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Solar Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

IntelliPro Group Inc.

Project Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$40 - $42/hr

Solar Field Engineer / Project Engineer (Solar Construction) Location: Charlotte County / Richmond, VA Duration: 12-Month Contract (Potential for Extension) Pay Rate: $40-$42/hr Per Diem: $178/day ...

IntelliPro Group Inc.

Project Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

Solar Field Engineer / Project Engineer (Solar Construction) Location: Charlotte County / Richmond, VA Duration: 12-Month Contract (Potential for Extension) Pay Rate: $40-$42/hr Per Diem: $178/day ...

RWE

Senior Solar Farm Technician

Barren Springs, VA · On-site

The Senior Solar Farm Technician will be responsible for performing, supervising, and/or ... Associate degree in engineering or related field from an accredited US school other than ...

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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 Jul 14, 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.

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.

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

Commercial Solar Electrician

The Contractor Consultants

Richmond, VA

$30 - $35/hr

Full-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Commercial Solar Electrician – Build Commercial, Industrial and Utility-Scale Renewable Energy Infrastructure

Job Overview:

  • Company: Commonwealth Power
  • Salary/Pay Rate: $30.00 - $35.00 per hour plus Year-End Bonus.
  • Location: Onsite Central VA / Travel Required
  • Job/Employment Type: Full-Time.
  • Schedule: Monday - Friday, Weekends, and Overtime when available
  • Project Scope: Commercial, Industrial Solar.
  • Mandatory Licenses & Certifications: OSHA 10 or OSHA 30, NFPA 70e, and a Valid Driver's License.
  • Preferred Certifications: VA and/or MD Electrical Journeyman for higher compensation rates.

The Opportunity: You will join a premier Virginia-based solar leader, playing a vital role in the engineering and construction of high-impact renewable energy projects. This position offers you the chance to apply expert tradecraft to complex industrial systems while helping organizations build solar power plants and achieve critical sustainability goals. We were recently recognized as being one of the top growing businesses in the Richmond area and you will work within a supportive, family-oriented culture that prioritizes your professional growth and long-term career stability.


This is not a residential electrician position. We are specifically seeking electricians with experience in commercial, industrial, renewable energy, utility-scale solar, power distribution, or large-scale electrical construction environments.


Why:

This is probably the biggest improvement. It immediately tells candidates what environment they're walking into and dramatically reduces residential service electrician applications.


How You Will Make an Impact:

  • Execute high-quality electrical installations for commercial and utility-scale solar projects totaling over 80 MW of legacy excellence.
  • Precision-bend and install RMC, RAC, and EMT conduit ranging from 3/4" to 4" to ensure secure and organized routing.
  • Perform critical wire pulls and accurate labeling to ensure seamless terminations at inverters, service panels, and AC equipment.
  • Interpret complex electrical single-line diagrams and technical specifications to maintain strict adherence to project plans.
  • Uphold rigorous safety standards by maintaining a clean workspace and following NEC and NFPA 70e protocols to the letter.
  • Troubleshoot real-time electrical issues during the installation phase to ensure successful system commissioning and performance.
  • Mentor apprentices and top helpers by sharing technical knowledge and demonstrating elite field craftsmanship.

Required Qualifications & Experience:

  • Minimum of 3 years of commercial, industrial, or solar electrical installation experience. Candidates must have hands-on experience installing conduit, pulling wire, making terminations, and reading electrical drawings in active commercial or industrial environments.
  • Proven proficiency in bending 3/4" to 4" EMT and RMC conduit and pulling wire across complex layouts.
  • Functional, working knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC) for safe and code-compliant terminations.
  • Physical resilience and comfort working at heights, in outdoor conditions, and lifting over 50 pounds.
  • Possession of a valid OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification prior to starting.

Preferred Qualifications & Experience:

  • Specific experience installing and maintaining photovoltaic (PV) solar electrical systems.
  • Current Journeyman or Master Electrician license, or active progress toward obtaining licensure.
  • Technical proficiency with Procore construction management software for field documentation.

Compensation & Benefits:

  • Competitive bi-weekly pay cycle with prevailing wage project opportunities.
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
  • Retirement savings program (401k) with company match.
  • Paid Time Off including holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
  • Paid parental leave for both maternity and paternity needs.
  • Lodging and per diem provided for travel-based assignments.
  • Access to formal apprenticeship and mentor training programs.
  • Life and disability insurance options and all necessary safety equipment provided.

About Us: Commonwealth Power is a trusted Virginia-based partner specializing in the full lifecycle of commercial and industrial solar projects. We pride ourselves on delivering turnkey renewable solutions through dedicated tradecraft and a commitment to treating every team member like family.

Learn more at https://www.cmwpower.com/

Commonwealth Power is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender expression, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or any other status protected by law or regulations. It is our intention that all qualified applicants be given equal opportunity and that selection decisions be based on job-related factors.