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Solar Engineer Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset ... Apply statistics and engineering methods to optimize workflow and effectiveness. Education ...

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset ... Apply statistics and engineering methods to optimize workflow and effectiveness. Education ...

Development Engineer I

Perrysburg, OH · On-site

$68K - $98K/yr

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset ... Associate's degree in an engineering discipline or similar technical discipline and 10 years of ...

The Solar Installer will be responsible for installation and oversight of field electrical work to ensure code compliance and the highest quality work. The solar installer will work on residential ...

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset ... Ph.D. in an engineering discipline or similar technical discipline and 10 years of relevant ...

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset ... Associate's degree in an engineering discipline or similar technical discipline and 10 years of ...

Solar Installer

Columbus, OH · On-site

$43K - $64K/yr

The Solar Installer will be responsible for installation and oversight of field electrical work to ensure code compliance and the highest quality work. The solar installer will work on residential ...

Solar Installer

Columbus, OH · On-site

$43K - $64K/yr

The Solar Installer will be responsible for installation and oversight of field electrical work to ensure code compliance and the highest quality work. The solar installer will work on residential ...

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Showing results 1-20

Solar Engineer information

See Ohio salary details

$46.6K

$97.9K

$154.5K

How much do solar engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar engineer in Ohio is $97,878.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $134,500.00 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 Ohio? The most popular types of Solar Engineer jobs in Ohio are:
What are popular job titles related to Solar Engineer jobs in Ohio? For Solar Engineer jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Solar Engineer jobs in Ohio look for? The top searched job categories for Solar Engineer jobs in Ohio are:
What cities in Ohio are hiring for Solar Engineer jobs? Cities in Ohio with the most Solar Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Solar Engineer jobs in OH? For Solar Engineer jobs in OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Development Engineer I - R&D

Development Engineer I - R&D

First Solar

Perrysburg, OH • On-site

$68K - $98K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


First Solar rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 73 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

423rd of 527 rated manufacturers


Job description


First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset.
Basic Job Functions:
  • Perform data analysis in semiconductor device research to enhance thin film solar cell performance, stability and yield to meet department goals and deliverables.
  • Primary/secondary ownership of data tables and analysis methods and reporting.
  • Identify, organize, submit and analyze material analysis samples and data.
  • Select and submit samples for reliability and performance analysis. Work closely with integration and development engineering teams for data review and publication.
  • Apply statistics and engineering methods to optimize workflow and effectiveness.

Education/Experience:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent and 20 years of relevant technical experience or 2 years of experience as an Associate Engineer or Development Engineer Technician III at First Solar.
  • Associate's Degree in an engineering discipline or similar technical discipline (Physics preferred) and 10 years of relevant technical experience or 2 years of experience as an Associate Engineer or Development Engineer Technician III at First Solar.
  • Bachelor's Degree in an engineering discipline or similar technical discipline (Physics preferred) and 3 years of relevant technical experience or 1 year of experience as an Associate Engineer or Development Engineer Technician III at First Solar.
  • Master's Degree in an engineering discipline or similar technical discipline (Physics preferred) and 1 year of relevant technical experience or 1 year of experience as an Associate Engineer at First Solar.

Required Skills/Competencies:
  • Advanced knowledge in several skills that are relevant to the group, including statistical data analysis techniques including but not limited to JMP, DOE, SPC.
  • Skills and hands-on experience in execution of experiments in a manufacturing environment.
  • Analytical skills to interpret data and derive conclusions.
  • Ability to make and execute detailed plans to achieve objectives with strong sense of ownership.
  • Effective communication skills.

Essential Responsibilities:
  • Identify opportunities for improvement in solar cell efficiency through engineering, scientific or empirical methods.
  • Apply established methods for material analysis, statistical analysis of data or execution/planning of experiments.
  • May contribute to determination and evaluation process specifications for improved performance.
  • Effective team member that can support cross functional project and take ownership of sub-deliverables.
  • Works under minimal supervision. May assist in orienting, mentoring, and training lower level employees.
  • Complies with Company's Environmental, Quality, Safety or any other policies that have been enforced.
  • Other duties as assigned.
  • Job description subject to change at any time.

Reporting Relationships:
  • Reports to Development Engineer or Development Manager.
  • May have direct reports.

Travel:
  • 0% - 5% (On occasion/as needed for training, etc.)

Estimated Salary Range:
  • $68,800-$98,000 Annually

US 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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