The U.S. solar industry continues to experience major growth, driven by unceasing demand for renewable energy sources for power generation. This industry comprises businesses, activities, talent, and innovative energy technologies that harness sunlight to generate power for electricity production, heating, and other power applications.  

The future is solid for industry companies, as well as professionals who choose this career path, from manufacturing to installation, maintenance, financing, and constant advancements in solar energy systems.  

Consider the statistics below, along with some of the fastest-growing jobs in various sectors of the solar industry. 

Industry expansion tells a story of unstoppable growth  

The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) tracks trends in the U.S. solar energy industry, validating the diverse and sustained growth of solar across the United States. Their research sums up the industry in eight words: Solar energy in the United States is booming.  

• The number of U.S. solar businesses now exceeds 10,000, contributing to job growth across multiple fields, including research and development, manufacturing, installation, innovation, and maintenance. 

• More than 280,000 people are employed in solar-related jobs in the United States, with solar accounting for more than 60% of all jobs in U.S. renewable energy generation. 

• Solar has seen massive growth since 2010. There are now 255 gigawatts direct-current (DC) of solar capacity installed nationwide, enough to power more than 43 million homes – and growing every day. 

• In the last decade, solar deployments have experienced an average annual growth rate of 28%.  

• The industry generated more than $70 billion in private investments in the American economy in 2024.   

Here as some of the fastest-growing careers in solar energy  

Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Installers   

Solar PV installers are among the fastest-growing occupations in the United States, with employment projected to increase by 42% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 4,100 openings are projected each year, on average, over the decade. This growth is fueled by the declining cost of solar panels and rising consumer interest in clean energy solutions.   

Solar Manufacturing and Supply Chain Roles   

As noted, the expansion of U.S. domestic solar manufacturing is creating new solar jobs. For example, Corning’s $1.5 billion investment in a Michigan facility is expected to add 400 high-paying jobs focusing on producing U.S.-made solar components. These roles encompass production, quality control, and logistics within the solar supply chain.  

Solar Project Managers and Designers   

As solar installations become more complex, there’s a growing demand for professionals who can design and oversee projects from inception to completion. These roles involve site assessments, system designs, permitting, and coordination with contractors and utilities.   

Energy Storage Technicians   

With increasing demand and adoption of solar energy solutions across residential and commercial areas of the country, the need for energy storage solutions is also rising. Technicians who are skilled in installing and maintaining battery storage systems are essential to ensuring the reliability and efficiency of solar power systems.   

Solar Sales and Marketing Professionals   

As the solar market expands, companies require sales and marketing experts to educate consumers, navigate incentives, and promote solar products. These roles are vital for driving adoption and growth in the residential and commercial sectors.   

Policy Analysts and Regulatory Experts   

Professionals who understand the regulatory landscape and can advocate for supportive policies are crucial as the solar industry navigates evolving local, state, and federal regulations. These roles help shape the future of solar energy deployment.   

Look deeper into occupations in solar power  

The fastest-growing jobs listed above are just part of the big picture of rewarding, high-paying positions. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) defines the many occupations dedicated to solar power in the United States, providing comprehensive information on select jobs, job duties, required credentials, median wages, and more. Click the links to explore each area of these distinct careers in solar power:  

• Scientific Research 

• Solar Power Engineering 

• Manufacturing for Solar Power 

• Solar Power Plant Development 

• Solar Power Plant Construction 

• Solar Power Plant Operations 

• Solar Photovoltaic Installers 

• Other Occupations in Solar Panel Installation and Maintenance 

• Support Occupations  

On-the-job and industry training opportunities  

For professionals interested in entering the solar field, many employers and positions offer on-the-job training, apprenticeships, and certifications. Additionally, programs are offered by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC) and Solar Energy International, providing valuable resources and job-ready training for skills development.   

Find top talent and great jobs in solar and renewable energy  

Expert renewable energy recruiters are essential in matching skilled people with companies to drive innovation and growth in this rapidly advancing industry. Whether you’re a hiring company or an industry professional looking for job opportunities, take advantage of Goodwin Recruiting’s deep knowledge and connections in all industry subsectors, from solar to wind, energy storage, EV infrastructure, and more.  

Reach out to us today.  

Employers: Connect with an expert at Goodwin Recruiting to find the best solar or other renewable energy talent. Let us help you make your next great hire.  

Job Seekers: Visit our job board for solar and renewable energy positions available today. And be sure to sign up for job alerts as new opportunities are added daily. If you prefer, you can always get in touch with one of our expert recruiting partners.