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Solar Design Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

K2 Space

Solar Design Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$100K - $140K/yr

As a Solar Engineer, you will contribute to the design, manufacturing, testing, and deployment of high-power solar arrays for some of the largest spacecraft ever flown. You'll work across technical ...

K2 Space

Solar Design Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$100K - $140K/yr

As a Solar Engineer, you will contribute to the design, manufacturing, testing, and deployment of high-power solar arrays for some of the largest spacecraft ever flown. You'll work across technical ...

K2 Space

Solar Design Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

As a Solar Engineer, you will contribute to the design, manufacturing, testing, and deployment of high-power solar arrays for some of the largest spacecraft ever flown. You'll work across technical ...

K2 Space

Senior Solar Design Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$140K - $175K/yr

... engineering, or a related technical field * 5+ years of experience in the design, manufacture, and test of solar arrays for space applications Nice to Have * Experience with solar array system ...

K2 Space

Senior Solar Design Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$140K - $175K/yr

... engineering, or a related technical field * 5+ years of experience in the design, manufacture, and test of solar arrays for space applications Nice to Have * Experience with solar array system ...

Cal Solar Inc

Design Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

Design Engineer Supervisor:Engineering Manager Classification:Full -time, exempt Location: San ... Lead solar drafters in providing complete and accurate code compliant plansets on time.

K2 Space

Senior Solar Design Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$140K - $175K/yr

... engineering, or a related technical field * 5+ years of experience in the design, manufacture, and test of solar arrays for space applications Nice to Have * Experience with solar array system ...

K2 Space

Principal Solar Design Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$175K - $200K/yr

... engineering, or a related technical field * 8+ years of experience in the design, manufacture, and test of solar arrays for space applications Nice to Have * Experience architecting solar array ...

CalSolar Inc

Design Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

Design Engineer Supervisor:Engineering Manager Classification:Full-time, exempt Location: San Diego ... Lead solar drafters in providing complete and accurate code compliant plansets on time.

K2 Space

Principal Solar Design Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$175K - $200K/yr

... engineering, or a related technical field * 8+ years of experience in the design, manufacture, and test of solar arrays for space applications Nice to Have * Experience architecting solar array ...

K2 Space

Principal Solar Design Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$175K - $200K/yr

... engineering, or a related technical field * 8+ years of experience in the design, manufacture, and test of solar arrays for space applications Nice to Have * Experience architecting solar array ...

CalSolar Inc

Design Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

Design Engineer Supervisor: Engineering Manager Classification: Full-time, exempt Location: San ... Lead solar drafters in providing complete and accurate code compliant plansets on time.

Citi Staff

Be Seen First

Solar Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Design and prepare solar PV system plans and drawings * Review and stamp engineering plans as a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) * Perform system sizing, load calculations, and feasibility ...

Citi Staff

Be Seen First

Solar Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Design and prepare solar PV system plans and drawings * Review and stamp engineering plans as a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) * Perform system sizing, load calculations, and feasibility ...

Dynasty Solar

Be Seen First

Solar Department Manager

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Oversee daily operations for the solar division, including design, permitting, procurement, and ... Recruit, manage and train office staff including project coordinators, site auditors, engineering ...

Vast

Solar Array Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Participate in design reviews, drawing checks, and technical documentation for internal and NASA ... Senior Solar Array Engineer: $140,000 - $175,000

RSS, LLC.

Mechanical Design Engineer

Mather, CA

$75K - $102K/yr

S. in a variety of markets including solar, battery storage, substation, and transmission and ... The Mechanical Design Engineer is a key contributor within the Construction Innovations Design ...

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All JobsSolar Design Engineer JobsSolar Design Engineer Jobs in California

Solar Design Engineer information

See California salary details

$35K

$61.4K

$86.4K

How much do solar design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar design engineer in California is $61,375.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,300.00 and $66,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Solar Design Engineer vs Solar Project Engineer?

AspectSolar Design EngineerSolar Project Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications like NABCEPEngineering degree, project management certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, CAD software, site assessmentsConstruction sites, project planning, coordination
Industry UsageDesign phase of solar projectsImplementation and execution of solar projects

While both roles require engineering knowledge and industry certifications, Solar Design Engineers focus on designing solar systems using CAD and technical analysis. Solar Project Engineers oversee the installation process, manage project timelines, and coordinate teams. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the solar industry.

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. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes leadership roles or executive positions.

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. High-level positions often require advanced degrees, certifications, and a strong track record of project management or technical expertise.

What engineers make 200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, software, and electrical engineering often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or leadership roles. High-paying engineering positions typically require advanced skills, a strong track record, and sometimes work in high-demand industries or locations with premium compensation packages.

What are some common challenges a Solar Design Engineer faces when working on large-scale projects?

Solar Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as optimizing system layouts for maximum efficiency within site constraints, ensuring compliance with local codes and regulations, and coordinating with multidisciplinary teams (e.g., electrical, civil, and construction). Managing timelines and adapting designs based on site-specific conditions or last-minute changes from stakeholders are also frequent hurdles. Strong problem-solving skills, clear communication, and adaptability are crucial for success in these environments.

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

To thrive as a Solar Design Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical or mechanical engineering, proficiency in solar energy system design, and typically a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with design software such as AutoCAD, PVsyst, and knowledge of applicable codes and standards are crucial, and certifications like NABCEP can be advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to collaborate in multidisciplinary teams help set top performers apart. These skills are vital for creating efficient, safe, and cost-effective solar energy solutions that meet client and regulatory requirements.

How much do solar designers make?

Solar design engineers typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, especially in regions with high solar adoption. The role often requires proficiency with design software and knowledge of solar energy systems.

What does a Solar Design Engineer do?

A Solar Design Engineer is responsible for designing solar power systems for residential, commercial, or industrial use. They assess project sites, calculate energy requirements, select appropriate solar technologies, and create detailed plans and schematics for installation. Their work involves analyzing factors like sun exposure, shading, and local regulations to ensure systems are efficient and compliant. They also often coordinate with project managers, installers, and clients to deliver effective solar solutions.
What are popular job titles related to Solar Design Engineer jobs in California? For Solar Design Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Solar Design Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Solar Design Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Solar Design Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Solar Design Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Solar Design Engineer jobs in CA? For Solar Design Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Solar Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Solar Design Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,375 per year, or $29.5 per hour.
Solar Design Engineer

Solar Design Engineer

K2 Space

Los Angeles, CA

$100K - $140K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

The Role 

Critical to achieving K2's vision of deploying at scale across MEO, GEO, cis-lunar, and deep space are the solar arrays. As a Solar Engineer, you will contribute to the design, manufacturing, testing, and deployment of high-power solar arrays for some of the largest spacecraft ever flown. You'll work across technical domains; from module technology and electrical power systems to deployment mechanisms, structures, and production - learning from experienced engineers while taking on meaningful ownership of hardware from day one. 

First 6 months: Support solar array subsystem development through analysis, component-level testing, and manufacturing process documentation. 

First year: Own specific build and test activities for flight hardware, from assembly through acceptance testing. 

First two years: Contribute to full lifecycle solar array development across multiple vehicle builds, developing expertise in both design and production. 

Responsibilities 

  • Support the design and analysis of solar array electrical and mechanical subsystems 
  • Assist in the development and maintenance of electrical performance degradation models across environment variations 
  • Execute assembly-level acceptance and qualification test procedures and document results 
  • Collaborate with avionics, structures/mechanisms, software, and production teams on integration activities and test campaigns 
  • Support design reviews with analysis products and test data 
  • Contribute to manufacturing processes for in-house fabrication and assembly, including work instructions, in-process checkouts, and end-of-line testing 
  • Participate in on-orbit data review and anomaly investigation efforts 

Qualifications 

  • Bachelor's degree in physics, materials science, mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, or a related technical field 
  • Internship in at least one of: photovoltaics, power systems, or materials characterization 
  • Hands-on hardware experience through internships, research, design competitions, or extracurricular projects 

Nice to Have 

  • Internship or research experience with solar arrays or power systems for space applications 
  • Exposure to solar cell or module characterization techniques (IV curves, electroluminescence, flash testing) 
  • Familiarity with structural analysis tools (Nastran, ANSYS, or equivalent) or thermal analysis tools 
  • Familiarity with space environment effects on materials, including radiation, thermal cycling, and atomic oxygen 
  • Experience with CAD software (NX, CATIA, SolidWorks) and practical GD&T application 
  • Exposure to manufacturing processes such as soldering, layup, or electromechanical assembly 
  • Python or MATLAB proficiency for data analysis 
  • Independent and self-motivated mindset with strong organizational, written, and oral communication skills 

Compensation and Benefits: 

  • Base salary range for this role is $100,000 - $140,000 + equity in the company 
  • Salary and level will be based on several factors including, but not limited to: knowledge and skills, education, and experience level 
  • Comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, medical/dental/vision coverage, life insurance, paid parental leave, and many other perks 
K2 Space logo

About K2 Space

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Year founded

2022

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