Solar Technician Programs in Dallas, Texas

Getting a Solar Technician Degree in Dallas, Texas

Pursuing a career as a Solar Technician in Dallas, Texas, opens the door to a fast-growing field at the forefront of today’s clean energy movement. Solar Technicians—also known as solar panel installers, photovoltaic installers, or solar energy technicians—are skilled professionals who install, maintain, and repair solar photovoltaic (PV) systems for residential, commercial, and utility-scale projects. These roles are essential for Texas’s expanding solar market, with Dallas serving as a key hub for education and employment opportunities.

There are several educational pathways for aspiring Solar Technicians in Dallas. Options range from short-term certificate programs and continuing education courses to associate degrees and bachelor’s degrees in related fields. Certificate and associate degree programs provide focused, hands-on training in PV system installation, electrical fundamentals, safety practices, and system troubleshooting. Bachelor’s degrees, often in renewable energy technology or electrical engineering, offer a broader scientific and technical foundation for advanced roles in the industry.

This guide explores local training programs, outlines the steps to becoming a certified Solar Technician, and highlights employment opportunities and support systems available in Dallas, Texas.

About Dallas, Texas

Dallas, located in North Texas, is a vibrant urban center known for its diverse economy, cultural landmarks, and thriving business community. As the ninth-largest city in the United States, Dallas boasts iconic neighborhoods such as Uptown, Deep Ellum, and Oak Cliff. The city is home to renowned attractions like the Dallas Arts District, Reunion Tower, and the historic West End. Residents enjoy access to a robust job market, excellent educational institutions, and a commitment to sustainability and technological innovation. For more information about city services, neighborhoods, and resources, visit the City of Dallas official website.

Solar Technician Training Programs in Dallas, Texas

Dallas offers several reputable options for individuals seeking solar technician education and training. Below are three local programs designed to provide the skills and credentials needed for a successful solar energy career. If you are open to commuting, there are additional programs in nearby regions.

1. Dallas College – Solar Energy Training and Certification (Multiple Campuses, including Downtown and North Dallas)

  • Dallas College Solar Training Programs
  • Dallas College offers a comprehensive suite of solar energy courses, including entry-level training, intermediate solar panel installer training, and advanced NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) certification preparation. The entry-level course provides 100 hours of foundational instruction in solar energy principles, system components, and safety. Intermediate training focuses on practical installation skills and system integration, while advanced courses prepare students for nationally recognized certification exams. Dallas College’s workforce development division also provides career coaching and job placement support.

2. Texas State Technical College – Solar Energy Technology (Waco, ~90 miles south of Dallas)

  • TSTC Solar Energy Technology
  • Texas State Technical College offers a Solar Energy Technology program that leads to a diploma and prepares graduates for entry-level positions in solar installation, system maintenance, and energy auditing. The curriculum covers wiring, electrical theory, safety codes, and PV system design. TSTC boasts a job placement rate of nearly 100% for this program and offers a money-back guarantee if graduates do not receive a job offer within six months.

3. Northeast Texas Community College – Solar Panel Installer Training (Mount Pleasant, ~120 miles northeast of Dallas)

  • NTCC Solar Installer Training
  • NTCC provides a 40-hour intermediate solar panel installer course. This program builds on foundational knowledge, teaching students step-by-step installation processes, system configuration, and integration of balance-of-system components for both grid-tied and off-grid PV systems.

If you reside in Dallas and want to explore options beyond city limits, Houston Community College also offers a Solar Installer Certificate (about 240 miles away), with tuition assistance available for qualifying students.

Solar Energy Employment Opportunities in Dallas

Dallas’s growing solar market supports a variety of employment opportunities for Solar Technicians. The region is home to several prominent solar installation companies and renewable energy employers that actively hire trained professionals.

  • Freedom Solar (Freedom Solar Careers), located in Las Colinas, serves the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex, providing installation and maintenance for residential and commercial solar systems. Freedom Solar is recognized for its industry leadership and strong community presence.
  • Sunrun (Sunrun Dallas Jobs), America’s leading residential solar installer, maintains a local office in Dallas. Sunrun offers roles for solar installers, technicians, and sales consultants, with a focus on career development and training.
  • IntegrateSun LLC (IntegrateSun Careers), operating in Dallas since 2010, is known for its high customer satisfaction and comprehensive installation services.
  • Texas Solar Professional LLC (Texas Solar Professional), based in Dallas, is an award-winning installer that provides system design, installation, and maintenance.
  • NRG Clean Power (NRG Clean Power Careers), with a longstanding presence in the Dallas area, offers positions for solar technicians and project managers.

These companies serve neighborhoods throughout Dallas, including Uptown, Lake Highlands, and Oak Cliff, and offer competitive compensation and opportunities for advancement as the solar industry expands.

Prerequisites for Solar Technician Programs

To enroll in a Solar Technician program in Dallas, most institutions require the following:

  • Educational Background: A high school diploma or GED is typically required. Strong math and basic science skills are essential, as coursework covers electrical theory and physics.
  • Minimum Age: Applicants are generally required to be at least 17 or 18 years old.
  • Background Check: Some programs or employers may require a background check, especially for positions involving electrical contracting or work on sensitive sites.
  • Testing/Placement: Depending on the program, you may need to complete placement tests in math or reading.
  • Physical Requirements: The role of a Solar Technician is physically demanding; students should be able to work safely at heights, lift heavy equipment, and perform tasks outdoors in various weather conditions.

Solar Technician Certification Options

Earning professional certification is highly recommended for Solar Technicians seeking to enhance their career prospects. The most widely recognized credential is offered by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP):

  • NABCEP PV Installation Professional (PVIP): This certification demonstrates advanced knowledge and practical skills in PV system installation, design, sales, and safety. Dallas College offers NABCEP-aligned training to prepare students for this exam.
  • NABCEP PV Installer Specialist: Focuses on installation skills and safety, requiring documented hands-on experience.
  • NABCEP PV Design Specialist: Tailored for those interested in PV system design.
  • NABCEP Energy Storage Installation Professional: Designed for technicians working with battery storage and advanced energy systems.

NABCEP-certified professionals often command higher salaries and have greater job mobility. Certification requires completion of OSHA safety training, documented project experience, and passing a rigorous exam. For more information, visit the NABCEP website.

Additionally, OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 safety certifications are industry standards and are often included in training programs or required by employers.

Get Started Today

A career as a Solar Technician in Dallas, Texas, offers tremendous potential for growth, job security, and the satisfaction of supporting a cleaner future. With robust local training options, strong employer demand, and a supportive professional community, now is the perfect time to begin your journey. Reach out to a local college or training provider, explore program details, and take the first step toward a rewarding career in the solar industry.

Explore more about the job outlook for Solar Photovoltaic Installers on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website.