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Solar System Engineer Jobs in Denver, CO (NOW HIRING)

Wunder

Associate Development Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

Our average solar system--about 430 kilowatts in size--can offset 350,000 pounds of coal burned each year of system operation! The Role We have an amazing opportunity for a detail-oriented engineer ...

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All JobsSolar System Engineer JobsSolar System Engineer Jobs in Denver, CO

Solar System Engineer information

See Denver, CO salary details

$55.1K

$130.9K

$171.9K

How much do solar system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar system engineer in Denver, CO is $130,940.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,900.00 and $161,600.00 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 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.

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 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 popular job titles related to Solar System Engineer jobs in Denver, CO? For Solar System Engineer jobs in Denver, CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Solar System Engineer jobs in Denver, CO look for? The top searched job categories for Solar System Engineer jobs in Denver, CO are:
Solar System Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Solar System Engineer job openings in Denver, CO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,940 per year, or $63 per hour.

LEAD ENGINEER - Instrument Systems Engineer - Boulder, CO

Southwest Research Institute

Boulder, CO • On-site

$117K - $196K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Southwest Research Institute rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 73 rated research

Job description

Who We Are:
As a recognized leader in space science research and spacecraft instrumentation, avionics, and electronics, we work to reveal the secrets of our solar system and the universe.
Objectives of this Role:
  • Lead the design, integration & test, and deploy a new generation of space weather instruments.
  • Support senior R&D personnel in cutting edge research involving remote sensing instrumentation systems.
  • Work in multidisciplinary laboratory environment to design, build, and optimize novel spacecraft instrumentation for scientific missions for the solar system and beyond.
  • Develop high fidelity models of instrument performance enabling full instrument system optimization.
  • Plan for and complete system-level trades.
  • Plan, prepare for, and present project lifecycle review (SRR, PDR, CDR, etc.).
  • Develop requirements, testing, and verification plans and oversee instrument testing and verification activities while maintaining engineering rigor.

Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:
  • Work with scientific personnel to design, build, and deploy instrumentation for space science research.
  • Develop mission level requirements, architecture, and performance.
  • Lead development and management of system requirements, decomposition, and allocation.
  • Maintain engineering rigor across project lifecycle.
  • Ensure alignment between optical, sensor, processing, and mechanical subsystems.
  • Develop test plans and analyze test data to verify instrument performance.
  • Identify and manage technical risks and integration challenges.
  • Support customer interactions and technical briefings.
  • Mentor engineers and reinforce systems engineering discipline.

Requirements:
  • Requires a Bachelors, Masters or a PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Optical Engineering or other related Engineering degree field with relevant work experience. Advanced degrees will be considered in lieu of some years of related industry work experience.
  • 8+ years: Requirements database management, verification planning, and systems engineering.
  • 8+ years: Instrument testing and verification.
  • 4+ years: Spaceflight instrument development through lifecycle.
  • A valid/clear driver's license is required.

Special Requirements:
Work assignment is in Boulder, Colorado. Must be a U.S. person (i.e., U.S. citizen, non-U.S. citizen national, lawful permanent resident, asylee, or refugee) due to ITAR work in section.
Job Locations: Boulder, Colorado
Salary Range: $117,894.00 - $196,539.00
For more information about this division, visit the Solar System Science & Exploration home page.
For benefits information at our San Antonio location, click here .
For benefits information at all other locations, click here .
An Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and veteran status.

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