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Solar Designer Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Ameresco

Senior Project Manager

Portland, OR

$111K - $161K/yr

This individual will lead complex Energy Performance Contracting (EPC), Design-Build, and solar PV ... Lead commissioning activities and ensure systems perform designed. * Develop and manage project ...

Varsity Tutors

Astronomy Tutor

Portland, OR · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... solar system formation, galaxies, black holes, and the expanding universe. Ability to explain ... Our platform is designed to match students with the right tutors, fostering better outcomes and a ...

Iberdrola

Lead Civil Engineer

Portland, OR

$108K - $143K/yr

... Turbine and Solar PV fleet and for resolving issues related to civil and structural systems ... Identifies, analyzes and compares opportunities, Designs and develops prototypes and elaborates ...

Iberdrola

Lead Civil Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

... Turbine and Solar PV fleet and for resolving issues related to civil and structural systems ... Identifies, analyzes and compares opportunities, Designs and develops prototypes and elaborates ...

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All JobsSolar Designer JobsSolar Designer Jobs in Portland, OR

Solar Designer information

See Portland, OR salary details

$14

$27

$40

How much do solar designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for solar designer in Portland, OR is $27.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.97 and $31.97 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
What are the most commonly searched types of Solar Designer jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Solar Designer jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Solar Designer jobs in Portland, OR? For Solar Designer jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Solar Designer jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Solar Designer jobs in Portland, OR are:
Solar Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Solar Designer job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 84% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,506 per year, or $27.2 per hour.
SENIOR MATERIAL DESIGNER, CORE FOOTWEAR, NIKE INC.

SENIOR MATERIAL DESIGNER, CORE FOOTWEAR, NIKE INC.

Nike

Beaverton, OR • On-site

$106K - $113K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Nike rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 274 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 104 rated fashion retailers

Job description

WHO YOU'LL WORK WITH
As a Senior Designer in Core, this individual partners with other design functions-including industrial, color, material, and graphics-as well as cross-functional teams such as athletes, manufacturing, material development, operations, merchandising, sustainability, and technology. They lead material design for footwear projects from concept through final approval. The Senior Designer also engages with the broader design community and reports directly to the Core Material Design Director.
WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR
Nike seeks a highly collaborative Senior Footwear Materials Designer with proven experience, strong problem-solving skills, and creativity to advance Nike Footwear Materials. The ideal candidate excels at translating consumer insights into material palettes, demonstrates both broad and specialized material expertise, and maintains attention to detail while managing multiple projects. This role is part of the Nike Core Footwear team, which spans performance categories-including Running, Basketball, and Training-as well as Sportswear, such as Air Max, at entry-level products. The team also oversees the Nike Solar collection of sandals and slides.
  • To be considered, you must submit a creative design portfolio. Please provide website links or attach pdf files when you apply.
  • Bachelor's degree in design or related field. Will accept any suitable combination of education and experience, and training.
  • Ideally 5+ years of relevant design experience
  • Creative experience (consumer/segment/dimensions)
  • Digital design acumen (design-based software a must: Creative Suite)
  • Cobbling and prototyping skills are a plus
  • 3D design program experience is a plus
  • Experience with presentation programs: Keynote, PowerPoint are a plus
  • Positive, collaborative approach
  • Ability to approach projects with passion and influence through teamwork
  • Open-minded, receptive to candid feedback and diverse perspectives
  • Curious and adaptable to change
  • Ability to see potential in every design challenge
  • Understand project briefs and budgets, and innovate within parameters
  • Deliver on timelines and deadlines with attention to detail and clear communication

WHAT YOU'LL WORK ON
As a Senior Designer on the Core Footwear team, you will collaborate with a highly creative group dedicated to advancing Nike's core athlete offerings through innovative materials at accessible price points. This team works across a variety of products, giving you the opportunity to experience different product lines in the same role. You will develop distinctive material palettes for new products, innovate within the brief and budget, oversee the material journey throughout the product lifecycle, and lead seasonal and premium updates in partnership with color and graphic design teams.
Success in this role requires the ability to influence and innovate within a large, dynamic team, leveraging manufacturing processes to elevate material concepts. You will actively participate in the creative process, communicate design ideas effectively to diverse audiences using compelling tools, and foster strong cross-functional relationships.
Key responsibilities include:
  • Collaborating with material development and vendors to ensure all materials meet Nike standards and align with seasonal aesthetics and product performance
  • Delivering clear and compelling material solutions for seasonal projects, consistent with creative direction and meeting the project brief
  • Traveling regionally and internationally for consumer and athlete insights, as well as factory visits
  • Keeping the athlete and consumer voice at the center of the work by considering feedback, wear tests, and reviews to improve the product at each stage-focusing on comfort, fit, and durability
  • Upholding high standards for quality and craft, and making necessary adjustments to maintain these standards
  • Preparing tech packs, material briefs, and CADs that clearly convey the material palette and product build, while making cost-effective adjustments at each sample stage
  • Championing clarity in documentation, presentations, and reporting to support informed decision-making, while following internal processes and sustainability goals

Relationship building and collaboration are essential for success and career growth at Nike.
We offer a number of accommodations to complete our interview process including screen readers, sign language interpreters, accessible and single location for in-person interviews, closed captioning, and other reasonable modifications as needed. If you discover, as you navigate our application process, that you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please complete the Candidate Accommodation Request Form.

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