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Solar Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

K2 Space

Solar Design Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$100K - $140K/yr

As a Solar Engineer, you will contribute to the design, manufacturing, testing, and deployment of high-power solar arrays for some of the largest spacecraft ever flown. You'll work across technical ...

Vast

Solar Array Engineer

Long Beach, CA · 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 ...

Vast

Solar Arrays Engineer l

Long Beach, CA

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

Impulse Space

Solar Array Test Engineer

Redondo Beach, CA · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

Solar Array Test Engineer Department: Assembly, Integration & Test Employment Type: Full Time Location: Redondo Beach Compensation: $110,000 - $150,000 / year Description As a Solar Array Test ...

K2 Space

Solar Design Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

As a Solar Engineer, you will contribute to the design, manufacturing, testing, and deployment of high-power solar arrays for some of the largest spacecraft ever flown. You'll work across technical ...

K2 Space

Solar Design Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$100K - $140K/yr

As a Solar Engineer, you will contribute to the design, manufacturing, testing, and deployment of high-power solar arrays for some of the largest spacecraft ever flown. You'll work across technical ...

Vast

Solar Arrays Engineer l

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$84K - $108K/yr

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

K2 Space

Head of Solar

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

Getting that right, at scale, is one of the most consequential engineering challenges in the company. As Head of Solar, you'll own it entirely. From early-stage technology development and module ...

K2 Space

Head of Solar

Los Angeles, CA

Engineered to survive the harshest radiation environments and to fully capitalize on today's and ... The Role Solar power isn't a subsystem at K2, it's the capability that makes everything else ...

K2 Space

Head of Solar

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Engineered to survive the harshest radiation environments and to fully capitalize on today's and ... The Role Solar power isn't a subsystem at K2, it's the capability that makes everything else ...

Dynasty Solar

Be Seen First

Solar Department Manager

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Oversee daily operations for the solar division, including design, permitting, procurement, and ... Recruit, manage and train office staff including project coordinators, site auditors, engineering ...

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Solar Engineer information

See California salary details

$48.4K

$101.6K

$160.4K

How much do solar engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar engineer in California is $101,606.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,200.00 and $139,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Solar Engineer do?

A Solar Engineer designs, develops, and oversees the installation and maintenance of solar energy systems, such as solar panels and photovoltaic cells. They work to optimize the efficiency and reliability of these systems for residential, commercial, or industrial use. Solar Engineers also assess project sites, perform technical analyses, and ensure compliance with regulations and safety standards. Their work helps advance the adoption of renewable energy and reduce environmental impact.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding advanced certifications, or managing large projects.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

A senior or specialized engineer, such as a petroleum engineer, aerospace engineer, or software engineer in high-paying industries, can earn $500,000 or more annually. These roles often require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes leadership or executive responsibilities.

What do you do as a solar engineer?

A solar engineer designs, develops, and tests solar energy systems, including photovoltaic panels and solar thermal collectors. They analyze site conditions, create system layouts, and ensure installations meet safety and efficiency standards, often using specialized software and technical certifications. Their work supports the deployment of renewable energy solutions in various environments.

What are some common challenges Solar Engineers face when working on large-scale solar projects?

Solar Engineers working on large-scale projects often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, managing project timelines, and addressing site-specific constraints like land availability or local weather conditions. Ensuring regulatory compliance and grid connectivity can also be complex due to varying regional requirements. Effective communication and adaptability are essential, as engineers frequently collaborate with construction teams, suppliers, and local authorities to keep projects on track.

What is the difference between Solar Engineer vs Solar Technician?

AspectSolar EngineerSolar Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; certifications like NABCEP (optional)High school diploma or technical training; NABCEP certification preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign, planning, project management, and system analysisInstallation, maintenance, troubleshooting on-site
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, solar companies, project developersInstallation companies, maintenance service providers

Solar Engineers focus on designing and planning solar power systems, ensuring optimal performance and compliance. Solar Technicians handle the hands-on installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of solar panels. Both roles are essential in the solar industry but differ in responsibilities and required qualifications.

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

To thrive as a Solar Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical or mechanical engineering, with expertise in solar energy systems and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PV system design software (like PVsyst), CAD tools, and industry certifications such as NABCEP are highly valuable. Strong problem-solving abilities, project management skills, and effective communication set outstanding professionals apart. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and innovative solar solutions that meet both technical and client requirements in a rapidly growing industry.

Are solar engineers in demand?

Solar engineers are in high demand due to the growth of renewable energy projects and increasing investments in solar power infrastructure. They typically require technical skills in system design, installation, and maintenance, and often benefit from industry certifications. The job outlook is positive as the solar industry expands globally to meet renewable energy goals.

What Is a Solar Engineer?

Solar engineers plan, design, and execute solar energy projects, from the installation of new solar energy panels on a home to the building of a new solar power plant. Typically, one engineer is required for solar panel installation on a single rooftop. Larger projects, such as new power plants or large panel installations, need multiple solar engineers to handle the logistics. As a solar engineer, you visit the installation site and meet with customers to discuss and resolve any budgetary, feasibility, and design issues. Before any construction begins, you work with designers and engineers to determine the appropriate arrangement of solar panels to maximize efficiency. With the plan in place, you coordinate the teams that are working on the project and procure materials and equipment, create contracts with electrical and building contractors, and communicate with OEM companies to ensure that the parts for the facility are made to the proper specifications. You provide timely written and verbal updates throughout the construction process to the clients. Once the project is complete, you work with the client or the facility’s managers and maintenance personnel to ensure that the site is in good working order and all designs and specifications are available for continued site maintenance.

More about Solar Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Solar Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Solar Engineer jobs in California are:
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What job categories do people searching Solar Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Solar Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Solar Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Solar Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Solar Engineer jobs in CA? For Solar Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Solar Engineer jobs near you

Solar Engineer

Motive Energy Storage Solutions

Victorville, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Conducts site walks to assess feasibility of solar and energy storage installation.

Collects structural, electrical, and related site information for use in the design.

Designs or coordinates development of technical design specs for photovoltaic (PV) or solar systems remaining conscious of materials, site conditions, functional or contractual requirements, design parameters, and other variables.

Creates checklists for review or inspection of completed solar installation projects.

Creates electrical single-line diagrams, panel schedules, or connection diagrams using computer-aided design (CAD) software.

Creates plans for solar energy system development, monitoring, and evaluation activities.

Analyzes system efficiency through computer simulations

Provides technical direction or support to installation teams during installation, start-up, testing, system commissioning, or performance monitoring.

Develops standard operating procedures and quality or safety standards for solar installation work.

All other duties as required.

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