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Solar Developer Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

Solar Project Manager

Austin, TX · On-site +1

$160K - $250K/yr

Drive end-to-end delivery of utility-scale solar and BESS projects from development handoff through ... Build and own integrated project schedules (Primavera P6, MS Project) across engineering ...

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Solar Developer information

See Austin, TX salary details

$16

$52

$80

How much do solar developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for solar developer in Austin, TX is $52.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.00 and $64.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Solar Developer, you need expertise in renewable energy project development, strong knowledge of permitting and regulatory processes, and a background in engineering, environmental science, or related fields. Familiarity with project management software, GIS mapping tools, and financial modeling platforms is typically required, and certifications like NABCEP can be advantageous. Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills help you collaborate with stakeholders, secure land agreements, and navigate project challenges. These skills are crucial for successfully advancing solar projects from concept to completion while ensuring regulatory compliance and stakeholder satisfaction.

How does a solar developer make money?

A solar developer makes money by designing, developing, and managing solar projects, earning revenue through project sales, leasing agreements, or power purchase agreements (PPAs). They may also receive development fees, incentives, or tax credits for successful project completion and operation, often requiring knowledge of industry regulations and project management skills.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

For a Solar Developer, annual salaries of $300,000 or more are typically found in senior roles such as senior project managers, executive-level positions, or those with extensive experience and specialized skills in project development, financing, and regulatory compliance. High earnings often depend on factors like location, company size, and individual performance, with some professionals earning bonuses or profit sharing that boost total compensation.

What are the typical challenges a Solar Developer faces during project development and how are they addressed?

Solar Developers often encounter challenges such as securing suitable land, navigating complex permitting processes, and managing stakeholder expectations. These obstacles are addressed by conducting thorough site assessments, building strong relationships with local authorities, and maintaining clear communication with landowners and community members. Additionally, successful Solar Developers collaborate closely with engineers, legal teams, and financiers to ensure projects remain on track and compliant with regulations, paving the way for smooth project execution.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

High-paying jobs that can reach or exceed $500,000 annually include executive roles such as CEOs, CFOs, and other C-suite positions, as well as specialized professions like investment bankers, certain medical specialists, and successful entrepreneurs. These roles often require extensive experience, advanced skills, and significant responsibility, and may involve bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing. In the context of a solar developer, top executives or business owners in the renewable energy sector can also achieve such income levels.

What are Solar Developers?

Solar Developers are professionals who manage the planning, development, and execution of solar energy projects. They identify suitable sites, secure permits, arrange financing, and coordinate construction to bring solar power installations online. Solar Developers work closely with landowners, government agencies, engineers, and utility companies to ensure projects are completed efficiently and in compliance with regulations. Their work is crucial for increasing the adoption of renewable energy and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

What jobs will no longer exist in 2030?

By 2030, roles that rely heavily on manual or repetitive tasks, such as certain assembly line positions or data entry jobs, are expected to decline due to automation and AI advancements. Jobs requiring routine physical or administrative work may be replaced by machines or software, while roles emphasizing technical skills like solar development are likely to grow. Adaptation to new technologies and skills will be key for future employment.
What are popular job titles related to Solar Developer jobs in Austin, TX? For Solar Developer jobs in Austin, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Solar Developer jobs? Cities near Austin, TX with the most Solar Developer job openings:
Infographic showing various Solar Developer job openings in Austin, TX as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,913 per year, or $52.4 per hour.
Mechanical Engineer, Solar Cell Factory (Starlink)

Mechanical Engineer, Solar Cell Factory (Starlink)

SpaceX

Bastrop, TX • On-site

Other

Re-posted 17 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 61 rated aerospace companies


Job description

MECHANICAL ENGINEER, SOLAR CELLS (STARLINK) 

The Solar Cell team is revolutionizing power generation for space applications through advanced solar cell manufacturing. We're scaling production of high-efficiency solar cells to support sustainable energy solutions for Starlink constellations, launch vehicles, and beyond. As a Solar Cell Factory Mechanical Engineer, you will design, build, and optimize mechanical and automation systems for the production of solar cell manufacturing equipment and material movement mechanisms. This role requires a detail-oriented engineer passionate about safe electrical design, designing robust and efficient mechanical systems, and taking on total ownership of existing systems for optimization in addition to development of novel equipment, all while minimizing risks and maximizing efficiency in our cutting-edge solar cell factory.

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

  • Own electronics manufacturing subsystems and equipment from conceptual design through high-volume production and automation ramp
  • Develop design criteria, collaborate on requirements, and drive system-level optimization
  • Test and iterate on products by performing failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA), reliability modeling, and stress testing to predict and mitigate potential failures and drive high overall equipment effectiveness
  • Design and develop the production lines that manufacture your product, including robot end effector design, process development, control system design, automation programming, and more
  • Uptime Optimization: Monitor and track equipment uptime metrics using data analytics tools; identify bottlenecks, downtime causes, and implement preventive measures such as predictive maintenance schedules to maximize operational availability
  • Evaluate and select equipment suppliers based on reliability, performance requirements and core business needs; oversee installation, commissioning, and ongoing performance of vendor-supplied process equipment to ensure target rate, yield and uptime is achieved

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: 

  • Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline 
  • Experience with CAD and FEA software packages 
  • 1+ years of professional experience with mechanical/electromechanical design, analysis, testing, and/or manufacturing (internship experience is applicable)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: 

  • Master's degree in engineering or a related technical discipline 
  • 3+ years of professional experience in mechanical design and analysis
  • 2+ years of hands-on project experience with complex mechanical systems, preferably as a team lead
  • Proficient in 3D CAD (NX preferred)
  • Solid understanding and application of GD&T, mechanical engineering fundamentals, structural analysis, and failure modes of complex mechanical systems
  • Prior ownership of a complex component or assembly from initial design through high-volume production ramp
  • Familiarity with manufacturing processes and how to design for manufacturability
  • Exposure to some variety of production machinery, industrial sensors, and equipment (motion systems, dispense systems, temperature controllers, laser distance sensors, injection molders, die casters, etc.)
  • Self-motivated with strong organizational, written, and oral communication skills

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

  • Ability to work long hours and weekends as necessary to support critical milestones 

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