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Solar Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Project Manager - C&I Solar - Muskegon/Grand Rapids, MI DISHER is currently partnering with a small ... From design and engineering to permitting, interconnection, project management, and construction ...

Quality Engineer

Hemlock, MI · On-site

$60K - $78K/yr

S.-made solar components. We manufacture hyper-pure polysilicon, high-quality solar wafers, and ... Role Purpose The Quality Engineer will lead initiatives to strengthen and advance the plant ...

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Solar Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$42.7K

$89.7K

$141.6K

How much do solar engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar engineer in Michigan is $89,734.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,300.00 and $123,300.00 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.

How much money do solar engineers make?

Solar engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior or specialized solar engineers can earn higher salaries, especially when working on large-scale projects or in regions with high demand for renewable energy expertise.

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 tools like CAD software and requiring technical certifications. Their work supports the deployment of renewable energy solutions in various environments.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and relevant certifications. Roles in management or with significant technical expertise and leadership responsibilities can also reach this salary level.

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.

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Solar Engineer jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Solar Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Solar Engineer jobs in Michigan? For Solar Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Solar Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Solar Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Solar Engineer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Solar Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Solar Engineer jobs in MI? For Solar Engineer jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Solar Engineer job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,734 per year, or $43.1 per hour.
Project Manager - C&I Solar

Project Manager - C&I Solar

DISHER

Muskegon, MI

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Project Manager - C&I Solar - Muskegon/Grand Rapids, MI
 
DISHER is currently partnering with a small commercial solar company that was founded in 2015 and is based in West Michigan and active in Michigan, Ohio, and Illinois. They are working hard to accelerate the Midwest's transition to clean, renewable energy by helping businesses and organizations be more successful, reduce costs, and protect the environment.
 
As a Project Manager, you will help keep projects organized, moving, and well-communicated from contract signing through permission to operate (PTO). You will be the link between sales, customers, contractors, suppliers, and the field team. You'll track key details, keep timelines on course, and make sure everyone has what they need to deliver a quality installation.
 
What it's like to work here:
 
From design and engineering to permitting, interconnection, project management, and construction, their expert in-house team handles it all. They are passionate about their work and enjoy a collaborative, down-to-earth environment which supports continued learning and professional growth, while delivering great results.
What you will get to do:
  • Lead projects from handoff to completion, guiding each milestone from contract signing through installation and PTO.
  • Manage the transition from Sales by aligning teams on scope, timeline, and deliverables to ensure a smooth project start.
  • Keep all project documentation, plans, notes, permits, and approvals organized and up to date in tracking systems.
  • Coordinate with engineers, contractors, and suppliers to finalize design details and confirm equipment selections.
  • Monitor scope, cost, and schedule changes, collaborating with Sales to align expectations with customers.
  • Prepare and manage permit and interconnection packages, ensuring timely submissions and approvals with AHJs and utilities.
  • Plan materials and logistics to ensure all components are ordered, delivered, and ready for installation on schedule.
  • Facilitate communication across all stakeholders with clear updates, risk tracking, and action item follow-up.
  • Track multiple active projects simultaneously, maintaining visibility of schedules, budgets, and progress.
  • Drive each project to a successful finish, achieving on-time installations, complete documentation, and satisfied customers.
What will make you successful
  • Bachelor's degree preferred, or equivalent experience.
  • 2-3 years of hands-on project coordination or management experience
  • Familiarity with project management processes and tools
  • Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and follow-through
  • Ability to stay detail-focused while maintaining awareness of the bigger picture
  • Tech-savvy; proficient with Microsoft Office and project tracking systems
  • Mechanical or electrical aptitude with a semi-technical background
  • Excellent communication and customer-facing skills
  • Self-motivated learner with a proactive, team-oriented attitude
  • The ability to be collaborative, accountable, and adaptable under pressure
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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