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Solar Tech Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

HQC US offers the full spectrum of PV solutions - from the core technology of cells and modules to large-scale project development and investment. With proven capabilities across the solar and ...

HQC US offers the full spectrum of PV solutions - from the core technology of cells and modules to large-scale project development and investment. With proven capabilities across the solar and ...

Qcells is renowned worldwide for its high-performance, superior-quality solar cells and modules. With dual headquarters in Seoul, South Korea (Global Executive HQ) and Thalheim, Germany (Technology ...

Qcells is renowned worldwide for its high-performance, superior-quality solar cells and modules. With dual headquarters in Seoul, South Korea (Global Executive HQ) and Thalheim, Germany (Technology ...

Qcells is renowned worldwide for its high-performance, superior-quality solar cells and modules. With dual headquarters in Seoul, South Korea (Global Executive HQ) and Thalheim, Germany (Technology ...

Qcells is renowned worldwide for its high-performance, superior-quality solar cells and modules. With dual headquarters in Seoul, South Korea (Global Executive HQ) and Thalheim , Germany (Technology ...

Substation Superintendent

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$135K - $155K/yr

Qcells is renowned worldwide for its high-performance, superior-quality solar cells and modules. With dual headquarters in Seoul, South Korea (Global Executive HQ) and Thalheim , Germany (Technology ...

Qcells is renowned worldwide for its high-performance, superior-quality solar cells and modules. With dual headquarters in Seoul, South Korea (Global Executive HQ) and Thalheim, Germany (Technology ...

Qcells is renowned worldwide for its high-performance, superior-quality solar cells and modules. With dual headquarters in Seoul, South Korea (Global Executive HQ) and Thalheim , Germany (Technology ...

Qcells is renowned worldwide for its high-performance, superior-quality solar cells and modules. With dual headquarters in Seoul, South Korea (Global Executive HQ) and Thalheim, Germany (Technology ...

Qcells is renowned worldwide for its high-performance, superior-quality solar cells and modules. With dual headquarters in Seoul, South Korea (Global Executive HQ) and Thalheim, Germany (Technology ...

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Solar Tech information

See Iowa salary details

$15

$26

$39

How much do solar tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for solar tech in Iowa is $26.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.77 and $30.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Solar Techs face when installing and maintaining solar energy systems?

Solar Techs often work outdoors and must adapt to varying weather conditions and challenging installation sites, such as rooftops or remote locations. Ensuring safety while working at heights and handling electrical components is a key priority. Additionally, troubleshooting system issues requires strong problem-solving skills and an up-to-date understanding of evolving solar technologies. Effective communication with team members and clients is also essential to ensure projects meet technical and safety standards.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the solar industry, highly experienced solar project managers, executive-level positions, or business owners can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with large-scale projects or successful companies. These roles often require advanced technical knowledge, leadership skills, and industry certifications, and may involve profit sharing or performance bonuses.

What is the difference between Solar Tech vs Solar Installer?

AspectSolar TechSolar Installer
CertificationsPV Certification, OSHAPV Certification, OSHA
Work EnvironmentInstallation sites, maintenance facilitiesOn-site installation, troubleshooting
Job FocusTechnical support, system testing, troubleshootingPhysical installation, wiring, mounting
Employer & IndustrySolar companies, renewable energy firmsSolar installation companies, contractors

Solar Tech and Solar Installer roles often overlap but differ mainly in focus. Solar Techs handle technical support, testing, and troubleshooting, while Solar Installers focus on physical installation and wiring. Both roles require similar certifications and work in the same industry environments, but their daily tasks vary based on technical versus hands-on installation responsibilities.

What does a Solar Tech do?

A Solar Tech, or Solar Technician, is responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing solar energy systems that are used to convert sunlight into electricity. They work with solar panels, inverters, and other system components, ensuring they are set up safely and efficiently. Solar Techs may work on residential, commercial, or industrial projects, often collaborating with electricians and engineers. Their duties also include troubleshooting system issues, performing routine inspections, and ensuring compliance with safety standards.

What solar jobs pay the most?

Senior solar engineers, project managers, and sales directors in the solar industry tend to earn the highest salaries, often exceeding $80,000 annually. These roles typically require specialized skills, certifications, and experience in system design, project management, or sales strategies. High-paying positions often involve leadership responsibilities and technical expertise in solar technology and installation processes.

Is working in solar a good career?

A career as a solar technician involves installing, maintaining, and repairing solar energy systems, often requiring technical skills and safety training. The industry is growing due to increasing demand for renewable energy, offering job stability and opportunities for advancement. Certification and hands-on experience can enhance employability in this field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Solar Tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Solar Tech, you need a solid understanding of electrical systems, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or technical certification in solar technology or a related field. Familiarity with photovoltaic (PV) systems, electrical testing tools, and relevant safety certifications like OSHA are typically required. Problem-solving ability, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for troubleshooting and working with clients or teams. These skills ensure safe, efficient installation and maintenance of solar equipment, supporting energy reliability and customer satisfaction.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

For a Solar Tech, earning $300,000 annually is uncommon; such high salaries are typically associated with executive roles, project managers, or business owners in the solar industry. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities, and may include profit-sharing or performance bonuses.
What are popular job titles related to Solar Tech jobs in Iowa? For Solar Tech jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Solar Tech jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Solar Tech jobs in Iowa are:
Infographic showing various Solar Tech job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,148 per year, or $26 per hour.
Principal Engineer, SCADA Engineering (BESS)

Principal Engineer, SCADA Engineering (BESS)

Invenergy

Des Moines, IA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Own SCADA and controls integration approach for BESS projects from concept through commissioning, including interface definitions, network architecture, time synchronization, and data models.

  • Lead technical reviews of vendor submittals and drawings, including communications architecture, point mapping, cybersecurity alignment, and commissioning procedures.

  • Coordinate with cross functional teams to ensure SCADA deliverables align with overall project requirements and critical path schedules.


Invenergy rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Invenergy is North America's largest privately held developer, owner, and operator of power infrastructure. With 25 years of trusted execution, we deliver reliable, affordable energy through a diverse portfolio that includes natural gas, solar, land-based wind, energy storage, transmission, and domestic manufacturing. Headquartered in Chicago, we develop, own, and operate large scale projects that power communities and support the energy future.

This position will be open for application for at least 3 calendar days from the posting date. This position will remain open for application based on business need, which may be before or after the 3-day posting window.

Job Description

Position Overview

The Principal Engineer position will be part of the Construction team, with responsibility to serve as a senior technical leader responsible for engineering, procurement support, integration, and commissioning of SCADA systems and associated communications infrastructure across Invenergy generation projects, with primary focus on Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and supporting coverage for solar and other technologies as needed.

This role is accountable for defining and documenting control strategies and data interfaces between substation devices, generation resources, data centers, remote operation centers, and external entities, and for driving reliable data connectivity and control readiness from design, commissioning, and turnover. Invenergy's fleet includes standalone and co located or hybrid applications, and this role will help ensure consistent SCADA and controls integration standards across BESS, solar, wind, and hybrid sites.

Responsibilities

Technical leadership and architecture (BESS primary)

  • Own SCADA and controls integration approach for BESS projects from concept through commissioning, including interface definitions, network architecture, time synchronization, and data models

  • Define and document control and data interfaces between BESS subsystems and site SCADA, PPC, substation systems, revenue metering, and remote operations connectivity.

  • Lead technical reviews of vendor submittals and drawings, including communications architecture, point mapping, cybersecurity alignment, and commissioning procedures.

  • Provide escalation level troubleshooting for complex integration issues involving protocols, network performance, data quality, and control interlocks during construction and commissioning.

Solar and other technologies support (secondary scope)

  • Provide technical support for solar and other technologies SCADA scope as needed, including standard interface definitions, data mapping, and commissioning readiness for plant SCADA across wind, solar, and or BESS.

  • Support projects with hybrid integration needs by ensuring SCADA requirements and deliverables align for standalone and co located PV and BESS applications.

Specifications, scope, and procurement support

  • Develop specifications and scope of work for EMS, BMS, SCADA, power plant controller, RTU, and IT and OT equipment networks and implementation

  • Provide requirements needed to procure telecom services and field communications solutions.

  • Support bid evaluations and supplier selection by providing clear technical requirements and contract exhibit language for SCADA and controls integration.

  • Support negotiation of Energy Storage Agreements (ESA) by defining and defending SCADA and controls requirements and serving as the technical interface with BESS suppliers and integrators.

  • Perform factory and equipment inspection, including witnessing factory acceptance tests for hardware and software

Project execution and commissioning support

  • Coordinate with cross functional teams to ensure SCADA deliverables align with overall project requirements and critical path schedules.

  • Track design schedules, communicate status and risks, and ensure critical dates are met on time.

  • Monitor construction progress remotely and via on site visits, support resolution of field issues, attend in person meetings with stakeholders, and provide on-site programming and field support during commissioning when required

  • Support operational plans to energize, commission, and turn over projects while adhering to NERC and other grid reliability requirements

  • Coordinate with independent engineers and project partners to effectively navigate technical due diligence for SCADA and controls scope.

  • Support Controls Hardware-in-the-Loop (CHIL) testing with suppliers in addition to establishing Invenergy CHIL lab

Continuous improvement and technical mentorship

  • Mentor engineers and managers by driving standards, lessons learned, and repeatable execution playbooks that improve commissioning quality and long-term operational reliability.

  • Maintain up to date knowledge of industry technology through training sessions and conferences.

  • Take on additional responsibilities as assigned by the manager, supporting team and project objectives.

Minimum Qualifications

  • BS in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related degree.

  • 8 + years of relevant experience with power generation SCADA and power plant control systems.

  • Demonstrated experience delivering BESS focused SCADA and controls integration through commissioning and turnover, with ability to support solar and wind projects as needed.

  • Ability to coordinate and manage multiple concurrent projects.

  • Strong oral and written communication skills and strong interpersonal skills.

  • Up to 25 % travel required

  • Must have a valid driver's license and be legally authorized to operate a motor vehicle.

  • Eligible to work in the United States without the need for employer visa sponsorship now or in the future.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master's in Engineering preferred.

  • Working knowledge of NERC compliance requirements.

  • Prior installation, commissioning, and site construction experience in renewable power generation.

  • Advanced knowledge and programming of EMS, BMS, SCADA, HMI, PLC, RTU platforms.

  • Familiarity with industrial communication protocols such as OPC, CANBUS, DNP3, and Modbus.

  • Experience integrating SCADA and controls with Tier 1 BESS suppliers (e.g., Tesla, Fluence) and navigating vendor interface requirements through design, commissioning, and turnover.

Base Pay

$155,000.00 - $180,000.00 USD Annual
Bonus: 25% - 40%

The base pay range reflects the minimum and maximum target salary for the position. Invenergy considers a number of factors when determining base pay offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education and skills.
In addition to base pay, the total annual compensation package may also include eligibility to participate in our bonus program(s) which are designed to reward individual and company performance. Your recruiter can share more about bonus eligibility for this position during the hiring process.
Invenergy offers a variety of other benefits including medical, dental and vision insurance, 401k, paid time off, etc.

Invenergy LLC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, among other things, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, status as a protected veteran, or disability.