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Solar Designer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

PCB DESIGNER (STARLINK) SpaceX is leveraging its experience in building rockets and spacecraft to ... You'll contribute to a variety of design mixes from radio phased arrays to solar power converters ...

PCB Designer (Starlink)

Redmond, WA · On-site

$115K - $145K/yr

PCB DESIGNER (STARLINK) SpaceX is leveraging its experience in building rockets and spacecraft to ... You'll contribute to a variety of design mixes from radio phased arrays to solar power converters ...

As a Permanent Lighting Technician, you'll deliver high quality LED lighting solutions designed to ... About Ambia: Ambia is a leading solar and home improvement company with a mission to help ...

By moving compute into orbit, we tap nearly unlimited solar power and radiate heat straight into ... better designs across successive spacecraft. * Build the team: hire, manage, and mentor the ...

Showing results 21-40

Solar Designer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$15

$29

$43

How much do solar designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for solar designer in Seattle, WA is $29.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.51 and $34.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Solar Designer jobs in Seattle, WA?

The most popular types of Solar Designer jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Solar Designer jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Solar Designer jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Solar Designer job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 49% In-person, and 51% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $60,636 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

Automation & Controls Engineer, Solar (Starlink)

SpaceX

Redmond, WA • On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 149 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
AUTOMATION & CONTROLS ENGINEER, SOLAR (STARLINK)
Starlink is the world's largest satellite constellation providing fast, reliable internet to millions of users worldwide. We design, build, test, and operate all parts of the system - thousands of satellites, consumer receivers and the software that brings it all together.
As a member of the Starlink Solar Automation Team you will work with a cross-disciplinary team of engineers developing the next generation Starlink solar array and the production system that will create it.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Design, build, qualify and implement projects spanning machine design, robotics and manufacturing processes from initial ideation to production use.
  • Architect, write, and debug PLC code.
  • Implement vision systems for robotic guidance, quality control and data collection.
  • Design systems to control processes, track factory performance and collaborate across teams to increase manufacturing efficiency in a data driven way.
  • Design user interfaces that make complex machines easy to use and troubleshoot.
  • Create electrical, pneumatic and fluid schematics for control panels.
  • Keep our factories safe by implementing ANSI/RIA15.06/OSHA compliant systems.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science/Engineering or another STEM field.
  • 1+ years' experience in the design and commissioning of automation and controls systems for manufacturing (internships/co-ops can apply).

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Hands on experience with at least one of the specific disciplines below and interest in learning the other areas you are not yet strong in:
Industrial Automation:
  • Automation Hardware: PLC's, COTS Robots, servo motion, machine vision, distributed IO, pneumatic controls, etc.
  • Field Bus Networking protocols: EtherCAT, Profinet, Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP/RTU, etc.
  • Machinery and processes: dispenser, pick and place, fastener installation, automated bonding, thermo-compression, soldering, ultrasonic welding, temperature & position control, injection molders, die casters, etc. and design for manufacturing.
  • Applied Statistical Process Control and other data tools (descriptive, inferential, regression, correlation) to improve manufacturing processes.
  • Safely testing and commissioning integrated systems

Software:
  • PLC programming, preferably Beckhoff TwinCAT structured text, state machines, applying Object Oriented Programming to mechanical assemblies, electrical systems, sensors, pneumatics/hydraulics, etc.
  • Robotics programming, preferably ABB Rapid.
  • HMI, SCADA, IoT (MQTT, OPC-UA), SQL, C#, .NET, Python.
  • Industrial machine vision, Cognex Vision Pro preferred, Halcon & OpenCV acceptable.

Electrical:
  • Electrical sizing of motors, cables, circuit protection, VFD's, motor starters, various other motion systems.
  • Design of fail-safe electrical circuits using both safety logic controllers and safety-rated relays.
  • Hands-on experience troubleshooting industrial electrical systems using tools like multimeters, oscilloscopes, EMI probes.
  • Proficiency in understanding and creating electrical schematics and single line diagrams (EPLAN preferred).
  • Analog signal integrity and EMI reduction.
  • Hands-on experience designing and commissioning high quality electrical panels and electro-mechanical systems with appropriate safety considerations in mind.
  • Knowledge of NEC, NFPA, UL508A codes with ability to ensure compliance with control system safety standards.
  • Proven ability to solve complex problems with simple solutions and little supervision.
  • Excited by a fast-paced environment, strong desire and ability to learn quickly and adapt.
  • Excellent communication skills both written and verbal.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
Must be willing to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed to meet mission critical deadlines.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay Range:
Level 1: $100,000.00 - $117,500.00
Level 2: $115,000.00 - $140,000.00
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees in Washington State accrue paid sick time in compliance with state and federal law. Company shuttles are offered to employees for roundtrip travel from select Seattle locations to the SpaceX Redmond office Monday to Friday.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
    Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to

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About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US