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

Cares about leading the way in construction, engineering, manufacturing and renewable energy. Cares about redefining how energy is designed, applied and consumed. Cares about thoughtfully growing to ...

Cares about leading the way in construction, engineering, manufacturing and renewable energy. Cares about redefining how energy is designed, applied and consumed. Cares about thoughtfully growing to ...

Civil Drafter 2 - Energy & Industrial

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$46K - $67K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This entry-level position will offer you the opportunity to utilize and expand your drafting skills ... We excel in detailed engineering services for photovoltaic (PV) solar projects and energy storage ...

Civil Drafter 2 - Energy & Industrial

Chicago, IL ยท Hybrid

$46K - $67K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This entry-level position will offer you the opportunity to utilize and expand your drafting skills ... We excel in detailed engineering services for photovoltaic (PV) solar projects and energy storage ...

Civil Drafter 2 - Energy & Industrial

Chicago, IL ยท Hybrid

$46K - $67K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This entry-level position will offer you the opportunity to utilize and expand your drafting skills ... We excel in detailed engineering services for photovoltaic (PV) solar projects and energy storage ...

Showing results 21-33

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 Aug 19, 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 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 skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an entry level solar engineer?

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.

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 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:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Solar Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,453 per year, or $34.4 per hour.

Associate Field Service Engineer

City of Shakopee, MN

Tinley Park, IL โ€ข On-site

$72 - $88/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

We are in search of an Entry-level Field Service Engineer to join our Power & Water Solutions business based in our Tinley Park, IL office. We focus on upgrading existing plant control systems with the industry leading automation controls and instrumentation to promote sustainability and longevity of our North American power grid and wastewater infrastructure.

At Emerson Power & Water Solutions, we help customers in the worldโ€™s most crucial industries tackle the challenges of modern life. Be a part of a team that drives innovation that makes the world healthier, safer, smarter, and more sustainable. Power & Water Solutions is an industry leading controls automation company that provides applications in the renewable (solar, hydro, wind), fossil (natural gas and coal) power generation, and water treatment plant sectors.

Responsibilities
  • Perform on-site instruction of customer personnel, writing and modifying maintenance procedures, quality control tests and/or product evaluation, and provide complete and timely reports on all activities with emphasis on defining problems encountered, services.
  • Direct the efforts of personnel engaged in installation of control systems, sub-systems, equipment, or their routine modification/repair.
  • Provide direct engineering advisory assistance to the customer, and liaison within the company, on issues dealing with the equipment or related matters.
  • Cultivate relationships with internal project teams, customer project teams and contractors.
  • Apply troubleshooting, problem-solving, decision-making, and planning skills.
Who you are

You encourage open dialogue to discuss alternative perspectives. You break down objectives into appropriate initiatives and actions. You have great listening skills. You readily tackle tough assignments.

Requirements
  • Bachelorโ€™s degree in engineering computer science, or an equivalent combination of experience and education
  • This position requires up to 80% travel, typically one week in duration with heavy travel more likely during the power systems outage season in the spring and fall, giving you the opportunity to work directly with customers, see projects come to life, and gain handsโ€‘on experience in the field.
  • Knowledge of engineering fundamentals, design principles, and problemโ€‘solving methods
  • A problemโ€‘solverโ€™s mindset, with the ability to analyze information and think creatively to find solutions
  • A collaborative mindset and strong communication skills
  • Legal authorization to work in the United States
Preferred Qualifications That Set You Apart
  • Coโ€‘Op or internship experience in a technical environment
  • Handsโ€‘on exposure to control systems, simulation tools, or other industryโ€‘related technologies
  • Comfort presenting ideas to different audiences
Benefits and Compensation

Our compensation philosophy is simple: we pay a competitive base salary, within the local market in which we operate, and reward performance during our annual merit review process. The salary range for this role is $80Kannually + OT + sign on bonus, commensurate with the skills, talent, capabilities, and experience each candidate brings to a role.

We prioritize flexible time off plans, including paid parental leave (maternal and paternal), vacation and holiday leave. We provide a variety of medical insurance plans, with dental and vision coverage, Employee Assistance Program, 401(k), tuition reimbursement, employee resource groups, recognition, and much more.

Work Authorization

Emerson will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States. This is not a position for which sponsorship will be provided. Individuals with temporary visas such as E, Fโ€‘1 (including those with OPT or CPT), Hโ€‘1, Hโ€‘2, Lโ€‘1, B, J or TN, or who need sponsorship for work authorization now or in the future, are not eligible for hire.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Emerson is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, age, marital status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability or protected veteran status. We are committed to providing a workplace free of any discrimination or harassment.

Location

7650 W 185th Street Suite D, Tinley Park, IL, 60477, US

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