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Solar Energy Intern Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Solar Energy Intern information

See Virginia salary details

$7

$16

$25

How much do solar energy intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for solar energy intern in Virginia is $16.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.04 and $18.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a solar energy intern do?

A Solar Energy Intern assists with the design, installation, and maintenance of solar energy systems, while learning about the industry and its technologies. Interns may help with site assessments, data analysis, project documentation, and research on renewable energy trends. They usually work under the supervision of experienced engineers or project managers and gain hands-on experience that can lead to a career in solar energy. Their work may involve both office tasks and on-site visits, depending on the company and project needs.

What types of projects and tasks can a solar energy intern expect to work on during their internship?

As a Solar Energy Intern, you can expect to be involved in a variety of hands-on and research-based tasks. These often include assisting with site assessments, data collection, and performance analysis of solar installations. You may also help draft technical reports, support design teams with layout drawings, and participate in client meetings or field visits. Collaboration with engineers, project managers, and other interns is common, providing valuable exposure to real-world solar project workflows and teamwork.

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

To thrive as a Solar Energy Intern, you typically need a background in engineering, environmental science, or a related field, along with a basic understanding of renewable energy concepts. Familiarity with solar design software (such as PVsyst or AutoCAD), data analysis tools, and safety protocols is often expected. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are important soft skills in this role. These abilities are crucial for supporting project development, ensuring accurate system design, and contributing positively to team objectives in the rapidly evolving solar industry.

What is the difference between Solar Energy Intern vs Solar Energy Technician?

AspectSolar Energy InternSolar Energy Technician
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in renewable energy, engineering, or related fieldHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentAssist with research, data collection, and project support; often in office or lab settingsInstallations, maintenance, and troubleshooting in outdoor or on-site environments
Employer & Industry UsageInternships offered by solar companies, renewable energy programs, or educational institutionsSolar installation companies, maintenance firms, and energy providers

In summary, a Solar Energy Intern typically focuses on learning and supporting projects in a learning environment, while a Solar Energy Technician performs hands-on installation and maintenance work in the field. Both roles are essential in the solar industry but differ in experience level and responsibilities.

Solar Energy Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Solar Energy Intern job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,768 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Solar Engineer Intern/Co-op Summer 2027 - Energy Solutions

legence

Fairfax, VA • On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Full-time, Temporary, Internship

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

The core business of our Energy Solutions division is the delivery of Guaranteed Energy Savings Performance Contracts (ESPCs). Simply put, 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. CMTA Energy Solutions has a robust co-op program for college students pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering. We offer an immersive experience in the world of Guaranteed Energy Savings Performance Contracting for two or more semesters. Our co-ops build competitive industry skills in a hands-on environment through collaborative project tasks with full-time engineers while under the direct supervision of Professional Engineers. Our program is designed to develop students into full-time caliber employees that contribute to the company’s growth. The ideal candidate will possess excellent interpersonal skills and will be able to work well both as a team member and independently. Our program stands apart from the typical, rehearsed co-op rotation in which every co-op gains the same experience because it is designed for co-ops to stand out and take on challenging projects. Co-ops will be involved with multiple Guaranteed Energy Savings Performance Contracts and will have a role in every stage of their development. Each stage offers a variety of valuable experiences, from initial development through implementation. Whether co-ops are interested in building their skill set in identifying and calculating energy savings measures, developing renovation documents, or hands-on field experience, CMTA Energy Solutions is bound to overcome expectations. Solar Co-ops can expect to get hands on experience with photovoltaic systems. By the end of the program co-ops will have gained the experience to be able to deliver a full photovoltaic design from scratch. Our Solar co-op will directly support our solar project managers. Job Functions: (may include but are not limited to)

· Assist in all aspects of the project development phase – including site visits, building audits, energy calculations in relation to PV arrays

· Generate energy models and perform calculations to evaluate feasibility of energy savings measures such as PV arrays

· Produce detailed construction documents using CAD for new PV arrays

· Field verify proper installation and implementation of PV array

Requirements:

· Pursuing a BSEE, preferably a sophomore (2nd year), or junior (3rd year)

· CAD experience is helpful but not required

· Strong interpersonal and communication skills

· Proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel

· Ability to work both independently and as a team member

· Ability to travel for field work

No sponsorship is available for this position.

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