Solar Technician Schools in Iowa

Becoming a solar technician in Iowa is a premium opportunity to contribute significant value in a field expected to continue increasing in demand and popularity over the next decades. Below, prospective solar technicians in Iowa will discover everything they need to know to begin their journey in the discipline, from basic education to licensure.

Beyond licensure, we also touch on opportunities for continuing education, the potential for entrepreneurial growth, and ways to expand their skill sets over time.

Finally, for those curious about financial outlooks, we’ve included an in-depth look at average annual salaries for solar technicians in Iowa. We add helpful tips on boosting annual income by gaining certifications, specializing in niche areas, and launching a business.

How to Become a Solar Technician in Iowa

The following are the steps to become a solar technician in Iowa.

Hands-on Education

For individuals in Iowa who are ready to build a career in solar technology, the journey starts with choosing how to gain skills and develop proficiency in the field. From academic programs to hands-on training, there are several paths to becoming a skilled, job-ready professional.

• Academic Programs—Attending a training program is one of the most common ways to become a solar technician in Iowa. Many training programs offer direct solar technician courses, while some offer programs relating to renewable energy technology with an emphasis on solar technology.

Electrical technology programs can also be sufficient to enter the profession. These programs typically cover key topics like solar panel installation and maintenance, basic electrical systems, safety standards (OSHA), and system design and troubleshooting.

• On-the-Job Training - On-the-job training is another approach to becoming a solar technician. This approach can stand alone, but it is even better for candidates who already have some experience studying at an academic destination.

For instance, many organizations offer entry-level roles for candidates to improve their skills on the job.

Business Ownership & Career Growth

For career growth, solar technicians in Iowa can work on obtaining professional credentials and staying current with industry advancements through continuing education.

Business ownership can also help candidates improve their earnings significantly while remaining competitive in the environment.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become a wind turbine technician in Iowa

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Solar technicians in Iowa don’t necessarily have to receive the state license before they start working professionally. However, candidates must ensure that they check in with the local regulatory bodies when carrying out electrical installations.

This is because certain projects may require specific permits.

Additionally, even though certification is not compulsory to become a civil technician in Iowa, pursuing one can be very beneficial. It can lead to career opportunities, continuing education, networking, and better pay.

The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is one of the most prominent organizations offering well-regarded credentials for professionals in this discipline.

Top Solar Technician Schools in Iowa

Prospective solar technicians in Iowa may begin their training by attending any of the following programs.

Explore solar technician schools in Iowa by city:

• Solar technician schools in Des Moines

Salary & Career Outlook

Individuals entering the solar technician discipline in Iowa understandably do not make the same as those who are more experienced on the job. This, along with factors like location, business structure, and professional credentials, is why solar technicians in Iowa can be divided into three broad categories based on yearly returns.

According to Indeed data, those in the bottom 10% make an annual average salary of $27,879, while candidates who are among the median earners manage around $69,782 annually. In the top 10% among the highest-paid in the state, solar technicians make as much as $174,667 or more yearly.

Des Moines ($67,681), Davenport ($69,296), and Dubuque ($62,698) have the highest annual average salaries for solar technicians in Iowa. Iowa City is also prominent, with an annual average salary of $64,515.