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Phd Solar Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Advanced degree (MS/PhD) in material science, physics, or similar engineering discipline * First ... Process development experience from cutting edge industries such as semiconductor, solar, or ...

Advanced degree (MS/PhD) in material science, physics, or similar engineering discipline * First ... Process development experience from cutting edge industries such as semiconductor, solar, or ...

Showing results 41-60

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 California are hiring for Phd Solar Engineer jobs?

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

$113K - $147K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Rocket Lab rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we're not just launching rockets - we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it's a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space - our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions. 

SENIOR ELECTRICAL ENGINEER I

Based at Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Senior Electrical Engineer I will participate in the development and test of avionics hardware for our spacecraft programs. You will work collaboratively with engineers of various disciplines and participate in all aspects of electrical hardware development, from requirements definition through design, prototyping, fabrication, testing, and production. As an engineer on the spacecraft development team, you will have frequent opportunities to test and operate your systems on-orbit. We're looking for people who are passionate about spacecraft electrical hardware design, with a willingness to learn in a fast-paced environment.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO: 

  • Develop PCBA requirements in collaboration with other engineering disciplines
  • Schematic capture and PCB layout using Altium Designer
  • Circuit analysis, including power, tolerance, and reliability related
  • PCBA design verification testing and system integration testing
  • Production manufacturing support as needed

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS SENIOR ELECTRICAL ENGINEER I:

  • Bachelor's degree in electrical or computer engineering; or other engineering discipline
  • 5+ years of electrical hardware design experience, including schematic capture and PCB layout
  • A strong background in analog electronics design
  • Proficiency performing circuit analyses in SPICE and Excel
  • U.S. citizenship required, due to program requirements

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • Master's or PhD in electrical or computer engineering; or other engineering discipline
  • Proficiency with basic electronic lab equipment such as power supplies, oscilloscopes, DMMs, signal generators, soldering irons, etc.
  • Experience designing for space environments, including radiation impacts and mitigation
  • Experience designing for high-reliability aerospace applications
  • Experience designing rigid-flex PCBs and electromechanical design familiarity in general
  • Experience with FPGA design and embedded software development for ARM core processors
  • Demonstrated success working in a dynamic environment and ability to manage competing priorities

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.


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