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Solar Research Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Tracks and research historical data (purchase orders, subcontracts, productivity analysis reports ... Today, Blattner has installed more than 25% of America's utility-scale wind, solar and energy ...

Estimator - Solar

Avon, MN · On-site

$75K - $109K/yr

Tracks and research historical data (purchase orders, subcontracts, productivity analysis reports ... Today, Blattner has installed more than 25% of America's utility-scale wind, solar and energy ...

Sr Applied Scientist I

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$118K - $177K/yr

... our wind, solar, storage, and transmission operations. This role combines deep scientific ... Employees in this role drive applied research and development initiatives by integrating deep ...

Our dynamic team excels in Civil and Electrical, with expertise in Solar PV & BESS, Power Studies ... Research emerging renewable energy technologies and apply insights to improve project design and ...

Applied Scientist I

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$96K - $144K/yr

Employees in this role perform applied research and development by combining physical science ... wind, solar, energy storage, and transmission operations under the guidance of more senior team ...

Perform limited R&D to select optimal equipment. Manage a multiyear project portfolio with ... Exposure to solar, hydro, or battery storage projects is a plus. Strong communication skills. PMP ...

Sr Applied Scientist I

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$92K - $126K/yr

... research and development that directly supports business objectives through timely, accurate ... our wind, solar, storage, and transmission operations. This role combines deep scientific ...

... research and development that directly supports business objectives through timely, accurate ... our wind, solar, storage, and transmission operations. This role combines deep scientific ...

Estimator

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$76K - $123K/yr

... utility-scale solar and battery energy storage systems. The company was formed due to the ... Organize, research, and strategically plan for estimate preparation, pricing, scheduling, and final ...

Estimator

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$76K - $123K/yr

... utility-scale solar and battery energy storage systems. The company was formed due to the ... Organize, research, and strategically plan for estimate preparation, pricing, scheduling, and final ...

Permitting Specialist

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

... including solar, wind and energy storage. As a farmer-founded and community-focused business ... Researching and understanding local, state and federal laws * Manage/prepare permit applications ...

... solar project. The candidate must be a US citizen or hold a green card. The candidate must have 5 ... Conduct research, planning, and review of execution plans, and commissioning plans. Be on-site to ...

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Showing results 1-20

Solar Research information

See Minnesota salary details

$22

$38

$55

How much do solar research jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for solar research in Minnesota is $38.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.38 and $47.07 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, and why are they important?

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 Minnesota? For Solar Research jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Solar Research jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Solar Research jobs in Minnesota are:
Infographic showing various Solar Research job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,219 per year, or $38.6 per hour.
Estimator - Solar

$75K - $109K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago


Blattner Energy rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

77th of 80 rated construction


Job description

A DAY IN THE LIFE

In this role, you'll lead the estimating process and ensure all proposals meet technical and RFP requirements. You'll review plans, drawings, specifications, and vendor proposals, as well as evaluate subcontractor quotes and related documentation to develop accurate time, cost, and labor estimates. You'll also ensure that scope, schedule, and bid pricing are aligned and complete.

STEP INTO THE ROLE

  • Reviews specifications and drawings to determine and establish scope of work responsibilities, required estimate contents, and critical tasks needed to complete the project. Recommends best solution from design options based on cost, engineering, quality, or availability of materials.
  • Develops a plan for building and scheduling the project along with provides an explanation of the methods used. Prepare a level one schedule and thought process for sequencing the project to determine crew size, resources, and productivity used.
  • Demonstrates proficiency in developing and issuing of RFP's to qualified vendors and subcontractors to ensure proposals are accurately evaluated prior to the bid review process. Evaluate quotes using comparison metrics to determine most commercially and technically responsible bidders. Ensures RFP's establish basis of scope and pricing from supplier/subcontractor.
  • Calculates various statistical data: quantity take-offs, material price lists, labor costs, equipment cost, and specialty items. Tracks and research historical data (purchase orders, subcontracts, productivity analysis reports, etc.) and compiles summary reports and bridging documents to develop guidelines and precedence for future estimates.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED

  • A four-year degree in Construction, Engineering or related field, or combinations of related education and experience required.
  • Two or more years of progressive related experience in the renewable construction industry (wind, solar, or battery storage) or four or more years of practical crew based estimating experience in other non-renewable construction industries.
  • Up to 25% of travel is required.

WHAT SETS YOU APART

  • Ability to read and understand engineering drawings, purchase orders, contracts, and cost coding systems.
  • Strong knowledge of construction estimating techniques, cost control, and proper scheduling of purchases and work.
  • Proficient in HCSS Heavy Bid and Microsoft Office.
  • Knowledge of Salesforce, Oracle, and Sisense.
  • Experience in Renewable Energy.

HOW WE INVEST IN YOU

  • Competitive pay
  • 100% employer paid HDHP insurance premiums for employees
  • 401(k) with company match
  • HSA and FSA options
  • Dental and Vision insurance
  • Education Assistance (Tuition Reimbursement)
  • Work/Life balance
  • Employee/Family focused culture
  • Gym on site
  • And more!


$75,553.00 - $109,552.00 Individual Compensation to be determined based on the applicant's applicable experience and qualifications balanced against internal equity.


WHO ARE WE?

With more than 115 years of construction experience, the company has played a vital role in building America's critical infrastructure, ranging from railroads and highways to dams and mines. Since 1997, Blattner has focused on renewable energy solutions and is responsible for some of the most significant solar, wind and storage projects in the U.S. Today, Blattner has installed more than 25% of America's utility-scale wind, solar and energy storage capacity. Blattner Company is the parent company of Blattner Energy and D.H. Blattner & Sons, of which all are members of the Quanta Services family of companies. Company headquarters are in Avon, Minnesota.

Blattner is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Blattner will not tolerate discrimination against any applicant for employment or employee on the basis of age (40 and over), ancestry, color, religious creed, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, mental disability, military or veteran status, national origin, physical disability, race, receipt of public assistance, sex, sexual orientation, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local laws. This commitment governs all aspects of employment including, but not limited to: hiring, promotion, demotion, transfer, layoff, termination, compensation, discipline, and access to benefits and training. Additionally, Blattner is committed, in accordance with applicable law, to making reasonable accommodations for job applicants and employees based on a qualifying disability, a sincerely held religious belief or practice, and for pregnancy, childbirth or related health conditions. Applicants and employees who feel they have experienced or witnessed discrimination or who wishes to request a reasonable accommodation should contact the Human Resources Department. Blattner prohibits retaliation against any individual for making a complaint under this policy, for opposing discrimination, for participating in an investigation pursuant to this policy, or for requesting a reasonable accommodation.


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