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Solar Development Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Associate's Degree in an engineering discipline or similar technical discipline and 15 years of relevant technical experience or 2 years of experience as a Development Engineer I at First Solar.

Associate's Degree in an engineering discipline or similar technical discipline and 15 years of relevant technical experience or 2 years of experience as a Development Engineer I at First Solar.

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Solar Development Associate information

What is a solar development associate?

Solar Development Associates are professionals who support the planning, permitting, and development of solar energy projects. They assist with site selection, environmental assessments, regulatory compliance, and project coordination. Their work involves collaborating with engineers, landowners, government agencies, and other stakeholders to move solar projects from inception through construction. Solar Development Associates play a key role in ensuring that projects are feasible, compliant, and completed on schedule.

What are some typical challenges faced by solar development associates during the permitting and site selection process?

Solar Development Associates often encounter challenges such as navigating complex permitting regulations, securing land agreements, and addressing community concerns. Each project may involve coordinating with local authorities, utility companies, and stakeholders to ensure compliance and smooth progress. Successful associates need strong problem-solving and communication skills to manage these hurdles and keep projects on track. Being proactive and detail-oriented is crucial when dealing with evolving policies or unexpected site constraints.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a solar development associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Solar Development Associate, you need a solid understanding of renewable energy markets, project management, and site assessment, often backed by a degree in engineering, environmental science, or a related field. Familiarity with GIS mapping tools, permitting software, and knowledge of regulatory frameworks are typically required. Strong communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills help you navigate stakeholder relationships and address project challenges. These skills and qualifications are crucial to successfully initiating, evaluating, and advancing solar projects in a competitive and evolving industry.

What is the difference between Solar Development Associate vs Solar Project Coordinator?

AspectSolar Development AssociateSolar Project Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, environmental science, or related field; knowledge of solar industryBachelor's degree; project management experience; familiarity with solar projects
Work EnvironmentOffice-based with site visits; collaboration with development teamsOffice and field work; coordinating project activities
Employer & Industry UsageSolar developers, renewable energy firmsSolar project management teams, EPC contractors
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Solar Development Associate focuses on early-stage project development, including site assessment and permitting, while the Solar Project Coordinator manages project execution, scheduling, and coordination during construction. Both roles require related skills and work within the solar industry, but they differ in their primary responsibilities and project phases.

Is it hard to get a job in solar?

Getting a job as a Solar Development Associate can be competitive but is achievable with relevant skills such as project management, knowledge of solar technology, and sometimes a background in engineering or environmental science. Entry-level positions may require some experience or certifications, but the industry is growing and offers opportunities for those with the right qualifications.

What are popular job titles related to Solar Development Associate jobs in California?

For Solar Development Associate jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Solar Development Associate job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Development Engineer Technician I

First Solar

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


First Solar rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 75 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

479th of 540 rated manufacturers


Job description

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset.

Basic Job Functions:

  • Perform solar cell reliability testing in lab environment. 
  • Characterization of electrical and optical properties of solar cell devices.
  • Reliability testing of solar cell devices in various environmental chambers.
  • Monitoring and tracking of reliability chamber health
  • Basic maintenance of reliability chambers
  • Use understanding of engineering & tech skills to interpret instructions into actions and experimental outcomes.
  • May assist in troubleshooting tool/process issues and suggest system improvements to achieve performance goals.
  • May compile and analyze test data from performed testing.

Education/Experience:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent and 4 years of relevant technical experience or 2 years of experience as an Engineering Test Support II at First Solar.

  • Associate's Degree in an engineering discipline or similar technical discipline and 2 years of relevant technical experience or 1 year of experience as an Engineering Test Support II at First Solar.

  • Bachelor's Degree and 1 year of relevant technical experience or 1 year of experience as an Engineering Test Support II at First Solar

Required Skills/Competencies:

  • Ability to perform sample testing, semiconductor device fabrication and/or electrical or optical measurements.

  • Ability to learn the operation, calibration, and preventative maintenance of lab and process equipment and systems.

  • Intermediate knowledge in MS Office

  • Some knowledge of SQL/JMP a plus

  • Execute experiments efficiently and effectively with high fidelity.

  • Ability to communicate on a regular basis with all levels of associates.

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills

  • Prior experience in electronics, optics, thermal processing, device testing a plus

Essential Responsibilities:

  • Applies engineering or science skills and may develop advanced skills using tools and equipment.
  • Duties and tasks are mostly recurring. Resolves routine questions and problems and refers more complex issues to higher levels.
  • May have oversight over certain areas/processes affecting the group.
  • Be able to analyze work environment and make suggestions for continuous improvement for enhanced productivity, safety, or performance.
  • Work under daily supervision. Follows standard procedures and written instructions to accomplish assigned tasks.
  • Complies with Company's Environmental, Quality, Safety or any other policies that have been enforced.
  • Other duties as assigned.
  • Job description subject to change at any time.

Reporting Relationships:                                                                           

  • Reports to Development Engineer

Travel:

  • Up to 10% domestic

Estimated Salary Range:

  • 24.56 USD per hr- 34.81 USD per hr

US Physical Requirements:

  • Will sit, stand, or walk short distances for up to the entire duration of a shift.

  • Will climb stairs on an occasional basis.

  • Will lift, push, or pull up to 27 pounds on an occasional basis.

  • Required to use hands to grasp, lift, handle, carry or feel objects on a frequent basis.

  • 20/40 vision in each eye, with or without correction, is required.

  • Must be able to comply with all safety standards and procedures.

  • May reach above shoulder heights and below the waist on a frequent basis.

  • May stoop, kneel, or bend, on an occasional basis.

  • Ability to wear personal protective equipment is required (including but not limited to steel toed shoes, gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, protective jacket or apron and arm guards)

  • All associates working on the production floor may be required to wear a respirator at any given time and thus, the ability to wear a respirator is a condition of employment and continued employment (requires little or no facial hair)

Potential candidates will meet the education and experience requirements provided on the above job description and excel in completing the listed responsibilities for this role. All candidates receiving an offer of employment must successfully complete a background check and any other tests that may be required.  

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: First Solar is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values and respects the importance of a diverse and inclusive workforce. It is the policy of the company to recruit, hire, train, and promote persons in all job titles without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity.  We recognize that diversity and inclusion is a driving force in the success of our company.


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