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Solar Design Internship Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

K2 Space

Solar Design Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$100K - $140K/yr

Internship or research experience with solar arrays or power systems for space applications ... Experience with CAD software (NX, CATIA, SolidWorks) and practical GD&T application * Exposure to ...

K2 Space

Solar Design Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Internship or research experience with solar arrays or power systems for space applications ... Experience with CAD software (NX, CATIA, SolidWorks) and practical GD&T application * Exposure to ...

K2 Space

Solar Design Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Internship or research experience with solar arrays or power systems for space applications ... Experience with CAD software (NX, CATIA, SolidWorks) and practical GD&T application * Exposure to ...

Starpath

Test Engineer - Space Solar

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

Influence hardware design from a testability perspective - flag instrumentation access, alignment ... experience (internship and academic research applicable) * Hands-on experience with test ...

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Solar Design Internship information

What is a solar design internship?

A Solar Design Internship is an entry-level position where students or recent graduates gain hands-on experience in the planning and designing of solar energy systems. Interns typically work under the supervision of experienced engineers or designers to assist with site assessments, create layout plans using design software, and help prepare technical documentation. This role helps interns develop practical skills in renewable energy technology, project management, and industry-standard tools. Such internships are valuable for building a foundation in the fast-growing solar energy sector and can lead to full-time opportunities in the field.

What are the typical responsibilities of a solar design intern?

As a Solar Design Intern, you'll typically assist in creating and reviewing solar system layouts, performing site assessments, and preparing technical documentation using design software such as AutoCAD or PVsyst. You may also support senior engineers by gathering data, conducting shading analyses, and helping with permitting processes. Your work ensures designs are both efficient and compliant with regulations, directly contributing to the timely and successful execution of solar projects. This collaborative environment offers valuable exposure to engineering best practices and the renewable energy industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a solar design intern?

To thrive as a Solar Design Intern, you need a basic understanding of renewable energy systems, electrical engineering concepts, and proficiency in drafting or design, often supported by enrollment in a relevant engineering or technical degree. Familiarity with design software such as AutoCAD, PVsyst, and Microsoft Office, as well as knowledge of solar modeling tools, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help interns excel in collaborating with teams and solving practical design challenges. These skills are crucial for creating accurate solar project plans that meet client needs and comply with industry standards.

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

AspectSolar Design InternshipSolar Design Engineer
CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in engineering, architecture, or related fieldBachelor’s or Master’s degree in engineering, architecture, or related field; professional licensure often preferred
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, often in renewable energy companies or engineering firmsFull-time professional role, often in design teams or project management
ResponsibilitiesAssisting with design calculations, site assessments, and learning project workflowsCreating detailed solar system designs, performing site analysis, and overseeing project implementation

The Solar Design Internship provides hands-on learning experience for students or recent graduates, focusing on assisting with design tasks. In contrast, the Solar Design Engineer is a full-time role requiring more experience and responsibility in designing and managing solar projects. Both roles are essential in the solar industry, but they differ mainly in experience level and scope of work.

What are the most commonly searched types of Solar Design jobs in California?

The most popular types of Solar Design jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Solar Design Internship jobs in California?

For Solar Design Internship jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Solar Design Internship jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Solar Design Internship jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Solar Design Internship jobs?

Cities in California with the most Solar Design Internship job openings:

Solar Design Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Solar Design Internship job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Solar Design Engineer

K2 Space

Los Angeles, CA

$100K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 23 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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