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Solar Development Engineer Jobs in Santa Clara, CA

... engineer who is self-driven, resilient and passionate about R&D work that may stretch over years ... Solar Inverters, Motor drives Established track record of innovations in enabling technical ...

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Solar Development Engineer information

See Santa Clara, CA salary details

$57.5K

$112.9K

$180.3K

How much do solar development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar development engineer in Santa Clara, CA is $112,928.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,400.00 and $125,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Santa Clara, CA?

For Solar Development Engineer jobs in Santa Clara, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Solar Development Engineer jobs in Santa Clara, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Solar Development Engineer jobs in Santa Clara, CA are:

What cities near Santa Clara, CA are hiring for Solar Development Engineer jobs?

Cities near Santa Clara, CA with the most Solar Development Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Solar Development Engineer job openings in Santa Clara, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,928 per year, or $54.3 per hour.

Development Engineer Intern (Fall 2026)

First Solar

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


First Solar rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 76 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

474th of 544 rated manufacturers


Job description


First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset.
Basic Job Scope:
• Leading the world's sustainable energy future, First Solar interns work around the globe/country in research and development, marketing, project development, information technology, engineering, energy services and much more. When you work at First Solar, you will be challenged every day and provided real world experience. You will be given the opportunity to find new solutions and develop new skills to further advance your skillset. At First Solar we strive to foster a culture that encourages innovation through collaboration, urging colleagues to take smart risks, learning from failures and course correcting, and owning personal accountability for contributing to our mission.
Expected Length of Internship:
• 3-5 months encompassing Fall term (with some flexibility)
• As an internship company, we allow flexibility to enroll in classes while working as an intern, as long as it doesn't interfere with the essential functions of the position.
Education/Experience:
• Engineering, chemistry, or physics (Year 2+ of undergrad, or any graduate level)
• Some experience in chemistry lecture courses and at least one chemistry lab course is required.
• Experience in an undergraduate research lab would be helpful.
• Applicant must not have finished their degree in order to qualify.
• First Solar encourages all interns to register their internship with their university.
Required Skills/Competencies:
• Good knowledge of physics and chemistry concepts; experience in collecting data from experiments; good communication and teamwork; knows how to use MS Excel)
Basic Internship Scope (Project):
• The intern will interact with a team of engineers and technicians to conduct hands-on lab work related to solar panel research experiments conducted at the California Technology Center in Santa Clara, CA.
• The intern will help push forward experiments related to inkjet printing and spray coating of uniform thin film materials related to solar panel R&D.
• Upon the completion of this internship, the intern is required to present their accomplishments and project summary to the leadership team.
Estimated Salary Range:
• 27.50 USD per hour- 37.50 USD per hr
US Physical Requirements:
(1) Hybrid 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 both eyes together, 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, and a condition of employment and continued employment (requires little or no facial hair) for those requiring respirator use.
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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