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Phd Solar Engineer Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

First Solar Inc.

$131 - $187/hr

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset ... Master's degree or PhD in specialty area is highly desired. Required Skills/Competencies:

Dominion Energy

$110 - $165/hr

... solar and wind energy. * Performing/supporting evaluation, design, engineering, and support ... Upcoming engineering PhD graduates with a projected graduation date of no later than Summer 2026 ...

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP

$180 - $230/hr

... solar energy in space to power low-cost, high-performance AI compute for Earth. We are seeking a ... Master's degree or PhD in electrical engineering or computer engineering with an emphasis in RF ...

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP

$90 - $130/hr

... solar energy in space to power low-cost, high-performance AI compute for Earth. Realizing this ... Master's degree or PhD in physics or an engineering discipline * Hands-on experience with optical ...

New

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP

$120 - $170/hr

... solar energy in space to power low-cost, high-performance AI compute for Earth. Realizing this ... Master's degree or PhD in an engineering discipline with emphasis in RF/microwave circuits or ...

New

Corning Inc.

$109 - $150/hr

Solar polysilicon, wafers, and innovative photovoltaic modules, enabling low-cost solar energy ... PhD in Physics, Glass Science, or Geology and 5-10 years of work experience in relevant industry or ...

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Phd Solar Engineer information

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 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 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.

Are Phd solar engineers in demand?

PhD solar engineers are in high demand due to the growth of renewable energy industries and the need for advanced research and development in solar technologies. They often work in research institutions, energy companies, or government agencies, utilizing skills in system design, materials science, and data analysis. The demand is expected to continue as the focus on sustainable energy solutions increases globally.

What are popular job titles related to Phd Solar Engineer jobs in Kentucky?

For Phd Solar Engineer jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Phd Solar Engineer jobs in Kentucky look for?

The top searched job categories for Phd Solar Engineer jobs in Kentucky are:

Phd Solar Engineer jobs near you

Research & Development - PhD Engineering Intern

PPL Corporation

Lexington, KY • On-site

$14.75 - $19/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Internship

Re-posted 19 days ago

PPL rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 53 rated energy and utility

Job description

Company Summary Statement
As one of the largest investor-owned utility companies in the United States, PPL Corporation (NYSE: PPL), is committed to creating long-term, sustainable value for our 3.5 million customers, our shareowners and the communities we serve. Our high-performing regulated utilities - PPL Electric Utilities, Louisville Gas and Electric, Kentucky Utilities and Rhode Island Energy - provide an outstanding experience for our customers, consistently ranking among the best utilities in the nation. PPL's companies are also addressing challenges head-on by investing in new infrastructure and technology that is creating a smarter, more reliable and resilient energy grid. We are committed to doing our part to advance a cleaner energy future and drive innovation that enables us to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 while maintaining energy reliability and affordability for the customers and communities we serve. PPL is a positive force in the cities and towns where we do business, providing support for programs and organizations that empower the success of future generations by helping to build and maintain strong, diverse communities today.
Overview

The PPL R&D Department is looking for PhD Engineering students from all engineering disciplines to begin in May 2026. We are looking for interns who are passionate about renewable energy, including wind and solar, energy storage, green hydrogen, sustainability, carbon capture and other decarbonization technologies.

Ideal candidates will be based in Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, or Kentucky and would be interested in the potential of transitioning to full-time employment with PPL upon graduation. During the school year, students will work part time, but during the summer, the position will work on-site and may include travel to work on clean energy R&D projects at numerous locations across PPL Corporation including Allentown, Pennsylvania, Providence, Rhode Island, as well as Louisville and Lexington, Kentucky. While traveling, all expenses will be paid. 


Responsibilities
  • Plans and controls all activities so as to provide an accident-free work place.
  • Uses engineering and scientific principles to plan projects, collect and analyze data, and create professional reports.
  • Gathers, correlates, and analyzes data using established procedures.
  • Coordinates and communicates results and participation in research projects within applicable business units and prepares summaries of value and results to management.
  • Identifies opportunities for improvement and/or suggests improved methods.
  • Performs detailed and/or engineering assignments involving established calculations, tests and analysis.
  • Performs other duties as directed by management.

Qualifications

Requirements

  • Available part time during the semester and full time during the Summer 2026 semester
  • Pursuing a PhD in Engineering from an ABET Accredited program. 
  • Minimum 3.00 GPA
Qualifications:

Requirements

  • Available part time during the semester and full time during the Summer 2026 semester
  • Pursuing a PhD in Engineering from an ABET Accredited program. 
  • Minimum 3.00 GPA
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: UNAVAILABLE

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