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Solar Research Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aura Astronomy

Instrumentation Manager

Boulder, CO · On-site

The NSO, an NSFnational 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 ...

AURA

Instrumentation Manager

Boulder, CO · On-site

$155K - $187K/yr

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 ...

Nrel

Senior Geospatial Researcher III/IV

$100K - $128K/yr

The GDS Group conducts research at the intersection of energy deployment, big data science, and ... solar, natural gas, storage, transmission, and large loads. Our scientists work with industry ...

Nrel

Senior Geospatial Researcher III/IV

Golden, CO · On-site

$101K - $129K/yr

The GDS Group conducts research at the intersection of energy deployment, big data science, and ... solar, natural gas, storage, transmission, and large loads. Our scientists work with industry ...

K2 Space

Solar Design Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Bachelor's degree in physics, materials science, mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering ... Internship or research experience with solar arrays or power systems for space applications

K2 Space

Solar Design Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Bachelor's degree in physics, materials science, mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering ... Internship or research experience with solar arrays or power systems for space applications

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Solar Research Scientist information

See salary details

$50.5K

$130.1K

$174K

How much do solar research scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar research scientist in the United States is $130,117.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a solar research scientist?

Solar Research Scientists are professionals who study the science and technology of harnessing energy from the sun. They conduct research to improve the efficiency, affordability, and reliability of solar energy systems. Their work often involves developing new materials, testing solar panels, analyzing data, and collaborating with engineers and policymakers to advance solar technology. Solar Research Scientists play a key role in the transition to renewable energy by finding ways to make solar power more accessible and sustainable.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a solar research scientist?

To thrive as a Solar Research Scientist, you need a solid background in physics, materials science, or engineering, typically supported by an advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in a relevant field. Familiarity with solar simulation software, photovoltaic (PV) testing equipment, and data analysis tools is essential, along with experience in laboratory research. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you design experiments and share findings with multidisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial for advancing solar technologies and driving innovation in renewable energy solutions.

What are some common challenges solar research scientists face when conducting field experiments?

Solar Research Scientists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, equipment malfunctions, and logistical issues when conducting field experiments. These factors can impact data collection and may require flexible scheduling and contingency plans. Additionally, ensuring accurate calibration of instruments and maintaining safety standards in sometimes remote or harsh environments are important aspects to manage. Collaborating closely with engineers, technicians, and other researchers is essential to troubleshoot issues quickly and maintain the integrity of research results.

What is the difference between Solar Research Scientist vs Solar Engineer?

AspectSolar Research ScientistSolar Engineer
Required CredentialsMaster's or PhD in renewable energy, physics, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in electrical, mechanical, or renewable energy engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, R&D centersDesign, develop, and implement solar systems in field or manufacturing settings
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, government agenciesSolar companies, engineering firms, energy providers
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles in solar energyDesigning and deploying solar solutions

Solar Research Scientists focus on advancing solar technology through research and experimentation, often working in labs or academic settings. In contrast, Solar Engineers apply existing knowledge to design, develop, and implement solar systems in real-world applications. Both roles require technical expertise but differ mainly in their focus on research versus practical deployment.

Who are the top companies hiring for Solar Research Scientist jobs?

The top employers for Solar Research Scientist jobs are:

What are popular job titles related to Solar Research Scientist jobs?

For Solar Research Scientist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Solar Research Scientist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $130,117 per year, or $62.6 per hour.

Future Opportunities at Swift Solar

San Carlos, CA • On-site

Swift Solar
11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Swift Solarexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Support cutting-edge perovskite solar PV research experiments.

  • Drive the development and scale-up of thin-film processes.

  • Prepare for the implementation of the company's first-of-a-kind factory.

Job description

About the company

At Swift Solar, our mission is to unlock the full potential of solar energy. We believe solar can provide affordable, reliable, resilient, clean energy to virtually anyone, anywhere. But while today's solar technology is good, it's not good enough.
Swift Solar's breakthrough perovskite-silicon tandem technology will drive solar power to commanding new heights. Our tandem cells stack a perovskite layer on top of a heterojunction (HJT) silicon cell, delivering dramatically higher efficiency than traditional silicon alone. In 2026, we acquired Meyer Burger's HJT intellectual property and manufacturing assets, giving us the world's most extensive HJT patent portfolio and a clear path to gigawatt-scale domestic production.
This vertically integrated approach means we can design, manufacture, and scale next-generation solar solutions entirely in the United States—from silicon foundations to perovskite innovations. Our technology enables applications ranging from space solar to utility-scale power generation, creating American-made solutions for a world facing growing energy challenges.
Swift Solar is on a journey to bring revolutionary clean-energy technology to market. We're in it for the long haul, with support from world-class investors. Join our extraordinary team building the cutting-edge solar technology that will power the future.

Exploring Your Future at Swift

At Swift Solar, we're always looking for passionate, talented individuals who are ready to help us revolutionize clean energy. While we may not have the exact role for you today, we'd love to connect with you to discuss future opportunities as they arise.

Here are some of the exciting roles we frequently hire for:

  • Process Technicians: Running experiments to support cutting-edge perovskite solar PV research.
  • Process Engineers: Driving the development and scale-up of thin-film processes.
  • R&D Scientists: Pioneering advances in the field of perovskite solar PV technology.
  • Software Engineers: Developing the tools and platforms that empower our mission to revolutionize solar energy.
  • Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineers: Designing and refining equipment that enables the production of affordable, high-efficiency perovskite photovoltaics
  • Manufacturing Engineers: Preparing for implementation of our first-of-a-kind factory.
  • Maintenance Engineers and Technicians: Ensuring reliable operation of advanced machinery and systems to support uninterrupted production.
  • ... And More!

Joining our talent community means you'll be first in line to hear about opportunities tailored to your expertise. If you're excited about what we're building and want to stay connected for future opportunities, we encourage you to apply here. While this isn't for a specific role, our team regularly reviews applications to identify top talent for upcoming positions.

Let's build the future of solar together.

What you'll love about Swift
  • Work with purpose: Join our mission to unlock the full potential of solar energy and make a global impact. 
  • Lead with innovation: Be part of an extraordinary team building cutting-edge solar technology - growth mindset; culture
  • Thrive with benefits: Have 100% of your monthly premiums for HMO / PPO group healthcare plan options and 75% of your dental and vision insurance premiums covered by us. Employees also benefit from 401(k) matching, clean commuter benefits, and meaningful equity. 
  • Invest in your career: You'll grow your skills, your network, and your perspective at Swift. We'll support you in attending conferences and taking online courses, as long as you share your new insights with the team.

Swift is an equal opportunity employer. We value an inclusive work environment and welcome team members of all backgrounds and perspectives.