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Solar Panel Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

BayWa r.e.

CDL Driver - Joliet, IL

Joliet, IL · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Solar Systems LLC (BayWa r.e.) is a solar supply partner providing solar panels and products to residential and commercial solar installation companies across the country. We deliver differentiated ...

Job_Listing_459

Utility Operator

Lemont, IL

... solar panels, electronics, and batteries. Oxbow's continued success and leadership within the industry are attributed to a combination of strong teamwork, innovative uses of technology, and talented ...

Oxbow Corporation

Utility Operator

Lemont, IL · On-site

$32 - $37.43/hr

... solar panels, electronics, and batteries. Oxbow's continued success and leadership within the industry are attributed to a combination of strong teamwork, innovative uses of technology, and talented ...

Sunrun

Lead Installer

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$23 - $31.25/hr

Assemble the racking, solar modules, panels or support structures as specified in project plan * Ensure a clean and orderly job site * Perform project clean up including client site and installation ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsSolar Panel JobsSolar Panel Jobs in Chicago, IL

Solar Panel information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$7

$23

$31

How much do solar panel jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for solar panel in Chicago, IL is $23.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.82 and $27.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Solar Panel vs Solar Installer?

AspectSolar PanelSolar Installer
CredentialsNone required, but knowledge of solar technology helpsCertification in solar installation or electrician license often required
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, research, or sales settingsOn-site installation at various locations
Industry UsageComponent of solar energy systemsInstallation and maintenance of solar systems

Solar panels are the core components that convert sunlight into electricity, while solar installers are the professionals who set up these panels on rooftops or ground mounts. Understanding the difference helps clarify roles in the solar energy industry, where panels are the product and installers are the skilled workers ensuring proper setup and operation.

What is a solar panel installer?

Solar panel installers, also known as solar photovoltaic (PV) installers, are professionals who set up and maintain solar panels on rooftops or other structures to convert sunlight into electricity. Their job includes assessing installation sites, mounting panels, connecting electrical systems, and ensuring everything operates safely and efficiently. Solar panel installers play a crucial role in helping homes and businesses transition to renewable energy sources. They may also provide maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair services for existing solar panel systems.

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 relevant vocational training. Familiarity with tools like voltmeters, hand and power tools, as well as certifications such as OSHA safety training or NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners), is highly valued. Strong attention to detail, physical stamina, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality solar panel installations that meet industry standards and customer expectations.

What are some common challenges faced by solar panel installers during residential projects?

Solar panel installers often encounter challenges such as dealing with varying roof types and conditions, unexpected weather delays, and working safely at heights. Coordination with homeowners and local utility companies can add complexity, especially when arranging inspections or grid connections. Additionally, ensuring proper system placement for maximum sunlight while complying with local regulations requires careful planning and attention to detail. Teamwork and strong communication skills are essential to overcome these obstacles efficiently.

What are the most commonly searched types of Solar Panel jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Solar Panel jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Solar Panel jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Solar Panel jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Solar Panel jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Solar Panel jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Solar Panel jobs near you
Infographic showing various Solar Panel job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,629 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Construction Craft Instructor

KLEO Community Family Life Center

Chicago, IL

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Position Overview

KLEO Community Family Life Center (KLEO) is seeking a qualified and experienced individual to serve as the Construction Craft Instructor. This role will lead the vocational training initiatives under KLEO's Workforce Development Programs, and is responsible for delivering standardized, hands-on instruction in both traditional construction, solar panel installation, and clean energy sectors for the TradeUP and Diverse Energy Workforce Accelerator programs. The primary goal is to equip equity-eligible participants with technical competence and industry-recognized certifications-ranging from NCCER Core to NABCEP PV Associate-needed to secure high-growth employment. The selected individual will uphold the mission and vision of KLEO while supporting excellence and growth across all training initiatives.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

  • Technical Curriculum Delivery: Adapt and facilitate accredited curricula covering foundational building trades, solar PV installation, and system design.
  • Safety Leadership: Serve as the primary safety officer for training sites, providing mandatory OSHA 10 or 30-Hour Construction and First Aid/CPR certifications.
  • Applied Lab Instruction: Design and implement hands-on labs where participants practice installing, commissioning, and troubleshooting technical systems while mastering the safe use of power tools and rigging.
  • Academic Support: Provide one-on-one or group tutoring for industry-specific math, including Supplemental Shop Math and solar electrical calculations.
  • Performance Evaluation: Administer written and performance tests to ensure all participants achieve a minimum 70% passing grade on key technical modules.
  • Compliance Documentation: Maintain timely and accurate records of attendance, module completions, assessments, and participant performance profiles in state-mandated databases (e.g., NCCER and IWRS).
  • Professional Mentoring: Provide technical mentoring to participants from Environmental Justice (EJ) communities and returning citizens to build professional confidence for entry-level roles.

Public Relations: Organize and participate in staff booths at job fairs, community centers, and neighborhood

committees.

  • Assessment: Oversee Career Assessments and ensure that individualized career plans are created for all participants.
  • Other Duties: Perform other duties as assigned to support the mission and operational needs of the organization.

Qualifications

Education & Licensure

Bachelor's degree in Education or a related field preferred.

  • Certified Instructor for recognized curricula (e.g., NCCER or TradesFutures).
  • NABCEP PV Associate credential or higher preferred.
  • OSHA Authorized Outreach Trainer.
  • Current certification as an instructor for First Aid and CPR.

Experience

  • A minimum of 3 years of experience in construction or solar PV installation, with prior experience teaching adult learners in a vocational setting.

Skills & Abilities

  • Ability to maintain a firm environment to ensure compliance with professional industry standards.
  • Proficiency in instructional technology and digital databases used for tracking performance data.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team of professionals.
  • Computer literacy required (MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint, MS Project, and data management environments).
  • Willingness to travel (Approximately 10%) to support program activities.

Apply