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Solar Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Solar Mason

Solar (PV) Energy Sales

Scranton, PA · On-site +1

As a Solar Energy Sales Representative, you will be responsible for developing and managing ... Conduct market research to identify potential clients and opportunities for growth * Build and ...

Venture Solar

Solar Sales Consultant

Augusta, ME · On-site

$90 - $250/hr

We are one of only five companies statewide to earn the prestigious Platinum Designation Solar Installer Award from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA). Backed by a ...

Venture Solar

Solar Energy Consultant

Portland, ME · On-site

$100K - $250K/yr

We are one of only five companies statewide to earn the prestigious Platinum Designation Solar Installer Award from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) Backed by a ...

Venture Solar

Solar Sales Consultant

Lancaster, PA · On-site

$100K - $200K/yr

We are one of only five companies statewide to earn the prestigious Platinum Designation Solar Installer Award from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) Backed by a ...

Venture Solar

Solar Sales Consultant

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$100K - $200K/yr

About the Role We are seeking experienced, driven Solar Sales Consultants who excel at building relationships and closing deals. If you are a proven sales professional looking for a high-performance ...

Venture Solar

Solar Sales Consultant

Montgomery, PA · On-site

$100K - $200K/yr

We are one of only five companies statewide to earn the prestigious Platinum Designation Solar Installer Award from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) Backed by a ...

Venture Solar

Solar Sales Consultant

Cranberry Township, PA · On-site

$100K - $200K/yr

We are one of only five companies statewide to earn the prestigious Platinum Designation Solar Installer Award from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) Backed by a ...

Venture Solar

Solar Sales Consultant - Peters Township

PA · On-site

$100K - $200K/yr

We are one of only five companies statewide to earn the prestigious Platinum Designation Solar Installer Award from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) Backed by a ...

Venture Solar

Solar Sales Energy Consultant

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$100 - $250/hr

We are one of only five companies statewide to earn the prestigious Platinum Designation Solar Installer Award from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA). Backed by a ...

Venture Home Solar, LLC

$100 - $250/hr

We are one of only five companies statewide to earn the prestigious Platinum Designation Solar Installer Award from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) Backed by a ...

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How much do solar research jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for solar research in the United States is $39.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.01 and $48.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is solar research?

Solar research is the scientific study of the Sun, its properties, and its effects on the Earth and the solar system. It encompasses a wide range of topics, including solar physics, solar energy technologies, and the development of renewable energy systems that harness sunlight. Researchers in this field work to improve our understanding of solar phenomena and to advance technologies for more efficient and sustainable solar energy production.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in solar research?

To thrive in Solar Research, you need a strong background in physics, engineering, or environmental science, often supported by an advanced degree in a related field. Familiarity with simulation software (such as PVsyst or MATLAB), laboratory equipment, and data analysis tools is typically required. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective collaboration are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies are essential for advancing solar technologies, conducting rigorous experiments, and driving innovation in renewable energy solutions.

What are the most common collaborative projects or teams that a professional in solar research typically works with?

Professionals in Solar Research often collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, data analysts, and policy experts. They frequently engage with laboratory staff to design and conduct experiments, and work alongside industry partners to translate research findings into practical applications. Close collaboration with academic researchers is common, particularly when publishing findings or applying for research grants. These partnerships are essential for advancing innovative solar technologies and addressing real-world energy challenges.

What is the difference between Solar Research vs Solar Engineering?

AspectSolar ResearchSolar Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Renewable Energy, Physics, or related fields; research experienceBachelor's or Master's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Civil Engineering; technical certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, academic institutionsDesign offices, construction sites, manufacturing plants
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, renewable energy companiesEngineering firms, solar panel manufacturers, utility companies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles in solar energy developmentDesigning and implementing solar energy systems

Solar Research focuses on studying and developing new solar technologies and materials, often within labs or academic settings. In contrast, Solar Engineering involves designing, implementing, and maintaining solar energy systems in real-world applications. Both roles require technical knowledge but differ in their focus—research versus practical application.

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Solar Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Solar Research job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,905 per year, or $39.4 per hour.

Instrumentation Manager

Boulder, CO • On-site

National Solar Observatory
201 - 500 employees
Learn more about National Solar Observatoryexternal

$155K - $187K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

The NSF Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope (DKIST), operated by the National Solar Observatory (NSO), is the world's largest and most advanced solar telescope, designed to help answer fundamental questions about our Sun and its complex magnetic fields. DKIST, which completed construction and began operations in November 2021 on the summit of Haleakala, Maui, Hawaii is a major program within the NSO. The NSO, an NSF national research and development center dedicated to solar science, is managed by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA). AURA, a consortium of 49 U.S. institutions and 3 international affiliates, operates world-class astronomical observatories. Its role is to establish, nurture, and promote public observatories and facilities that drive innovative astronomical research.
We are hiring a DKIST Instrumentation Manager who will be responsible for managing major upgrades of existing DKIST instrumentation and for the implementation of new instrumentation developments. The Instrumentation Manager works with and takes direction from the Program Scientist for Instrumentation to establish and implement instrumentation program priorities. The Instrumentation Manager manages a team of engineers and technicians that accomplish prioritized instrumentation tasks. The Instrumentation Manager also works with the Instrumentation Operations Manager on the implementation of upgrades and new developments for the telescope on the summit. The Instrumentation Manager functionally reports to the DKIST Program Scientist for Instrumentation. This position will be located at the NSO headquarters in Boulder, Colorado.
Essential Functions
  • Lead a team of engineers and technicians to develop and implement major upgrades to the current suite of operational DKIST instruments.
  • Work in close collaboration with the DKIST Program Scientist for Instrumentation to implement new instrumentation concepts to meet DKIST future science mission needs.
  • Work with the Instrumentation Operations Manager on the implementation of new instrumentation initiatives on the summit.
  • Manage resources and delegate instrumentation tasks and as required.
  • Develop program plans for new instrument development projects involving all relevant stakeholders.
  • Manage instrumentation project performance using appropriate systems, tools and techniques (e.g., Atlassian Confluence and JIRA). Ensure instrument projects are executed within schedule, scope and budget
  • Maintain project documentation, manage instrument vendor contracts, and manage project risk.
  • Communicate regularly with the Program Scientist for Instrumentation and DKIST Management about project progress, changes, issues, and solutions. Provide regular updates on program status, including schedule and budget.
  • Maintain effective communication with other DKIST operations teams.
  • Coordinate work, schedules and resources within the instrumentation team and other DKIST operations teams.
  • Adhere to established safety and other pertinent DKIST guidelines and procedures
  • Responsible for ensuring compliance with government award terms and conditions assigned to this position or subordinates of this position.
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements
  • Degree in engineering, physics, astronomy or other relevant field, or equivalent experience.
  • 10+ years of experience with managing complex science projects, including preparation and management of performance, budget, schedule and risk.
  • Experience preparing and coordinating technical procurements of varying scale ($K - $M)
  • Experience managing teams of engineers and technicians.
  • Ability to apply project management practices and relevant project management tools.
  • Familiarity with Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) tools and the development of instrumentation maintenance plans
  • Excellent organizational skills and good written and verbal communication skills.
  • Experience with managing development and/or operations of telescope and instrument systems, or systems of similar nature and complexity
  • Familiarity with astronomical observatories and observing practices.
  • Ability to speak and write effectively in English, including preparation of comprehensive reports
  • Basic computer skills

Preferences
  • Advanced degree in engineering, physics, astronomy or other relevant field, or equivalent experience.
  • Experience in the development or support of astronomical instrumentation.
  • Experience and interest in ground-based observational solar research and science analysis

Work Environment & Physical Requirements
  • Primarily office-based with extended computer use
  • Occasional lifting (up to 25 lbs)
  • Periodic work at high-elevation observatory site (~10,000 ft)
  • Frequent communication and collaboration with team members
  • Ability to work at 10,000' elevation, sometimes during inclement weather, is required.
  • There will be occasional working at height utilizing fall protection equipment, ladders and scaffolding.
  • Regular travel between Boulder, CO and Maui, HI. Occasional domestic and international travel will be necessary.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Salary Range: $155,000-$187,000 per year. The final salary will depend on skills, qualifications and experience.
AURA offers an excellent benefits package including paid time off and retirement plan contributions, competitive salary commensurate with experience, and a very attractive work environment. Details on benefits can be found at Benefits by Location - Aura Human Resources
Apply by September 4, 2026 for priority consideration. This position will remain open until it is filled. Please submit a cover letter and a CV or resume, PDF files preferred. Please name any attachments with the following format: LastName DocName.
Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can request assistance here.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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