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Solar Physics Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... Physics, Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline and 10 years of relevant technical experience (or 2 years of experience as a Development Engineer III at First Solar). * Master's Degree in the ...

... Physics, Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline and 10 years of relevant technical experience (or 2 years of experience as a Development Engineer III at First Solar). * Master's Degree in the ...

Test Engineer - Space Solar

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

Starlight Solar Travel: Occasional About Starpath Starpath develops and manufactures the ... Bachelor's or advanced degree in aerospace, mechanical, electrical, materials, physics, or a ...

Bachelor's degree in physics, materials science, mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering ... Experience with solar array system development for space applications, including requirements ...

Delivery of the solar array electrical and mechanical architecture, system design, and lifecycle ... Bachelor's degree in physics, materials science, mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering ...

Delivery of the solar array electrical and mechanical architecture, system design, and lifecycle ... Bachelor's degree in physics, materials science, mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering ...

Bachelor's degree in physics, materials science, mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering ... Experience with solar array system development for space applications, including requirements ...

Bachelor's in engineering, physics, mathematics, or related field * Experience in energy markets or energy project development and construction * Experience with solar industry software (e.g., PVsyst ...

Familiarity with solar cells and relevant physics devices. * Experience with reliability and accelerated testing. * Skills and hands-on experience in execution of experiments in laboratory ...

Showing results 21-40

Solar Physics information

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a solar physics professional?

Day-to-day responsibilities for a Solar Physics professional often include analyzing data from ground-based or space-borne solar observatories, developing and testing theoretical models, and publishing research findings in scientific journals. You may collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams of scientists and engineers to design new instruments, interpret results, or contribute to large-scale research projects. Regular activities also include attending research meetings, presenting findings at conferences, and mentoring junior team members or students. This role offers a dynamic mix of independent research and team-based collaboration in academic, government, or private research settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in solar physics, and why are they important?

To thrive in Solar Physics, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and computational modeling, usually supported by an advanced degree in physics or astrophysics. Familiarity with programming languages such as Python or IDL, experience with data analysis tools, and knowledge of solar observation instruments are commonly required. Excellent problem-solving skills, collaboration, and effective scientific communication help professionals stand out in research-driven environments. These competencies are crucial for interpreting complex solar phenomena and contributing valuable insights to the field.

What is solar physics?

A Solar Physics job involves studying the Sun's structure, behavior, and influence on the solar system. Scientists in this field analyze solar phenomena like sunspots, solar flares, and coronal mass ejections, often using satellite data, ground-based telescopes, and computer modeling. Their research helps improve space weather predictions, which impact communications, power grids, and satellite operations. Many solar physicists work in research institutions, space agencies, or universities, contributing to both scientific understanding and practical applications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Solar Physics jobs in California? The most popular types of Solar Physics jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Solar Physics jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Solar Physics jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Solar Physics job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution.

Development Engineer Intern (Fall 2026)

First Solar

Santa Clara, CA

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


First Solar rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 74 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

457th of 536 rated manufacturers


Job description

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset. 
 

Basic Job Scope: 


    Leading the world's sustainable energy future, First Solar interns work around the globe/country in research and development, marketing, project development, information technology, engineering, energy services and much more. When you work at First Solar, you will be challenged every day and provided real world experience. You will be given the opportunity to find new solutions and develop new skills to further advance your skillset. At First Solar we strive to foster a culture that encourages innovation through collaboration, urging colleagues to take smart risks, learning from failures and course correcting, and owning personal accountability for contributing to our mission.
 

Expected Length of Internship: 
    3-5 months encompassing Fall term (with some flexibility)
    As an internship company, we allow flexibility to enroll in classes while working as an intern, as long as it doesn't interfere with the essential functions of the position.
 

Education/Experience:
    Engineering, chemistry, or physics (Year 2+ of undergrad, or any graduate level) 
    Some experience in chemistry lecture courses and at least one chemistry lab course is required.
    Experience in an undergraduate research lab would be helpful.
    Applicant must not have finished their degree in order to qualify.
    First Solar encourages all interns to register their internship with their university.
 

Required Skills/Competencies:
    Good knowledge of physics and chemistry concepts; experience in collecting data from experiments; good communication and teamwork; knows how to use MS Excel)
 

Basic Internship Scope (Project):
    The intern will interact with a team of engineers and technicians to conduct hands-on lab work related to solar panel research experiments conducted at the California Technology Center in Santa Clara, CA.
    The intern will help push forward experiments related to inkjet printing and spray coating of uniform thin film materials related to solar panel R&D.
    Upon the completion of this internship, the intern is required to present their accomplishments and project summary to the leadership team.
 

Estimated Salary Range:
   27.50 USD per hour- 37.50 USD per hr
 

US Physical Requirements: 
 

(1)    Hybrid Physical Requirements:
    Will sit, stand or walk short distances for up to the entire duration of a shift.
    Will climb stairs on an occasional basis.
    Will lift, push or pull up to 37 pounds on an occasional basis. 
    Required to use hands to grasp, lift, handle, carry or feel objects on a frequent basis.
    20/40 vision in both eyes together, with or without correction, is required.
    Must be able to comply with all safety standards and procedures.
    May reach above shoulder heights and below the waist on a frequent basis.
    May stoop, kneel, or bend, on an occasional basis.
    Ability to wear personal protective equipment is required (including but not limited to; steel-toed shoes, gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, protective jacket or apron and arm guards, and a condition of employment and continued employment (requires little or no facial hair) for those requiring respirator use.


Potential candidates will meet the education and experience requirements provided on the above job description and excel in completing the listed responsibilities for this role. All candidates receiving an offer of employment must successfully complete a background check and any other tests that may be required.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: First Solar is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values and respects the importance of a diverse and inclusive workforce. It is the policy of the company to recruit, hire, train and promote persons in all job titles without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity. We recognize that diversity and inclusion is a driving force in the success of our company.


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