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Solar Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Solar Energy Solutions

Solar Installer

Ashland, VA · On-site

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

We specialize in the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) of residential, commercial, institutional, and utility photovoltaic and solar thermal systems. Our personnel are the best in the ...

Solar Energy Solutions

Solar Installer

Ashland, VA · On-site

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

We specialize in the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) of residential, commercial, institutional, and utility photovoltaic and solar thermal systems. Our personnel are the best in the ...

Solar Energy Solutions

Solar Installer

Ashland, VA · On-site

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

We specialize in the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) of residential, commercial, institutional, and utility photovoltaic and solar thermal systems. Our personnel are the best in the ...

ION Solar

Solar Installer

Manassas, VA

$18 - $25/hr

ION Solar is a rapidly expanding, full-service residential solar company with a strong nationwide presence. Our dedicated team is committed to making solar energy accessible and affordable for ...

ION Solar

Solar Installer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

ION Solar is a rapidly expanding, full-service residential solar company with a strong nationwide presence. Our dedicated team is committed to making solar energy accessible and affordable for ...

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Solar Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$48.6K

$102.1K

$161.1K

How much do solar engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar engineer in Virginia is $102,071.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,500.00 and $140,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 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.

More about Solar Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Solar Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Solar Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Solar Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Solar Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Solar Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Solar Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Solar Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Solar Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Solar Engineer jobs in VA? For Solar Engineer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Solar Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Solar Engineer job openings in Virginia as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 58% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,071 per year, or $49.1 per hour.
Solar Design Engineer

Solar Design Engineer

Nenni and Associates

Fairfax, VA

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Our client, a nationally recognized Energy Services company who is focused on delivering cutting-edge renewable energy and sustainability projects across the country, is seeking an innovative Solar Design Engineer to join their team! This role is ideal for an engineer who’s passionate about the technical design and integration of solar PV systems into high-performance buildings, campuses, and large-scale energy projects.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, and optimize solar photovoltaic (PV) systems for commercial, educational, and institutional clients.

  • Perform system modeling, energy yield analysis, and financial feasibility studies using industry-standard tools.

  • Generate conceptual layouts, one-line diagrams, and detailed electrical designs for PV systems.

  • Support energy performance modeling and integration with other energy conservation measures.

  • Conduct site assessments and assist with feasibility studies and due diligence reviews.

  • Work closely with project managers, construction teams, and utility providers to ensure design integrity and successful project execution.

  • Stay current on solar technology trends, incentive programs, interconnection requirements, and code compliance.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Renewable Energy Engineering, or related field.

  • 4+ years of experience in solar PV system design (commercial or institutional scale preferred).

  • Proficiency with PV modeling and design software (Helioscope, PVSyst, AutoCAD, Revit, or similar).

  • Strong understanding of NEC, interconnection standards, and utility requirements.

  • Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative, cross-disciplinary environment.

  • EIT or PE license (or progress toward licensure) preferred.

  • NABCEP certification is a plus.