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Trainee Solar Panel Installer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Inspector

Nashville, TN

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... panels, devices and critical components. * Record and report deficiencies of fire protection ... technology, installation and testing approaches. * Train inspector trainees in all applicable ...

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Trainee Solar Panel Installer information

See Tennessee salary details

$13

$21

$28

How much do trainee solar panel installer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee solar panel installer in Tennessee is $21.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $24.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a trainee solar panel installer do?

A Trainee Solar Panel Installer assists experienced professionals with the installation, maintenance, and repair of solar photovoltaic systems. Their duties typically include preparing installation sites, mounting solar panels, connecting wiring, and ensuring systems comply with safety standards. Trainees receive on-the-job training to learn about solar technology, tools, and safety practices. Over time, they gain the skills needed to work independently and advance in the renewable energy field.

What are some typical challenges faced by trainee solar panel installers during their initial months on the job?

Trainee solar panel installers often find the physical demands and technical aspects of the role challenging at first. Tasks such as working at heights, handling heavy equipment, and understanding electrical systems require careful attention and practice. Additionally, learning to work efficiently as part of a team while adhering to strict safety protocols can take some adjustment. However, most organizations provide thorough on-the-job training and mentorship to help new trainees build their skills and confidence.

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

To thrive as a Trainee Solar Panel Installer, you need a basic understanding of electrical systems, manual dexterity, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, safety harnesses, and potentially an OSHA certification are often required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and good communication skills help you follow instructions and collaborate effectively on-site. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality solar panel installations in a growing renewable energy field.

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

AspectTrainee Solar Panel InstallerSolar Panel Installer
CertificationsBasic safety and installation training, possibly some certificationsAdvanced certifications, licensed electrician credentials often preferred
Work EnvironmentSupervised, training-focused, on-site installationIndependent or team-based installation work, more complex projects
Experience LevelEntry-level, learning on the jobExperienced, capable of handling full installation projects

The main difference between a Trainee Solar Panel Installer and a Solar Panel Installer is experience and certification level. Trainees are in learning phases, often supervised, while Solar Panel Installers are experienced professionals capable of independently completing installations. Trainees focus on gaining skills, whereas Installers perform full, complex projects.

How much do trainee solar panel installers make a year?

Trainee solar panel installers typically earn between $30,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on location, experience, and employer. As they gain skills and certifications, their earnings can increase, with experienced installers earning over $60,000 per year.

Is becoming a trainee solar panel installer worth it?

Becoming a trainee solar panel installer can be worthwhile as it provides hands-on experience in solar system installation, often leading to certification and job opportunities in renewable energy. The role typically involves working outdoors, using tools, and learning safety protocols, which can lead to a stable career in the growing solar industry.

Is there a demand for trainee solar panel installers?

The demand for trainee solar panel installers is growing due to increased adoption of solar energy and government incentives for renewable energy projects. Entry-level positions often require basic technical skills and safety training, with opportunities expanding as the solar industry continues to expand rapidly.

What are popular job titles related to Trainee Solar Panel Installer jobs in Tennessee?

For Trainee Solar Panel Installer jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Trainee Solar Panel Installer jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Trainee Solar Panel Installer jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Trainee Solar Panel Installer jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Trainee Solar Panel Installer job openings:

Infographic showing various Trainee Solar Panel Installer job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,060 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Summit Fire & Security rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 51 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 116 rated security


Job description

JOB SUMMARY:

Inspectors are responsible for inspecting, testing, and maintaining fire sprinkler systems, fire pumps, and backflows with minimal supervision.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES:

  • Inspect, test, and maintain fire protection systems in accordance with NFPA codes with working knowledge of sprinkler controls, alarm panels, devices and critical components. 
  • Record and report deficiencies of fire protection systems to SFS and Customers. 
  • Communicate with internal and external customers as well as offsite monitoring companies in a professional manner. 
  • Proper use and operation of tools required to complete the inspection (heat and smoke detector kit, backflow kit, pump equipment) 
  • Plan, coordinate, and complete inspections as scheduled in a timely manner.  
  • Required to be in an on-call status as required by location to handle emergency service and inspection requests 
  • Ensure company provided vehicle is clean and well maintained as required by company policies.
  • Ensure that all assigned tools are safeguarded and maintained.
  • Understand and follow SFS's Safety program, SDS book, Hazardous communication program, policies and procedures.  Participate in weekly Toolbox talks. Inspectors must know where all related safety documentation is at all times on each project. 
  • Attend seminars from time to time to stay abreast of changing technology, installation and testing approaches.
  • Train inspector trainees in all applicable aspects of fire protection.
  • Other duties may be assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

The qualifications listed below are representative of the elements required to perform the job successfully, however in some cases, an equivalent combination of Education, Training, Certifications and Experience may meet the job qualifications.

Education, Training, Certifications:

  • HS Diploma or equivalent, required.
  • NICET and/or state required certification required based on location, preferred.

Experience, Knowledge, Skill Requirements:

  • 3-5 years' experience inspecting fire protection systems required. 5+ years' experience preferred.  
  • Must be able to work alone and as part of a team.  Basic math skills, mechanical aptitude, problem solving skills, customer service skills, decision making skills, ability to multitask, ability to meet project schedules, ability to plan and organize, troubleshooting skills, and the ability to train other is required.

Communication Skills:

  • Must have the ability to effectively read, write and communicate in English with employees and customers.

Systems and Software Skills:

  • Ability to operate a computer, tablet and read electronic blueprints required.  Experience with SalesForce and Microsoft Office is preferred.

Other Qualifications:

  • Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record required. 
  • Must be able to comply with SFS's Drug and Alcohol policy and Background screening requirements, which may also include customer specific requirements based on contractual agreement

PHYSICAL & WORK ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS:

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform Essential Job Duties.

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to bend, ascend and descend step stools, ladders and stairs, kneel, lift <50lbs, reach above and below shoulders, stand and walk for extended periods of time.  Employee is required to see in color, close and far distances, peripheral, depth, and adjust focus. Employee will occasional be required to balance, crouch, drive, kneel, lift >50lbs, sit, stoop, twist, and work at heights.

Work Environment:

Frequent local travel and occasional regional and non-regional travel is required.  Employee will frequently be required to work inside and outside in hot/cold temperatures and be exposed to loud noises, cramped quarters, dust, fumes and odors, standing on hard surfaces, and electrical hazards frequently.  Employees will occasionally be exposed to chemicals, moving machinery, uneven and slippery surfaces.  Employee must consistently wear all appropriate personal protective equipment, as required by company safety policies.

We are fully committed to equal opportunities for employment to all individuals regardless of race, national origin, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability, familial status, and any other classification protected under the law. We are an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action employer.
While this job description is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position, management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties and to assign other duties as necessary. 

#LI-RF1
 

Are you interested in working for the nation's leading fire protection company and beginning a rewarding and satisfying career that helps save the lives of thousands each year? Do you want to be a part of a growing and expanding team of industry experts? If so, exploring career opportunities with Summit Fire & Security may be right for you! 

Summit Fire & Security, a subsidiary of SFP Holding, Inc. (Summit Companies), is a full-service provider for fire detection, suppression, and security with a full suite of capabilities that includes design, installation, testing, inspections, and maintenance. We serve customers across many verticals on a local, regional, and national scale. We're proud of our well-deserved reputation for quality work that's completed by our talented and experienced installation workforce.  Summit Fire & Security is a dynamic organization with endless growth opportunities spanning over 70 locations in more than 20 states.

Our company is consistently recognized for service excellence in the fire protection industry. Summit Fire & Security supports trade skills and workforce development by hosting Recognized Apprenticeships and on-the-job training (OJT) programs for new career-seekers. Many members of our leadership chair NFPA code compliance committees, serve on regional safety boards, and support technical education in local schools. Summit Fire & Security supports employees in their professional development by offering continued development, training, and education by encouraging NICET and other career-advancing certifications. We offer reimbursement for certain career development programs in addition to potential bonuses for specific certifications.  We continually strive to be the Employer of Choice for highly motivated team members who want to succeed in a high-growth environment. We encourage initiative, independence, diversity, and personal career growth.
 
Demonstrating the combination of experience, knowledge, and customer service is the key to our performance and helps us achieve our goal of providing the highest quality fire protection services possible to protect lives and property.

Benefits

Summit Fire & Security offers extensive training opportunities, career advancement, competitive pay, bonus opportunities, along with an industry leading and affordable benefits package for eligible employees. Our benefits package includes:
  • Paid Vacation and Holidays
  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance 
  • 401(k) Plan with Company Match 
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Long-Term Disability - Employer Paid
  • Short-Term Disability - Employer Paid
  • Additional Voluntary Ancillary Benefits such as Accident and Hospital Indemnity 
  • Life Insurance for Team Members and Dependents
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee Referral Program
Our Core Values

PIPE
  • We are PASSIONATE about life safety
  • We have INTEGRITY (Do the right thing)
  • We work in PARTNERSHIP with our customers and community
  • We constantly strive for OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE (Do things right)

Summit Fire & Security participates in E-Verify & in alignment with our commitment to safety, we promote a drug-free workplace. Summit Fire & Security is an equal-opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, status as a protected veteran, among other things, or status as a qualified individual with a disability. 

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