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Phd Solar Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

First Solar

Engineer- Manufacturing III

Gaffney, SC

$66K - $85K/yr

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset ... Bachelors/Masters/PhD Degree in Engineering Discipline or Physical Science Field or equivalent.

First Solar

Engineer- Manufacturing III

Gaffney, SC · On-site

$66K - $85K/yr

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset ... Bachelors/Masters/PhD Degree in Engineering Discipline or Physical Science Field or equivalent.

K2 Space

Materials & Process Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$100K - $140K/yr

Master's degree or PhD in materials science, chemical engineering, or a related field * Experience architecting M&P programs for solar array systems across the full development lifecycle ...

Exowatt

Lead Thermal Design Engineer

Miami, FL · On-site

$98K - $129K/yr

In this role, you will own the engineering of components that absorb and transfer high-flux solar ... Master's or PhD preferred * 7+ years of experience in thermal systems design, with significant ...

Exowatt

Lead Thermal Design Engineer

Miami, FL

$98K - $129K/yr

In this role, you will own the engineering of components that absorb and transfer high-flux solar ... Master's or PhD preferred * 7+ years of experience in thermal systems design, with significant ...

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Phd Solar Engineer information

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$94.5K

$130.5K

How much do phd solar engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd solar engineer in the United States is $128,141.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,000.00 and $129,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

More about Phd Solar Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Phd Solar Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Phd Solar Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Phd Solar Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Phd Solar Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Phd Solar Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Phd Solar Engineer jobs are:
Phd Solar Engineer jobs near you
Engineer- Equipment II USA (1st Shift)

Engineer- Equipment II USA (1st Shift)

First Solar

Gaffney, SC • On-site

$68K - $98K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

First Solar rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 71 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

396th of 515 rated manufacturers

Job description

Job Description
First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset
Basic Job Functions:
  • Provide technical and professional leadership to the maintenance team and manage the engineering aspect of the maintenance process.
  • Use SPC and other TPM (Total Preventive Maintenance) programs to drive improvements and rate the effectiveness of a repair.
  • Maintain preventive maintenance (PM) records and other pertinent data that is deemed necessary to do a complete job.
  • Publish information that has been reviewed, in a report format, on a routine basis.
  • Work on cross functional teams to improve Throughput.
  • Streamline and improve PMs to continuously improve the availability of equipment.
  • Maintain the stock of relavent spare parts

Education/Experience:
  • Associates Degree in a technical discipline with
    • 2 years of experience as First Solar Manufacturing Engineer I or
    • 3 years Engineering experience in a manufacturing setting, or
    • 2 years Engineering experience and 6 years Technical experience in a manufacturing setting or
  • Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline with
    • 2 years of experience as First Solar Manufacturing Engineer I or
    • 3 years Engineering experience in a manufacturing setting or
    • 2 years Engineering experience and 3 years Technical experience in a manufacturing setting or
  • MS Degree in a technical discipline with
    • 2-4 years Engineering experience in a manufacturing setting or
  • PhD Degree in a technical discipline with
    • 0-3 years Engineering experience in a manufacturing setting

Required Skills/Competencies:
  • Strong analytical, communication and organizational skills.
  • Proficient use of all Microsoft Office suite programs.
  • Knowledge of Engineering Principals and Practices.
  • Knowledge of Manufacturing processes.
  • Good knowledge of Problem Solving Tools such as 7 Steps and DMAIC (6Sigma).
  • Excellent knowledge of Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) software, preferably with IBM/MRO Maximo.
  • Computer skills with CAD related experience a plus.
  • Basic knowledge in programming language and use of relational database systems.
  • Knowledge in SQL, SAP, SAS, Tableau preferred.

Essential Responsibilities:
  • Arranges, participates and implements PM-Planning.
  • Creates and updates equipment Preventive Maintenance Work Instructions, equipment specifications, equipment trouble shooting BKM and good manufacturing OPL.
  • Continuously improve spare part availability.
  • Provides training where applicable to Maintenance team.
  • Monitors long term equipment down issues and assist or lead with resolution.
  • Interfaces with other cross functional groups to identify, brainstorm, create and implement equipment improvement projects.
  • Interface with Manufacturing Engineering /Maintenance group from Global manufacturing sites.
  • Other duties as assigned.
  • Job description subject to change at any time.

Reporting Relationships:
  • This Position will not have direct reports

Travel:
  • Up to 10% of global travel is expected.
  • If hired during plant start up, you will be expected to travel to other First Solar locations for training.

Estimated Salary Range:
  • $68,800 - $98,000, Annually

Physical Requirements:
  • Will sit, stand, or walk short distances for up to 12 hours per day.
  • Will climb stairs or steps on a frequent basis.
  • Will lift up to 58 pounds on an occasional basis, according to work instruction.
  • Will lift up to 37 pounds on a frequent basis.
  • Will push or pull up to 50 pounds of force on an occasional basis.
  • Will push or pull up to 37 pounds of force on a frequent basis.
  • Required to use hands to grasp, lift, handle, carry or feel objects on a frequent basis.
  • 20/40 vision in both eyes (with or without correction) and the ability to distinguish between red, yellow, and green is required.
  • May reach above shoulder heights and below the waist on a frequent basis.
  • May stoop, kneel, or bend, on an occasional basis.
  • Must comply with all safety standards and procedures.
  • Ability to wear personal protective equipment is required (including, but not limited to: steel-toed shoes, cut-resistant gloves, jackets, aprons &/or arm guards, safety glasses or goggles, hearing protection & respirators) and a condition of employment and continued employment (may require little or no facial hair).

Potential candidates will meet the education and experience requirements provided on the above job description and excel in completing the listed responsibilities for this role. All candidates receiving an offer of employment must successfully complete a background check and any other tests that may be required.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: First Solar is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values and respects the importance of a diverse and inclusive workforce. It is the policy of the company to recruit, hire, train and promote persons in all job titles without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity. We recognize that diversity and inclusion is a driving force in the success of our company.

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