Solar technicians specialize in installing solar panels and assembling them on grids. Individuals in Illinois who want to specialize in this field would be happy to know that we have provided a comprehensive guide below containing everything they need to start their careers.
We also look at possible state licensure specifications, certification requirements, and various educational requirements. To help future technicians receive the best education, we have also provided a concise list of some of the most notable training programs to consider.
Lastly, we look at the possible salary projection during a solar technician career in Illinois.
How to Become a Solar Technician in Illinois
The following are the steps in starting a solar technician career in Illinois.
Step 1: High School Diploma or GED
A high school diploma or GED equivalent is the primary educational requirement to become a solar technician in Illinois. This can even be enough to start a career without additional training. However, candidates are advised to consider the following steps below to give themselves the best chances.
Step 2: Training Routes
For their actual solar technology training, aspiring candidates in Illinois may consider the following approaches:
Academic Programs
Aspiring solar technicians may enroll in solar technology programs offered by community colleges and trade schools to receive their certificate or associate degree. This degree will give them better leverage in the employment market.
Along with obtaining a certificate, these programs allow candidates to acquire in-depth training in classroom environments and practical laboratories. Among the topics students will learn include introduction to solar power, system design, electrical components, and safety, among others.
Apprenticeships
Because the state of Illinois does not expect solar technicians to have a college degree before they can start working, it is also possible for these professionals to receive their training on the job.
Apprenticeship programs tend to focus heavily on this kind of training, but some apprenticeships also incorporate a great deal of classroom training, particularly in the beginning.
Additionally, some apprenticeship programs allow candidates to receive payments for their efforts even as they learn.
Step 3: Consider Certification
Just like an advanced education gives you an edge as an aspiring solar technician in Illinois, professional credentials also do the same. Below, we look at some of the most popular certification options for interested individuals.
Consider trades with similar paths:
Licensure & Certification Requirements
In Illinois, the Illinois Commerce Commission is the board responsible for handling affairs related to the licensing of solar technicians. According to the commission, all entities that install distributed generation facilities such as solar panels must comply with applicable building and electric codes and the licensing and municipal bonding requirements.
Certification is optional for solar technicians in Illinois. Those who wish to take advantage of the opportunities they offer may acquire a NABCEP certification, which is often regarded as the gold standard in the industry.
Top Solar Technician Schools in Illinois
The following are some of Illinois’s top solar technician schools for exciting individuals to consider.
Illinois State University
Illinois State University runs a bachelor of the science degree program that allows candidates to secure employment as solar technicians. Candidates have an edge over the field with a bachelor of science degree but will have to spend more time acquiring training.
Western Illinois University
Western Illinois University is another top-quality destination to start a solar technician career. The program teaches sustainable energy and is known to be very thorough. Candidates get to learn in modern facilities under experienced instructors.
Lincoln Land Community College
Future solar technicians in Illinois may obtain a solar photovoltaic systems certificate from Lincoln Land Community College. The program is highly hands-on and focuses on different components of solar photovoltaic systems.
Online Training
Candidates looking for online options may also consider the programs offered by Solar Energy International, Everblue Training, SolAirGen, and Imagine Solar.
Explore solar technician schools by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
The annual average salary for solar technicians in Illinois is $56,475. As expected, this figure would reflect the yearly average for those in the middle of optimizing factors such as experience, location, and other conditions that may influence how much a solar technician earns in the state.
For those in the top 10% of earners, the annual average salary is $81,753, while those in the bottom 10% take home an average yearly salary of $39,013.
Of course, these figures only reflect the base salary figures, not the total amount a solar technician can make in the state. For example, on average, solar technicians in Illinois can earn around $7,500 in overtime every year.
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