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Solar Engineering Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Engineer (Solar)

Redmond, WA · On-site

$105K - $140K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field. * Proficiency with advanced CAD software, ideally NX and teamcenter. * Experience with FEA software for high-fidelity structural ...

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Solar Engineering information

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How much do solar engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for solar engineering in Seattle, WA is $55.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.65 and $62.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is solar engineering?

Solar engineering is a field of engineering focused on designing, developing, and implementing systems that harness energy from the sun. This can involve photovoltaic solar panels, solar thermal systems, and other technologies that convert sunlight into usable energy. Solar engineers work on projects ranging from residential rooftop installations to large-scale solar farms, ensuring systems are efficient, safe, and environmentally friendly. The field combines knowledge of electrical, mechanical, and environmental engineering to create sustainable energy solutions.

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, renewable energy principles, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with photovoltaic (PV) system design software, CAD tools, and industry certifications like NABCEP are typically required. Strong problem-solving, project management, and communication skills help you excel in team environments and client interactions. These competencies are essential for ensuring efficient, safe, and compliant solar energy solutions in a rapidly evolving industry.

What are some common challenges faced by solar engineers during project implementation?

Solar engineers often encounter challenges such as site assessment difficulties, unexpected weather conditions, and ensuring regulatory compliance during project implementation. Coordinating with construction teams, managing supply chain logistics for specialized solar components, and adapting designs to meet local environmental constraints are also frequent hurdles. Effective communication, thorough planning, and staying updated on industry standards can help address these challenges and ensure successful project delivery.

What is the difference between Solar Engineering vs Solar Design?

AspectSolar EngineeringSolar Design
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, PE license often preferredTechnical training, certification in design software
Work EnvironmentDesigning systems, analyzing technical specs, project planningCreating layouts, selecting components, drafting plans
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, solar project developersDesign firms, installation companies
Common Search & ComparisonFocus on technical engineering aspectsFocus on layout and system design

Solar Engineering involves technical analysis, system design, and ensuring compliance with engineering standards, often requiring an engineering degree and licensure. Solar Design focuses on creating detailed layouts, selecting components, and drafting plans for installation, typically requiring technical training and design software skills. Both roles are essential in solar projects but differ in scope and responsibilities.

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 knowledge of photovoltaic systems, electrical engineering, and relevant certifications, and often work in engineering firms, construction, or energy companies.

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 compliance with safety and efficiency standards, often using tools like CAD software and requiring technical certifications. Their work supports the installation and optimization of solar power projects in various environments.
Infographic showing various Solar Engineering job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,855 per year, or $55.7 per hour.

Solar Development Engineer, Solar Design Team

Amazon

Redmond, WA

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Amazon rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 7,147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 39 rated national retailers


Job description

Amazon Leo is Amazon's low Earth orbit satellite network. Our mission is to deliver fast, reliable internet connectivity to customers beyond the reach of existing networks. From individual households to schools, hospitals, businesses, and government agencies, Amazon Leo will serve people and organizations operating in locations without reliable connectivity.
We are seeking a Solar Development Engineer to support the design, build, and test of next-generation solar array hardware

In this role, you will contribute to the development of solar power modules, wing structures, and array mechanical interfaces across multiple programs spanning production support through advanced technology development.
This is a broad hardware development role. You will work across the full spectrum of solar array hardware: mechanical design in CAD, structural and thermal analysis, prototype fabrication, environmental testing, and design-for-manufacturing activities. You will be hands-on with your hardware in the lab, and expected to develop depth across multiple aspects of array development as you grow

The ideal candidate brings strong engineering fundamentals and is motivated to learn rapidly in a fast-paced aerospace development environment.
Export Control Requirement: Due to applicable export control laws and regulations, candidates must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S

as a refugee or granted asylum.
Key job responsibilities
Mechanical Design: Design sub-components and components for solar array hardware including solar power modules (SPMs), wing structures, frames, brackets, and mechanical interfaces. Produce detailed CAD models and engineering drawings.
Prototyping and Build: Support prototype fabrication, assembly, and hardware builds. Work with manufacturing and suppliers to translate designs into physical hardware, incorporating DFM and DFA principles.
Testing: Support environmental and mechanical testing of array hardware including vibration, thermal cycling, deployment, and functional tests

Develop test procedures, fixtures, and documentation.
Materials and Processes: Support materials selection, adhesive bonding processes, composite layup, and thin-film material characterization for array structures.
Documentation: Produce quality engineering artifacts including design specifications, trade studies, test reports, assembly procedures, and design review packages.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work with design engineers, scientists, manufacturing, test, and quality teams to support hardware delivery. Participate in design reviews and team planning discussions.
A day in the life
As a Solar Development Engineer, your work will span design, analysis, and hands-on lab activities

On a given day, you might be modeling in NX, supporting a trade study on a new concept, or assembling a prototype in the lab for an upcoming test. You will regularly collaborate with senior engineers on design decisions, work with manufacturing to resolve build issues, and support test campaigns that validate your designs. The role offers broad exposure to the full hardware development lifecycle, from concept sketches through flight hardware delivery.

You are expected to be hands-on, curious, and comfortable shifting between design, analysis, and test activities as program needs evolve.
About the team
The Solar Design team owns the design, qualification, and technology development of the satellite solar array assembly, including solar power modules, secondary structures, and array-level interfaces. The team supports multiple concurrent programs from production satellites through next-generation array development and advanced R&D. You will work within the Mechanical Engineering organization alongside senior design engineers, scientists, and lab engineers focused on delivering high-performance, lightweight solar arrays for LEO constellation spacecraft

Tasks and priorities change rapidly, and you will take on new and exciting responsibilities as required to ensure project success.


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About Amazon

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Amazon.com, Inc., commonly known as Amazon, is an American multinational technology company. It was founded by Jeff Bezos in 1994 and initially started as an online marketplace for books. Since then, Amazon has expanded its operations and become one of the largest e-commerce companies in the world. Amazon's primary business is its online retail platform, where customers can purchase a vast array of products, including electronics, clothing, books, home goods, and much more. The company offers a convenient and user-friendly shopping experience, with features such as fast shipping, customer reviews, and personalized recommendations. In addition to its e-commerce platform, Amazon has diversified its business into various other areas. One of its notable ventures is Amazon Web Services (AWS), a comprehensive cloud computing platform that provides services such as storage, compute power, and database management to individuals and businesses. AWS has become a leader in the cloud computing industry, powering many websites and applications worldwide. Amazon has also developed its own consumer electronics, including the popular Amazon Kindle e-reader, Fire tablets, Fire TV streaming devices, and the Alexa-powered Echo smart speakers. The Alexa voice assistant, integrated into these devices, allows users to interact with their devices using voice commands, perform tasks, and access information. Furthermore, Amazon has expanded into media and entertainment. It operates Prime Video, a streaming service that offers a wide range of movies, TV shows, and original content. Amazon Music provides a platform for streaming and purchasing digital music, while Audible offers audiobooks and other audio content. The company's commitment to customer satisfaction and convenience is demonstrated by its membership program, Amazon Prime. Prime members receive various benefits, including free two-day shipping, access to streaming services, exclusive deals, and more.

Industry

It services, book publishers, retail, real estate, computer and electronic product manufacturing and software development

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Seattle, WA, US