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Solar Development Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Senior BESS Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$123K - $161K/yr

Summit Ridge is driving a future where solar power generation strengthens local economies and ... Support development of and updates to internal design guidelines, catalogs, and templates. * Mentor ...

Showing results 21-40

Solar Development Engineer information

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 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 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 Virginia?

For Solar Development Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Solar Development Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Solar Development Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Solar Development Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Solar Development Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Solar Development Engineer job openings in Virginia as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Senior Solar Energy Engineer - Energy Solutions

Fairfax, VA • On-site

legence
Nonresidential Building Construction • 1 - 5K employees

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

The core business of our Energy Solutions division is the delivery of Guaranteed Energy Savings Performance Contracts (ESPCs) and Design/Build Contracts. our ESPCs are a viable way to upgrade and renovate facilities in a budget-neutral or even budget-positive way. The process diverts money already being spent on utilities and directs it into facility upgrades, covering scope development, design, bidding, construction management, commissioning, measurement and verification, and even ongoing energy management services.  We have experience in designing the nation’s most energy efficient buildings, including many zero energy buildings. Our knowledge is unparalleled in the Guaranteed ESPC market, which allows us to dive deeper than our competitors.

In addition, CMTA’s Renewable Energy team brings extensive experience across the renewable energy sector, including behind-the-meter, front-of-the-meter, and community solar projects. Our team works in a wide range of building types, from dense urban environments to rural settings, and focuses on Solar PV, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), microgrids, and EV charging infrastructure — delivering innovative, reliable, and sustainable energy solutions tailored to each client’s needs.

 
Job Description:
The Energy Solutions division of CMTA is the fastest growing division of our large and growing company.  This position will work with a team of engineers to design, bid, project manage, and commission solar PV, battery and EV charging systems for various clients of CMTA. Our ideal candidate is typically a self-motivated individual who thrives on helping clients and has a technical background.

Desired Experience:

  • 5-10+ years of experience - PV & Battery installations (small commercial and large commercial (50-2MW+)
  • NABCEP PV Installation, Designer, Commissioning or Inspector Certification (preferred, but not required)
  • Knowledge of Installation of AC & DC electrical wiring, communications and monitoring systems. (SMA, SolarEdge, Fronius, Chint ect.)
  • Thorough knowledge of the NEC electrical code, especially section 690.
  • Experience with PV Interconnection documents and ability to understand and sift through utility tariffs. Experience with behind the meter and ahead of the meter interconnections.
  • Experience with modeling PV production (SAM, PV Syst, Helioscope etc.)
  • Ability to understand structural drawings & associated industry verbiage
  • Vast knowledge base of PV racking types from pitched roof to flat roofs, carports to ground mounts. (Unirac, PanelClaw, Terrasmart, Iron Ridge etc.)

Desired Skills:

  • Experience with Revit/AutoCAD is required
  • Electrical engineering – Ability to develop, read and discuss single line diagrams for PV systems (Ability to calculate voltage drop, conduit fill, transformer sizing, short circuit current calculations etc. )
  • Energy (Real Power, Reactive Power & Apparent Power)
  • Solar – Knowledge of grid tied PV systems & associated components
  • Power Distribution – Knowledge of 3-Phase Power Systems & microgrids
  • Construction – Familiarity with project management, project flow & deadlines
  • Design - Familiarity with SMA, SolarEdge, Fronius & Other inverter products/design software

Desired Education:

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering

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