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Freelance Solar Pv Design Engineer Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Gridworks

Sr. Geotechnical Engineer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

... solar PV, battery energy storage (BESS), substation, and transmission projects across North America. We design, engineer, procure, and build the energy infrastructure that powers the grid of tomorrow.

OE Solar

Project Coordinator

Albuquerque, NM

$20 - $28/hr

Coordinate information between engineering, procurement, and field teams. Documentation & Project ... Understand solar PV systems and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) including major system ...

PPC Solar

Project Developer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

NABCEP PV Design Specialist (PVDS) Board Certification and/or PV Technical Sales (PVTS) Board ... PPC Solar has provided solar electric and EV charging solutions for a multitude of specifications.

PPC Solar

Project Developer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

NABCEP PV Design Specialist (PVDS) Board Certification and/or PV Technical Sales (PVTS) Board ... PPC Solar has provided solar electric and EV charging solutions for a multitude of specifications.

PPC Solar

Project Developer

Albuquerque, NM

NABCEP PV Design Specialist (PVDS) Board Certification and/or PV Technical Sales (PVTS) Board ... PPC Solar has provided solar electric and EV charging solutions for a multitude of specifications.

Osceola Energy, Inc

Project Coordinator

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Coordinate information between engineering, procurement, and field teams. Documentation & Project ... Understand solar PV systems and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) including major system ...

PPC Solar

Technical Sales Consultant

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

NABCEP PV Design Specialist (PVDS) Board Certification and/or PV Technical Sales (PVTS) Board ... PPC Solar has provided solar electric and EV charging solutions for a multitude of specifications.

Jobless

Project Developer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$75 - $105/hr

NABCEP PV Design Specialist (PVDS) Board Certification and/or PV Technical Sales (PVTS) Board ... PPC Solar has provided solar electric and EV charging solutions for a multitude of specifications.

Moss

Solar Electrical Field Engineer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

... EPC, and design-build. The company's diverse portfolio encompasses a wide range of sectors ... Moss is ranked by Engineering News-Record as the nation's top solar contractor and one of the top ...

KiloNewton LLC

Engineering Manager

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$110 - $160/hr

We deliver highly-differentiated SiTE™ Optimization and kNgineering™ services to solar ... PV commercial/utility design engineering experience. * 2+ years of engineering management ...

Moss

Solar Electrical Superintendent

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

... EPC, and design-build. The company's diverse portfolio encompasses a wide range of sectors ... Moss is ranked by Engineering News-Record as the nation's top solar contractor and one of the top ...

Robust Repairs

Senior Solar Electrician

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$85 - $115/hr

Collaborate with engineers to resolve field design conflicts. Requirements: * New Mexico Journeyman Electrical license plus NABCEP certification. * 5+ years installing commercial solar or microgrid ...

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All JobsSolar Pv Design Engineer JobsFreelance Solar Pv Design Engineer JobsFreelance Solar Pv Design Engineer Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Freelance Solar Pv Design Engineer information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$14

$44

$124

How much do freelance solar pv design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance solar pv design engineer in Rio Rancho, NM is $44.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.84 and $58.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a freelance Solar PV design engineer do?

A Freelance Solar PV Design Engineer is an independent professional who specializes in designing solar photovoltaic (PV) systems for residential, commercial, or industrial clients. Their responsibilities include assessing site conditions, creating system layouts, selecting appropriate equipment, and ensuring designs meet regulatory standards and client requirements. They often use specialized software to create detailed electrical and structural plans, and may also provide technical support during installation. Freelancers in this role typically work on multiple projects for various clients, offering flexibility and specialized expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance Solar PV design engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Solar PV Design Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical or renewable energy engineering, experience with PV system design, and relevant certifications such as NABCEP. Proficiency with design software like AutoCAD, PVsyst, and Helioscope, as well as knowledge of local codes and standards, is typically required. Exceptional problem-solving, project management, and client communication skills help set you apart in freelance settings. These abilities are crucial for delivering safe, efficient, and code-compliant solar projects while maintaining strong client relationships.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance Solar PV design engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Freelance Solar PV Design Engineers often face challenges such as managing multiple client expectations, staying updated with evolving solar technologies, and ensuring compliance with diverse regional regulations. Working independently means you need strong organizational skills to juggle projects, deadlines, and client communications effectively. Building a reliable network of industry contacts, investing in up-to-date design software, and regularly participating in professional development can help address these challenges and ensure successful project delivery.

What is the difference between Freelance Solar Pv Design Engineer vs Solar Project Developer?

AspectFreelance Solar Pv Design EngineerSolar Project Developer
CredentialsEngineering background, certifications in solar designBusiness, project management, and industry knowledge
Work EnvironmentIndependent, consulting, remote or on-siteOffice-based, field visits, project coordination
Industry UsageDesign and technical planning of solar systemsProject planning, financing, and development

The Freelance Solar Pv Design Engineer focuses on creating detailed solar system designs, while the Solar Project Developer manages the overall project development, including financing and permitting. Both roles are essential in the solar industry but differ in scope and responsibilities.

Freelance Solar Pv Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Solar Pv Design Engineer job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 71% In-person, and 29% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,336 per year, or $44.9 per hour.

Sr. Geotechnical Engineer

Gridworks Energy Group

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

GRIDWORKS
EPC Solar BESS Substation Transmission
Sr. Geotechnical Engineer - Solar PV & BESS
Location: Albuquerque, New Mexico (On-site)
Department: Engineering - Geotechnical
Reports to: VP of Engineering
Employment Type: Full-time, Exempt
Discipline Focus: Utility-Scale Solar PV and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
About Gridworks
Established in 2014, Gridworks is a leading self-perform EPC contractor delivering utility-scale solar PV, battery energy storage (BESS), substation, and transmission projects across North America. We design, engineer, procure, and build the energy infrastructure that powers the grid of tomorrow. Our Albuquerque office is a hub for our geotechnical engineering practice, supporting projects from feasibility through construction close-out.
The Opportunity
We are seeking a Senior Geotechnical Engineer with deep expertise in utility-scale solar PV and battery energy storage systems to join our Albuquerque team. In this role, you will lead geotechnical and foundation engineering, serve as Engineer of Record (EOR) on assigned projects, partner closely with our self-perform construction teams, and provide technical oversight when geotechnical EOR responsibility is delegated to external engineering firms.
Key Responsibilities
  • Engineer of Record: Seal and stamp geotechnical reports, foundation recommendations, and supporting calculations for utility-scale PV and BESS projects, taking professional responsibility for design integrity, code compliance, and constructability.
  • Foundation Engineering for PV: Lead geotechnical analysis and design for fixed-tilt and single-axis tracker foundations including driven piles, helical piles, ground screws, ballasted systems, drilled shafts, and micropiles.
  • BESS Foundation Engineering: Develop foundation criteria and recommendations for battery enclosures, inverter/PCS skids, MV/LV transformer pads, and equipment platforms with attention to settlement tolerance and dynamic loading.
  • Geotechnical Analysis: Perform bearing capacity, settlement, rotational stiffness, lateral pile, liquefaction, slope stability, and seepage analyses; evaluate collapsible, expansive, frost-susceptible, and corrosive soils.
  • Pile Load Testing: Plan, witness, and interpret static, dynamic, and pull-out pile load test programs; calibrate design recommendations to test results and refine production criteria.
  • Subsurface Investigation: Develop boring plans, lab testing scopes, and geotechnical investigation specifications; manage drilling subcontractors and labs to deliver high-quality, project-aligned data.
  • Corrosion & Durability: Conduct underground corrosion analysis using AASHTO, FHWA, and DIN 50929 frameworks; recommend protective measures for steel piles and reinforced concrete in aggressive soils.
  • Civil Grading Coordination: Review and optimize site grading plans for tracker tolerances, drainage, and BESS pad performance while minimizing cut/fill volumes and preserving constructability.
  • Code Compliance: Apply IBC, ASCE 7, AASHTO, ACI 318, and applicable AHJ amendments for seismic, wind, and frost design; coordinate jurisdictional permitting and plan review responses.
  • EPC Self-Perform Collaboration: Work hand-in-hand with structural, civil, construction, field engineering, procurement, and project management to deliver buildable, cost-optimized foundation solutions aligned with project schedule and budget.
  • Site Engagement: Travel to project sites (estimated 25-30%) for geotechnical investigation oversight, pile load test witnessing, foundation installation QA/QC, and RFI resolution.
  • Vendor & Tracker OEM Coordination: Align pile specifications with tracker mechanical performance requirements; review and approve OEM geotechnical submittals; perform independent verification of vendor-supplied calculations.
  • External EOR Oversight: On projects where geotechnical EOR responsibility is delegated to a third-party engineering firm, serve as Gridworks technical lead - review external EOR geotechnical reports, foundation recommendations, calculations, and design basis documents for solar PV and BESS scopes; identify gaps, conservatism opportunities, code interpretation issues, and constructability concerns; track formal review comments through resolution; and represent Gridworks in design coordination meetings with the external EOR.
  • Standards & Tools: Develop and maintain geotechnical design standards, calculation templates, and QA/QC procedures; build internal design tools (Excel, Python) to scale practice across a growing portfolio.

What We Offer
  • Annual performance bonus and long-term incentive eligibility.
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits effective day one.
  • 401(k) plan with company match.
  • Generous PTO, paid holidays, and parental leave.
  • Professional development support, including PE/GE exam reimbursement, continuing education, and conference attendance.
  • A high-impact role on projects that directly accelerate the energy transition.
Equal Opportunity
Gridworks is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in civil, Geotechnical, from an ABET-accredited program.
  • 10-15 years of progressive geotechnical engineering experience, with a meaningful portion focused on utility-scale solar PV and/or BESS foundation design.
  • Active Professional Engineer (PE) license; ability to obtain New Mexico PE within 6 months of hire and additional state licensure as project needs require.
  • Demonstrated experience serving as Engineer of Record on utility-scale renewable energy projects.
  • Experience reviewing and providing technical oversight of external/third-party EOR geotechnical reports and calculations.
  • Proficiency with industry-standard geotechnical software including LPILE, A-Pile, GROUP, PLAXIS 2D/3D, gINT, SLIDE/SLOPE-W, GeoStudio, and PYPile.
  • Working knowledge of structural analysis software (e.g., STAAD.Pro, RISA) sufficient to coordinate soil-structure interaction with structural EORs.
  • Strong command of IBC, ASCE 7, AASHTO, ACI 318, and applicable load combinations for tracker and equipment foundations.
  • Familiarity with AASHTO and ASTM test methods for soils, aggregates, concrete, and steel materials.
  • Working knowledge of AutoCAD and Civil 3D for grading and foundation drawing review.
  • Ability to travel to project sites within the United States as required (25-30%).
Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering or related discipline.
  • Geotechnical Engineer (GE) license (where applicable by jurisdiction).
  • Direct experience sealing and stamping geotechnical reports as EOR for utility-scale solar PV and BESS projects.
  • Hands-on experience conducting or witnessing static, dynamic, and pull-out pile load tests on a scale.
  • Familiarity with FHWA and DIN 50929 corrosion standards and protective design strategies.
  • Experience with civil grading, SWPPP, and stormwater coordination.
  • Programming proficiency (Python, VBA) for design automation and data analysis.
  • Experience working in an EPC or self-perform construction environment, particularly under LNTP/IFC workflows.

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