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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 ...

Sr. MFG Engineer - Solar, Amazon Leo

Kirkland, WA · On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

... engineering ownership of solar panel and deploy mechanism assemblies for the Amazon Leo satellite program This is a broad-scoped technical leadership position responsible for the end-to-end ...

Sr. MFG Engineer - Solar, Amazon Leo

Kirkland, WA · On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

Throughout the day, they will split time between the production floor and their engineering work ... solar panel manufacturing processes. The Process Owner will lead cross-functional collaboration ...

Sr. MFG Engineer - Solar, Amazon Leo

Kirkland, WA · On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

... engineering ownership of solar panel and deploy mechanism assemblies for the Amazon Leo satellite program This is a broad-scoped technical leadership position responsible for the end-to-end ...

Showing results 21-40

Solar Engineering information

See Seattle, WA salary details

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$55

$111

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.

Mechanical Engineer - Satellite Solar Array (Starlink)

SpaceX

Redmond, WA • On-site

$115K - $165K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 72 rated aerospace companies


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