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Solar Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Nenni and Associates

Solar Design Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

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 ...

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 ...

GreenBrilliance

Solar Installation Manager

Herndon, VA

$28 - $37.25/hr

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Renewable Energy, or related field preferred * 3+ years of solar installation or construction management experience * Experience managing ...

SunPower

Solar Installer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Solar Installer / Roofer Job Level : Entry-Level Shift : Full-time (40-45 hours) Compensation: $60,000-$80,000/year plus paid training Benefits: Full-time employees are eligible for Health, Dental ...

SunPower

Solar Installer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

Solar Installer / Roofer Job Level : Entry-Level Shift : Full-time (40-45 hours) Compensation: $60,000-$80,000/year plus paid training Benefits: Full-time employees are eligible for Health, Dental ...

Sunpower

Solar Installer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Solar Installer / Roofer Job Level : Entry-Level Shift : Full-time (40-45 hours) Compensation: $60,000-$80,000/year plus paid training Benefits: Full-time employees are eligible for Health, Dental ...

The AES Corporation

Robotics Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

Identify and track key solar PV modules installation metrics for tier 1 solar tracker vendors ... Manage project teams, partners and third-party companies across project development, engineering ...

IPL (Indiana)

Robotics Engineer

Arlington, VA

Identify and track key solar PV modules installation metrics for tier 1 solar tracker vendors ... Manage project teams, partners and third-party companies across project development, engineering ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsSolar Engineer JobsSolar Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Solar Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$48.6K

$102.1K

$161.1K

How much do solar engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 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 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 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
Solar Engineer Intern/Co-op Fall 2026 - Energy Solutions

Solar Engineer Intern/Co-op Fall 2026 - Energy Solutions

legence

Fairfax, VA • On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Other

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

The core business of our Energy Solutions division is the delivery of Guaranteed Energy Savings Performance Contracts (ESPCs). Simply put, our ESPCs are a viable way to upgrade and renovate facilities in a budget-neutral or even budget-positive way. The process diverts money already being spent on utilities and directs it into facility upgrades, covering scope development, design, bidding, construction management, commissioning, measurement and verification, and even ongoing energy management services. We have experience in designing the nation’s most energy efficient buildings, including many zero energy buildings. Our knowledge is unparalleled in the Guaranteed ESPC market, which allows us to dive deeper than our competitors.
CMTA Energy Solutions has a robust co-op program for college students pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering. We offer an immersive experience in the world of Guaranteed Energy Savings Performance Contracting for two or more semesters. Our co-ops build industry competitive skills in a hands-on environment through collaborative project tasks with full-time engineers while under the direct supervision of Professional Engineers. Our program is designed to develop students into full-time caliber employees that contribute to the company’s growth. The ideal candidate will possess excellent interpersonal skills and will be able to work well both as a team member and independently. Our program stands apart from the typical, rehearsed co-op rotation in which every co-op gains the same experience because it is designed for co-ops to stand out and take on challenging projects. Co-ops will be involved with multiple Guaranteed Energy Savings Performance Contracts and will have a role in every stage of their development. Each stage offers a variety of valuable experiences, from initial development through implementation. Whether co-ops are interested in building their skill set in identifying and calculating energy savings measures, developing renovation documents, or hands-on field experience, CMTA Energy Solutions is bound to overcome expectations.
Solar Co-ops can expect to get hands on experience with photovoltaic systems. By the end of the program co-ops will have gained the experience to be able to deliver a full photovoltaic design from scratch. Our Solar co-op will directly support our solar project managers.
Job Functions: (may include but are not limited to)

  • Assist in all aspects of the project development phase – including site visits, building audits, energy calculations in relation to PV arrays
  • Generate energy models and perform calculations to evaluate feasibility of energy savings measures such as PV arrays
  • Produce detailed construction documents using CAD for new PV arrays
  • Field verify proper installation and implementation of PV array

Requirements:

  • Pursuing a BSEE, preferably a sophomore (2nd year), or junior (3rd year)
  • CAD experience is helpful but not required
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel
  • Ability to work both independently and as a team member
  • Ability to travel for field work

No sponsorship is available for this position.

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