exceptional client service.
  • Physical Requirements: Ability to work on roofs, handle heights, and perform physical labor standard in renewable energy construction.

Company Description

Powered by over 25 years of industry leadership in Southeast Michigan, Oak Electric is a full-service electrical, solar, generator, and HVAC contractor.