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Solar Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

As an EPC Project Manager , you will oversee solar projects through the construction lifecycle, from late-stage development, engineering and procurement to commercial operation. You'll manage key ...

... solar and eco-district work, our off-site manufacturing group in scaling production products and ... The Associate Engineer position is a mix of brains and brawn. You will be a day-to-day project ...

... solar and eco-district work, our off-site manufacturing group in scaling production products and ... The Associate Engineer position is a mix of brains and brawn. You will be a day-to-day project ...

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Solar Engineer information

See Portland, OR salary details

$50.1K

$105.2K

$166.1K

How much do solar engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar engineer in Portland, OR is $105,207.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,300.00 and $144,600.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Solar Engineer jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Solar Engineer jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Solar Engineer jobs in Portland, OR? For Solar Engineer jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Solar Engineer jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Solar Engineer jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Solar Engineer jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Solar Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Solar Engineer job openings in Portland, OR as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 88% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,207 per year, or $50.6 per hour.

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

EPC Project Manager - Join Us on the Journey to Transform Our Nation’s Energy


Who We Are:

Renewable Acres is committed to integrating solar power into our national infrastructure, driving sustainable, long-lasting energy solutions for communities across the country. We are small but mighty, entrepreneurial, and fast-paced. Based in Portland, Oregon, and offices in Bend, OR, we work collaboratively with our sister development company (GreenKey Solar) to drive change developing utility-scale renewable energy projects in key growth markets. We are a team of doers, taking ownership of our work and proactively solving problems to achieve ambitious goals.


Who You Are:

You are not waiting for someone else to act—you take responsibility and initiative to get things done. You have a passion for tackling complex challenges, and see them through until they are done and done well. You thrive in an environment where creativity, problem-solving, and curiosity is paramount. You believe in learning continuously, growing with every experience, and driving solutions, not just identifying problems.


Your Mission:

As an EPC Project Manager, you will oversee solar projects through the construction lifecycle, from late-stage development, engineering and procurement to commercial operation. You’ll manage key elements like safety, quality, budget, and scheduling while coordinating with multi-disciplinary teams and third-party EPC contractors. This role is essential to achieving Renewable Acres’ mission and upholding our values of accountability, ownership, and innovation.


What We Value:

  • Accountability & Ownership: We own our work and see it through. We take responsibility, admit when we're wrong, and make it right.
  • Creativity & Problem-Solving: We don't just point out problems; we solve them. We think outside the box and find the best solutions.
  • Curiosity & Growth-Oriented: We never stop learning. We ask questions, challenge assumptions, and drive for personal and team growth.
  • Initiative/Self-Starter: We act instead of waiting for others to act. We find solutions independently, identify opportunities, and keep pushing forward.
  • Integrity/Transparency: We do the right thing, even when it's hard. We are dependable, honest, and committed to our principles.


Your Key Responsibilities:

  • Project Leadership: Lead solar construction projects from financial close to commercial operation, managing all aspects, including budgeting, scheduling, and quality.
  • Scheduling & Coordination: Develop and oversee project schedules using Smartsheet and MS Project, understanding the intricacies of predecessor-successor relationships to ensure seamless transitions and milestone tracking.
  • Contract & Subcontractor Management: Possess a strong understanding of contracts and exhibits; select, negotiate, and manage subcontractors to align with project goals and ensure compliance with all contractual requirements.
  • Budgeting & Cost Control: Bring industry-specific expertise in solar budgeting and cost management, balancing project financials with quality expectations.
  • Documentation & Organization: Maintain and organize project documentation, including RFI, submittals, and project records, using platforms like Egnyte and Google Drive to ensure accurate information storage and accessibility.
  • Stakeholder Interface: Coordinate effectively with various stakeholders, including subcontractors, permitting and environmental teams, finance, engineering, vendors, and interconnecting entities.
  • Field & Construction Management: Draw on your construction management experience to handle field requirements, managing RFI and submittal processes, and aligning with on-site needs for smooth execution.
  • Process Development & Optimization: Build on existing processes and continuously refine project management tools and procedures, contributing to the evolution of project delivery excellence at Renewable Acres.
  • Project Closeout: Manage project closeout processes, ensuring milestones (MC, SC, FC) are met, and all closeout documentation is accurately filed and distributed.


Qualifications:

We understand that no candidate will fit every requirement perfectly. If you believe you have the skills, drive, and growth mindset to thrive in this role, we encourage you to apply!

  • Industry Experience: 5 or more years of utility-scale solar industry experience required, with a track record of leading successful EPC projects greater than 5 MW.
  • Technical Skills: Proficiency in Smartsheet, MS Project, and an understanding of scheduling principles; familiarity with Egnyte, Google Drive, and process management. Experience in reviewing Engineering drawings is a plus.
  • Budget & Cost Management: Solar-specific budgeting experience, with strong financial acumen in managing project costs and understanding industry standards.
  • Contract Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of contracts, exhibits, and subcontractor management, ensuring projects align with all requirements and expectations.
  • Construction Expertise: Hands-on experience with construction management, RFI, and submittal processes, and the unique demands of the field environment.
  • Organization & Documentation: Exceptional organizational skills, with an ability to navigate digital storage systems and maintain accessible, well-organized records.
  • Collaboration & Communication: A team player with excellent communication skills, capable of interfacing effectively with multiple departments and external partners.
  • Collaboration: Excited to work in-person at our Portland office full time.


Why Join Us?

  • Competitive Compensation: Commensurate with experience, plus bonus potential.
  • Comprehensive Benefits: Company-paid medical, retirement match, flexible work schedule, and paid time off.
  • Growth Opportunity: Join a rapidly growing company at the forefront of the renewable energy revolution.
  • Purpose-Driven Work: Be part of something bigger—making a tangible difference in the fight against climate change.


Ready to Build the Future?

If you’re prepared to take on the challenge, lead with purpose, and help shape the renewable energy landscape, we want to hear from you. Apply today and join us on a journey to power a cleaner, brighter world.