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Solar Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Solar Technician I ($54,000 - $77,000) Solar Technician II ($62,000 - $88,000) Solar Technician ... Writes Plant Orders, Plant Procedures, Operating Instructions and other documents as assigned by ...

Solar Technician I ($54,000 - $77,000) Solar Technician II ($62,000 - $88,000) Solar Technician ... Writes Plant Orders, Plant Procedures, Operating Instructions and other documents as assigned by ...

Solar Technician I ($54,000 - $77,000) Solar Technician II ($62,000 - $88,000) Solar Technician ... Writes Plant Orders, Plant Procedures, Operating Instructions and other documents as assigned by ...

Solar Technician

Desert Center, CA · On-site

$54K - $77K/yr

Solar Technician I ($54,000 - $77,000) Solar Technician II ($62,000 - $88,000) Solar Technician ... Writes Plant Orders, Plant Procedures, Operating Instructions and other documents as assigned by ...

... operating solar sites. Success in this role will require strong technical skills across solar plant systems, paired with sound financial and commercial judgement to drive accountability, optimize ...

Ensure the highest level of health and safety practices on the assigned solar plant. * Knowledge in electrical safety and arc flash standards. * Understanding of and ability to follow operating ...

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Solar Plant Operator information

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$13

$22

$39

How much do solar plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for solar plant operator in the United States is $22.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Solar Plant Operator do?

A Solar Plant Operator is responsible for monitoring, controlling, and maintaining solar power generation systems to ensure they run efficiently and safely. Their duties include starting or stopping equipment, monitoring output and performance, performing routine inspections, and troubleshooting issues. They also record data, report on system performance, and may assist with maintenance tasks. Solar Plant Operators play a key role in maximizing energy production and minimizing downtime at solar power facilities.

What are some common challenges faced by Solar Plant Operators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Solar Plant Operators often encounter challenges such as equipment malfunctions, unpredictable weather affecting energy output, and maintaining system efficiency. To manage these issues, operators routinely monitor system performance through control panels and conduct preventative maintenance to minimize downtime. Collaborating with engineers and maintenance teams is essential for troubleshooting and implementing improvements. Staying updated on new technologies and safety protocols also helps operators adapt to evolving industry standards and ensure optimal plant performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Solar Plant Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Solar Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of electrical systems, mechanical maintenance, and renewable energy principles, often supported by a technical diploma or relevant certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, power inverters, and performance monitoring software is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help operators respond quickly to issues and coordinate with team members. These abilities are crucial for ensuring efficient plant operation, minimizing downtime, and maximizing energy output.

What is the difference between Solar Plant Operator vs Solar Technician?

AspectSolar Plant OperatorSolar Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; technical certification or training
Work EnvironmentSolar power plants, outdoor and indoor control roomsSolar panels, installation sites, maintenance facilities
Job FocusMonitoring, controlling, and maintaining solar plant operationsInstalling, repairing, and troubleshooting solar equipment

While both roles work within the solar industry, Solar Plant Operators focus on overseeing plant operations and ensuring efficiency, whereas Solar Technicians handle installation and maintenance tasks. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within solar energy.

More about Solar Plant Operator jobs
What states have the most Solar Plant Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Solar Plant Operator jobs include:
Solar Technician

$54K - $77K/yr

Other

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

What The Role Is

Reporting to the Plant Manager, the Solar Technician is responsible for troubleshooting, maintaining, servicing, and repairing solar PV systems and associated equipment. The primary objective is to maintain safe, effective, efficient, and profitable solar PV operation. 

Pay Ranges by Job Level:

Solar Technician I ($54,000 - $77,000)

Solar Technician II ($62,000 - $88,000)

Solar Technician III ($88,000 - $107,000)

What You'll Be Doing

Level I

  • Assists higher level Technicians in performing maintenance. 
  • Performs other technical and administrative duties associated with operating and maintaining a power facility. 
  • Ensures work is performed in accordance with Environmental and Safety requirements. 
  • Participate in required training, including On-the-Job Training, Self-Study, Computer Based Training and Classroom Training. 
  • Performs other duties as assigned within the level I scope

Level II (Additions)

  • Performs corrective, preventive, and emergency maintenance and operations for which they are qualified to safely and efficiently perform
  • Performs work independently and/or in work crews
  • Travel required as needed
  • Performs other duties as assigned within the level II scope

Level III (Additions)

  • Executes routine electrical troubleshooting and repair, instrumentation calibration and troubleshooting
  • Performs complex maintenance work such as distributed control systems and inverter troubleshooting as assigned by supervisor based on level of skill and ability
  • Complete work orders for the preventive maintenance management system
  • Performs corrective, preventive, and emergency maintenance on all PV Solar equipment
  • Prepares and implements switching and clearance orders, while working with Operations Center
  • Operates all electrical and mechanical PV Solar power plant systems
  • Participates in training as required, JHA, PJB, LOTO documentation
  • Writes Plant Orders, Plant Procedures, Operating Instructions and other documents as assigned by supervisor
  • Ensures work is performed in accordance with Environmental and Safety requirements
  • Performs other duties as assigned within the level III scope
What You'll Bring

Level I

  • A high school diploma or GED is required or willing to obtain GED within first 6 months of employment.
  • Possess demonstrable mechanical aptitude and basic electrical knowledge.
  • Understanding of general workplace safety and the ability to follow safety standards, as well as help the company improve upon the standards in place.
  • Will drive company vehicle; must have a valid state driver's license and good driving record.
  • Ability to work overtime and non-standard working hours (nights, holidays, weekends), when needed.
  • Professionalism and excellent communication skills.
  • Ability to operate a computer with technical proficiency of standard business software.
  • Knowledge of applicable safety and environmental regulations.
  • Able to work both independently and as part of a multi-tasking team.

Level II (Additions)

  • 1+ years of experience in a power plant or PV Solar O&M/EPC experience
  • 2+ years of field experience with significant I&E, I&C and/or C&I Electrician experience will be considered in lieu of applicable solar experience
  • Demonstrated knowledge of electrical or mechanical fundamentals (single craft journeyman skills) such as electrical measurements, control circuits, and solid state theory application
  • Basic knowledge of operational characteristics of equipment and associated control devices installed in power facilities
  • Possess demonstrable mechanical aptitude and basic electrical knowledge

Level III (Additions)

  • 4+ years of PV solar experience is required. I&E, I&C and/or C&I Electrician experience will be considered in lieu of applicable experience.
  • Proven experience with a multitude of electrical/construction projects
  • Demonstrated knowledge of electrical or mechanical fundamentals (Journeyman skills) such as electrical measurements, control circuits, and solid state theory application
  • Knowledge of complex analog and digital instrumentation and control systems
  • Proper methods for troubleshooting, repairing, and adjusting instruments and control systems
  • Experience administering safe methods to clear equipment, use of tools and plant safety rules
  • Understanding reporting procedures and practices and maintenance procedures and practices
  • Knowledge of electrical and mechanical prints
  • Familiarity with PV Solar plant terminology and nomenclature
  • Qualified to perform routine and emergency operations at a solar generation facility and Switchyard
  • Able to communicate verbally and in writing and able to work without direct supervision during performance of work
  • Able to travel (approximately 5%)
  • If you don't meet 100% of the above qualifications but see yourself contributing, please submit your resume.
What Would Be Nice
  • 2-year technical degree or equivalent Journeyman certification/qualifications is preferred

Clearway will not sponsor nonimmigrant visas for this position (H-1B, TN, E-3, etc.).

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