ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Solar Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Dynasty Solar

Be Seen First

Solar Department Manager

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Vast

Solar Array Engineer

Long Beach, CA

$110K - $140K/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 ...

Cal Solar

Solar Installer

Grass Valley, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Solar Installer Cal-Solar | Grass Valley & Field-Based in Surrounding Counties Pay Range: $20-$25/hour About Cal-Solar Do you like the feeling of standing on a roof, sun on your face, and wind in ...

Sol-Up

Solar Installer - URGENT NEED!

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Solar Installer will work with the Installation crew to ensure the correct materials and ... Engineering is our foundation, and we thoughtfully design each system with passion and purpose ...

Sol-Up, LLC

Solar Installer - URGENT NEED!

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Solar Installer will work with the Installation crew to ensure the correct materials and ... Engineering is our foundation, and we thoughtfully design each system with passion and purpose ...

LA Solar Group

Solar Installer

Sun Valley, CA

$21.50 - $28.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In the midst of the solar industry's challenges, LA Solar Group, a recognized Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Solar Company for 8 consecutive years, stands tall. We continue to lead with innovative ...

LA Solar Group

Solar Installer

Sun Valley, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In the midst of the solar industry's challenges, LA Solar Group, a recognized Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Solar Company for 8 consecutive years, stands tall. We continue to lead with innovative ...

Citadel Roofing and Solar

Solar Installers

Truckee, CA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Citadel Roofing and Solar is looking for Solar Installers! We are looking for hard-working and EXPERIENCED Solar Installers that take pride in their trade. We have a project that will be starting ...

LA Solar Group Inc

Solar Installer

Sun Valley, CA · On-site

$21.50 - $28.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In the midst of the solar industrys challenges, LA Solar Group, a recognized Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Solar Company for 8 consecutive years, stands tall. We continue to lead with innovative ...

LA Solar Group Inc

Solar Installer

Sun Valley, CA · On-site

$21.50 - $28.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In the midst of the solar industry's challenges, LA Solar Group, a recognized Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Solar Company for 8 consecutive years, stands tall. We continue to lead with innovative ...

Simply Solar

Solar Roof Lead (South Bay)

San Jose, CA · On-site

$24.25 - $32.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

When you join the Simply Solar team, you join an amazing culture of people who care deeply about the work they do. You join an organization committed to empowering people to make positive, measurable ...

K2 Space

Senior Solar Process Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$140K - $175K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Getting the process engineering right is not a support function here; it is on the critical path. You will develop, qualify, and optimize manufacturing processes for K2's solar array systems. The ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsSolar Engineer JobsSolar Engineer Jobs in California

Solar Engineer information

See California salary details

$48.4K

$101.6K

$160.4K

How much do solar engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 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 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 need technical skills in electrical or mechanical systems and may require certifications in solar technology or engineering. The job outlook is positive, with opportunities across various regions focusing on sustainable energy development.

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:

What are popular job titles related to Solar Engineer jobs in California?

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

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
Infographic showing various Solar Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,606 per year, or $48.8 per hour.

Solar Department Manager

Dynasty Solar

Murrieta, CA • On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Key Responsibilities

  • Operational Leadership: Oversee daily operations for the solar division, including design, permitting, procurement, and installation.
  • Team Management: Recruit, manage and train office staff including project coordinators, site auditors, engineering, permitting, scheduling, PTO. You are the primary driver of department culture and success.
  • Digital Workflow Optimization: Utilize spreadsheets CRM, financing portals, and project management tools (e.g., Enerflo, and Company Cam to track project milestones, manage budgets, and streamline communication.
  • Technical Oversight: Ensure all projects comply with company, financier, utility and safety standards.
  • Performance Tracking: Develop and report on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) such as installation cycle times, profit margins, and associate timelines.

Requirements & Qualifications:

Essential Requirements

Experience

3+ years in a management role within the Solar or Renewable Energy industry.

Computer Savvy

Advanced proficiency in MS Office (Excel is a must) and familiarity with solar design software (e.g., Aurora Solar, Helioscope).

Leadership

Proven ability to manage a team resolve high-pressure time sensitive challenges. Be able to think outside the box.

Education

Some college or trade school (or equivalent industry experience).

Core Competencies

  • Strategic Problem Solving: You don't just find fires; you build the systems that prevent them.
  • Adaptability: Powering progress with strategic solar thinking.
  • Communication: Ability to translate technical solar data into clear, actionable insights for your team and clients.