Numerous agencies and outlets, including the Bureau of Labor Statistics, project a massive increase in demand for solar technicians in the coming decade — one of the highest jumps in demand across the country.
In New Jersey, solar technicians continue to see evidence of this growth in demand and reward. For that reason, several individuals are considering a career in this field. You have come to the right page if you find yourself in these shoes.
Below, we discuss in-depth the process required to secure employment as a solar technician in New Jersey. We highlight the individual steps, licensure requirements, and possible certification options.
We then highlight the state’s top programs before discussing the salary projection for fresh solar technicians in New Jersey.
How to Become a Solar Technician in New Jersey
The following are the steps required to become a solar technician in New Jersey.
Meeting the Basic Requirements
While New Jersey does not set a basic requirement to become a solar technician in New Jersey, employers and institutions tend to. Most ask that applicant must have a high school diploma or GED. Some may also ask for a minimum age between 17 and 21 years.
Training at an Academic Institution
The first route to learn the duties of a solar technician in New Jersey is to attend an academic institution. This could be a community college, trade school, or technical institution.
During their training at an academic institution, aspiring solar technicians in New Jersey will learn key technical topics about solar components, photovoltaic systems, and general system design. However, they will also learn about basic safety practices, building codes, and regulations.
Training at an Apprenticeship Program
Completing an apprenticeship program can help solar technicians get a clear understanding of both theoretical principles and practical skills. Potential employers, government initiatives, professional associations, and trade unions typically offer these programs.
Apprenticeship programs are known to be very hands-on, giving candidates a first-hand experience of what to expect when they secure employment. These programs may also pay students for their efforts on the job.
Becoming Certified & Securing Employment
Even though it is not mandatory, getting a professional certification can be a huge step forward in a solar technician’s career in New Jersey. Doing so offers several benefits, including a bigger appeal to employers and continuing education.
We discuss more about certification for solar technicians in New Jersey below.
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Top Solar Technician Schools in New Jersey
Below are some notable programs for future solar techs in New Jersey.
Pennco Tech
Pennco Tech offers a general electrician program with a focus on plumbers. It boasts quality instructors who do their best to ensure candidates are always ready to secure employment upon graduation.
Raritan Valley Community College
Raritan Valley Community College offers sound plumbing training and the opportunity to receive an NABCEP Photovoltaic Certification.
The program includes 64 hours of training and takes place between 9 am to 5 pm.
Bright Horizon Institute
Students may also attend Bright Horizon Institute’s 12-week Solar Panel Installer course to begin their solar technician career in New Jersey. Applicants must be 18 and have a high school diploma/GED.
Explore Solar Technician Schools by City:
Licensure & Certification Requirements
Candidates looking to begin their solar technician careers as quickly as possible will be glad to know that New Jersey has no statewide license requirement for professionals involved in solar installation. Of course, candidates must still keep an eye out for specific projects that require permits from local building departments at the county level.
For instance, obtaining a New Jersey Solar Installers License (NJ - SIL) is optional for many projects but needed for some advanced installations. Additionally, as mentioned earlier, certification may be optional but offers several benefits that can’t be overlooked.
The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners ( NABCEP) is currently the leading authority for issuing widely recognized credentials to solar technicians in New Jersey.
Salary & Career Outlook
As with all states in the country, the annual average salary of a solar technician in New Jersey will depend on several factors. Some of the most prominent include location, experience level, credentials, and establishment of employment.
In New Jersey, those on the positive end of these factors may earn as high as $83,501 in annual average salary, while those in the bottom 10% earn an annual average salary of $41,650. An average solar technician in New Jersey (in the midpoint of the factors) earns an annual average salary of $56,973.
As for specific cities within the state, solar technicians in Newark earn an annual average salary of $54,319; solar technicians in Trenton earn an annual average salary of $68,129; and solar technicians in Jersey City earn an annual average salary of $33,541.
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