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Solar Research Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

K2 Space

Solar Design Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$100K - $140K/yr

Internship or research experience with solar arrays or power systems for space applications * Exposure to solar cell or module characterization techniques (IV curves, electroluminescence, flash ...

K2 Space

Solar Design Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$100K - $140K/yr

Internship or research experience with solar arrays or power systems for space applications * Exposure to solar cell or module characterization techniques (IV curves, electroluminescence, flash ...

K2 Space

Solar Design Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Internship or research experience with solar arrays or power systems for space applications * Exposure to solar cell or module characterization techniques (IV curves, electroluminescence, flash ...

Vast

Solar Array Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$140K - $175K/yr

... research and manufacturing, and unlocking a new space economy for government, corporate, and ... Vast is looking for a Solar Array Engineer , reporting to the Principal Power Systems Engineer, to ...

IPL (Indiana)

Solar Technician II

Bakersfield, CA

First Solar Tracker * High, Medium, Low voltage Switching * Performs other technical and ... Demonstrated proficiency in research, highly technical equipment and engineering. * Excellent hands ...

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Solar Research information

See California salary details

$22

$38

$55

How much do solar research jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for solar research in California is $38.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.62 and $47.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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 popular job titles related to Solar Research jobs in California? For Solar Research jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Solar Research jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Solar Research jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Solar Research jobs? Cities in California with the most Solar Research job openings:
Solar Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Solar Research job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,833 per year, or $38.9 per hour.

Future Opportunities at Swift Solar

Swift Solar

San Carlos, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 7 days ago

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.

Apply