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Solar Panel Assembly Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Aptera Motors

Sr Engineer, Exterior + Packaging

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$108K - $148K/yr

... panels, covers, badges, wheel pant cover, body shields, etc.) for the Aptera solar electric ... assembly/installation. Work with suppliers on outsourcing and fabrication and manufacturing of ...

STANDARD ELECTRIC

Panel Fabricator-Brea,California

Canyon, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $25.25/hr

Hands on assembly of mod shop product (starters, push button stations, etc.) * Assist with managing ... Knowledge of Solar ERP a plus * Ability to lift, carry, and otherwise transport work-related ...

STANDARD ELECTRIC

Panel Fabricator-Brea,California

Irvine, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $25.50/hr

Hands on assembly of mod shop product (starters, push button stations, etc.) * Assist with managing ... Knowledge of Solar ERP a plus * Ability to lift, carry, and otherwise transport work-related ...

Apex

Structures Technician

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$350/day

... support the assembly and integration of solar array mechanical systems within our satellite bus ... panel frames per engineering drawings and work instructions. * Install and torque mechanical ...

Samara Aerospace

Electrical Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

... solar panels to provide 3-axis attitude control and active jitter cancellation. This design ... assembly, rework, and system testing. * Plan, support, and analyze board-level environmental ...

Samara Aerospace

Electrical Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

... solar panels to provide 3-axis attitude control and active jitter cancellation. This design ... assembly, rework, and system testing. * Plan, support, and analyze board-level environmental ...

Terabase Energy

Test Technician

Davis, CA · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

Our team is a blend of solar industry veterans and newbies, thought-leaders, dreamers, software ... Wire control panels and field devices per schematics * Install sensors, actuators, motors, and ...

Terabase Energy

Test Technician

Woodland, CA · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

Our team is a blend of solar industry veterans and newbies, thought-leaders, dreamers, software ... Wire control panels and field devices per schematics * Install sensors, actuators, motors, and ...

Terabase Energy

Test Technician

Davis, CA

$65K - $85K/yr

Our team is a blend of solar industry veterans and newbies, thought-leaders, dreamers, software ... Wire control panels and field devices per schematics * Install sensors, actuators, motors, and ...

Terabase Energy

Test Technician

Davis, CA · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

Our team is a blend of solar industry veterans and newbies, thought-leaders, dreamers, software ... Wire control panels and field devices per schematics * Install sensors, actuators, motors, and ...

Terabase Energy

Test Technician

Woodland, CA

$65K - $85K/yr

Our team is a blend of solar industry veterans and newbies, thought-leaders, dreamers, software ... Wire control panels and field devices per schematics * Install sensors, actuators, motors, and ...

Tystar Corporation

Be Seen First

Field Service Engineer

Garden Grove, CA · On-site

$70K - $73K/yr

... solar cells, fiber optic devices, and semiconductor materials. At Tystar, we value our employees ... Gas panel and gas loop plumbing * Mechanical and electrical assembly when not in the field ...

Tystar Corporation

Be Seen First

Mechanical Assembler

Garden Grove, CA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

... solar cells, fiber optic devices, and semiconductor materials. Tystar provides employees with ... frames, panels, door weldments, etc.) • Assemble and install mechanical components and ...

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All JobsSolar Panel Assembly JobsSolar Panel Assembly Jobs in California

Solar Panel Assembly information

See California salary details

$13

$21

$29

How much do solar panel assembly jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for solar panel assembly in California is $21.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $24.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Solar Panel Assembly vs Solar Panel Installation?

AspectSolar Panel AssemblySolar Panel Installation
Primary FocusAssembling solar panels from componentsInstalling assembled panels on sites
Skills & CertificationsBasic electrical knowledge, hand tools, safety trainingElectrical certifications, safety training, site work experience
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or assembly facilitiesOutdoor or rooftop locations
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturers, assembly plantsConstruction companies, solar installation firms

While Solar Panel Assembly involves putting together solar panels in a manufacturing setting, Solar Panel Installation focuses on mounting and connecting panels at installation sites. Both roles require safety training and some electrical knowledge, but assembly is more factory-based, whereas installation is field-based.

Is working in solar a good career?

Working as a solar panel assembler can be a stable career with growing demand due to increased focus on renewable energy. It typically requires technical skills, attention to detail, and safety awareness, with opportunities for advancement and certification in solar technology.

What is the highest salary in solar?

In solar panel assembly roles, salaries can vary based on experience, location, and company size. Senior technicians or supervisors in the solar industry can earn salaries exceeding $70,000 annually, especially with specialized skills or certifications. High-level positions in solar manufacturing or project management may reach six-figure salaries.

What is solar panel assembly?

Solar panel assembly refers to the process of putting together the various components that make up a solar panel, including photovoltaic cells, glass, frames, and wiring. Workers in this role follow specific instructions and safety standards to ensure each panel functions properly and efficiently. This job is an essential part of the solar energy industry, helping to create the panels used in homes, businesses, and large-scale solar farms. Assembly may take place in factories or manufacturing plants, and often involves teamwork and the use of specialized tools.

What is a solar panel assembler job description?

A solar panel assembler is responsible for constructing solar panels by assembling components such as cells, frames, and wiring according to technical specifications. The role often requires manual dexterity, knowledge of electrical systems, and adherence to safety protocols, with tasks performed in a manufacturing or assembly environment. Basic skills in reading diagrams and using hand tools are typically necessary.

What is the 120% rule for solar?

The 120% rule in solar installation refers to the guideline that the total system capacity should not exceed 120% of the inverter's rated capacity. This ensures the inverter can handle the maximum expected power output from the solar panels, which is important for safe and efficient system operation. Solar panel assemblers and installers need to understand this rule to ensure proper system design and compliance with electrical codes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Solar Panel Assembler, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Solar Panel Assembler, you need basic electrical knowledge, manual dexterity, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand tools, soldering equipment, and assembly line systems is typically required, and OSHA safety certifications are often beneficial. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to follow instructions precisely are essential soft skills. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring the accurate, efficient, and safe assembly of solar panels, which directly impacts product quality and workplace safety.

What are some common challenges faced by solar panel assembly technicians, and how can they be addressed?

Solar panel assembly technicians often encounter challenges such as working with small, delicate components, maintaining high quality under tight production schedules, and adapting to evolving manufacturing technologies. Addressing these challenges involves developing strong attention to detail, staying up-to-date with industry standards, and participating in ongoing training. Collaborating closely with quality control teams and fellow assemblers also helps ensure products meet safety and efficiency requirements while fostering a supportive work environment.
What are popular job titles related to Solar Panel Assembly jobs in California? For Solar Panel Assembly jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Solar Panel Assembly jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Solar Panel Assembly jobs in California are:
Solar Panel Assembly jobs near you
Sr Engineer, Exterior + Packaging

Sr Engineer, Exterior + Packaging

Aptera Motors

Carlsbad, CA • On-site

$108K - $148K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Aptera Motors
is dedicated to building a future where every journey is powered by the sun. We specialize in creating solar electric vehicles that revolutionize the way we travel, providing sustainable and efficient transportation solutions.
Company Culture
is built on transparency, ethical treatment of one another, a bias for action, and leading by example.
Senior Engineer, Exterior + Packaging
Carlsbad, California | Engineering | Full-time
About the role
The Sr. Engineer will develop, design, engineer and lead the implementation of the vehicle exterior trim system (exterior panels, covers, badges, wheel pant cover, body shields, etc.) for the Aptera solar electric products. This role will be responsible for the technical development, design, CAD, engineering, suppliers and components manufacturing, validation and implementation in production of this system.
This role requires deep expertise in composite and body panels design, mechanical, aero-dynamic components and treatment, electromechanical interfaces and materials engineering, and integration within the vehicle. I also require a good understanding of road vehicles regulations and compliance. The Sr. Engineer will work closely with cross-functional teams to deliver innovative, compliant, and high-performance exterior trim and panels solutions that enhance vehicle safety, aesthetics, and user experience.
This role joins a hands-on team that transforms ideas into reality. Offering a collaborative company environment, exciting projects, and the opportunity to work on cutting-edge prototypes that shape future products.
What you'll do
  • Design, develop, engineer and lead the vehicle exterior system and components and their full integration with the other vehicle systems (body, structure, closures, chassis, lightning and electrical/HW). Collaboration with Company's cross-functional teams
  • Coordinate and develop the interface with suppliers and manufacturers in providing guidance to functionality, performance and compliance for exterior system supply,
  • manufacturing and assembly/installation. Work with suppliers on outsourcing and fabrication and manufacturing of specific components
  • Perform analytical studies and calculations, simulations (in-house, or with outside suppliers) to set up the correct functionality and performance of the vehicle exterior system and components
  • Lead and collaborate within Engineering, Manufacturing, Procurement and Quality teams to set up the critical functional parameters, installation and control, and interface of the on the vehicle exterior system with correct integration to the rest of the vehicle
  • Identify the mandatory and key compliance and homologation requirements for the system and components within overall vehicle prove-out process. Ensure compliance with applicable regulations and standards
  • Create and lead the design and engineering documentation, CAD, drawings and BOM's in accordance with the Company's systems and processes
  • Conduct Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (DFMEA) and implement design improvements and cost reduction
  • Support validation, testing, and certification activities for exterior system
  • Oversee supplier development and ensure timely delivery of components

Qualifications
  • Experienced with automotive exterior systems and components, design, development, engineering and specific manufacturing processes and assembly for the exterior system on the vehicle
  • Proficient in CAD modeling (CATIA V6), ability to read, interpret and operate CAD models, technical drawings, GD&T, documentation and layout/packaging
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to precision craftsmanship
  • Familiarity with typical exterior components materials and processes with applications to prototyping and series production fabrication and assembly. Experience with composites, plastics, fiber and thermo-set and thermo-form materials and specific molding processes, metallic mounts, fastening and specific joining, aerodynamics parameters and behavior
  • Experienced and knowledgeable on exterior systems structural and thermal behavior on automotive and/or motorcycles applications
  • Understanding and able to develop set up a dimensional and aesthetic quality strategy for the exterior system
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with automotive, motorcycle and tri-cycle exterior systems and components for road vehicles
  • Knowledge and experience with exterior system and components calculations, simulations, functionality, performance and behavior
  • Experience with manufacturing and fabrication processes specific to exterior system and components: injection molding, plastics, RIM, fiber-molding (SMC, RTM, pre-form, hand lay-up and spray-up, etc.), vacuum molding, etc. and assembly of the exterior panels and components
  • Familiarity with series production processes and assembly as well as rapid prototyping techniques and additive manufacturing

Team Structure
  • Individual contributor and leader while collaborating with other teams and individuals, as necessary with potential growth of an exterior systems team. Manager of potential outside resources (contract and consultants)

Required Experience
  • 5 to 7 years of experience in exterior engineering with applications on automotive, or motorcycles and 3-wheeled vehicles.

Educational Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electro-mechanical, Automotive or Manufacturing Engineering

Salary + Benefits
  • Market competitive compensation package
  • Stock option grants
  • Fully funded benefits package for employee + dependents
  • Generous Flexible Time Away policy

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