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99 days ago

How to Get a Job in Solar: A Simple Guide for Career Changers and New Starters

TLDR: This guide shows you how to break into the UK solar industry - from hands-on PV installation to office-based project management - by outlining key job types, must-have skills and certifications, salary expectations and the fastest routes into clean energy roles in a booming sector targeting 70 GW of capacity by 2035.

Key takeaways:

The UK solar market is expanding rapidly thanks to Government incentives like the Smart Export Guarantee and MCS accreditation, creating strong demand for solar PV installers, design engineers, project managers and more.
You don’t always need a degree: short courses (2-6 weeks) and MCS certification plus CSCS/ECS cards can fast-track you into entry-level and mid-level roles.
In-demand roles span from on-roof photovoltaic technicians and inverter specialists to operations & maintenance and solar sales consultants.
Salaries start at around £25,000 for installers and rise to £60,000+ for senior project managers, often with benefits like van and fuel card.
Use specialist recruitment agencies, renewable energy job fairs and targeted keywords (“solar panel technician UK”, “photovoltaic engineer jobs”) on LinkedIn and job boards to find opportunities quickly.

FAQs:

Q: Is solar a secure career choice?
A: Yes. The UK’s solar market is expected to triple by 2035. Net zero goals and energy independence are driving steady long-term demand.

Q: Do solar jobs require travel?
A: Often, yes. Installers and field-based roles may cover regional sites. Some employers offer local-only roles or pay travel time.

Q: Can I get a job in solar without a driving licence?
A: It depends on the role. Installers and technicians often need to drive. Office or remote-based jobs may not.

Q: Are there remote jobs in solar?
A: Yes. Roles in design, sales, admin, and customer care are increasingly remote or hybrid.

How to Get a Job in Solar: A Simple Guide for Career Changers and New Starters

The UK solar industry is growing fast. With over 30,000 people already working in solar and the government targeting 70 GW by 2035, the sector needs more skilled professionals. Driven by incentives such as the Smart Export Guarantee, Net Zero Strategy and MCS accreditation, this guide gives you a clear, practical starting point.

What types of jobs are available in the solar industry?

Jobs in solar cover many areas, not just engineering. Common roles include:

Solar PV installers and technicians
Design engineers and project managers
Site supervisors and health & safety officers
Sales consultants and account managers
Electricians with solar experience
Operations and maintenance teams

There are also support roles in admin, finance, and logistics within solar recruitment firms or EPC contractors.

In a recent hiring drive, a solar installer based in Manchester grew from 12 to 40 staff in 18 months. This shows how quickly the sector is scaling and how wide the demand for roles can be.

What skills do I need to work in solar?

You don’t always need a degree. Many solar jobs focus on practical skills and attitude. Key requirements include:

Basic electrical knowledge
CSCS card or ECS card for site access
Health and safety awareness
Problem-solving and time management
Ability to work outdoors and at height

Entities such as the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) and Ofgem define technical standards. Training providers now offer fast-track solar technician courses that include real-world installs. A typical course lasts 2-6 weeks and often leads to job placement.

Do I need experience to get started?

No. You can get into solar from construction, electrical, sales, or logistics backgrounds. Entry-level roles like panel cleaning, warehouse prep, or installation support are common ways in.

For example, someone with three years’ experience as a general labourer could move into solar install support with just one week of on-site solar training and a CSCS card.

If you’re from outside construction, customer service and communication skills are highly valued in sales and planning roles.

How do I find solar jobs in the UK?

Here are five ways to find work in solar:

Use specialist solar recruitment agencies – they often list jobs before they hit general job boards.
Follow solar companies on LinkedIn – many post vacancies directly.
Attend renewable energy job fairs – they connect jobseekers with hiring managers.
Apply directly to solar installers – especially SMEs in your region.
Use keywords like “solar panel technician UK” or “photovoltaic engineer jobs” on job sites.

Some agencies also offer temp-to-perm contracts. This lets you build experience without long-term risk.

What qualifications are most useful for solar roles?

If you're aiming to work on installations or electrical systems, the following qualifications are commonly required or preferred:

Level 3 Award in the Installation and Maintenance of Solar Photovoltaic Systems
18th Edition Wiring Regulations (for electricians)
Working at Height certification
City & Guilds 2399 or equivalent (for renewable energy systems)
PASMA or IPAF (for safe access to elevated work platforms)

Most office-based or project management roles focus more on experience than formal qualifications.

Can I work in solar without an electrical background?

Yes. Not all solar jobs are technical. If you’ve worked in project coordination, logistics, sales, or health & safety, many companies offer solar-specific onboarding.

For instance, a project coordinator from the housing sector transitioned into solar project admin after completing a short renewables course and shadowing a team lead for a month.

How much can I earn in solar jobs?

Salaries vary based on role, region, and experience:

Role	Starting Salary (approx.)
Solar PV Installer	£25,000 – £35,000
O&M Technician	£30,000 – £40,000
Project Manager	£40,000 – £60,000+
Solar Sales Consultant	£28,000 + commission
Electrical Design Engineer	£40,000 – £55,000

Salaries are rising as demand outpaces supply. Some roles also include van, fuel card, and bonuses.

What’s the career progression like in solar?

You can move quickly with the right attitude. Many installers move into team leader roles in under two years. From there, you could progress into site management or technical consultancy. In office-based roles, project coordinators often become project managers within 12–24 months. Training budgets and upskilling opportunities are common in solar firms.

Looking to enter the solar industry or hire solar technicians?

Speak to a solar recruitment specialist today and take the next step.

Latest Jobs

Solar Recruitment

Project Developer - Solar

Edinburgh or London - United Kingdom

Join the UK Onshore Solar Development Team Become a key contributor within our clients Solar Project Development team, where you’ll collaborate with a multidisciplinary group to advance and deliver solar energy projects across the UK. Their mission is to drive the energy transition by developing a diverse portfolio of solar projects, ranging from under 50MW to large-scale developments of up to 1000MW. These projects are progressed through planning and integrated into their broader renewable energy strategy. The team thrives on cross-functional collaboration, continuous learning, and applying industry best practices to maximize value and impact. Key Responsibilities: Identify, secure, and develop a robust pipeline of solar energy projects across the UK. Collaborate with project originators, grid specialists, and GIS teams to progress projects from concept to development. Support commercial and M&A teams in evaluating and pursuing development acquisition opportunities. Define project scopes, budgets, and timelines to ensure successful delivery. Drive high-value opportunities through the planning process and into construction readiness. Navigate and apply knowledge of the UK’s planning and regulatory landscape for energy infrastructure. About You: You bring several years of experience in project development, energy infrastructure, or consultancy roles. You have a solid grasp of project management principles and demonstrate strong self-motivation and organizational skills. You’re comfortable working in dynamic, evolving environments and remain focused on achieving outcomes. You communicate effectively, work well in teams, and bring confidence to stakeholder engagement. You’re adaptable and thrive in the flexible, fast-paced nature of energy project development.

Solar Recruitment

Solar Energy Analyst

Edinburgh - United Kingdom

Solar Energy Analyst Join a leading renewable energy developer as a Solar Energy Analyst, where you’ll bring your expertise to support the acquisition, development, and execution of utility-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) projects. In this role, you’ll lead the optimisation of solar designs, perform detailed yield assessments, and contribute to feasibility studies and due diligence, ensuring our solar analysis remains at the forefront of the industry. About the Team You’ll become part of the Project Delivery team, working alongside skilled professionals to support all phases of engineering design for solar PV developments. Our clients collaborative environment spans multiple markets and disciplines, with a strong focus on technical reviews, layout optimisation, and integration with other renewable technologies. They foster a culture of knowledge sharing, teamwork, and continuous improvement. Key Responsibilities Develop and optimise PV layouts and conduct energy yield assessments, including for hybrid renewable projects. Provide technical input for due diligence processes related to project acquisitions. Evaluate and implement innovative technologies to enhance solar project performance. Support feasibility studies, permitting processes, and early-stage engineering activities. Review third-party yield assessments and construction cost estimates. Collaborate with commercial teams by delivering technical insights for investment decisions. About You You hold a degree in engineering or a related technical field or possess equivalent practical experience. You are proficient in industry-standard tools such as PVSyst, AutoCAD, and PVcase. You have hands-on experience with solar yield modelling and field data collection. You possess a solid understanding of PV technologies, including modules, inverters, and mounting systems. You are familiar with relevant design and construction standards within the solar industry. You bring a problem-solving mindset and a strong sense of commercial awareness.

Solar Recruitment

Land Manager - Onshore

London or Edinburgh - United Kingdom

Land Manager – Onshore Renewables Location: London or Edinburgh About the Opportunity Our client, a major player in the UK’s renewable energy sector, is seeking a Land Manager to join their Project Development team. This role plays a key part in the origination and delivery of land-based renewable energy projects, including Onshore Wind, Solar, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), and Power-to-X (PtX) developments. Working closely with the Senior Land Manager, you will be responsible for identifying and securing land for new development opportunities, while also supporting more mature projects through construction and operational phases. The team fosters a collaborative environment with a strong focus on continuous learning and development. Key Responsibilities Lead land acquisition, management, due diligence, and stakeholder engagement activities. Support the development of land assembly and management strategies across the UK. Manage commercial negotiations, land contracts, dispute resolution, and consultant coordination. Provide expert advice to internal stakeholders on land-related matters across renewable energy projects. Build and maintain strong relationships with external parties, including landowners, solicitors, and land agents. Ensure clear communication and transparency of deliverables and risks throughout the land delivery lifecycle. Candidate Profile Strong understanding of UK land contracts and legislation, including property rights, planning, environmental, and access regulations (ideally across both England and Scotland). Extensive experience in acquiring and managing complex land and property interests. Proven project management skills, particularly in delivering large-scale infrastructure projects. Familiarity with UK land markets, national/local policy frameworks, and commercial rental dynamics. Clear insight into the onshore renewables market, with a focus on commercial viability and landowner engagement. RICS qualification (essential). Benefits Package Our client offers a competitive and flexible benefits package designed to support your professional growth and personal well-being, including: Contributory pension scheme. Private healthcare and health cash plan. Enhanced parental leave policies. Life assurance. Employee assistance programme. Access to retail discounts and lifestyle perks. Cycle to work and salary finance schemes. Recognition and reward initiatives.

Solar Recruitment

Senior Project Manager, Permitting

Milan - Italy

This role as a Senior Project Manager offers the chance to be the pivotal figure for all project-related matters, primarily at the development stage, within a dynamic environment supported by a substantial international group. Based in Milan, the Senior Project Manager will report to the Country Manager and focus on developing renewable energy projects (PV, Wind, BESS, H2, P2X) in Italy. Main Duties: - Identifying, assessing, and facilitating new project development for wind, solar, BESS, and P2X. - Conducting feasibility and risk assessment studies. - Managing project delivery from concept through permitting to RTB and handover to construction, ensuring efficient management of land, grid, and permits within scope, budget, and schedule constraints. - Overseeing budget and resources, with a proactive approach to scheduling and risk. - Coordinating external developers or professionals, ensuring compliance with agreements and deliverables. - Sourcing and proposing project acquisition opportunities, including potential M&A transactions. - Supporting the Construction Department during the construction phase of assigned projects. - Contributing to the development of the existing project portfolio. - Assisting in the training and development of staff, particularly in permitting renewable energy plants. - Promoting the growth, profitability, and sustainability of the company. - Undertaking other related tasks. Mandatory Profile: - Minimum of eight years’ experience in renewable energy project development (mainly wind and/or solar). - Fluency in Italian and English, with strong communication skills in both languages. - Proven experience in “greenfield” project development in Italy, including land scouting, RTB phase, regulatory compliance, grid connection management, and land contract negotiations. - Exceptional project management skills. - Strong analytical, interpersonal, and organisational skills. - Ability to manage multiple projects across different regions simultaneously. - Willingness to travel frequently, mainly within Italy. Additional Experience/Skills: - Managing the construction of utility-scale wind or PV plants until commissioning. - Experience with Battery Storage, Hydrogen, and/or P2X projects. - Proficiency in other languages. What is Offered: - Employee bonus plan. - Competitive salary package and conditions aligned with qualifications and experience. - An international and collaborative working environment with excellent personal development opportunities. This role is ideal for a seasoned professional eager to make a significant impact in the renewable energy sector within Italy.

Solar Recruitment

Junior Project Manager, Permitting

Milan - Italy

This position offers the chance to be the pivotal figure in driving renewable energy projects in Italy. As a Project Manager, you will be instrumental in shaping the future of sustainable energy, working within a dynamic and fast-growing environment backed by a large international group. The role promises a blend of strategic oversight and hands-on project management, providing a platform for significant professional growth and contribution to a greener future. Key Responsibilities: - Identifying and facilitating new project development opportunities. - Conducting feasibility and risk assessment studies. - Managing project delivery from concept through permitting to RTB and handover to construction. - Overseeing budget and resources, ensuring efficient and effective management within scope, budget, and schedule constraints. - Coordinating with external developers and professionals to ensure compliance with agreements. - Proposing project acquisition opportunities and participating in M&A transactions. - Supporting the Construction Department during the construction phase. - Contributing to the development of the existing project portfolio. - Training and developing staff, particularly in permitting renewable energy plants. - Promoting the growth, profitability, and sustainability of the company. Required Skills and Experience: - Minimum of three years’ experience in renewable energy project development, particularly wind and/or solar. - Fluency in Italian and English, with strong communication skills. - Proven experience in “greenfield” project development in Italy, including land scouting, RTB phase, regulatory compliance, and grid connection management. - Exceptional project management, analytical, interpersonal, and organizational skills. - Ability to manage multiple projects across different regions simultaneously. - Willingness to travel frequently within Italy. Desirable Skills: - Experience in managing the construction of utility-scale wind or PV plants until commissioning. - Knowledge of storage and P2X projects. - Proficiency in additional languages. What’s on Offer: - Employee bonus plan. - Competitive salary package reflective of qualifications and experience. - An international and collaborative working environment with excellent personal development opportunities. This role is ideal for a driven professional eager to make a tangible impact in the renewable energy sector while advancing their career in a supportive and innovative setting.

Solar Recruitment

Senior Asset Manager - Solar PV

Warsaw, Poland - Poland

The Senior Asset Manager will play a pivotal role in ensuring the availability, safety, and profitability of assets throughout their lifecycle. This includes overseeing project handovers, monitoring and maintenance, and ultimately, settlement and reporting. The role demands a strategic leader capable of managing a team of specialists and collaborating with various departments to achieve operational excellence. Key Responsibilities: - Lead and develop a team of LLA and Energy Specialists. - Oversee project handovers into operations, participate in acceptance committees, and ensure comprehensive O&M documentation. - Plan, coordinate, and supervise inspections and warranty actions, prioritising service work including regulatory tests. - Collaborate with SCADA/monitoring vendors on incident resolution, feature road-map planning, and access management. - Manage land lease agreements, including negotiations, payments, risk assessments, and arrears monitoring. - Prepare invoice data for SPVs, clarify cost items, and work with Finance/Procurement on RFIs and benchmarking. - Delegate tasks, enforce deadlines, and streamline communication across Field, SCADA, Legal, Finance, and Development teams. - Provide regular reports and performance updates. Requirements: - 5–8 years of experience in Asset/Operations Management within the energy sector (PV/BESS preferred). - Proficiency with SCADA systems (ideally Mikronika/SYNDIS) and Field Service tools; solid understanding of CCTV/monitoring. - Experience with land lease agreements and managing legal/financial risks; proven collaboration with Legal and Finance teams. - In-depth knowledge of Polish Construction Law. - Strong financial and operational analytical skills, with proficiency in MS 365. - Fluency in Polish and English. - Active Category B driving licence. Joining offers a unique chance to be part of a dynamic and innovative team committed to driving the future of renewable energy. Apply now!

Solar Recruitment

Operations Director - Solar PV

France - France

LSP Renewables have partnered with a leading IPP to recruit an Operations Director in France - this is a key leadership role, directly contributing to the growth of our clients footprint in France by overseeing the construction and project management of large-scale renewable energy projects, primarily solar PV. The Operations Director ensures that all operational aspects run efficiently, safely, and in alignment with strategic goals. Key Responsibilities 1. Operational Oversight Supervise and coordinate daily operations across production, logistics, and supply chain. Ensure smooth, safe, and efficient execution of all operational activities. 2. Strategic Planning & Execution Contribute to and implement long-term strategic plans. Align operations with corporate goals and sustainability targets. 3. Resource & Budget Management Optimize the use of human, financial, and material resources. Ensure availability and efficient use of equipment and infrastructure. Keep costs aligned with construction budgets and project schedules. 4. Process Optimization Identify inefficiencies and implement continuous improvement initiatives. Leverage technology and innovation to enhance productivity. 5. Compliance & Risk Management Ensure adherence to environmental, health, and safety regulations. Identify and mitigate operational risks, including supply chain disruptions. 6. Team Leadership & Development Lead, mentor, and develop operational teams. Foster a culture of accountability, safety, and high performance. 7. Performance Monitoring & Reporting Analyze operational data and KPIs to assess performance. Prepare reports for executive leadership and recommend improvements. 8. Stakeholder Coordination Collaborate with other departments (finance, HR, sustainability, etc.). Maintain relationships with regulators, suppliers, and community stakeholders. Handle communication with different stakeholders during construction. Requirements Engineering degree (Electrical or Civil Engineering preferred) Strong technical understanding of solar PV plants, high-voltage lines, and substations. Minimum 8 years of experience in renewable energy projects, mainly PV construction (focus on rooftops and carports). Experience in interconnections and parks. Solid construction management experience in renewable powerplants and high-voltage infrastructures. Proven track record of bringing RtB projects to COD. Experience with AutoCAD, MS Project, and MS Office. Strong understanding of project design drawings; ability to participate in technical discussions with designers and BOP contractors. Good English language proficiency (written and spoken).

Solar Recruitment

Legal Manager

Lyon, France - France

LSP Renewables have partnered with a leading IPP to recruit a Legal Manager in France, who will ensure full legal compliance and corporate governance across the group in France. This role covers both corporate and commercial/operational legal matters related to renewable energy project development, supporting daily operations, and coordinating with internal and external stakeholders. Key Responsibilities 1. Corporate Matters Draft minutes of general assemblies of the management board and shareholders, as well as decisions and resolutions of company bodies. Maintain the book of minutes of the management board. Keep all public registers up to date, including the court registry and the ultimate beneficial owners’ registry. Supervise and coordinate the day-to-day administration of all companies in France, including: Maintaining up-to-date internal registers, ledgers, and charts of management board members and shareholders. Creating, administering, and monitoring SPVs (administrative and corporate). Handling company correspondence. Address any additional matters related to legal assistance for the companies. 2. Commercial & Operational Matters Provide legal opinions and prepare commercial contracts related to renewable energy projects (Wind, Solar, BEES), covering: Real estate matters. Development agreements. Procurement and contracts with local authorities. Contact public administrations, as needed. Coordinate legal due diligence processes for the companies. Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of contracts, including: Real Estate Contracts: sale and purchase, easement rights deeds, etc. Procurement Contracts: EPC, supply agreements, service agreements, BOP, BOS, framework agreements, and partnership agreements. M&A Transactions: due diligence support, SPAs, APAs, JVAs, and related agreements. Commercial Contracts: PPAs, tolling agreements, etc. Financing Documents: support on term sheets, facility agreements, etc. Provide legal advice on French civil, commercial, and administrative law. Develop project-specific legal strategies and ensure compliance. Prepare legal communications, reports, and presentations (internal and external). Maintain relationships with law firms, notaries, and other third parties. Manage the legal agenda, including monitoring deadlines for legal proceedings, corporate obligations, and contractual commitments. Conduct regulatory monitoring. Develop and implement systems to ensure compliance with applicable legal/statutory requirements and Group internal procedures, policies, and practices. 3. Decision-Making Responsibilities Evaluate alternatives, weigh risks, and make informed choices to support project success. Navigate uncertainties, allocate resources efficiently, and overcome challenges. Combine analytical thinking with strategic foresight for positive project outcomes. Gather relevant information systematically, apply data-driven insights, and implement/monitor decisions in real time. Identify and present issues, solutions, and risks to stakeholders, ensuring a clear framework is followed. Ensure follow-up on decisions and compliance with deadlines. Requirements Master’s degree in Law with completed lawyer/legal adviser apprenticeship. 3–5 years of experience in a law firm or as in-house counsel, with focus on contract law, civil law, and commercial law. Strong knowledge of: Corporate and transactional law. Energy and administrative law regulations. The renewable energy sector. Procurement (EPC, BOP, BOS, TSA, PV supply contracts, and ancillary agreements). Proven experience in: Drafting and reviewing legal documents. Interpreting legislation into practical application. Language proficiency: Excellent French and English (written and spoken). Skills: Strong interpersonal, communication, negotiation, and public speaking skills. Ability to explain legal matters clearly to non-specialists. Strong organizational, multitasking, prioritization, and time management abilities. Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Willingness to travel if required.

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