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Solar Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 · 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 ...

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.

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.

SunEnergy1

Design Engineer

Bethel, NC

We are seeking a skilled Design Engineer to support the design and development of utility-scale ... Design utility-scale solar PV systems, including layout, structural, electrical, and civil ...

SunEnergy1LLC

Design Engineer

Hamburg, AR · On-site

We are seeking a skilled Design Engineer to support the design and development of utility-scale ... Design utility-scale solar PV systems, including layout, structural, electrical, and civil ...

Walbec Group

Solar Design Technician

Waukesha, WI · On-site

The Solar Design Technician will work with a project team throughout the design and construction ... Associate's degree in engineering technology or Renewable Energy Systems * Working knowledge of ...

SunEnergy1LLC

Design Engineer

Shawboro, NC · On-site

We are seeking a skilled Design Engineer to support the design and development of utility-scale ... Design utility-scale solar PV systems, including layout, structural, electrical, and civil ...

SunEnergy1LLC

Design Engineer

Jackson, OH · On-site

We are seeking a skilled Design Engineer to support the design and development of utility-scale ... Design utility-scale solar PV systems, including layout, structural, electrical, and civil ...

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Solar Design Engineer information

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$35.5K

$62.2K

$87.5K

How much do solar design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar design engineer in the United States is $62,190.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,000.00 and $67,000.00 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.
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Solar Design Engineer jobs near you
Principal Solar Design Engineer

Principal Solar Design Engineer

K2 Space

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$175K - $200K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted yesterday

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. Scaling to constellations requires someone who can span technical domains from module technology and electrical power system interactions to soft goods, deployment mechanisms, structures, integration, and high-rate production. 

You will define how K2 develops, designs, manufactures, tests, and deploys high-power solar arrays at production scale. The development timelines, operating environments, mission lifetimes, and cost targets we are pursuing demand meaningful innovation. You will have the resources and full support of K2 to make this possible and help raise the bar for the next generation of space technology companies. 

Responsibilities 

  • Delivery of the solar array electrical and mechanical architecture, system design, and lifecycle performance margins. 
  • Development of the electrical system performance degradation characterization and modelling across environment variations 
  • Definition and execution of assembly level acceptance and qualification testing. 
  • Collaborate with avionics, structures/mechanisms, software, and production teams to define solar system requirements, integrated system qualification/acceptance testing, and on-orbit operations/data review 
  • Lead design reviews, continually own system deliverables, and drive development schedules with accurate projections looking 12+ months ahead in development timeline 
  • Collaborate with leadership on staffing plans, role definitions, and recruiting efforts to ensure the solar array team is appropriately staffed to meet system deliverables 
  • Responsible for the evaluation and selection of manufacturing equipment for specialty processes 
  • Partner with production to develop work instructions, in-process checkouts, and end-of-line tests that ensure successful builds 

Qualifications 

  • Bachelor's degree in physics, materials science, mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, electrical 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 systems for space applications; including initial requirement definition, development testing, design, manufacturing, qualification, and analysis of flight data.  
  • Background working on multiple solar array systems with variations in cell, module, and system architecture technologies for high-power long-life space applications.  
  • Experience with AIAA S111/S112, SMC-S-016, NASA-STD-5017, and NASA-STD-4005 for the design and qualification of solar modules, moving mechanism assemblies, and spacecraft charging effects. 
  • Experience designing solar arrays for resilience to exposure to radiation environments. 
  • Demonstrated understanding of structural analysis and failure modes of complex mechanical systems in space environments and operations 
  • Demonstrated understanding of high voltage solar array degradation analysis and failure modes. 
  • Independent and self-motivated mindset, with strong organizational, written, and oral communication skills across disciplines 

Compensation and Benefits: 

  • Base salary range for this role is $175,000 - $200,000 + 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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