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Solar Process Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

As a Mechanical Engineer (Solar) at Starcloud, you will be at the heart of designing, developing ... Partner with supply chain and manufacturing teams to establish efficient production processes.

As a Mechanical Engineer (Solar) at Starcloud, you will be at the heart of designing, developing ... Partner with supply chain and manufacturing teams to establish efficient production processes.

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Solar Process Engineer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$56.3K

$104.7K

$162.2K

How much do solar process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar process engineer in Seattle, WA is $104,719.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,800.00 and $117,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Solar Process Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical, electrical, or mechanical engineering, often supported by a relevant degree and experience in photovoltaic (PV) manufacturing or process optimization. Familiarity with process simulation software, statistical process control (SPC) tools, and certifications like Six Sigma are typically used in this role. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help individuals excel in cross-functional teams and problem-solving situations. These competencies ensure efficient production processes, high-quality solar products, and continual innovation in the rapidly evolving renewable energy industry.

What are some typical challenges Solar Process Engineers face when optimizing manufacturing processes for solar panels?

Solar Process Engineers frequently encounter challenges such as maintaining high product yield while minimizing manufacturing costs, integrating new technologies without disrupting production, and ensuring strict quality standards are met. They must also troubleshoot equipment issues and collaborate closely with R&D, quality assurance, and production teams to implement process improvements. A proactive approach and strong problem-solving skills are essential for adapting to rapidly evolving technologies and industry standards in solar manufacturing.

What are Solar Process Engineers?

Solar Process Engineers are professionals who design, optimize, and oversee the manufacturing processes involved in producing solar panels and related components. They work to improve efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness in solar energy production, often collaborating with research and development, quality assurance, and manufacturing teams. Their responsibilities may include developing new fabrication techniques, troubleshooting production issues, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Solar Process Engineers play a crucial role in advancing renewable energy technologies and making solar power more accessible and affordable.

What is the difference between Solar Process Engineer vs Solar Design Engineer?

AspectSolar Process EngineerSolar Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications in solar technology or process optimizationBachelor's in Engineering, certifications in solar design or CAD software
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, process development labs, field testing sitesDesign offices, project sites, client consultations
Employer & Industry UsageSolar manufacturing companies, energy firms, R&D centersEngineering consultancies, solar project developers, EPC firms

The Solar Process Engineer focuses on optimizing manufacturing processes and improving efficiency in solar product production, while the Solar Design Engineer concentrates on designing solar systems and layouts for projects. Both roles require technical expertise and industry knowledge but differ mainly in their focus areas within the solar industry.

What are popular job titles related to Solar Process Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA? For Solar Process Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Solar Process Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Solar Process Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:
Infographic showing various Solar Process Engineer job openings in Seattle, WA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,719 per year, or $50.3 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer (Solar)

Starcloud

Redmond, WA

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Position Overview:

As a Mechanical Engineer (Solar) at Starcloud, you will be at the heart of designing, developing, and integrating the power-generation backbone for our space-based data centers. You will own the full lifecycle of our solar array mechanical systems, from concept and deployment kinematics to orbital operation, working closely with senior leadership and multidisciplinary teams to rapidly and iteratively deliver low cost, reliable space hardware at huge scale.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Design and Development:
    • Create and manage detailed CAD models from the component level up to the spacecraft level, accounting for complex stowed (launch) and deployed (orbital) configurations.
    • Perform structural, kinematic, and thermal analyses using FEA and hand calculations to ensure solar hardware survives launch and performs during in-orbit thermo-elastic cycling.
    • Own the lifecycle of mechanical components, iteratively driving projects from initial concept through to manufacturing, testing, and deployment.
    • Collaborate on system-level requirements and design criteria to develop holistic DFM strategies that optimize for manufacturability, cost, and reliability.
    • Ensure timely project delivery with high standards of quality and performance through pragmatic project management.
  • Testing and Validation:
    • Design and execute comprehensive test plans to validate designs under launch and space environments.
    • Perform rigorous environmental and performance testing to demonstrate compliance with requirements.
  • Production and Integration:
    • Partner with supply chain and manufacturing teams to establish efficient production processes.
    • Optimize designs for ease of integration and production.
    • Collaborate with vendors to ensure the flawless delivery and integration of mechanical components.
Basic Qualifications:
  • 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 analysis, ideally Ansys.
  • Minimum of 2+ years of hands-on experience in mechanical design, analysis, testing, and/or manufacturing.
  • Strong understanding and application of GD&T principles.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical discipline.
  • 3+ years of professional experience in mechanical design of solar products
  • Expertise in materials selection, advanced manufacturing methods, and surface treatments for space applications.
  • Experience with PCB design and PCBA mechanical integration.
Compensation and Benefits:

Starcloud offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including:

  • Stock options, discretionary bonuses, and other long-term incentives.
  • Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage.
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
  • Short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, and paid parental leave.
  • Generous paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave.