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Solar Project Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Solar Landscape

Solar Project Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

Recognized as the #1 Distributed Generation Developer by New Project Media, the #1 National Commercial Rooftop Solar Developer by Solar Power World, and winner of the U.S. Department of Energy ...

Solar Landscape

Solar Project Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$80K - $110K/yr

Recognized as the #1 Distributed Generation Developer by New Project Media, the #1 National Commercial Rooftop Solar Developer by Solar Power World, and winner of the U.S. Department of Energy ...

Pivot Energy

Solar Project Engineer II

Chicago, IL · Remote

Identify lessons learned and value engineering opportunities from construction projects ... Knowledge of solar and electrical commissioning and testing standards and techniques. Especially ...

Pivot Energy

Solar Project Engineer II

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Identify lessons learned and value engineering opportunities from construction projects ... Knowledge of solar and electrical commissioning and testing standards and techniques. Especially ...

Pivot Energy

Solar Project Engineer II

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$100K - $120K/yr

Identify lessons learned and value engineering opportunities from construction projects ... Knowledge of solar and electrical commissioning and testing standards and techniques. Especially ...

AMPS

Solar Project Manager

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$28K/mo

The Solar Project Manager will be responsible for sales, project execution, and overall performance ... * BS in Engineering or related field * 2-5 years project management or engineering design ...

AMPS

Solar Project Manager

Downers Grove, IL

$28K/mo

The Solar Project Manager will be responsible for sales, project execution, and overall performance ... * BS in Engineering or related field * 2-5 years project management or engineering design ...

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Solar Project Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$71.7K

$90.2K

$127.8K

How much do solar project engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar project engineer in Chicago, IL is $90,208.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,400.00 and $97,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Solar Project Engineer Do?

A solar project engineer develops equipment that converts sunlight into usable electricity. As a solar project engineer, you collaborate with other engineers and designers on the development of photovoltaic (PV) technologies, such as solar panel arrays and solar power plants. Your responsibilities include modeling PV systems and designing solar energy materials to meet project specifications, solving solar engineering problems, and installing the solutions your team develops to promote the use of solar energy over non-renewable energy resources.

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

To thrive as a Solar Project Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical or mechanical engineering, with a relevant degree and experience in solar energy systems. Familiarity with solar design software (such as PVsyst or AutoCAD), project management tools, and relevant certifications like NABCEP are highly valued. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills set top candidates apart in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring efficient project execution, regulatory compliance, and successful collaboration across multidisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges faced by Solar Project Engineers during the installation phase, and how are they typically addressed?

Solar Project Engineers often encounter challenges such as unexpected site conditions, permitting delays, and coordinating with multiple contractors during the installation phase. These challenges are typically addressed by conducting thorough site assessments beforehand, maintaining clear communication with stakeholders, and implementing effective project management practices. Flexibility and proactive problem-solving are essential, as is the ability to adapt schedules and resources to keep the project on track. Regular meetings with construction teams and other engineers help ensure swift resolution of on-site issues.

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

AspectSolar Project EngineerSolar Design Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in engineering, certifications like NABCEP or PE often preferredBachelor's in engineering or related field, NABCEP certification common
Work EnvironmentOn-site project management, coordination with construction teamsDesign and planning, CAD work, technical analysis
Employer & Industry UsageSolar developers, EPC firms, utilitiesEngineering firms, solar design companies, EPC contractors
Search & Comparison IntentFocus on project execution, management, and installationFocus on system design, layout, and technical specifications

The Solar Project Engineer primarily manages the execution and coordination of solar installation projects, ensuring timely completion and compliance. In contrast, the Solar Design Engineer concentrates on designing solar systems, creating technical plans, and optimizing system performance. Both roles require technical certifications and work within the solar industry, but their focus areas differ from planning to project management.

More about Solar Project Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Solar Project Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Solar Project Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Solar Project Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Solar Project Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Solar Project Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Solar Project Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,208 per year, or $43.4 per hour.
Solar Project Engineer

Solar Project Engineer

Solar Landscape

Chicago, IL • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

About Us
 
Solar Landscape is the leading commercial rooftop solar developer in the U.S. Only 4% of commercial rooftops host solar today — we’re changing that, fast. Commercial rooftop solar is the fastest, smartest way to build new clean power — delivering megawatts of generation in months, not years, and powering America’s energy and future right where it’s needed most. By turning rooftops into local power plants, we’re reshaping how — and how fast — energy gets built in the U.S.

Recognized as the #1 Distributed Generation Developer by New Project Media, the #1 National Commercial Rooftop Solar Developer by Solar Power World, and winner of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Grand Prize for Clean Energy, Solar Landscape is defining the future of energy generation in America.

Headquartered in Asbury Park, New Jersey, Solar Landscape has offices in Chicago, Baltimore, and New York City and operates in over a dozen states nationwide.

We move fast, solve hard problems, and take our work seriously — but never ourselves. We value clear thinking, accountability, and execution. At the same time, we’re collaborative by default, and believe the best work happens when people enjoy working together. Our team is made up of smart, grounded people who show up for each other — whether that’s troubleshooting a system design or catching up over lunch.

If you’re looking to do meaningful work in a high-performance environment — and be part of the team reshaping how energy gets built in the U.S. — we’d love to meet you.

About The Role
Responsibilities
  • Deliver design and problem-solving services that support project schedules to the assigned project teams.
  • Plan and lead the design development effort for all assigned project teams.
  • Support Design team as part of initial training process and where needed thereafter.
  • Oversee/Design/Support commercial and grid supplied Solar Photovoltaic systems.
  • Prepare technical drawings, specifications of PV systems to ensure that installation and operations conform to standards and customer requirements.
  • Conduct detailed site evaluations.
  • Coordinate with structural, electrical, geotechnical, and civil Professional Engineers during design process to assure the design meets technical and code requirements. Manage professional engineer review process to obtain PE stamps on drawing packages.
  • Provide technical support to Commercial Sales and Finance for the development of technical proposals and customer presentations.
  • Participate in meetings and technical presentations to customers, investors, and PV technical community.
  • Provide engineering/technical input and direction to site evaluation, interconnect agreements and other associated tasks.
  • Work with appropriate electric utilities to prepare and process interconnection paperwork.
  • Review specifications for purchases of materials or equipment.
  • Identify appropriate equipment for use in PV systems and perform technical qualification of vendors.
  • Support Project Management and construction team with ongoing technical support, RFI’s, and As-builts.
  • Review of other design engineers’ work during design phase.
  • Lead cross-functional design reviews.
  • Develop necessary customer deliverables such as concept module layouts, single line diagrams, equipment or material specifications, engineering validation, 3-D renderings, and photo simulations.
  • Assist with Request for Proposal (RFP) reviews, technical writing, and response coordination.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Structural, or Civil preferred).
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD, SolarEdge Designer Tool, and MS Office Suite.
  • Experience in electrical, mechanical, structural, or civil engineering design.
  • Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with the ability to manage priorities effectively.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
  • Acute attention to detail and strong judgment in decision-making.
  • Demonstrated ability to plan, organize, and execute projects effectively.
Benefits and Perks
 
We offer competitive compensation and benefits designed to support you inside and outside of work:
 
·       Training / Professional development opportunities
·       401(k) with 4% company match
·       Summer Fridays
·       Flexible remote/hybrid work options
·       Paid parental leave
·       Team lunches, events, and stocked kitchens
·       Modern, collaborative office spaces in Asbury Park, New York City, Boston, Chicago, and Baltimore
·       Medical, dental, and vision coverage
·       Company-paid life and long-term disability insurance


We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.