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Solar Physicist Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

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$99.7K

$238.2K

How much do solar physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar physicist in Colorado is $99,689.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,000.00 and $117,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical research projects or collaborations that a solar physicist might be involved in?

Solar Physicists often work on projects studying solar phenomena such as sunspots, solar flares, and coronal mass ejections, using data from space-based observatories and ground telescopes. Collaboration is common, both within interdisciplinary research teams and with international space agencies like NASA or ESA. Many roles involve coordinating with engineers, data scientists, and other physicists to analyze large datasets and develop models that predict solar activity. These projects contribute to our understanding of space weather and its impact on Earth, making teamwork and communication skills essential in this field.

What is the difference between Solar Physicist vs Solar Engineer?

AspectSolar PhysicistSolar Engineer
Required CredentialsPhysics degree, often PhD, specialized in solar phenomenaEngineering degree, often Bachelor's or Master's, focused on solar technology
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, observatories, academic institutionsSolar power plants, manufacturing facilities, project sites
Industry UsageStudying solar activity, solar physics researchDesigning and implementing solar energy systems

Solar Physicists focus on understanding the sun's physical properties and solar phenomena through research, often working in labs or academic settings. Solar Engineers, on the other hand, design and develop solar energy systems for practical use in renewable energy projects. While both roles require knowledge of solar science, their work environments and objectives differ significantly.

What is a solar physicist?

A Solar Physicist is a scientist who studies the Sun, including its structure, behavior, and impact on the solar system. They use both ground-based and space-based observatories to analyze solar phenomena such as sunspots, solar flares, and the solar wind. Solar Physicists contribute to our understanding of how solar activity affects space weather, which can impact satellites, power grids, and communication systems on Earth. Their research is crucial for predicting solar storms and mitigating their effects on technology and human activities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a solar physicist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Solar Physicist, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and astronomy, typically supported by a Ph.D. in astrophysics or a related field. Proficiency with data analysis software, programming languages like Python or IDL, and familiarity with solar observation instruments is essential. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and clear scientific communication set outstanding candidates apart. These competencies enable effective research, accurate data interpretation, and the advancement of our understanding of solar phenomena.
What are popular job titles related to Solar Physicist jobs in Colorado? For Solar Physicist jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Solar Physicist jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Solar Physicist jobs in Colorado are:
Solar Physicist jobs near you

System Operator I, II or Senior

Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association, Inc.

Westminster, CO

$109K - $139K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Responsible for performing routine and emergency switching on the TriState interconnected transmission system and monitoring transmission system parameters including voltages, line and transformer loads and taking corrective actions as required.  This position is a shift position to cover 24 hours 7 days per week.  This position is tasked with the authority and responsibility to operate the Tri-State transmission system in such a manner as to comply with all appropriate North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and Regional Reliability Organization (RRO) reliability standards.

Note: There is one position available and the position will be filled at one of three job grade levels: System Operator I, job grade 8; System Operator II, job grade 9; or Senior System Operator, job grade 10. This decision will be based on the qualifications and experience of the candidate selected, and Tri-State business needs at the time of hire.


Tri-State recognizes the value of a highly-engaged and committed workforce and provides an excellent benefits program that includes:
Medical Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance Health Savings Account (HSA), Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), Tuition Reimbursement, Flexible Work Schedules, Life Insurance, 401K, Long Term Disability (LTD), Short Term Disability (STD), Employee Assistant Program (EAP) and Paid Leave Benefits. 
 

Senior System Operator
Hiring Salary Range: $109,000-139,000


System Operator II 
Hiring Salary Range: $98,000-$124,000


System Operator I
Hiring Salary Range: $88,000-$111,000 
Actual compensation offer to candidate may vary outside of the posted hiring salary range based upon work experience, education, and/or skill level.

Tri-State is a wholesale power supply cooperative, operating on a not-for-profit basis, with electric distribution cooperatives and public power district members in four states: Colorado, Nebraska, New Mexico and Wyoming. Together with its members, Tri-State delivers reliable, affordable and responsible power and energy services to nearly a million electricity consumers across roughly 200,000 square miles of the West.

Founded in 1952 by its member systems to provide a reliable, cost-based supply of electricity, Tri-State is now headquartered in Westminster, Colo., employing approximately 1,000 people across five states.

Tri-State's electricity is generated from coal, natural gas, hydropower, wind, and solar. This power reaches members via a transmission system that includes substation facilities, telecommunications sites and almost 6,000 miles of high voltage transmission lines.

As a member-owned and -governed cooperative, every member has a voice and an equal vote in the future of Tri-State.

Education and Training

  • High School diploma or equivalent.
  • Completion of Tri-State System Operator Trainee Program or other qualified System Operator Trainee program.
  • Working knowledge of algebra, geometry, and basic principles of physics including electrical and mechanical theory, AC and DC currents, and the fundamentals of power flow.

  • NERC Certification and maintain certification by obtaining required continuing education hours.

Knowledge, Skills, and Ability:

  • Working knowledge of algebra, geometry and basic principles of physics.
  • Working knowledge of electrical and mechanical theory, AC and DC circuits and the fundamental of power flow.
  • Extensive knowledge of electrical utility systems, equipment and all phases of transmission operations.
  • Extensive knowledge of corporate security and fire alarm system and related procedures.
  • Extensive knowledge of safety rules and equipment.
  • Ability to direct the work of other System Operators and assist in training new employees and/or trainees.
  • Ability to distinguish full range of colors to be successful with completing duties involving the use of computer displays to monitor color-coded electric system diagrams.
  • Ability to use and learn various computer applications.
  • Excellent communication skills, both orally and written.
  • Ability to work under stress.
  • Ability to maintain good working relationships both internal and external.
  • Ability to exercise good judgment and discretion in routine and emergency situations.

Experience:

  • Three (3) or more years System Operator II experience or an equivalent level of experience on an interconnected electrical system.
  • One (1) year on the Tri-State system at System Operator II level.

Other:

  • Willingness to work rotating shifts with extra and/or irregular hours including holidays.
  • Willingness to travel as required. (Must possess a valid driver's license.)

DESIRED JOB QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor's degree in Electricity, Mathematics, or other closely related discipline preferred.

Note: The above requirements describe the experience and education qualifications for the Senior System Operator. Those with less experience will be hired at the I or II job grade level.

  • Senior System Operator duties include:

    • Prepare/approve transmission switching programs in advance of requested date of execution.

    • Using advanced Energy Management System (EMS) simulation tools model all switching programs to identify and mitigate any reliability issues.

    • Direct and coordinate routine and emergency switching including issuing clearances and other protective orders to field personnel and coordinate with interconnected utilities.

    • Coordinate routine and emergency activities with Member systems and other interconnected utilities.

    • Monitor transmission system events and conditions utilizing EMS, to include but not limited to line trips, system voltages, line loading, and equipment status, and take actions to maintain transmission system reliability as dictated by company specific reliability related tasks in accordance with NERC, RRO, and company guidelines.

    • Monitor network applications, including State Estimator and Real-Time Security Analysis, for potential Transmission System reliability issues and take action to mitigate any reliability issues.

    • Develop, Approve, and Implement mitigations for Real-Time Transmission System emergencies

    • Validate Transmission Service Requests, e-Tags, performing congestion management, and underground locates.

    • Assist with training activities of new employees, System Operator I & II, and Transmission System Operator Trainees as needed.

    • During emergency system conditions coordinated and execute decisions to restore load and generation balance and provide emergency assistance as requested or required to ensure system reliability, as required by the NERC Standards, and provided for under the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) Standards of Conduct.

    • Perform Senior System Operator duties at the Backup Control Center (BCC) as needed during emergencies and during periodic BCC drills and exercises.

    • Participate in Regional System Blackstart system restoration drills.

  • General System Operations duties:

    • Operate voice and radio communications systems to communicate with interconnected utilities and field personnel.

    • Coordinate at various internal and external corporate levels to exchange information and coordinate reliable operations.

    • Coordinate with System Operating Engineers and assist with system studies and related matters.

    • Ensure the Open Access Same-Time Information System (OASIS) postings are updated to reflect real time changes to Available Transmission Capacity (ATC).

    • Maintain operational records and logs.

      • Post information on reliability messaging tools as required and monitor these messages for incoming reliability information. 

      • Participate in all required training to maintain a valid NERC Certification.

  • Demonstrate and promote ethics and behaviors consistent with Tri-State's culture, Board policies, and business practices. Understand and fulfill the role and responsibility for all compliance programs within the company.

  • Because Tri-State is an electric utility with continuous service obligations to its customers, regular, reliable, and predictable performance of the essential functions and responsibilities is an essential function of the job.

  • Because Tri-State has an obligation to provide continuous, reliable electric service to its customers, the ability to work overtime at any time of the day or week is considered an essential function of the job.

OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Perform other related duties as assigned

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