Solar Technician Schools in Montana

Montana is already home to several successful solar technicians, and the state needs more. The guide below serves as a comprehensive starting point for those looking to enter the field as residents of the state.

We walk through every key stage of the process—from initial education and basic preparation to advanced technical training, on-the-job experience, and certification. The guide also highlights leading solar technician training institutions in Montana and provides insights into potential earnings in the field.

By the time they are done reading, candidates will have the confidence to go through each step and deal with any challenge that may occur along the way.

How to Become a Solar Technician in Montana

The requirements needed to become a successful solar technician in Montana are usually as follows:

Academic Training

In Montana, candidates can start successful solar technician careers by attending an academic institution. These training destinations are preferred by those who want to earn a certificate or associate degree, and those who would like to transfer these credits someday to earn even more advanced degrees.

Apprenticeship Training

Apprenticeship training is perfect for gaining real-world experience. Employers tend to prefer to work with professionals who have already carried out the duties of a solar technician in an actual work environment, which is an opportunity provided by apprenticeship destinations.

Of course, some employers will also offer fresh technicians the opportunity to build practical experience by working in assisting and entry-level roles.

Employment

Once they complete basic education and develop real-world experience, solar technicians in Montana may secure employment with suitable companies. They may work as photovoltaic technicians, solar installers, renewable energy technicians, and more.

They can ultimately start their own outfits, but at first, they can work with solar installation firms, utility companies, and electrical contractors, among others.

Career Growth

The solar industry evolves quickly with tech and regulation changes. Candidates may facilitate career growth by taking refresher or advanced NABCEP courses, learning more about battery storage systems, EV charging setups, or solar sales and design.

They can also move into project management or engineering support roles.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become a carpenter in Montana

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Most states don’t offer a specific solar technician license, but professionals in the field often need an electrician license. In Montana, professionals who will be performing electrical work during the solar connection process have to be licensed electricians or perform their duties under the supervision of a licensed electrician.

Professionals don’t need a license for basic installation of racks and panels. Another issue of concern is certification.

Even though certification is not compulsory either, professionals who are certified usually have an edge over those who are not. NABCEP certification, for instance, can serve as a huge source of credibility and respect among peers and employers.

Top Solar Technician Schools in Montana

Below are the most notable institutions with appropriate training programs for aspiring solar technicians in Montana.

Explore solar technician schools in Montana by city:

• Solar technician schools in Billings

Salary & Career Outlook

The annual average salary of a solar technician in Montana typically reflects how long a professional has been on the job. Those who have been working for longer tend to manage a higher annual average salary.

Generally, solar technicians in Montana who are in the top tier of earners make an annual average salary of $70,438, according to Indeed. In contrast, those in the bottom tier can still end the year with an average salary of $41,673.

In the middle, candidates usually manage an annual average salary of $54,565.

Other than experience, business structure and location can influence the annual returns of solar technicians in Montana. Regarding location, Dillon, Billings, and Missoula have the highest figures in the state.

Solar technicians here earn annual average salaries of $69,191, $59,099, and $35,133, respectively.