What image does “solar energy professional” bring to mind? Where is that person working? What tools are used?
Before I began a career in the solar industry, my understanding of solar jobs was limited. When I thought of a solar energy professional, my first reaction was to picture a man on a roof wearing a hard hat and using a wrench to tighten solar panels. While solar installer jobs are essential and represent one of the fastest-growing career roles nationwide, I am consistently surprised at the variety of skills, roles, and people contributing to the renewable energy industry.
The Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC) publishes an excellent Interactive Solar Career Map that projects a roadmap for many of the typical careers in solar, from entry-level installation to mid-level engineering, to advanced manufacturing. But the solar industry is constantly changing and innovating, and not every possible solar career is included yet.
Here are three unique and emerging jobs in the solar industry that you won’t find in typical search results:
Solar Drone Pilot
Solar sites can operate for decades. Drone pilots inspect panels to make sure they’re working efficiently and safely.
Major Job Responsibilities: Solar drone pilots are responsible for operating drones to inspect and maintain solar panels. They use drones equipped with cameras and sensors to capture high-resolution images and thermal data, which helps identify issues such as damage, dirt, or shading on solar panels. They also create detailed maps and reports for maintenance teams.
Pay Range: The average salary for a solar drone pilot ranges from $24,000 to $184,000 per year, depending on experience and the complexity of the projects they handle.
Certifications: To become a solar drone pilot, you need to meet the FAA Part 107 license requirements, which is essential for commercial drone operations. Additional certifications in drone technology and solar energy can be beneficial.
Tools: Drone, infrared camera, specialized reporting software.
Solar Financing Associate
Solar projects, like any other energy infrastructure, cost money! A Solar Finance Associate ensures projects have the financial backing to be built.
Major Job Responsibilities: Solar financing associates play a crucial role in securing funding for solar projects. Solar Financing Associates work with financial models, analyze project viability, and negotiate terms with investors and lenders. Their goal is to ensure that solar projects are financially sustainable and profitable.
Pay Range: The pay range for solar financing associates varies widely, ranging from $75,000 to $185,000 per year depending on experience, location, and company.
Certifications: College degrees and certifications in finance are often required. Experience in project finance, debt finance, tax equity, or project management are valued.
Tools: Microsoft Excel
Solar Sheep Grazer
Solar farms occupy large areas of land. Sheep grazers optimize the use of the land while avoiding the need for traditional mowing.
Major Job Responsibilities: Solar sheep grazers manage flocks of sheep to maintain vegetation around solar panels. This eco-friendly approach helps prevent overgrowth that can shade panels and reduce efficiency. Grazers ensure the health and safety of the sheep, monitor grazing patterns, and coordinate with solar site managers.
Pay Range: While specific pay ranges for solar sheep grazers are not widely published, the role is often part of broader agricultural or land management positions. Compensation can vary based on the size of the operation and the region.
Certifications: The American Solar Grazing Association (ASGA) offers certification for solar grazing training, which covers best practices for using sheep to manage vegetation on solar sites. This certification is recognized within the industry and can enhance job prospects.
Summary
These roles not only contribute to the growth of renewable energy but also offer diverse and rewarding career paths. Whether you're piloting drones, crunching numbers, or herding sheep, there's a place for everyone in the solar energy sector!
