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Solar Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Senior Project Manager

Portland, OR · On-site

$111K - $161K/yr

This individual will lead complex Energy Performance Contracting (EPC), Design-Build, and solar PV ... Review and manage engineering design, submittal, and construction document approvals. * Monitor ...

... engineer-procure-construct (EPC) delivery. We work on a wide range of projects and EPC contracting services, including large transmission and substation projects, complete solar facilities, and ...

... engineer-procure-construct (EPC) delivery. We work on a wide range of projects and EPC contracting services, including large transmission and substation projects, complete solar facilities, and ...

... engineer-procure-construct (EPC) delivery. We work on a wide range of projects and EPC contracting services, including large transmission and substation projects, complete solar facilities, and ...

Software Developer Team Lead

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$121K - $152K/yr

The Software Developer Team Lead oversees the development team in all aspects of the software development life cycle, including design, development, coding, testing, and debugging, to deliver high ...

Showing results 41-60

Solar Engineer information

See Portland, OR salary details

$52K

$109.2K

$172.3K

How much do solar engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar engineer in Portland, OR is $109,183.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,600.00 and $150,100.00 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 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 need technical skills in electrical or mechanical systems and may require certifications in solar technology or engineering. The job outlook is positive, with opportunities across various regions focusing on sustainable energy development.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $109,183 per year, or $52.5 per hour.

Mechanical Plant Project Engineer - Generation & Outage Support

Portland General Electric Company

Portland, OR • Hybrid

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Portland General Electric rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

At PGE, our work involves dreaming about, planning for, and realizing a smarter, cleaner, more enduring Oregon neighborhood. Its core to our DNA and we haven't stopped since we started in 1888. We energize lives, strengthen communities and drive advancements in energy that promote social, economic and environmental progress. We're always on the lookout for people passionate about leading and being a part of teams that are advancing innovative clean energy solutions that are also affordable and accessible to all.

Help keep Oregon powered.

Portland General Electric is building a pipeline of talented Mechanical Engineers to support our power generation fleet. We regularly hire engineers to lead capital projects, support planned and forced outages, improve equipment reliability, solve complex technical problems, and provide engineering support across thermal, hydro and renewable generation assets.

This pipeline posting allows us to connect with experienced engineers as opportunities become available throughout the year. Multiple openings may be filled from this posting.

Assignments vary depending on business needs and may support:

  • Major capital projects
  • Planned and forced outages
  • Plant reliability improvements
  • Mechanical design
  • Equipment life extension
  • Asset management
  • Root cause investigations
  • Engineering studies
  • Field engineering support
  • Project management

What You'll Do

Candidates may:

  • Lead mechanical engineering activities supporting maintenance, capital improvement and modernization projects.
  • Develop engineering packages, specifications, calculations and technical evaluations.
  • Provide engineering support during planned outages and emergent equipment failures.
  • Evaluate equipment condition and recommend repair, replacement or life-extension strategies.
  • Perform diverse engineering analyses that improve reliability, safety, regulatory compliance and plant performance.
  • Support Root Cause Analyses and implement corrective actions.
  • Review vendor drawings, engineering calculations and construction packages.
  • Manage technical scope, budgets, schedules and engineering deliverables for assigned projects.

Areas of Technical Experience

We welcome engineers with experience in one or more of the following:

  • Power generation, hydroelectric, thermal, nuclear, wind, battery, solar
  • Utility engineering
  • Heavy/Industrial facilities with rotating equipment
  • Title V industries
  • Refineries
  • Pulp & paper
  • Oil & gas
  • Combined cycle plants
  • Large rotating equipment

Experience with any of the following is preferred:

  • Turbines (gas fired, steam)
  • Reciprocating Engines
  • Aeroderivative engines
  • HRSGs
  • Auxiliary Boilers
  • Pressure vessels
  • High-energy piping
  • Pumps
  • Valves
  • Heat exchangers
  • Rotating equipment
  • Structural systems
  • Outage planning
  • Asset integrity

Minimum Qualifications

Required

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering. Preferred from ABET - accredited engineering program or program accredited by an equivalent agency
  • Experience supporting engineering, maintenance, design or capital projects in an industrial or utility environment.
  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications and applicable industry codes.
  • Valid driver's license.

Preferred

  • Professional Engineer (PE) license or ability to obtain.
  • Experience with ASME (ie, B31.1), API, ANSI, NBIC or other applicable industry standards.
  • Experience supporting outage execution or major maintenance.
  • Knowledge of project management principles and capital project delivery.
  • Experience performing root cause analysis or reliability engineering.

#LI-SB1,#LI-Hybrid,#LI-Onsite

PGE supports hybrid flexible work arrangements; and will have a combination of in-the-office and working offsite. However, these arrangements may change due to business needs or changes in responsibility. This NOT a remote position.

Actual total compensation, including a performance based incentive bonus, is commensurate with experience, skills, qualifications, education, training, and internal equity.

PGE believes in rewarding dedicated performance. We provide a total rewards package that is designed to reward your contributions to the company, and, at the same time, support your well-being and professional development, both now and into the future. To find out more, click here.

Join us today and power your potential!

Assisting with storms or other Company emergencies is a part of all positions at Portland General Electric.

PGE is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a workplace where employees feel connected, valued, and empowered to thrive. PGE will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.

PGE does not discriminate on the basis of disability. We recognize individuals have a variety of abilities to offer and we believe there is much to value and celebrate by incorporating different abilities into the work we do. One very important way we live this out is in our application and interview process. We work hard to support individuals who may need an accommodation to fully participate in these processes. If you feel you may need an accommodation, or would like to request one, please notify the Recruiter associated with the job posting. You may also make this request by contacting talentacquisition@pgn.comor by calling 503-464-7250. The Recruiter will provide information and next steps for the accommodation process.

To be considered for this position, please complete the following employment application by the posting close date. Posting closes at midnight (Pacific Time) on the closing date below. If no date is listed, job is open until filled.


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