Check online solar energy blogs to pick up common solar energy lingo. Familiarize yourself with the meaning of jargon that occurs frequently.
Many conferences and classes are advertised online. Try an online keyword search for something like, “Solar energy events near me. ” Some solar organizations, like Solar Energy International (SEI), offer free online courses that you can take to improve your solar knowledge. [6] X Research source
If you were interested in getting a job in the sales side of solar, you could call an installer, ask to speak to a salesperson, and offer to buy them lunch in exchange for you job shadowing them for a day. [8] X Research source
Some regions, like those that don’t receive much sunlight, may have fewer opportunities for solar involvement. Use online solar power output maps to find where the solar industry is most active. Look up information on careers in solar power with the Bureau of Labor Statistics to get an overview of the industry and a list of common jobs. [10] X Trustworthy Source US Bureau of Labor Statistics U. S. government agency that collects and reports labor-related information Go to source Professional associations, like the American Solar Energy Society (ASES), can be great places to learn information and get in touch with others who are interested in the solar industry. [11] X Research source
A breakdown of the requirements and pay expectations of most solar positions can be found on the Bureau of Labor website. [12] X Trustworthy Source US Bureau of Labor Statistics U. S. government agency that collects and reports labor-related information Go to source Some popular solar related jobs include assembler, installer, repairer, welder, construction manager, salesperson, solar engineer, and researcher. Within solar, jobs often fall into some of the following main categories: administrative, design, assembly/installation, logistics, maintenance, sales, and research. [13] X Expert Source Guy GabaySolar Energy Contractor Expert Interview. 4 August 2020.
Physicists, chemists, and material scientists play a major part in the research and development of solar technology. If you want to start working in solar quickly, a four-year degree in solar engineering might not be feasible. [15] X Research source
The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) offers online certifications for solar energy professionals. [17] X Research source
Call up a local solar company and ask to speak to the HR department. Explain that you’re interested in pursuing a job in solar energy and you’d like to informally interview a current worker. When speaking with a solar worker, ask if there’s anyone you should contact with regard to the positions you’re pursuing. The worker might be able to put you in touch with someone who can help.
You don’t have to waste a lot of time doing this. A quick email asking how things are and sharing some personal details should be more than enough. Remind yourself to stay in touch by writing a reminder on your calendar or using a repeating monthly notification in your phone.
This might go without saying, but try not to come on too strong while being persistent. Oftentimes, this can come across as pushy and actually hurt your chances of getting the job. After you submit applications, follow up with a phone call. This will set you apart from other applicants while making you seem more enthusiastic about getting the job.
Some solar companies see as much as 85% of sales coming from referred customers. [21] X Research source
For most jobs in solar, it’s a good idea to wear a suit to interviews. Keep your materials well organized so you come across as prepared. [22] X Research source
