Solar technicians are at the forefront of the solar growth we’ve all witnessed in recent years. Moreover, they are expected to remain at the vanguard, helping individuals take advantage of all the benefits of renewable energy.
For aspiring solar technicians in Washington, the article below contains everything you’ll need to know to start your career and do so on the best possible footing. We provide a comprehensive step-by-step guide of the steps involved, but it continues.
We also dive into possible certification, licensure requirements, top solar technology programs in the state, and the salary projection across various points of a technician’s career.
How to Become a Solar Technician in Washington
Below is a step-by-step breakdown of the process needed to become a successful solar technician in Washington.
Step 1: Put Yourself in the Best Position to Enter a Training Program
Training programs for aspiring solar technicians in Washington have flexible requirements. However, candidates with a high school diploma or GED typically have a much wider range of options. Having a sound knowledge of basic mathematics and physics is also helpful.
Step 2: Enroll in a Training Program
Enrolling in a training program is necessary for all aspiring solar technicians in Washington. However, not all training programs have to be academic programs in a predominantly classroom environment. Some may choose instead to obtain training on the job.
Academic Training
Future solar technicians in Washington may look to various community colleges and trade schools for their training. Most of these programs can be completed in a few weeks and include comprehensive instructions in components, system design, safety, and codes.
Academic solar technology training programs may also take place online. We list some of the most notable options in the upcoming section below.
Training On-the-Job
Apprenticeship programs and some employers offer students the opportunity to learn the skills to become solar technicians while they work. This way, students will be immersed in the job immediately. Some programs also allow candidates to earn while they’re still learning.
Certification
Lastly, solar technicians in Washington should receive certification before starting their careers. This will help them get jobs faster, among other benefits we’ll dive deeper into below.
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Top Solar Technician Schools in Washington
The following are some of the most prominent solar technician schools in Washington.
Shoreline Community College
Shoreline Community College offers a robust training program for aspiring solar technicians in Washington, boasting top-quality instructors and hands-on training.
Students here enjoy learning in state-of-the-art facilities under the tutelage of qualified instructors.
Central Washington University
The Integrated Energy Management program at Central Washington University is a wonderful option through which candidates may launch their careers on the right path. The program teaches key topics in solar technology but also incorporates other important topics in sustainable energy systems.
University of Washington
The Clean Energy Institute of the University of Washington also offers a wonderful training program for future solar technicians in the state. Key topics include system components, configuration, mechanical integration, and more.
Notable Mentions
Other notable mentions include A-R Solar’s apprenticeship programs, Cascadia College offering a bachelor’s degree in sustainable practices, and the Solar Washington Organization offering several resources and learning materials for future solar technicians across the state.
Explore Solar Technician Schools by City:
Licensure & Certification Requirements
In Washington, solar technicians are not expected to register with the state or acquire a license before securing employment. But of course, as with all states with no statewide licensing mandate, specific projects with a high level of complexity may require permits from local building departments.
As such, candidates must always watch and consult their local regulatory bodies before proceeding with tricky projects.
Candidates looking to enjoy the benefits of certification may consult NABCEP - The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. The Board offers a Solar Photovoltaic Installer credential that may help professionals enhance their credibility and job prospects.
Salary & Career Outlook
As an aspiring solar technician in Washington, you may expect to start with an annual average salary of around $32,754. This is the figure revealed for regular technicians in the state in a survey of professionals in the field.
Those among the highest earners in the state may take home an average salary as high as $60,585 yearly, while those among the lowest earners still take home an annual average salary of around $17,708.
It is also worth highlighting some cities in Washington with significant annual average salaries for solar technicians. Those practicing in Seattle earn an annual average salary of $53,382, while solar technicians in Spokane earn an annual average salary of $47,188. In Tacoma, solar technicians earn an annual average salary of $27,200.
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