Civil Engineer vs Solar Photovoltaic Installer: Career Comparison
Choosing between Civil Engineer and Solar Photovoltaic Installer? This side-by-side compares salary, outlook, education, skills, and what the work actually looks like day-to-day. Civil Engineer typically pays more at the median. Both are research-backed Qoollege career guides — read either in full below.
Side-by-side
Higher salary ceiling: Civil Engineer. Faster projected growth: Solar Photovoltaic Installer. Same education level: no.
| Attribute | Civil Engineer | Solar Photovoltaic Installer |
|---|---|---|
| Salary range | $60k – $118k | $48k – $72k |
| Outlook & demand | High · +5% by 2034 | Very high · +42% by 2034 |
| Education level | Bachelor | Apprentice |
| Top skills | Problem-solving, Math, Design, Teamwork, Attention to detail | Electrical Wiring, Safety, Teamwork, Problem-Solving, Physical Stamina |
| Where they work | engineering firms, construction companies, government agencies, transportation, water resources, public works, consulting services | residential solar companies, commercial construction, utility-scale solar farms, building equipment contractors, renewable energy projects |
| Day-to-day work | Daily work in civil engineering is a mix of design, analysis, coordination, and field checks. Some hours are spent at a desk reviewing plans, writing documents, and running calculations, while other hours may be on construction sites checking progress, safety, and compliance. | A solar PV installer’s day is usually active and physical. The job often includes lifting materials, climbing ladders, working at heights, following safety procedures, and teaming up with electricians and other construction workers to finish installations correctly. |
| Education routes | Bachelor's in civil engineering; Bachelor's in related engineering field; Work after degree + PE licensure; Specialized master's after the bachelor's | High school diploma + on-the-job training; Apprenticeship; Vocational / trade program; Community college trade pathway |
| Projected growth | +5% | +42% |