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Renewable Energy Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Renewable Energy Researcher information

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$30K

$113.1K

$164.5K

How much do renewable energy researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for renewable energy researcher in the United States is $113,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $154,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a renewable energy researcher do?

A Renewable Energy Researcher studies and develops technologies or methods to produce energy from renewable sources like solar, wind, hydro, and biomass. Their work involves conducting experiments, analyzing data, and finding ways to make renewable energy more efficient and cost-effective. They may work in laboratories, universities, or for private companies, often collaborating with engineers and policymakers to advance sustainable energy solutions. Their goal is to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and help address environmental challenges such as climate change.

What are some of the typical challenges faced by renewable energy researchers when working on new technologies?

Renewable energy researchers often encounter challenges such as securing consistent funding for long-term projects, navigating regulatory requirements, and addressing the technical complexities of integrating new technologies with existing energy systems. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including engineers, policy experts, and industry partners—is essential to overcome these hurdles. Additionally, researchers must stay updated on evolving technologies and adapt their work to rapidly changing industry standards, which can make the research environment dynamic and intellectually stimulating.

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

AspectRenewable Energy ResearcherRenewable Energy Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a master's or Ph.D. in renewable energy, environmental science, or related fieldsUsually holds a bachelor's or master's in engineering, renewable energy, or related disciplines
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, or R&D departmentsDesign, develop, and implement renewable energy systems in field or project sites
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic institutions, research organizations, government agenciesEnergy companies, engineering firms, project developers

Renewable Energy Researchers focus on studying and developing new renewable energy technologies through research and experimentation, often working in labs or academic settings. In contrast, Renewable Energy Engineers apply existing technologies to design, build, and maintain renewable energy systems in real-world projects. Both roles require specialized knowledge but differ mainly in their focus on research versus practical application.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a renewable energy researcher?

To thrive as a Renewable Energy Researcher, you need a solid background in engineering, environmental science, or physics, typically supported by at least a master's degree in a related field. Familiarity with simulation software, data analysis tools, and renewable energy systems, along with certifications such as LEED or PMP, is often required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating on interdisciplinary teams and presenting research findings. These competencies are vital for advancing sustainable technologies and driving innovation in the rapidly evolving renewable energy sector.

What states have the most Renewable Energy Researcher jobs?

States with the most job openings for Renewable Energy Researcher jobs include:

Infographic showing various Renewable Energy Researcher job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Senior Manager, Technical Accounting, Renewable Energy

Cohen & Co.

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

Full-time

PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

What You'll Do

Are you a technical accounting expert ready to take your expertise to the next level with renewable energy clients and complex project finance structures? At Cohen & Co, we prioritize a people-first culture and professional growth, giving you the opportunity to work directly with clients on meaningful, high-impact engagements.

As a Senior Manager on our Renewable Energy Technical Accounting team, you will provide strategic technical accounting and financial reporting services to renewable energy clients, advising on tax equity financing, HLBV allocations, and complex partnership structures with precision and compliance. This role offers exposure to evolving legislation and complex client structures, the chance to provide strategic insights, and the opportunity to grow your career within a collaborative, learning-focused environment where your contributions truly make an impact.

Renewable Energy Technical Accounting

  • Research and conclude on the accounting treatment for complex renewable energy transactions, including tax equity financing arrangements, partnership and HLBV (hypothetical liquidation at book value) allocations, and multi-stakeholder project financing structures.
  • Advise clients on the financial reporting implications of Production Tax Credits (PTC), Investment Tax Credits (ITC), and related incentives, including credit monetization and transferability considerations.
  • Interpret and apply evolving legislation affecting the sector, such as the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), and translate impacts into clear accounting conclusions.
  • Prepare and review technical accounting memoranda documenting positions on revenue recognition (ASC 606), leases (ASC 842), consolidations, and other complex areas relevant to renewable energy projects.

Financial Reporting

  • Lead the preparation and review of financial statements and disclosures for private and, where applicable, SEC reporting entities.
  • Provide end-to-end support for periodic reporting, from drafting assistance through full filing coordination, acting as an extension of the client's finance team during peak cycles.
  • Advise clients on financial reporting for complex project financing and loan/lease agreements, and support external audit coordination and readiness.

Client Experience

  • Serve as a primary technical contact and trusted advisor to client finance leadership and private equity sponsors.
  • Communicate complex accounting matters clearly and confidently to clients, translating technical information into actionable guidance.
  • Manage engagement economics, budgets, staffing, and timelines to ensure high-quality service and satisfaction.
  • Identify cross-service opportunities across the firm (tax credit advisory, valuation, transaction services, and outsourced accounting).

Team Leadership

  • Mentor and develop managers, seniors, and staff, and review deliverables for technical accuracy.
  • Support accounting policy development and the implementation of new accounting standards.
  • Assist with internal control assessments, controls gap analysis, and audit readiness.
  • Promote collaboration, accountability, and professionalism across engagements in a fast-paced, client-facing environment.
Who You Are

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance; active CPA license.
  • 8-10+ years of progressive experience in public accounting, technical accounting advisory, or corporate financial reporting.
  • Demonstrated experience serving renewable energy clients (solar, wind, hydro, or related clean energy).
  • Working knowledge of tax equity financing, project finance partnership structures, and renewable energy tax credits (ITC/PTC).
  • Deep knowledge of U.S. GAAP, including ASC 606 and ASC 842, and strong technical writing skills.
  • Excellent project management, communication, and client relationship skills.

Preferred Experience

  • Big Four or national firm experience.
  • Familiarity with tax equity accounting models (e.g., HLBV) and partnership allocations.
  • Exposure to IRA/OBBBA legislation and tax credit monetization and transferability.
  • Experience supporting private equity-backed portfolio companies or investment funds in the energy sector.

Who We Are

#LifeatCohen


Sure, we like numbers. (But we'll never treat you like one.)


At Cohen & Co our foundational principles offer insight into how we achieve an inclusive, growth-oriented culture that fuels the success of our firm, our clients and our people. In particular, we honor our foundational principle of "great people first" by:

  • Championing the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion by embracing the unique stories, backgrounds, perspectives and ideas that come from our people; and
  • Offering a comprehensive and competitive Total Rewardspackage, which allows each employee to use the benefits that best suits their needs. Our offerings go beyond standard options, including time off outside of your standard PTO to give back to the community, annual discretionary merit increases and bonuses, talent development resources to tap into growth opportunities, and so much more!

Learn More About Us!
  • Discover our Passion, Purpose & Expertise
  • Learn more about our Firm's culture

Estimated Base Range: $110,000-$190,000*

*Base compensation offered to candidates are determined based on factors such as candidate's relevant skillset, experience, licensure, and certifications, as well as job responsibilities, geography, market considerations, and organizational needs. At Cohen & Co, we don't stop at setting ourselves apart by offering competitive base compensation. As part of our 'great people first' foundational principle, our firm offers a comprehensive and competitive Total Rewards package that allows each employee to design a package that best suits their needs and goes beyond standard options, including time off outside of your standard PTO to recharge and give back to the community, annual discretionary merit increases and bonuses, talent development resources to tap into growth opportunities.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity of thought and background to build an inclusive and energized culture and better meet the needs of our clients.

Agency recruiters may not submit unsolicited candidate information or resumes to any Cohen & Co employee without a recruiting services contract first being entered into with the Cohen & Co Talent Acquisition Team; see policy here.