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Solar System Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Optical Systems Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$139K - $179K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Engineered to survive the harshest radiation environments and to fully capitalize on today's and ... the solar system and become a Kardashev Type II (K2) civilization. If you are a motivated ...

PV Service Technician

Rancho Cordova, CA · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... engineering and installation teams to improve system design and installation practices. Qualifications: * High school diploma or equivalent; technical or vocational training in solar energy or ...

Optical Systems Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$139K - $179K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Engineered to survive the harshest radiation environments and to fully capitalize on today's and ... the solar system and become a Kardashev Type II (K2) civilization. If you are a motivated ...

Optical Systems Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$139K - $179K/yr

Engineered to survive the harshest radiation environments and to fully capitalize on today's and ... the solar system and become a Kardashev Type II (K2) civilization. If you are a motivated ...

Solar Array Technologist III

Pasadena, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Computer programming in Python and/or Matlab * Ability to collaborate with power systems and flight systems engineering teams to ensure successful integration of solar arrays into a space system

Solar Array Technologist I

Pasadena, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Computer programming in Python and/or MATLAB * Ability to collaborate with power systems and flight systems engineering teams to ensure successful integration of solar arrays into a space system

Solar Design Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

As a Solar Engineer, you will contribute to the design, manufacturing, testing, and deployment of ... You'll work across technical domains; from module technology and electrical power systems to ...

Showing results 41-60

Solar System Engineer information

See California salary details

$52.8K

$125.5K

$164.8K

How much do solar system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar system engineer in California is $125,549.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,700.00 and $154,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a solar system engineer do?

A Solar System Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining solar power systems for residential, commercial, or industrial use. Their work includes assessing sites for solar suitability, creating technical plans, selecting appropriate materials and components, and overseeing installation and maintenance. They ensure that solar systems are efficient, cost-effective, and comply with all relevant regulations and safety standards. Solar System Engineers often collaborate with clients, architects, and contractors to deliver customized solar energy solutions.

What are some of the main challenges solar system engineers face when working on large-scale installations?

Solar System Engineers often encounter challenges such as site-specific constraints, integration with existing electrical infrastructure, and ensuring compliance with local regulations. Large-scale projects may require close coordination with civil engineers, electricians, and project managers to address issues like shading analysis, optimal panel placement, and grid interconnection. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential for overcoming unexpected site conditions and maintaining project timelines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a solar system engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Solar System Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical or mechanical engineering, experience in solar energy system design, and relevant engineering degrees or certifications. Familiarity with CAD software, PV system modeling tools (such as PVsyst), and knowledge of industry standards like NEC and IEC are typically required. Excellent problem-solving, project management, and communication skills set top professionals apart in this field. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and innovative design and deployment of solar energy solutions in a rapidly evolving industry.

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

AspectSolar System EngineerSolar Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in engineering, certifications like NABCEP, technical skillsBachelor's in engineering or related field, certifications like NABCEP, design software proficiency
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, system installation, testing, and troubleshootingOffice-based, designing solar systems, creating layouts and plans
Employer & Industry UsageSolar installation companies, engineering firms, renewable energy projectsDesign firms, engineering consultancies, solar project developers

While both roles require technical knowledge and certifications like NABCEP, Solar System Engineers focus on system installation, testing, and maintenance in the field. In contrast, Solar Design Engineers primarily work on designing solar systems, creating layouts, and preparing plans for installation. Both roles are essential in the solar industry but differ in daily tasks and work environment.

Is solar system engineering a good career?

Solar system engineering is a growing field that involves designing and implementing solar energy systems, requiring skills in electrical engineering, project management, and knowledge of renewable energy technologies. It offers opportunities in sustainable energy development, with demand driven by increasing adoption of solar power and environmental initiatives. Careers in this field can be stable and rewarding for those with technical expertise and relevant certifications.

What are popular job titles related to Solar System Engineer jobs in California?

For Solar System Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Solar System Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Solar System Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Solar System Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Solar System Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Solar System Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,549 per year, or $60.4 per hour.

Electrical Engineer - Renewable Energy/Solar

Kimley-Horn

Orange, CA • On-site

$105K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago


Kimley-Horn rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

54th of 449 rated engineering


Job description

Overview

Kimley-Horn's Orange office is seeking an Electrical Engineer or Analyst with 2+ years of experience to join their Renewable Energy team. This is not a remote position.

Responsibilities
  • Design of electrical systems including solar, battery storage, electric vehicle charging and building electrical
  • Perform work on a wide variety of projects, such as photometrics and lighting, power distribution, EV charging, and more
  • Participate on project teams in an active production role
  • Participate in project meetings internally and externally with clients
  • Preparation of project specifications
  • Preparation of electrical construction cost estimates
  • Daily interaction and collaboration on cross-functional teams across multiple disciplines
  • Coordination and verification of as-built drawings
  • Perform quality work that promotes client retention
  • Responsible for the development of reports and design documents, including electrical design plans, equipment selection, solar system sizing, and power analyses.
Qualifications
  • 2+ years of design experience in electrical engineering specifically in any of the following: building electrical, Solar PV design, and/or electric vehicle charging
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (advanced degrees are a plus)
  • EIT or ability to obtain within 6 months required
  • Firm understanding of the National Electrical Code, other NFPA codes/standards, and energy codes
  • Understanding of the National Electrical Code, other NFPA codes/standards, and energy codes
  • Proficiency using Computer-Aided Design and Drafting (AutoCAD) 
  • Building Information Modeling (BIM - Autodesk Revit) experience is a plus
  • Power Analyses (load flow, short circuit, arc flash, device coordination) in SKM or ETAP
  • Electrical power, lighting, and fire alarm design experience
  • Superior verbal and written communication skills
  • The ability to work independently or in a team environment effectively - The ability to work in a fast-paced, challenging environment

Salary Range:

$105,000 to $125,000

Why Kimley-Horn?

At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People, clients, and employees are at the forefront of who we are. Clients know we prioritize achieving their goals and growing their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to provide an environment for everyone to flourish. Our commitment to quality is only as good as the people behind it- that's why we welcome and develop passionate, hardworking, and proactive employees. We take pride in how our employee retention, robust benefits package, and company values have led to Kimley-Horn's placement on the Fortune "100 Best Companies to Work" list for 19 years!

Key Benefits at Kimley-Horn

  • Exceptional Retirement Plan: 2-to1- company match on up to 4% of eligible compensation (salary + bonus) and additional profit-sharing contribution.
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
  • Time Off: Personal leave, flexible scheduling, floating holidays, and half-day Fridays.
  • Financial Wellness: Student loan matching in our 401(k), and performance-based bonuses.
  • Professional Development: Tuition reimbursement and extensive internal training programs.
  • Family-Friendly Benefits: New Parent Leave, family building benefits, and childcare resources.
Education:Bachelor's DegreeEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

What Kimley-Horn employees say

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About Kimley-Horn

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are a full-service consulting firm that provides a wide range of infrastructure and land development planning and engineering services to both public and private clients. Though we have more than 6,000 employees in 100+ offices, we pride ourselves on our small company feel. At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People--clients and employees--are at the forefront of our business. Clients know we are laser-focused on their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to see our staff flourish, one and all. Both groups know that with Kimley-Horn, they can expect more and experience better.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1967