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Solar Development Engineer Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset ... Reports to Development Engineer or Development Manager Travel: * 5% - 10% Estimated Hourly Range ...

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First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset ... Reports to Development Engineer or Development Manager Travel: * 5% - 10% Estimated Hourly Range ...

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Solar Development Engineer information

See Ohio salary details

$46.6K

$91.4K

$145.9K

How much do solar development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar development engineer in Ohio is $91,414.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,600.00 and $101,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical collaboration points between a Solar Development Engineer and other project stakeholders during a solar project lifecycle?

Solar Development Engineers frequently collaborate with a variety of stakeholders, including project managers, environmental consultants, utility representatives, and permitting authorities. Throughout the project lifecycle, they work closely with design teams to optimize system layouts, support permitting processes by providing technical documentation, and communicate with construction teams to address engineering challenges during installation. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as the engineer often serves as a technical liaison, ensuring that all parties are aligned on project goals, timelines, and compliance requirements.

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

To thrive as a Solar Development Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering (electrical, mechanical, or renewable energy), project management, and a thorough understanding of solar technologies, usually supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with software like AutoCAD, PVsyst, and project management tools, as well as knowledge of permitting processes and industry standards, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are important soft skills for collaborating with cross-functional teams and stakeholders. These skills ensure successful project planning, technical accuracy, and the efficient development of solar energy projects from concept to completion.

What does a Solar Development Engineer do?

A Solar Development Engineer is responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing the development of solar energy projects. They evaluate site feasibility, select appropriate solar technologies, and ensure compliance with regulations and safety standards. Their work also involves coordinating with project managers, construction teams, and regulatory agencies to bring solar projects from conception to completion. Additionally, they analyze data on energy production and system performance to optimize efficiency. This role is essential for advancing renewable energy initiatives and supporting the transition to sustainable power sources.

What is the difference between Solar Development Engineer vs Solar Project Manager?

AspectSolar Development EngineerSolar Project Manager
CredentialsBachelor's in engineering, renewable energy certificationsBachelor's in engineering, project management certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign, technical analysis, site assessmentProject planning, team coordination, stakeholder communication
Industry UsageDesign and technical development of solar projectsOverseeing project execution from start to finish

While both roles are integral to solar projects, the Solar Development Engineer focuses on technical design and site analysis, whereas the Solar Project Manager oversees project execution, timelines, and stakeholder communication. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the solar industry.

What are popular job titles related to Solar Development Engineer jobs in Ohio? For Solar Development Engineer jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Solar Development Engineer jobs in Ohio look for? The top searched job categories for Solar Development Engineer jobs in Ohio are:
What cities in Ohio are hiring for Solar Development Engineer jobs? Cities in Ohio with the most Solar Development Engineer job openings:
Development Engineering Technician II

Development Engineering Technician II

First Solar

Perrysburg, OH • On-site

$23.37 - $32.69/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


First Solar rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 73 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

422nd of 527 rated manufacturers


Job description


First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset.
Basic Job Functions:
  • Support DE tests in the manufacturing line or perform testing in a lab environment.
  • 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.
  • Ability to design, execute and present the test data from experiments is required for this role.
  • Write work instructions and SOP's for operating equipment.

Education/Experience:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent and 10 years of relevant technical experience or 2 years of experience as a Development Engineer Technician I at First Solar.
  • Associate's degree in an engineering discipline or similar technical discipline and 3 years of relevant technical experience or 2 years of experience as a Development Engineer Technician I at First Solar.
  • Bachelor's Degree in an engineering discipline or similar technical discipline, without prior technical work experience, preferred.
  • General electrical/electronic and mechanical knowledge.

Required Skills/Competencies:
  • Ability to perform sample testing, semiconductor device fabrication and/or electrical or optical measurements.
  • Ability to troubleshoot basic to moderate process and equipment issues on the production line or in the lab.
  • Knowledge of at least one programming language and prior work or school projects demonstrating this competency will be valuable for this role.
  • Expert in execution of experiments in lab or floor. May train others.
  • Ability to communicate and coordinate between multiple groups.
  • A self-starter with ability to troubleshoot and resolve tool issues.
  • Assist with critical process development of laser systems and scribe parameters.

Essential Responsibilities:
  • Apply some technical skills to the position. May adapt procedures, processes, tools, equipment, and techniques to meet the more complex requirements of the position.
  • Duties and tasks are frequently non-routine. Able to resolve many questions and problems independently.
  • Has ownership within his/her functional group of a particular operational process or equipment. Oversee maintenance and trains others in this process.
  • Tool set up, and process optimization/development.
  • Operate and maintain tools. Perform scheduled preventative maintenance.
  • Plan, coordinate and execute engineering tests on Yellowstone line, including coordination across team boundaries.
  • Work under minimal supervision.
  • Complies with Company's Environmental, Quality, Safety or any other policies that have been enforced.
  • Some flexibility in work hours and ability to work overtime, as needed, is required.
  • Job description subject to change at any time.

Reporting Relationships:
  • Reports to Development Engineer or Development Manager.

Travel:
  • 0% - 5% (On occasion/as needed for training, etc.)

Estimated Salary Range:
  • $23.37-$32.69 Hourly

Work Schedule:
  • M-F between 8am-4:30pm

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 37 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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