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Entry Level Solar Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Qcells

Associate Project Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Experience in solar or ESS project engineering (internships or entry-level positions are acceptable). * Ability to review engineering and technical matters with a commercial perspective.

Qcells

Associate Project Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Experience in solar or ESS project engineering (internships or entry-level positions are acceptable). * Ability to review engineering and technical matters with a commercial perspective.

Qcells

Associate Project Engineer

San Francisco, CA

$80K - $90K/yr

Experience in solar or ESS project engineering (internships or entry-level positions are acceptable). * Ability to review engineering and technical matters with a commercial perspective.

Qcells

Associate Project Engineer

Irvine, CA

$80K - $90K/yr

Experience in solar or ESS project engineering (internships or entry-level positions are acceptable). * Ability to review engineering and technical matters with a commercial perspective.

W3Global Inc.

Field Service Engineer

Garden Grove, CA

$70K - $80K/yr

... solar cells, fiber optic devices, and semiconductor materials. We value our employees and offer ... We welcome both experienced professionals and entry-level candidates. The primary responsibilities ...

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All JobsSolar Engineer JobsEntry Level Solar Engineer JobsEntry Level Solar Engineer Jobs in California

Entry Level Solar Engineer information

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most entry-level solar engineers earn significantly less, senior or specialized engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or leadership roles in large renewable energy projects can potentially earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually. Such high earnings are typically associated with executive positions, consulting roles, or engineers working in high-cost regions with substantial project scope.

What types of projects do Entry Level Solar Engineers typically work on, and how are responsibilities assigned within the team?

Entry Level Solar Engineers often participate in the design, analysis, and installation of residential, commercial, or utility-scale solar energy systems. Responsibilities are usually distributed based on project phases, with junior engineers focusing on tasks like site assessments, CAD drafting, energy output calculations, and supporting senior engineers during project development. Collaboration is key; entry-level engineers regularly coordinate with project managers, electricians, and other engineering disciplines to ensure projects meet technical standards and deadlines. This role provides a hands-on introduction to the solar industry and offers opportunities to gradually take on more complex assignments as experience grows.

What is the difference between Entry Level Solar Engineer vs Entry Level Renewable Energy Technician?

AspectEntry Level Solar EngineerEntry Level Renewable Energy Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering or related field, basic knowledge of solar systemsHigh school diploma or associate degree, technical training in renewable energy systems
Work EnvironmentDesign, planning, and technical analysis in office and fieldInstallation, maintenance, and troubleshooting on-site
Employer & Industry UsageSolar companies, engineering firms, renewable energy projectsRenewable energy companies, installation contractors, service providers

While both roles support renewable energy initiatives, Entry Level Solar Engineers focus on designing and planning solar systems, requiring engineering knowledge. In contrast, Entry Level Renewable Energy Technicians handle installation and maintenance, emphasizing hands-on technical skills. Understanding these differences helps job seekers align their skills and career goals with the appropriate role.

What does an Entry Level Solar Engineer do?

An Entry Level Solar Engineer assists in the design, installation, and maintenance of solar energy systems. Their responsibilities often include conducting site assessments, creating technical drawings, performing basic calculations for system sizing, and supporting project management tasks. They also help troubleshoot issues, ensure compliance with safety standards, and stay updated on the latest solar technologies. This role provides foundational experience for a career in renewable energy engineering.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and certifications. Entry-level solar engineers typically earn lower salaries, but experienced professionals in high-demand areas or with managerial roles may reach or exceed this income level.

How to get into solar engineering?

To become an entry-level solar engineer, obtain a bachelor's degree in electrical, mechanical, or renewable energy engineering. Gaining hands-on experience through internships, developing skills in solar design software, and earning relevant certifications like NABCEP can improve job prospects in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Solar Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Solar Engineer, you need a solid understanding of electrical or mechanical engineering principles, basic solar energy concepts, and typically a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with AutoCAD, PVsyst, and other solar design software, as well as knowledge of relevant codes and standards, is commonly expected. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure accurate system design, regulatory compliance, and successful project collaboration in the renewable energy sector.

How to get into solar with no experience?

Entry level solar engineers can start by gaining basic knowledge of solar energy systems through online courses or certifications, such as NABCEP entry-level programs. Practical experience can be built through internships, volunteering, or entry-level technician roles that develop skills in system installation, maintenance, and safety protocols.
What are the most commonly searched types of Solar Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Solar Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Solar Engineer jobs in California? For Entry Level Solar Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Solar Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Solar Engineer jobs in California are:
Entry Level Solar Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Solar Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
2027 Entry Level Suppler Technical Engineer

2027 Entry Level Suppler Technical Engineer

Solar Turbines Incorporated

San Diego, CA • On-site

$92K - $118K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Solar Turbines rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

69th of 433 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Career Area:
Job Description:
Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.
When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do - but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here - we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.
2027 Entry Level Suppler Technical Engineer
Under close supervision, the supplier technical engineer participates in engineering activities, learning Solar methods and procedures for design, research, development, test, and installation of Solar turbomachinery products. The supplier technical engineer completes assignments under direction of more experienced engineers. Work is normally performed according to specific, detailed instructions, with latitude to act independently increasing with the individual's professional development.
Graduate engineers can be assigned various rotations through the above activities, spending 2 - 6 months in departments within turbomachinery engineering.
This supplier technical engineering (STE) role supports the DeSoto, Texas turbine overhaul activities:
  • Supplier Technical Engineers have technical accountability for ensuring that parts produced by suppliers meet Solar's requirements.
  • They communicate technical requirements with suppliers, perform engineering specification review, provide Configuration Management input, manage Enterprise Resource Planning software (ERP) setups, tooling management, and follow up on any technical production support needs at the supplier.
  • Collaborates with Sourcing Specialist, Buyer, Supply Chain Coordinator, other Solar Engineering Subject Matter Expert and Supplier to improve supplier cost, quality, and throughput.
  • Able to understand supplier technical issues and provide ideas and solutions to resolve complex and challenging problems.
  • Provide technical direction/collaboration on remanufactured turbomachinery components with Aftermarket Design Engineering for reparability considerations.
  • Evaluate suppliers for a wide range of (re)manufacturing capabilities (welding, brazing, coating, etc.) provide technical support in the supplier selection and development processes.
  • Provides leadership in the resolution of quality problems associated with the purchased/subcontracted materials, including containment, continued production support, and Root Cause and Corrective Action investigation.
  • Develops and maintains thorough knowledge of technological developments and trends for guidance of commodity teams in advancements of design, quality, and (re)manufacturing.
  • Coordinates with engineering personnel on matters regarding Concurrent Product and Process Development (CPPD), and New Product Introduction (NPI).
  • Participate in design and process Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) Works with Design Engineering to Disposition Reject Notices (RNs) and RTAs (Request for Technical Authorization) Leads the PPAP (Production Part Approval Process) and develops the FAPITP (First Article Production Inspection Test Plan) with initial input from Design/Repair Development Engineering.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Must have Engineering degree (preferred degrees include: mechanical, industrial or manufacturing)
  • 0-3 years of technical experience
  • Must be willing to travel 25% (Ability to travel internationally)
  • Minimum of a 2.8 overall GPA on a 4.0 scale
  • Willing to relocate/be in DeSoto, TX
  • Must support in-office work (Onsite)
  • Engineering practices & process planning (interpretation of drawings, tooling concepts, NDT, Functional Test, etc.)
  • Strong analytical problem-solving skills, ability to use and communicate statistical and problem solving tools
  • Project Management skills
  • Corrective action and root cause analysis skills

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Internships/coops/academic research/project work in manufacturing, design, process engineering
  • Turbomachinery experience - design / manufacturing / hands-on / field experience
  • Understanding of manufacturing processes used to produce components and assemblies (turning, milling, etc.) and knowledge of shop operations and maintenance procedures.
  • Understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles.
  • Design Engineering skills (including mechanical design experience, GD&T, and the use of Pro-E/CADD).
  • Technical product knowledge (including metallurgy, coatings).

Summary Pay Range:
$92,500, to $118,000.
Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar.
Benefits:
Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of benefits.
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits*
  • Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)*
  • 401(k) savings plans*
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)*
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)*
  • Health Lifestyle Programs*
  • Employee Assistance Program*
  • Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts*
  • Career Development*
  • Incentive bonus*
  • Disability benefits
  • Life Insurance
  • Parental leave
  • Adoption benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement

This position requires working onsite five days a week.
Relocation is available for this position.
Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.
Posting Dates:
July 16, 2026 - July 21, 2026
Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.
Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.
Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.

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