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Phd Solar Engineer Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Senior PV Engineer

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$110 - $170/hr

Ideate and carry out R&D on new solar tracker control enhancements and PV modeling methodologies ... OR PhD in a relevant Engineering or Science discipline with 2+ years of relevant experience ...

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Senior Electrical Engineer

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

PhD in Electrical Engineering or equivalent technical background * 10+ years experience with ... fuel cells, solar cells, sensors, medical devices, protective coatings, and other advanced ...

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Senior Electrical Engineer

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

PhD in Electrical Engineering or equivalent technical background * 10+ years experience with ... fuel cells, solar cells, sensors, medical devices, protective coatings, and other advanced ...

Phd Solar Engineer information

What is the difference between Phd Solar Engineer vs Solar Project Engineer?

AspectPhd Solar EngineerSolar Project Engineer
Required CredentialsPhD in Renewable Energy, Solar Engineering, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, Renewable Energy, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, R&D departmentsConstruction sites, project management offices, fieldwork
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, advanced R&D divisions of solar companiesSolar installation companies, project development firms, EPC contractors

The main difference between a Phd Solar Engineer and a Solar Project Engineer lies in their focus and work environment. A Phd Solar Engineer typically engages in research, development, and advanced analysis within academic or R&D settings, requiring a doctoral degree. In contrast, a Solar Project Engineer is more involved in the planning, execution, and management of solar installation projects, often working in the field or on-site. Both roles are essential in the solar industry but serve different stages of solar technology development and deployment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD solar engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a PhD Solar Engineer, you need advanced knowledge in photovoltaic systems, materials science, and energy engineering, typically supported by a doctoral degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with simulation software (like MATLAB or PVsyst), laboratory instrumentation, and data analysis tools is essential, along with published research or patents. Strong problem-solving, project management, and collaboration skills help you excel in both research and interdisciplinary team environments. These competencies enable innovation, effective project execution, and advancement in solar technology and renewable energy solutions.

What are some unique challenges faced by PhD solar engineers in research and development teams?

PhD Solar Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating cutting-edge research into practical, scalable solar technologies and balancing time between experimental work and data analysis. Collaboration across multidisciplinary teams, including material scientists and electrical engineers, is essential to address technical hurdles and optimize system performance. Additionally, these engineers must stay updated on evolving industry standards and funding opportunities while effectively communicating complex findings to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

What does a PhD solar engineer do?

A PhD Solar Engineer is a specialized professional who conducts advanced research and development in solar energy technologies. They work on designing, testing, and improving solar panels, photovoltaic systems, and other renewable energy solutions. Their work often involves publishing scientific papers, leading research teams, and collaborating with industry partners to innovate and implement sustainable solar solutions. With a doctoral degree, they typically focus on solving complex technical challenges and advancing the field of solar engineering.

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Phd Solar Engineer jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Phd Solar Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Phd Solar Engineer job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Senior PV Engineer

Array Tech, Inc.

Chandler, AZ • On-site

$110 - $170/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Description: Senior PV Engineer Job Summary: The Senior PV Engineer reports to our VP of R&D. The job may be located onsite in Chandler, Arizona or may be remote. You will be trained to become an in-house subject matter expert on PV performance modeling and data analysis, to support sales and delivery of SmartTrack, Array's proprietary solar tracker optimization technology.

Key Job Responsibilities
  • Maintain and improve in-house PV performance modeling methodology to quantify the energy effects of solar tracker control optimization on variable terrain
  • Maintain and improve existing processes to work with Technical Sales to issue project-specific modeling estimates for customers
  • Work in a team to learn and improve in-house process for implementing SmarTrack (ARRAY's proprietary solar tracker optimization technology) on PV power plants per orders received
  • Maintain and improve in-house tools for energy analysis to show the gains from SmarTrack products
  • Work with third parties (independent engineering firms, customers, etc.) to validate our PV modeling methodology improvements, scheduling and executing field experiments as necessary
  • Ideate and carry out R&D on new solar tracker control enhancements and PV modeling methodologies
  • Leverage existing R&D facilities, working outdoors to add new sensors and equipment as necessary
  • Draft patent applications and work with patent attorneys as necessary
  • Prepare technical documents targeting internal team members and customers on topics related to PV modeling and SmarTrack
  • Work with Technical Writers to formalize documents when necessary
  • Represent ARRAY at technical industry events
  • Report work progress regularly to the Hiring Manager
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in a relevant Engineering or Science discipline with 8+ years of relevant experience OR Master's degree in a relevant Engineering or Science discipline with 6+ years of relevant experience OR PhD in a relevant Engineering or Science discipline with 2+ years of relevant experience Proficient in programming in Python using pandas and pvlib libraries
  • Candidate will be subjected to a test in the interview process
  • Good understanding of PV performance modeling and simulation
  • Candidate will be subjected to a test in the interview process
  • Proficient in written and spoken English
  • Knowledgeable in using Microsoft Office software on Windows OS
  • Team player and fast learner
Preferred qualifications
  • 5+ years of experience in the solar industry
  • 2+ years of experience in using PlantPredict, SolarFarmer, and/or PVsyst
  • Knowledgeable in using Python libraries for electrical circuit simulation, such as pvmismatch
  • Knowledgeable in working with Linux OS

At Array Tech, Inc., we strive to lead with our culture, and believe that our people are a key enabler of our future state. Our total rewards philosophy supports Array's ability to attract, develop, and retain our employees. We offer competitive compensation, benefits and wellness programs that align with the local markets where we do business. Array Tech, Inc. offers equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, gender, age, creed, sex, religion, national origin, disability (physical or mental), marital status, citizenship, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression, or any other legally protected status. At ARRAY, we believe in cultivating and inspiring leadership, teamwork and creativity among all our team members. These values not only contribute to the growth of those who work at ARRAY but their local communities as well. We hire the best people, give them every possible opportunity to learn, grow, and develop and reward them for their contributions. Join our team of hard-working professionals dedicated to delivering exceptional products and customer service while making the world a better place for generations to come.

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