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Phd Solar Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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All JobsPhd Solar Engineer Jobs

Phd Solar Engineer information

See salary details

$94.5K

$130.5K

How much do phd solar engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 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 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.
More about Phd Solar Engineer jobs
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Phd Solar Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Phd Solar Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,141 per year, or $61.6 per hour.
Research & Development - PhD Engineering Intern

Research & Development - PhD Engineering Intern

PPL Corporation

Lexington, KY • On-site

$14.75 - $19/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Internship

Posted yesterday

PPL rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 50 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

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