Solar energy is taking over the world, and this is especially true in the Gulf. The UAE and Saudi Arabia are investing billions into solar infrastructure, creating a surge in demand for skilled technicians.
Read on for how solar technician jobs are booming and why now is the time to get involved.
Why the Gulf Needs Solar Technicians Now
Solar energy is the latest future-proof energy job in the Gulf, and if you’re looking to start a career in the solar sector, there is growing demand.
The UAE and Saudi Arabia are currently undergoing a significant shift toward renewable energy, and given the climate and abundant sunlight, it’s no surprise that solar energy is leading the way.
Governments, too, are helping with this increase in demand as they are devising clean energy goals and then building them into their national blueprints.
- In the UAE, this national blueprint has been named Energy Strategy 2050, which aims to have half the country’s energy derived from renewable sources by 2050.
- Saudi Arabia has Vision 2030, comprised of multi-billion-dollar projects like NEOM (a new city whose name means ‘new future’) that are already under construction.
For both countries, these aren’t just plans, they’re infrastructure transformations that have already begun.
Long-Term Change in Energy
This change in energy priorities has drastically changed the demand for renewable energy and increased the demand for solar technician roles.
The best part is that this trend isn’t expected to end anytime soon. This is a long-term change brought about because solar systems need a decade of maintenance and skilled oversight. It’s created jobs for years down the line.
Top Solar Technician Jobs in the UAE and Saudi Arabia
For every installed solar panel, someone needs to design, mount, wire, inspect, clean, and maintain it.
There are thousands of megawatts being added to the grid, and if you decide to take a solar technician job, you could benefit from the exploding availability, number, and importance. Companies need trained workers who can move to the Gulf and start immediately.
Maintenance and Repair Technician
Also called a service technician, as a solar technician in the UAE, your role involves ensuring all the steps are taken so that solar equipment works properly at all times. This job is currently in high demand and often includes housing and travel stipends as a benefit.
Daily tasks include:
- Inspecting and repairing solar equipment
- Performing routine maintenance
- Conducting tests
- Providing customer service
Skills:
- Thermal imaging
- Inverter troubleshooting
- Multimeter use
- Eye for detail
- Ability to read, interpret, and understand blueprints, diagrams, and schematics
Solar Site Assessor/Surveyor
Site assessors conduct on-site and remote studies for solar projects of varying sizes. You would create and share site drawings, analysis, and related studies to determine how much energy can be harvested at any given location.
As solar projects expand in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, there is a growing demand for solar site assessors in new residential zones and commercial builds.
Daily tasks include:
- Generate leads
- Writing recommendation reports
- Schedule assessments
- Document weather patterns and shade analysis
- Determine and recommend the best solar panel
Skills:
- Experience with electrical, thermal, and roofing systems
- Detail oriented
- Specialist training for site assessing
- Proficiency with Microsoft Word
- Ability to use programs such as SolarPathfinder and Solmetric SunEye
- Knowledge of local building codes
PV (Photovoltaic) Installation Technician
As a solar PV technician working in the field, you will be responsible for installing, connecting, testing, and maintaining solar panel systems. These installations must meet or exceed the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) regulations.
As the UAE continues to build more ambitious renewable energy targets, the solar PV industry is growing and creating more job opportunities.
Daily Tasks include:
- Installing and mounting solar panels
- Ensuring all solar PV systems comply with DEWA Regulations.
- Documents all work, including installation details, maintenance, and the results of testing
- Connecting solar panels to inverters and other electrical components
Skills:
- Physical fitness and the ability to work on rooftops and in physically demanding environments
- Familiarity with DEWA regulations
- Background in electrical systems or related work
- Interpret technical drawings
- Ability to follow safety procedures
- Problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
Electrical Technicians for Solar Projects
Commonly hired by contractors and government-backed projects, you will work alongside solar engineers and project managers as an electrical technician on a solar project.
You’ll use your knowledge of local electrical codes to install the electrical systems and integrate solar panels into pre-existing electrical systems.
Daily Tasks Include:
- Work on a variety of electrical projects, including solar PV installations
- Complete tasks related to wiring, troubleshooting, and circuitry
- Working with engineers, solar installers, and inspectors
- Connecting projects to the grid and ensuring compliance with electrical codes
- Moving between residential, commercial, and utility projects
Skills:
- Degree or diploma in electrical engineering or a related field
- A focus on electrical systems in solar PV installations
- Versatility
- Capable of reading and interpreting blueprints
- Extensive knowledge of electrical codes
- Physically fit and able to work in physically demanding environments
Solar Panel Cleaning Specialist
More and more specialized cleaning companies are appearing in the UAE that focus on cleaning solar panels and keeping systems dust-free to maintain output.
In desert environments where dust and debris can cover solar panels, these cleaning specialists are important links in the solar system. You could have plenty of work as demand grows, and more opportunities as companies offer benefits to attract more workers.
Daily Tasks Include:
- Cleaning solar panels and alerting technicians if repairs or maintenance are required
- Operate drones to clean difficult-to-reach areas
- Prioritize environmentally friendly cleaning agents and techniques
- Use specialized equipment and soft-brush cleaning methods to minimize damage
- Inspect solar panels for damage or issues that might impact output
Skills:
- An entry-level role that is primarily taught on-site
- Physically fit and capable of working in a demanding environment
- Understand and be capable of following all safety protocols
- Effective communication skills
- Proficiency in using cleaning methods appropriately
- Technical knowledge of solar systems and how they function
Commissioning Technician
If you become a commissioning technician, you’re taking on a high-responsibility, high-reward role. Commissioning technicians test all systems in the start-up phases before going live. They also double-check that all systems have been installed correctly according to code in the UEA.
This solar role is always hiring, provided the demand is high. Once hired, a commissioning technician offers options for advancement into more specialised positions and management tracks.
Daily Tasks Include:
- Testing equipment
- Observing and documenting safety standards
- Routine and spot inspections
- Collaborating with engineers
- Providing technical support and training to clients as part of an ongoing relationship
Skills:
- Degree or diploma in electrical engineering or a related field
- Troubleshooting skills and the ability to resolve issues that may arise
- Knowledge and experiencing involving solar trackers
How to Stand Out and What Recruiters Want
To have the best chance of being hired for solar technician jobs in the UAE or Saudi Arabia, you must show up with a resume and be ready. That means having the right certifications and hands-on skills so you’ll rise to the top of a larger solar energy hiring pool.
Start with Technical Skills
If you’re already based in the Gulf, look for local PV installation courses or internationally recognized options like the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).
Can’t spare the time or money to pursue a longer course? Consider a short course in electrical safety, wiring, or working at heights to demonstrate that you’re invested in your career and give yourself a competitive edge.
If you want to pursue a career in the utility sector or rooftop systems in places like Dubai, these extra courses can help set you apart.
Then Practical Experience
Recruiters want practical experience.
With demand for renewable energy careers growing in the Gulf, they want you to have worked on real systems, not just classroom mock systems.
If you’ve worked in the energy industry before and done troubleshooting, replaced inverters, or taken site surveys, make sure that stands out on your resume.
Demonstrate Soft Skills
How are you at working with a team? Can you follow safety protocols and communicate efficiently with team members? Technical skills and practical experience mean less if you’re not enjoyable or safe to work with.
Extra Credit
Recruiters will give you bonus points if you are familiar with IoT-integrated systems, solar monitoring apps, or speak Arabic and English.
Conclusion
The solar industry in the UAE and Saudi Arabia isn’t slowing down, and its reached both city rooftops and desert mega projects. If you’re just starting or ready to change careers, it’s a great time to move.
Just remember that the energy industry in the Gulf rewards skill, drive, and reliability, so if you can show you’ve got all three, the job offers will follow.
Ready to explore solar technician jobs in the UAE and Saudi Arabia? Check out listings on EnergyJobSearch or keep reading the blog for more career tips and renewable energy training resources.