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Solar Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

McKinstry

Renewables Performance Engineer

Madison, WI · On-site

$84K - $129K/yr

We are currently seeking a Renewables Performance Engineer to join our growing Distributed Energy ... Proven understanding of Solar and BESS systems as well as all associated equipment (BMS ...

McKinstry

Renewables Performance Engineer

Madison, WI · On-site

$84K - $129K/yr

We are currently seeking a Renewables Performance Engineer to join our growing Distributed Energy ... Proven understanding of Solar and BESS systems as well as all associated equipment (BMS ...

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All JobsSolar Engineer JobsSolar Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI

Solar Engineer information

See Madison, WI salary details

$49.4K

$103.7K

$163.7K

How much do solar engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar engineer in Madison, WI is $103,739.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,500.00 and $142,600.00 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 job categories do people searching Solar Engineer jobs in Madison, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Solar Engineer jobs in Madison, WI are:
Solar Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Solar Engineer job openings in Madison, WI as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $103,739 per year, or $49.9 per hour.

Senior Electrical Engineer

WESTWOOD PROFESSIONAL SERVICES INC

Middleton, WI

$115K - $145K/yr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

Westwood Professional Services rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

85th of 352 rated engineering

Job description

Description

Senior Electrical Engineer 

Westwood Professional Services, Inc.

Westwood Professional Services, Inc. is seeking a Senior Electrical Engineer to join our renewables team. The position is responsible for managing the electrical engineering of commercial and utility-scale solar projects. The Senior Electrical Engineer will be the primary electrical contact for clients and will oversee the electrical design budget for projects to ensure budgets are met.


Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Manage the electrical engineering of commercial and utility-scale solar projects, ensuring adherence to project budgets.
  • Verify the incorporation of contractual electrical engineering scope into design and coordinate change orders with project managers.
  • Insure project deliverable schedules for electrical engineering scope are met.
  • Assist project managers in responding to RFPs by preparing proposal scope and fees for the electrical engineering.
  • Coordinate with other project disciplines, including civil engineers, geotechnical/structural engineers, and surveyors.
  • Schedule and plan necessary resources needed to support projects on a weekly basis.
  • Perform and lead electrical engineering design and creation of construction documents for projects.
  • Oversee project electrical team resources and be responsible for staff performing electrical calculations and studies.
  • Coordinate with clients, utilities, and code enforcement officers.
  • Perform QA/QC of design work performed on projects for which you are the lead electrical engineer.
  • Maintain awareness of currently available equipment and industry best practices.
  • Collaborate with and support electrical engineering teams in other offices as projects and workload sharing between offices dictates.
  • Support construction of projects by responding to contractor and owner requests, including RFIs and submittal review.
  • Assist Market Directors as needed for marketing efforts and creation of marketing materials surrounding electrical engineering work.
  • Supervise, train, and mentor graduate engineers, staff engineers, and design technicians.

Requirements

  •  Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering or Renewable Engineering Program.
  • Knowledge of NEC and NESC.
  • Knowledge and proficiency in the use of an electrical power system modeling program(s).
  • 6-10 years of experience in the design of electrical distribution, generation, and/or general electrical construction.
  • Working knowledge and ability to read and create construction drawings and specifications.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office products.
  • Professional appearance with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Experience with writing proposals, managing project budgets, invoices and change order processes, progress reports, managing project data, and communicating project requirements to clients and internal stakeholders.
  • Strong work ethic and positive attitude.
  • Ability to work in a collaborative environment and be a supportive team member.
  • Self-motivated with the ability to balance multiple projects under tight deadlines without supervision.
  • Limited capacity experience with AutoCAD.
  • Experience and knowledge of overall design and construction of utility-scale PV and/or wind plants

Apply