Solar Technician Programs in Jacksonville, Florida

Getting a Solar Technician Degree in Jacksonville, Florida

As solar energy adoption accelerates across Florida, the demand for skilled Solar Technicians in Jacksonville continues to rise. A Solar Technician—also known as a solar panel installer, photovoltaic installer, or solar energy technician—plays a critical role in designing, installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting solar photovoltaic (PV) systems for residential, commercial, and utility-scale projects. Whether you are interested in a hands-on career in renewable energy or want to contribute to Jacksonville’s clean energy transition, understanding your education options is the first step.

Solar Technician education in Jacksonville includes a variety of pathways:

  • Certificate programs designed for entry-level skills and rapid workforce entry.
  • Associate degrees offering broader technical and theoretical foundations.
  • Bachelor’s degrees for those seeking advanced technical, engineering, or management roles in the solar sector.

This guide outlines the key steps to becoming a Solar Technician in Jacksonville, Florida, including training programs, local employers, certification options, and the requirements you’ll need to meet to begin your career.

About Jacksonville, Florida

Jacksonville is the largest city by area in the contiguous U.S. and serves as a major hub for commerce, industry, and recreation in Northeast Florida. Situated on the Atlantic coast, the city features diverse neighborhoods such as Riverside, San Marco, and the urban core surrounding Downtown Jacksonville. The city’s official website, Jacksonville.gov, provides resources for residents and information about local services and economic development. Jacksonville’s abundant sunshine, strong utility infrastructure, and growing investment in clean energy make it an ideal location for aspiring Solar Technicians.

Solar Technician Training Programs in Jacksonville, Florida

Jacksonville and its surrounding area offer several options for Solar Technician education, from entry-level certificates to advanced degrees. Here are three leading local programs:

Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ)

  • Location: Multiple campuses across Jacksonville, including Downtown and South Campus.
  • Program: FSCJ offers an online Solar Energy Training course for entry-level knowledge and a Solar Panel Installer Training course covering installation, design, and system components. The 40-hour online installer course prepares students for industry-recognized certifications and includes practical modules on safety, system design, and balance-of-system components.
  • Details: Open enrollment, self-paced or instructor-led formats, and three-month completion windows. FSCJ’s courses align with NABCEP educational requirements and are designed to help students enter the solar workforce quickly.
  • More information: FSCJ Career Training Solar Courses

Jacksonville University – Career Training

  • Location: Main campus in Arlington neighborhood.
  • Program: Jacksonville University partners with Everblue to offer Solar Energy Training, Solar Panel Installer Training, and Solar Design Training. These programs emphasize practical skills, customer-focused design, and preparation for national certifications.
  • Details: Flexible online courses, open enrollment, and support services for students. The Solar Design Training course is particularly suited for those interested in system design and project management roles.
  • More information: Jacksonville University Career Training

Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC) / Solar Apprenticeship Program (Cocoa, FL)

  • Location: Cocoa, Florida (approx. 140 miles south of Jacksonville).
  • Program: The Florida Solar Energy Apprenticeship Program offers a registered apprenticeship pathway combining 4,000 hours of on-the-job training with 296 hours of classroom instruction. Apprenticeships are ideal for individuals seeking to learn while earning wages and are recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor.
  • Details: Focus on both solar PV and solar thermal (water heating and pool heating) systems. Graduates are highly valued by employers statewide.
  • More information: Florida Solar Energy Center Apprenticeships

Note: If you’re seeking additional options, Miami Dade College and Indian River State College (both within a few hours’ drive) also offer solar-specific certificate and degree programs for those willing to commute or relocate.

Solar Energy Employment Opportunities in Jacksonville

Jacksonville is home to a robust solar industry, with numerous employers specializing in solar installation, engineering, and maintenance. Here are several leading organizations:

Jacksonville Electric Authority (JEA)

  • Location: Downtown Jacksonville.
  • About: JEA is the primary municipal utility provider and operates eight large solar facilities in Northeast Florida. They employ technicians for system maintenance and operations and frequently post renewable energy technical job openings.
  • Employment: JEA Careers

A1A Solar Contracting

  • Location: Jacksonville (near Regency area).
  • About: A1A Solar Contracting specializes in residential and commercial solar PV installations, battery storage, and electric vehicle charging stations. They are known for employing NABCEP-certified technicians and prioritizing workforce training.
  • Employment: A1A Solar Careers

SolRenew Energy

  • Location: Jacksonville (Southside).
  • About: SolRenew provides solar installation, design, and consulting services for commercial and utility-scale projects. Their employment opportunities include solar installers, designers, and project managers.
  • Employment: SolRenew Careers

These organizations, along with additional solar companies in Jacksonville and Northeast Florida, offer opportunities for both entry-level technicians and experienced installers.

Prerequisites for Solar Technician Programs

To enroll in a Solar Technician program in Jacksonville, typical requirements include:

  • Minimum age: 18 years old.
  • Education: High school diploma or GED. Some programs accept current high school students for dual enrollment or career/technical education pathways.
  • Background: Basic math and science skills are important, as solar technology relies on electrical and mechanical concepts.
  • Physical ability: Solar installation can involve working at heights, lifting equipment, and working outdoors.
  • Background checks: Some employers and apprenticeship programs may require background checks or drug screening.

Advanced programs, such as associate or bachelor’s degrees, may require placement tests or prerequisite coursework in math, physics, or electrical technology. It’s recommended to check with each school’s admissions office for specific requirements.

Solar Technician Certification Options

Professional certification is highly valued in the solar industry and can enhance career prospects. The most recognized credentials include:

NABCEP Certification

The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) offers several certification pathways:

  • NABCEP PV Associate: Entry-level certification for those new to the industry. Requires completion of a NABCEP-approved course and passing the Associate exam.
  • NABCEP PV Installation Professional: Advanced certification for experienced installers. Requires documented training, OSHA 10 certification, and passing a rigorous exam.
  • NABCEP PV Design Specialist, PV Technical Sales, and System Inspector: Specialized certifications for those seeking advanced roles in design, sales, or inspection.

NABCEP certification demonstrates your expertise to employers and customers, and many companies prefer or require it for hiring.

Other Recognized Credentials

  • NCCER Solar Photovoltaic System Installer: National Center for Construction Education and Research certification recognized by construction employers.
  • ETA Photovoltaic Installer: Electronics Technicians Association certification suitable for those seeking a broader technical credential.

These certifications often require completion of an approved training program and passing a standardized exam. They are instrumental in career advancement, wage growth, and eligibility for supervisory or independent contracting positions.

Get Started Today

Jacksonville’s growing solar sector offers outstanding opportunities for individuals looking to launch a rewarding and impactful career as a Solar Technician. Whether you are seeking rapid entry through a certificate program, aiming for advanced skills with a degree, or planning to earn national certification, now is the perfect time to take the first step. Contact one of Jacksonville’s schools today to learn more about their Solar Technician programs and begin your journey toward a future in clean energy.

For more information about the job outlook for Solar Photovoltaic Installers, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Solar Photovoltaic Installers page.