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Solar Development Engineer Jobs in Santa Ana, CA

Supplier Development Engineer

Hawthorne, CA ยท On-site

$137K - $177K/yr

Supplier Development Engineer Department: Quality Employment Type: Full Time Location: Hawthorne ... the solar system. We are seeking motivated, creative, and exceptional people to join our world ...

... the solar system. We are seeking motivated, creative, and exceptional people to join our world ... As a Supplier Development Engineer, you'll be responsible for developing and scaling the ...

... the solar system. We are seeking motivated, creative, and exceptional people to join our world ... As a Supplier Development Engineer, you'll be responsible for developing and scaling the ...

As a Solar Engineer, you will contribute to the design, manufacturing, testing, and deployment of ... Support solar array subsystem development through analysis, component-level testing, and ...

Solar Design Engineer

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Engineered to survive the harshest radiation environments and to fully capitalize on today's and ... Support solar array subsystem development through analysis, component-level testing, and ...

Solar Design Engineer

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Engineered to survive the harshest radiation environments and to fully capitalize on today's and ... Support solar array subsystem development through analysis, component-level testing, and ...

Solar Array Engineer

Long Beach, CA ยท On-site

$140K - $175K/yr

Vast is looking for a Solar Array Engineer , reporting to the Principal Power Systems Engineer, to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of artificial ...

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Solar Development Engineer information

See Santa Ana, CA salary details

$51K

$100.1K

$159.7K

How much do solar development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar development engineer in Santa Ana, CA is $100,057.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,700.00 and $110,800.00 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 Santa Ana, CA? For Solar Development Engineer jobs in Santa Ana, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Santa Ana, CA are hiring for Solar Development Engineer jobs? Cities near Santa Ana, CA with the most Solar Development Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Solar Development Engineer job openings in Santa Ana, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,057 per year, or $48.1 per hour.

Supplier Development Engineer

Astrolab

Hawthorne, CA โ€ข On-site

$137K - $177K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Supplier Development Engineer
Department: Quality
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Hawthorne, California
Reporting To: Matt Baghoumian
Compensation: $137,000 - $177,000 / year
Description
Venturi Astrolab, Inc. (Astrolab) is pioneering new ways to explore and operate on distant planetary bodies. We are singularly focused on designing, building, and operating a fleet of multi-purpose commercial planetary rovers to extend and enhance humanity's presence in the solar system. We are seeking motivated, creative, and exceptional people to join our world-class team.
The best products are built by exceptional suppliers. As a Supplier Development Engineer, you'll be responsible for developing and scaling the manufacturing partners that make our missions possible.
Every supplier is an extension of our factory. The work you do will directly influence product quality, production rate, schedule execution, and mission success. You'll spend time on supplier floors, in manufacturing cells, reviewing processes, solving production challenges and working side by side with suppliers and internal teams to proactively identify and remove constraints before they impact production. You'll own problems, move quickly and help leave every supplier stronger than you found it. This position will report to the Quality Engineering Manager.
If you're energized by solving difficult manufacturing problems, building relationships, and making an impact, we'd love to meet you!
What you'll do:
  • Own supplier performance across quality, delivery, manufacturing readiness, capacity, and continuous improvement
  • Lead supplier assessments, process reviews, production readiness activities, and on-site supplier development
  • Partner with suppliers to improve manufacturing capability, reduce variation, and increase production efficiency
  • Lead root cause investigations and drive corrective and preventive actions
  • Collaborate with Engineering, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Quality, and Inspection to resolve technical and production issues
  • Identify supplier risks, develop mitigation plans, and support production continuity
  • Support new product introductions, supplier qualifications, process transfers, and production ramp activities
  • Analyze supplier performance data to drive continuous improvement and informed decision-making
  • Travel to supplier facilities as needed to evaluate processes, verify progress, and support supplier development

What you'll bring:
Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in a related STEM field, or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience
  • Experience in supplier quality, supplier development, manufacturing engineering, quality engineering, operations, or a related technical field
  • Experience manufacturing processes such as machining, fabrication, welding, composites, castings, electronics, assemblies, or special processes

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience working with suppliers in aerospace, defense, automotive, medical device, or other high-performance manufacturing environments
  • Experience supporting new product introductions, supplier qualifications, or production ramp activities
  • Experience analyzing supplier performance metrics or manufacturing data to drive improvements
  • Experience with quality management systems, corrective and preventive actions (CAPA), or supplier audits
  • Experience working in a fast-paced manufacturing or production environment
  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, specifications, and manufacturing documentation
  • Experience using structured problem-solving and root cause analysis to resolve manufacturing or quality issues
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

Additional Requirements
  • Ability to travel up to 50% (domestic and international)

Benefits and Perks
  • Join a team of best-in-class engineers building the foundation of planetary surface exploration
  • Equity ownership in the company
  • Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and mental health support
  • 401(k) plan with company match
  • Flexible PTO and parental leave
  • Home office set up reimbursement
  • Weekly lunch stipend, plus complimentary snacks and beverages on-site
  • Once a month social hour on-site with food and drinks