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Entry Level Solar Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Kimley-Horn

Electrical Engineering Analyst

Warrenville, IL · On-site

$87K - $90K/yr

Gain exposure to solar/energy projects with a focus in battery storage and PV * Gain exposure to ... An ABET accredited Electrical Engineering degree (Bachelors or Masters) by Summer 2026. Salary ...

Kimley-Horn

Electrical Engineering Analyst

Warrenville, IL · On-site

$87K - $90K/yr

Gain exposure to solar/energy projects with a focus in battery storage and PV * Gain exposure to ... An ABET accredited Electrical Engineering degree (Bachelors or Masters) by Summer 2026. Salary ...

Kimley-Horn

Electrical Engineering Analyst

Warrenville, IL · On-site

$88K - $91K/yr

Gain exposure to solar/energy projects with a focus in battery storage and PV * Gain exposure to ... An ABET accredited Electrical Engineering degree (Bachelors or Masters) by Summer 2027. Salary ...

Emerson

Associate Field Service Engineer

Chicago, IL

$75K - $80K/yr

Description We are in search of an Entry-level Field Service Engineer to join our Power & Water ... solar, hydro, wind), fossil (natural gas and coal) power generation, and water treatment plant ...

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All JobsSolar Engineer JobsEntry Level Solar Engineer JobsEntry Level Solar Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Solar Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$30.9K

$71.5K

$121.6K

How much do entry level solar engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level solar engineer in Chicago, IL is $71,453.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,100.00 and $80,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Solar Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Solar Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Entry Level Solar Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Solar Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Solar Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Entry Level Solar Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Solar Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Internship, and 67% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $71,453 per year, or $34.4 per hour.
Staff Engineer, Electrical Engineering - Thermal

Staff Engineer, Electrical Engineering - Thermal

Invenergy

Chicago, IL

$70K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Invenergy rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Invenergy is North America's largest privately held developer, owner, and operator of power infrastructure. With 25 years of trusted execution, we deliver reliable, affordable energy through a diverse portfolio that includes natural gas, solar, land-based wind, energy storage, transmission, and domestic manufacturing. Headquartered in Chicago, we develop, own, and operate large scale projects that power communities and support the energy future.

This position will be open for application for at least 3 calendar days from the posting date. This position will remain open for application based on business need, which may be before or after the 3-day posting window.

Job Description

Position Overview

The Staff Engineer, Electrical Engineering will support the electrical engineering and construction of cutting-edge Thermal generation projects (natural gas combustion turbines, combined cycle power plants, etc.). You will be primarily responsible for supporting engineering activities internally or through the selected Engineering Firms in order to complete final detailed design packages for projects to be built. The electrical systems of Thermal projects utilize large turbine generators, isophase, medium voltage and low voltage auxiliary systems (switchgear, breakers, MCCs), Generator Step-Up Transformers, switchyard, and transmission line interconnections to the grid at high and extra high voltages. The Staff Engineer level includes a training period for engineers to develop into contributing team members.

Responsibilities:

  • Electrical Engineering and Projects' Technical Responsibility

    • Assist in developing project specific construction, engineering, and equipment specifications

    • Assist in the development of new projects by analyzing conceptual designs that comply with all critical owner and interconnection requirements and support RFQ specifications

    • Prepare and validate electrical energy calculations

    • Conduct thorough design reviews of electrical drawings: Balance of Plant, switchyard, and transmission line

    • Define the scope of all required electrical system studies and review results for accuracy and compliance

    • Track design schedules, update all stakeholders, and ensure that critical dates related to electrical engineering tasks are met on time.

    • Support project close out by organizing and transferring all as-built documentation to final project owner including electrical drawings, schematics, bill of materials, electrical studies, and relay settings.

    • Coordinate with operations engineering to incorporate lessons learned into new design reviews and specifications to continuously improve quality

    • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry technology through various training sessions and conferences

    • Coordinate information between equipment suppliers, construction contractors, and the engineer of record

  • Procurement and Construction Support

    • Review competitive bids for owner procured electrical material. Support the purchasing of this equipment and manage suppliers throughout the engineering and commissioning process.

    • Monitor construction progress both remotely and via on-site inspections and support resolution of any field issues. Attend on-site meetings with electrical construction contractors and in person coordination meetings with interconnection utilities.

    • Perform factory/equipment inspection and witness factory acceptance testing for major materials.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Power Systems,

    or expected graduation in 2026 with Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Power Systems.

  • Knowledge of power systems, ideally acquired through specific coursework, and internships.

  • Understanding of HV/MV electrical infrastructure (substations/switchyards, distribution systems, transmission lines, transformers).

  • General knowledge of interpreting and applying common electrical industry standards and codes.

  • Computer proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, Visio.

  • Strong verbal and written communications skills.

  • Some travel required (up to 25%).

  • Valid driver's license.

  • Eligible to work in the United States without the need for employer visa sponsorship now or in the future.

Preferred Skills:

  • Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems or related.

  • Relevant work experience, including internships.

  • EIT license.

  • Familiarity with ETAP, CYMCAP, EasyPower or similar electrical modeling software.

  • Familiarity with breaker-and-a-half or double-breaker-double-bus switchyards

  • Ability to concurrently coordinate and manage multiple projects with various teams.

  • Thermal energy experience (Natural Gas Peaker plants, combined cycle power plants, or similar), especially direct experience with the turbine-generator supplier.

  • Experience with construction of infrastructure projects

Base Pay

$70,000.00 - $95,000.00 USD Annual
Bonus: 15%

The base pay range reflects the minimum and maximum target salary for the position. Invenergy considers a number of factors when determining base pay offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education and skills.
In addition to base pay, the total annual compensation package may also include eligibility to participate in our bonus program(s) which are designed to reward individual and company performance. Your recruiter can share more about bonus eligibility for this position during the hiring process.
Invenergy offers a variety of other benefits including medical, dental and vision insurance, 401k, paid time off, etc.

Invenergy LLC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, among other things, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, status as a protected veteran, or disability.

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