Solar Power Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Oakland, CA

Full-time

First, the good news: The world now has over 2 terawatts of cumulative solar capacity and solar PV is the lowest-cost source of energy generation worldwide.

The challenge: The world must build 3 terawatts of new solar capacity every year for the next 25 years to meet surging power demand and decarbonize.

Planted is creating new technology to overhaul how the industry develops and builds solar power resources. We’re expanding our team of ambitious, curious, and hands‑on engineers and operators who want to accelerate that transition. Come take ownership of large parts of our product, company, and business development as we help power the world with 100% clean and abundant energy.

As Structural Project Engineer you will own design and engineering of the mechanical and structural aspects of Planted Solar’s projects, ranging in size from distributed generation (DG) to utility scale. You will support solar site design, specifically focused on the structural and geotechnical disciplines, while balancing optimization of energy production, schedule, and labor and material costs. This role is a key interface with customers, independent engineers, and permitting agencies to ensure Planted projects meet all structural engineering requirements.

This role offers the opportunity to work closely with talented engineering and business teams with a high degree of empowerment and autonomy. We are looking for a technically excellent hands‑on engineer with experience deploying solar at scale. You will be a key part of driving project outcomes.

The annual salary range for this full-time position is $115,000 - $150,000 plus stock options and benefits. Pay within the range is based on candidate experience, job‑specific skills, education, and work location. The target experience for the position is 3-5 years.

• Design and engineer Planted Solar projects ranging from 10-200+ MW. Specifically focused on the structural and mechanical aspects of the solar array and site layout.
• Develop comprehensive structural calculation packages (incorporating site environmental loads, frost heave, and foundation constraints) to be reviewed and stamped by external Engineers of Record (EOR).
• Project manage on‑site pile load and corrosivity testing, acting as the primary technical liaison between the field and the design team. Ensure deliverables meet the required specifications.
• Determine structural foundation specifications based on site environmental loads and soil conditions.
• Effectively collaborate and communicate with project managers and procurement team members to drive project outcomes.
• Work collaboratively with engineering teammates to produce holistic site designs.
• Travel as needed to project sites to support construction to ensure customer satisfaction with Planted products and services
• Champion improvements of the Planted system through critical feedback on hardware and software products
• Ability to manage time efficiently across multiple projects
• Ensure compliance with company, industry, trade, and jurisdictional safety standards, practices, and codes

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical or structural engineering, or other related discipline
• 3+ years experience designing utility scale solar PV systems, or equivalent structural or civil engineering projects
• Proficiency in reviewing construction drawings and using proprietary or standard design software to optimize site layouts based on geotechnical inputs.
• Experience with geotechnical analysis, digital elevation models, GIS, mapping, and coordinate frames
• A track record of organization, adaptability, attention to detail, and project management skills
• Ability to communicate among construction, technical and non-technical personnel, both internally and outside the company
• Hands‑on attitude, strong ownership mentality, and resourcefulness.
• Inquisitive and not afraid to speak up to get necessary information or input
• Eagerness to navigate ambiguity, reduce reasonable risks, and make good decisions with imperfect knowledge
• Strong record of safe field operations and ability to integrate safety into product design and project operations
• Desire to work in a fast‑paced startup environment
• Located in the SF Bay Area or willing to relocate for 100% in‑person role

• Professional Engineering (PE) license.
• Experience with 2D CAD and 3D CAD tools, such as Civil3D or SolidWorks
• Geotechnical design experience with design of foundations, equipment pads, and/or utility trenches
• Field experience in a construction environment
• Experience with new product development

• A mix of desk work using standard office equipment and field activities

• 11 paid company holidays and flexible Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Company-paid in‑office lunches
• Stock options
• Medical, vision, dental, and other benefits
• Pre‑tax commuter benefits
• 401(k)
• A chance to have an empowered, meaningful, and early role in climate

• You want to solve challenging problems
• You are fiercely outcome‑driven
• You are biased towards action and focus on the vital work that drives the most impact
• You prioritize the physical and psychological safety of yourself and those around you
• You are humble, embrace change, and deliver and receive candid feedback
• You are optimistic about the future and can make tough decisions to help get there
• You have high expectations and coach, develop, and make time to help others

Planted Solar is an equal opportunity employer committed to growing inclusively, regardless of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, medical condition, age, or veteran status. However you identify, or whatever background you bring with you, please apply. We look forward to hearing from you.