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Renewable Energy Engineer Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Heelstone Renewable Energy

Legal Secretary

Durham, NC · On-site

$39K - $54K/yr

Legal Secretary Heelstone Renewable Energy is a utility-scale solar, wind, and storage developer headquartered in Durham, NC, with expertise in developing, originating, financing, constructing, and ...

LHH US

Senior/Lead Engineer

Raleigh, NC

$100K - $130K/yr

Support utility and renewable energy projects * Mentor junior engineering staff * Interface directly with clients * Contribute to technical reviews and project execution What's Offered * Hybrid work ...

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All JobsRenewable Energy Engineer JobsRenewable Energy Engineer Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Renewable Energy Engineer information

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$24

$52

$74

How much do renewable energy engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for renewable energy engineer in Raleigh, NC is $52.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.07 and $60.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are renewable energy engineers in demand?

Renewable energy engineers are in high demand due to the global shift toward sustainable energy sources like solar and wind power. The industry offers growth opportunities, especially for those with skills in system design, project management, and environmental regulations, and often requires relevant certifications and technical expertise.

What does a Renewable Energy Engineer do?

A Renewable Energy Engineer designs, develops, and implements systems and technologies that generate energy from renewable sources such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal. Their work involves researching and improving energy efficiency, overseeing the installation of renewable energy projects, and ensuring systems comply with environmental and safety regulations. They may also analyze data, troubleshoot issues, and collaborate with other professionals to optimize energy production and reduce environmental impact.

What Does a Renewable Energy Engineer Do?

A renewable energy engineer works on environmental projects to research and develop approaches to providing clean energy sources and green solutions for the world’s energy needs. Some work as consultants, while others have duties that involve designing machines and systems to capture and distribute renewable energy from wind, solar, and geothermal resources. As a renewable energy engineer, you can specialize in chemical, industrial, mechanical, or electrical engineering, but regardless of your specialty, you focus on sustainability and reducing the use of non-renewable products like oil as an energy source. Your goal is to limit the effects of fossil fuels on climate change and reduce the risk these energy sources pose to human health.

What is the difference between Renewable Energy Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectRenewable Energy EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Renewable Energy, Environmental Engineering, or related fields; certifications like LEED or NABCEPBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesigning and developing renewable energy systems, site assessments, project managementDesign, analysis, manufacturing, and testing of mechanical systems across industries
Employer & Industry UsageRenewable energy companies, consulting firms, government agenciesManufacturing, aerospace, automotive, energy sectors

Renewable Energy Engineers focus on designing and implementing sustainable energy solutions like solar, wind, and geothermal systems, often working in specialized environments. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working on various mechanical systems across industries. While both roles require engineering degrees, Renewable Energy Engineers typically have certifications related to sustainability, making their roles more specialized in renewable projects.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. These positions often require advanced degrees, certifications, and working in high-demand industries or management positions.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes leadership responsibilities or working in high-cost-of-living areas.

What are some common challenges Renewable Energy Engineers face when working on large-scale projects?

Renewable Energy Engineers often encounter challenges related to project site selection, regulatory compliance, and integrating new technologies into existing infrastructure. Coordinating with multidisciplinary teams—including environmental scientists, construction managers, and local authorities—can be complex, especially when balancing project timelines with environmental impact assessments. Additionally, adapting to evolving industry standards and ensuring the reliability and efficiency of renewable systems are ongoing aspects of the role. Overcoming these challenges requires strong communication skills, adaptability, and a collaborative mindset.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Renewable Energy Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Renewable Energy Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, renewable energy systems, and a relevant degree such as electrical, mechanical, or environmental engineering. Familiarity with energy modeling software, CAD tools, and industry certifications like LEED or NABCEP is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and project management skills help professionals stand out in this field. These skills and qualifications are vital for designing, implementing, and optimizing sustainable energy solutions that meet technical, regulatory, and client requirements.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and relevant certifications. In the renewable energy sector, senior renewable energy engineers with significant expertise and leadership roles can also reach or exceed this salary level, particularly in high-demand markets or with managerial responsibilities.
More about Renewable Energy Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Renewable Energy Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Renewable Energy Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Renewable Energy Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Renewable Energy Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Renewable Energy Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Renewable Energy Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Renewable Energy Engineer jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Renewable Energy Engineer job openings:
Renewable Energy Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Renewable Energy Engineer job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,432 per year, or $52.1 per hour.
Clean Energy Engineer / Senior Clean Energy Engineer

Clean Energy Engineer / Senior Clean Energy Engineer

NCSU

Raleigh, NC

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

North Carolina State University rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

455th of 612 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Information
Posting Number PG194144EP Internal Recruitment No Working Title Clean Energy Engineer / Senior Clean Energy Engineer Anticipated Hiring Range $69,300 - $87,500 (commensurate with education and experience) Work Schedule Monday - Friday; 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, some remote/flexible schedule Job Location Raleigh, NC Department NC Clean Energy Technology Center About the Department
The North Carolina Clean Energy Technology Center, at N.C. State University advances a sustainable energy economy by educating, demonstrating and providing support for clean energy technologies, practices, and policies. This mission is accomplished through work in the following major program areas; Renewable Energy, Clean Power & Industrial Efficiency, Clean Transportation, Green Building, Economic Development, Energy Policy, Workforce Development and Education & Outreach. The N.C. Clean Energy Technology Center serves as a resource for innovative, clean energy technologies through demonstration, technical assistance, outreach and training. More information about the NCCETC is available at http://nccleantech.ncsu.edu/.

The Clean Power and Energy Efficiency Program team at NCCETC assists industrial and commercial businesses and institutional clients solve energy management problems and reach their energy and/or sustainability goals. Through a wide range of educational, technical and financial assistance initiatives, the team broadly supports deployment of cleaner, more resilient distributed energy technology and efficiency options in North Carolina and across the Southeast, including:
  • Solar Photovoltaics and Wind Energy
  • Energy Storage Technologies
  • Microgrids
  • Combined Heat and Power and District Energy
  • Other Renewable and Non-renewable Distributed Generation
  • Energy Efficiency Technologies and Practices for Building Energy Systems (e.g. Boilers and Steam Systems, Compressed Air Systems, Energy Intensive Processes, Fuel and Feedstock Flexibility, Motors, Fans, and Pumps, Process Heating, and Energy Management & Automation)
Wolfpack Perks and Benefits
As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being.

What we offer:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Retirement Programs
  • Disability Plans
  • Life Insurance
  • Accident Plan
  • Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
  • 12 Holidays Each Year
  • Tuition and Academic Assistance
  • And so much more!
Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community. 
Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.
Essential Job Duties
The Clean Energy Engineer, Clean Power & Industrial Efficiency will report to the Program Director for the Clean Power and Energy Efficiency Program and will initially support the Center's work on the EnergizeNC project (the State of NC program under the US EPA Solar for All program) . The position will also support work on the US DOE-funded Onsite Energy Technical Assistance Partnership and other projects, and contribute to delivery of other relevant technical services offered by the Center.
This position requires the candidate to have technical expertise in distributed onsite energy systems modeling and analysis, and/or experience in onsite energy project engineering, procurement and construction (EPC).
Senior level hires in this position will also support management oversight of the several projects as well as to help develop new project and service opportunities. Senior level hires will serve as Principal Investigator on sponsored research projects.
Primary duties will include, but are not limited to:
  • Working with the EnergizeNC team to conduct distributed onsite energy systems modeling and analysis, and advising on onsite energy project engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) for the multi-family housing and community solar portions of EnergizeNC (40%)
  • Engaging with companies and organizations and providing technical services to evaluate feasibility of investment in distributed generation or efficiency technologies at their site (15%)
  • Supporting responses to consumers, industry representatives, nonprofit organizations, policymakers, and other stakeholders involved in regulatory proceedings or other relevant policy forums (10%)
  • Research and technical reports and papers on issues affecting distributed generation and energy efficiency (5%)
  • Education of stakeholders, seeking of new project or assistance opportunities, and developing funding proposals that are in line with the mission of the NCCETC (10%)
  • Supporting administrative functions for assigned projects, including preparation of regular progress reports, quarterly project reports, and budgets as needed and required by funding agencies (5%); and
  • Updating program technical resources and publications (5%)
Other Responsibilities
The following are other work and responsibilities that the position will involve (10%), as needed:
  • Supporting the Center's applied research activities relating to clean and renewable energy technology, grid integration of distributed generation, microgrid deployment, and advanced building and systems energy efficiency technologies
  • Collaborating with other NCCETC programs and NCSU departments on projects with broader sustainability objectives
  • Assisting in maintaining a contacts database of industry; federal, state, and regional governmental contacts; and other stakeholder contacts
  • Mentoring student interns; interacting with faculty, undergraduate and graduate students at the University as requested to support research projects related to distributed generation
  • Tracking team's client focused activities including requests for assistance, assistance provided, meetings, site visits, technical services and policy support
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, engineering management, environmental science or a related field plus 2 years of experience
  • Senior level position requires post-baccalaureate credentials (Master's Degree or higher) or Bachelor's Degree plus at least 3 years of significant work experience in distributed generation modeling and analysis, and/or project engineering, procurement and construction, including combined heat and power, solar PV, fuel cells, district energy, energy storage and microgrids or other related fields
Other Required Qualifications
  • Strong technical background and experience in energy engineering, energy efficiency, and sustainability principles
  • Skills to perform distributed generation modeling and analysis of clean and renewable energy technologies
  • Life cycle cost analysis and emissions calculation proficiency
  • Strong project management, writing and oral communication skills, excellent organizational and analytical skills with attention to detail, and ability to work independently on defined tasks and with others in a team setting
Preferred Qualifications
  • Advanced degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering or related engineering field; Engineer in Training (EIT) certification or licensed Professional Engineer (PE)
  • Candidates with detailed and current, knowledge and skills in technical analysis of distributed generation and energy efficiency project development preferred
  • Candidates with detailed understanding of electric and gas utility rates and various charges, ratchets, fees, etc. that affect energy costs preferred
  • Candidates with working knowledge of North Carolina, other states and federal policies affecting distributed energy, electricity markets and regulations preferred
  • Experience with renewable energy, utility grid and/or microgrid energy and economic performance modeling and analysis
  • Experience with state- and federal-funded grant project management and compliance practices
  • Grant writing and marketing experience are a plus
Required License(s) or Certification(s)
  • N/A
Valid NC Driver's License required No Commercial Driver's License required No
Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions
Job Open Date 06/11/2025 Anticipated Close Date Open Until Filled Special Instructions to Applicants
Please include as attachments a resume/CV, cover letter, and contact information for at least 3 professional references. 
Position Details
Position Number 00111501 Position Type EPS/SAAO Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week) 1.0 Appointment 12 Month Recurring Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events Non Mandatory - Emergency Event Department ID 140150 - The North Carolina Clean Energy Technology Center EEO
NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.
If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.
NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.

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About North Carolina State University

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North Carolina State University (NCSU), located in Raleigh, NC, US, is a leading educational institution with a strong emphasis on research, academics, and public service. Established in 1887, NCSU operates in the education industry and endeavors to foster student success, and promote economic development by providing high-quality, affordable education, and conducting groundbreaking research across a variety of disciplines. With more than 100 majors, its academic offerings range from undergraduates to postgraduates along with doctoral studies - in various fields like engineering, natural resources, humanities, and social sciences. NCSU is firmly anchored on the core values of respect, responsibility, integrity, and innovation. Its mission is to create economic, societal, and intellectual prosperity for the people of North Carolina and the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1887

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