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Solar Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Sr. MFG Engineer - Solar, Amazon Leo

Kirkland, WA · On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

The Aerospace Manufacturing Engineer (Process Owner) will provide senior-level manufacturing engineering ownership of solar panel and deploy mechanism assemblies for the Amazon Leo satellite program ...

Sr. MFG Engineer - Solar, Amazon Leo

Kirkland, WA · On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

The Aerospace Manufacturing Engineer (Process Owner) will provide senior-level manufacturing engineering ownership of solar panel and deploy mechanism assemblies for the Amazon Leo satellite program.

The Aerospace Manufacturing Engineer (Process Owner) will provide senior-level manufacturing engineering ownership of solar panel and deploy mechanism assemblies for the Amazon Leo satellite program ...

Showing results 21-40

Solar Engineer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$55.8K

$117.2K

$184.9K

How much do solar engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar engineer in Seattle, WA is $117,165.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,300.00 and $161,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

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 job opportunities are expected to expand as the industry continues to grow globally.

What are popular job titles related to Solar Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Solar Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Solar Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Solar Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Solar Engineer jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Solar Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Solar Engineer job openings in Seattle, WA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,165 per year, or $56.3 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer - Satellite Solar Array (Starlink)

Redmond, WA • On-site

SpaceX
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

$115K - $165K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 152 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
MECHANICAL ENGINEER - SATELLITE SOLAR ARRAY (STARLINK)
SpaceX is looking for a highly motivated engineer to join the Solar Product Team. In this position, you will design and implement the next generation of photovoltaic power systems for new Starlink satellite versions. This role is ultimately responsible for the design, qualification, production rate capability, and reliability of Starlink power generation assemblies used across multiple satellite payloads and vehicle architectures.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Design and analysis of solar array components ranging from photovoltaic cells to integrated electro-mechanical solar array assemblies.
  • Own and design various satellite mechanical systems and/or associated tooling specifically for the solar array sub-assembly.
  • Prepare detailed content for technical design reviews. Demonstrate extreme ownership of the production outcome of the Starlink solar factory across yield, uptime, and cost.
  • Work across disciplines with partner teams such as GNC, Avionics, Operations, and Payloads to achieve the best vehicle outcomes.
  • Provide analytical rationale for design capability through hand calcs, and FEA where applicable.
  • Complete engineering drawings, schematics, and specifications to define purchasing, manufacturing, and operational requirements.
  • Write, design and execute test procedures and verification plans in both electrical and mechanical design spaces in conjunction with your team's test specialists.
  • Design and conduct process qualifications using design of experiments and statistical process control
  • Work seamlessly with supply chain and production partners to complete design for manufacturing (DFM) changes necessary to meet factory rates and costs.
  • Complete review of on orbit performance data and respond with manufacturing and design solutions.
  • Work closely with the Materials Engineering team to develop novel solutions to space-based solar problems.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline
  • 1+ years of professional experience (internships/co-ops experience accepted) with mechanical/electromechanical design, analysis, testing, and/or manufacturing

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Experience with solar array design and/or solar manufacturing industry
  • Experience with performance characterization of photovoltaic solar cells
  • Experience in specifying and qualifying materials and components for space flight
  • Experience with design of experiments, statistical process control and process qualification
  • Proficient in analyzing mechanical assemblies using hand calculations and FEA
  • Proficient in 3D CAD (NX preferred)
  • Proficient in dynamic and thermal analysis
  • Proficient in GD&T
  • Familiar with a wide variety of manufacturing processes and automation for composites, soft goods, adhesives and metals: welding, brazing, fastening, riveting, bonding, lamination, soldering etc.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • This is a hands-on position that requires one to be on their feet for up to 4+ hours a day. Will sometimes be working directly with the hardware on the floor and will have to be comfortable stooping, bending, and standing
  • Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as necessary
  • Preferential ability to travel internationally if needed

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay Range:
Level 1: $100,000.00 - $135,000.00
Level 2: $115,000.00 - $165,000.00
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees in Washington State accrue paid sick time in compliance with state and federal law. Company shuttles are offered to employees for roundtrip travel from select Seattle locations to the SpaceX Redmond office Monday to Friday.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
    Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to

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About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US