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Solar Design Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Ameresco

Senior Project Manager

Portland, OR · On-site

$111K - $161K/yr

This individual will lead complex Energy Performance Contracting (EPC), Design-Build, and solar PV, battery energy storage systems (BESS), and renewable energy construction projects from development ...

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All JobsSolar Design JobsSolar Design Jobs in Portland, OR

Solar Design information

See Portland, OR salary details

$37.6K

$66K

$92.8K

How much do solar design jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar design in Portland, OR is $65,952.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,300.00 and $71,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a solar design?

A Solar Design job involves creating plans and layouts for solar energy systems in residential, commercial, or industrial settings. Solar designers assess site conditions, calculate energy needs, and use software to design efficient photovoltaic (PV) systems. They ensure compliance with local regulations, utility requirements, and industry standards. Their work helps optimize energy production while minimizing costs and environmental impact.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in solar design, and why are they important?

To excel in Solar Design, you typically need a background in engineering or renewable energy, strong mathematical skills, and experience with photovoltaic (PV) system design. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, PV*SOL, or Helioscope, as well as knowledge of relevant safety codes and certifications like NABCEP, is often required. Strong attention to detail, creative problem-solving, and clear communication help you effectively collaborate with clients, contractors, and team members. These skills and qualities ensure efficient, compliant, and innovative solar energy solutions tailored to client needs and project specifications.

What are some common challenges faced by solar design professionals on the job?

Solar Design professionals often encounter the challenge of adapting system designs to complex site conditions, such as shading, roof layouts, or local regulations. Coordinating with multiple project stakeholders—including engineers, installation crews, and permitting authorities—can also require strong organizational and communication skills. Additionally, staying updated on evolving technologies and incentive programs is essential for creating cost-effective and compliant designs. These challenges make the work dynamic and rewarding for those who enjoy problem-solving and continuous learning.

Is working in solar design a good career path?

Solar design is a growing field that involves creating system layouts for solar energy installations, requiring skills in electrical design and knowledge of solar technology. It offers opportunities in renewable energy industries, often with a need for certifications and proficiency in design software. The career can be stable and rewarding as demand for solar energy increases globally.

What are the most commonly searched types of Solar Design jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Solar Design jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Solar Design jobs in Portland, OR?

For Solar Design jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Solar Design jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Solar Design jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Solar Design jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Solar Design job openings:

Solar Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Solar Design job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,952 per year, or $31.7 per hour.

Project Manager - Solar Division

Neil Kelly Company Inc

Portland, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Neil Kelly Company is seeking an experienced Project Manager to join our Solar team. If you have a solid understanding of solar and/or construction project management, ease with technology, and the ability to track projects from start to finish, we invite you to apply!

About Neil Kelly

Founded in 1947 with a $100 investment, Neil Kelly has grown into one of the Pacific Northwest’s most respected residential remodeling firms. We are known for award-winning design, exceptional craftsmanship, sustainability leadership, and a culture grounded in integrity, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

We build projects. We build careers. And we build long-term client relationships.

What You'll Do

  • Lead and oversee the solar installation team, ensuring proper scheduling, workload distribution, and safety compliance.
  • Ensure high-quality installations that meet client expectations and job budgets.
  • Collaborate with the solar team on design, budgeting, and feasibility while verifying the accuracy of the one-line diagram.
  • Handle documentation and coordination for incentives, interconnections, permits, and inspections.
  • Manage material orders and provide accurate job costing information to optimize project costs.
  • Work with engineers to fulfill requirements from Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).
  • Facilitate permitting and coordinating inspections with AHJ.
  • Collaborate with administrative support to provide clients with system manuals, invoices, and tax documents.

Who We're Looking For

  • Minimum of 3 years experience in the solar industry, preferably in solar project management.  
  • Familiarity with current coding requirements. 
  • Proficiency in developing and adapting short and long-range work programs for project completion. 
  • Experience in planning, assigning, coordinating, and evaluating work for employees and trade contractors. 
  • Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously with various teams and quick turnaround. 
  • Strong attention to detail, excellent verbal and written communication skills, and a direct communication style.
  • Ability to pass required pre-employment screenings including criminal background, motor vehicle report, and drug screenings.
  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

Compensation & Benefits

This role offers a monthly base salary in addition to commissions. Benefits include:

  • Monthly vehicle stiped.
  • Monthly cell phone stipend.
  • Comprehensive health insurance including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • Flexible spending and health savings accounts.
  • Paid holiday, sick, and vacation time
  • Company paid long-term disability and life insurance.
  • 401(k) retirement plan.
  • Additional voluntary benefits including pet, accident, and hospital indemnity insurance.

This is a full-time, onsite role with a Monday through Friday schedule with some flexibility based on business needs. Regular travel throughout the Portland market and surrounding areas to job sites is required.

To learn more about Neil Kelly, please visit our website: https://www.neilkelly.com/

Neil Kelly is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status. To ensure the utmost safety and security for our clients and employees, we are a drug free workplace. Final candidates will be submitted for a background, reference check, and drug screen.