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Solar Designer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

IPL (Indiana)

Senior CAD Designer

Arlington, VA

$83K - $99K/yr

Familiarity with solar PV designs, site designs and layout considerations * Basic understanding of electrical plans, diagrams, and terminology * Superb problem solving and critical thinking skills

Sunrun Inc.

Solar Appointment Setter

Richmond, VA · On-site

$160K/yr

To do it, we're designing a dynamic culture where employee development, well-being, and safety come first. It's why we've become the #1 home solar and battery company in America. We're unlike any ...

Bechtel

Senior Civil Designer

Reston, VA

$123K - $178K/yr

The diverse portfolio also includes renewable energy projects encompassing Solar, Wind and Pumped ... Your recommendations will ensure designs and work plans are in accordance with project scope ...

Bechtel

Senior Civil Designer

Reston, VA · On-site

$123K - $178K/yr

The diverse portfolio also includes renewable energy projects encompassing Solar, Wind and Pumped ... Your recommendations will ensure designs and work plans are in accordance with project scope ...

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All JobsSolar Designer JobsSolar Designer Jobs in Virginia

Solar Designer information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$25

$38

How much do solar designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for solar designer in Virginia is $25.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.48 and $29.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Solar Designers?

Solar Designers are professionals who specialize in planning and creating solar energy systems for residential, commercial, or industrial use. They assess a site’s solar potential, design the layout for solar panel installations, and ensure the system meets both the client’s needs and regulatory standards. Their work involves using specialized software to model energy production, account for shading and orientation, and create detailed installation plans. Solar Designers play a crucial role in making sure solar projects are efficient, safe, and cost-effective.

How does a Solar Designer typically collaborate with engineers and project managers during the solar project lifecycle?

Solar Designers work closely with engineers to ensure that their system layouts are technically viable and meet safety and regulatory standards. They also collaborate with project managers to align design timelines with overall project schedules and to address site-specific challenges, such as shading or roof structure. Regular meetings and design reviews help identify potential issues early, improving project efficiency. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as changes in design can impact installation timelines and costs.

What is the difference between Solar Designer vs Solar Installer?

AspectSolar DesignerSolar Installer
CredentialsTypically requires engineering or technical certifications, design experienceRequires installation certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, CAD software, client meetingsConstruction sites, rooftops, outdoor environments
Industry UsageInvolved in planning, designing, and system layoutInvolved in physical installation and wiring

Solar Designers focus on creating system plans, layouts, and ensuring optimal performance, often working in offices with CAD tools. Solar Installers physically set up the systems on-site, handling installation, wiring, and safety. Both roles are essential in the solar industry but differ in daily tasks and required skills.

What Is a Solar Designer?

A solar designer develops an energy solution using a photovoltaic system to boost performance and improve power efficiency. In this career, you conduct an assessment of the current situation and install the cells and modules in compliance with local building codes. You then connect it to the existing equipment and test its integrity. You also seal it for peak sustainability and energy cost-savings. Many solar designers work as self-employed contractors. While you typically work on standalone projects, you may find some opportunities with solar power farms. The responsibilities are physically demanding, and adherence to safety standards to prevent falls is imperative.

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

To thrive as a Solar Designer, you need a solid understanding of electrical and mechanical engineering principles, proficiency in solar PV system design, and typically a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with design software like AutoCAD, PVsyst, Helioscope, and relevant certifications such as NABCEP are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication make someone stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for creating efficient, safe, and code-compliant solar energy systems that meet client needs and regulatory standards.
More about Solar Designer jobs
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What are popular job titles related to Solar Designer jobs in VA? For Solar Designer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Solar Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Solar Designer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 88% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,825 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Senior CAD Designer

IPL (Indiana)

Arlington, VA

$83K - $99K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Are you ready to be part of a companythat'snot just talking about the future, but actively shaping it? Join The AES Corporation, the largest US-based global power company witha teamof 8,300employees across 12 countries.
AES has beenranked #1 byBloombergNEFin renewable energy sales to corporations in the US and Americas for five consecutive years, providing electricityformillions of peopleworldwide.
We are proud to foster a strong workplace culture, earning prominent positions in Great Place to Work rankings across the markets where weoperate. AES was also named one of the World's Most Ethical Companies for the 13th consecutive year in 2026, highlighting our dedication to integrity, transparency, and responsible business practices.

Our spirit of innovation continues to earn industry recognition. AES is the only seven-time winner of the Edison Electric Institute's Edison Awards in the twenty-first century, a distinction honoringglobal leadership in advancing the electric power industry.
Ifyou'reready to be part of a companythat'snot just adapting to change, but driving it, AES is the place for you.We'renot just building a more sustainable future,we'repowering it. Apply now and energize your career with a true leader inglobalenergy.


AES Clean Energy is seeking a CAD professional with 5+ years of experience in the renewable industry to join our growing team of renewable energy experts working to expand AES' portfolio of owner-operated commercial, industrial, and utility scale renewable power plants. The successful candidate will work closely with Development Engineers to design and draft solar PV and battery energy storage system (BESS) project layouts. Project work will be focused on creating site plans, layouts for early-stage designs and single line diagrams.

This position is currently a flexible work location with the potential for in-person office locations. Preferred AES in-person locations are Salt Lake City, UT, Louisville, CO, San Francisco, CA, New York City, NY, or Arlington, VA. The role may include up to 10% travel to project locations and partner offices.

Key Responsibilities
  • Collaborate with Development Engineers and Engineering Managers to produce preliminary Autocad site plans, layouts and design packages
  • Work independently and with a team to meet established deadlines
  • Integrate and analyze field survey data with assistance from SMEs
  • Generate drawings that are in line with company drawing standards and templates
  • Follow quality control procedures for completeness, accuracy, and code compliance
  • Be proactive when communicating with the team
  • Generate Bill of Materials from CAD drawings
  • Provide Civil and Electrical construction details for PV and BESS
Skills and Qualifications

Primary Qualifications

  • 2 year AAS degree in Computer Aided Design and Drafting or equivalent
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD
  • 5+ years of drafting/design experience in the solar PV or renewable industry
  • Familiarity with solar PV designs, site designs and layout considerations
  • Basic understanding of electrical plans, diagrams, and terminology
  • Superb problem solving and critical thinking skills
  • Willingness to learn and grow technically
  • Detail oriented with excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Proficiency with MS Office applications
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D
  • Proficiency working with shapefiles

"Plus" Qualifications

  • Familiarity with civil and grading design
  • High voltage/substation experience
  • Familiarity with regional civil constraints of the Eastern United States, including wetland and floodplain impacts and Karst topography
AES is an Equal Opportunity Employer who is committed to building strength and delivering long-term sustainability through diversity and inclusion. Respecting all backgrounds, differences and perspectives enables us to improve the lives of our people, customers, suppliers, contractors, and the communities in which we live and work. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and/or expression, race, national origin, ethnicity, age, religion, marital status, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical condition, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law. E-Verify Notice: AES will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with information from each new employee's I-9 to confirm work authorization.The expected salary for this position, at commencement of employment, is between $83,000 and $99,450/year; however, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package for this position also includes annual bonus. The benefits offered for this position are: medical, dental, and vision coverage, life insurance, 401(k) eligibility, and paid time off (including vacation, sick leave time, and parental leave). Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if a candidate receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.Apply by clicking the application link below and submitting your information. The deadline to apply for this role is 08/06/2026

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