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Solar Design Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

K2 Space

Senior Solar Manufacturing Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$140K - $175K/yr

Engineered to survive the harshest radiation environments and to fully capitalize on today's and ... Drive design-for-manufacturing feedback into array and module designs in partnership with the Solar ...

Maxar

Sr. Photovoltaic Design Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$104K - $173K/yr

Develop and maintain solar array on-orbit power predictions for spacecraft programs. * Analyze on ... Provide engineering approval for subsystem and spacecraft design reviews. * Coordinate with thermal ...

Astranis

Harness Design Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$105K - $165K/yr

Astranis builds advanced satellites for high orbits, expanding humanity's reach into the solar ... Harness Design Engineer The Harness Engineer is responsible for designing wire harnesses for both ...

Trimark Associates

Project Design Engineer

Folsom, CA · On-site

Salary: $85,000 - $120,000 Join our Engineering and Design team as a Project Design Engineer with ... solar and renewable energy, and work in collaboration with the brightest minds in renewable ...

RASIRC

Design Engineer II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

RASIRC is seeking a passionate and dynamic Design Engineer II to join our team. If you're someone ... display, and solar next generation technologies. Key Responsibilities: * Design, develop ...

Trimark Associates, Inc

Project Design Engineer

Folsom, CA · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

Join our Engineering and Design team as a Project Design Engineer with an emphasis on SCADA to work ... solar and renewable energy, and work in collaboration with the brightest minds in renewable ...

RASIRC

Design Engineer II

San Diego, CA

$85K - $100K/yr

RASIRC is seeking a passionate and dynamic Design Engineer II to join our team. If you're someone ... display, and solar next generation technologies. Key Responsibilities: * Design, develop ...

Maxar

Sr. Mechanical Design Engineer

San Jose, CA

$104K - $173K/yr

Lanteris Space is seeking a self-motivated and innovative Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join our Solar Array, Battery, and Mechanisms team at our San Jose, CA office. In this role, you will ...

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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 Jun 11, 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 often leadership roles or working in high-paying industries or companies.

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 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.

How much do solar design engineers make in the US?

Solar design engineers in the US typically earn between $70,000 and $100,000 annually, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start around $60,000, while experienced engineers with specialized skills can earn over $110,000. The role often requires knowledge of solar energy systems, CAD software, and relevant industry standards.

Is EEe a high paying job?

A Solar Design Engineer typically earns a competitive salary that varies based on experience, location, and certifications. The role often requires knowledge of electrical systems, solar energy technologies, and design software, which can influence earning potential. Overall, it is considered a well-paying profession within the renewable energy industry.

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.

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

Senior Solar Manufacturing Engineer

K2 Space

Los Angeles, CA

$140K - $175K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

The Role 

You will lead the transformation of solar array designs into reliable, flight-ready hardware at scale. Deeply embedded in the build of solar modules and photovoltaic arrays, you'll operate at the center of production to drive process development, solve complex manufacturing challenges, and ensure hardware is built with precision, repeatability, and speed. 

You'll own critical manufacturing processes end-to-end, from early design engagement through production ramp and sustained operations. This role is built for someone who combines strong technical judgement with a bias for action. Your impact will extend beyond individual builds, shaping the foundation of manufacturing systems designed to deliver high-performance solar hardware, reliability and at scale, for mission pushing the boundaries of what's possible in space.  

Responsibilities 

  • Own manufacturing processes for solar modules, photovoltaic array integration, and associated mechanical structures from development through production 
  • Develop, qualify, and maintain assembly procedures, tooling requirements, and build sequences that make flawless execution repeatable at scale 
  • Drive design-for-manufacturing feedback into array and module designs in partnership with the Solar Design team, identifying producibility risks early in the design cycle 
  • Lead root cause investigation and corrective action on build escapes, non-conformances, and process failures 
  • Support sourcing and qualification of manufacturing equipment, fixtures, and tooling; manage vendor relationships to ensure on-spec delivery 
  • Mentor and technically guide Manufacturing Engineering team members 
  • Represent manufacturing engineering in design reviews and build readiness reviews 

Qualifications 

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical, manufacturing, aerospace, materials or other relevant engineering discipline 
  • 5+ years of experience in a high-volume manufacturing, production, or hands-on engineering environment 
  • Experience working with photovoltaic modules, solar cells, or electromechanical array assemblies 
  • Demonstrated ownership of end-to-end manufacturing processes in high-rate environments, including process documentation, tooling, and build execution 
  • Track record of driving DFM improvements that tangibly reduced cost, cycle time, or defect rate 
  • Strong cross-functional collaboration skills and comfortable engaging Design, Quality, and Supply Chain teams to resolve issues and close builds 

Nice to Have 

  • Hands-on background in high-volume or automated solar manufacturing environments 
  • Experience ramping a production line from pilot builds to sustained production rate 
  • Experience in space, defense, or other high-reliability manufacturing environments with rigorous acceptance test requirements 
  • Experience working closely with technicians and build tooling 
  • Familiarity with CAD software (NX or equivalent) and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) 

Compensation and Benefits: 

  • Base salary range for this role is $140,000 - $175,000 + equity in the company 
  • Salary 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 

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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