What Is a Solar Project Engineer and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

A solar project engineer develops equipment that converts sunlight into usable electricity. As a solar project engineer, you collaborate with other engineers and designers on the development of photovoltaic (PV) technologies, such as solar panel arrays and solar power plants. Your responsibilities include modeling PV systems and designing solar energy materials to meet project specifications, solving solar engineering problems, and installing the solutions your team develops to promote the use of solar energy over non-renewable energy resources.

To become a solar project engineer, you need at least a bachelor’s degree in engineering, though many employers prefer candidates who have a master’s degree in engineering with a focus on photovoltaic (PV) systems. Once you have earned your degree, you must pass an exam to obtain your Professional Engineer (PE) license. Some employers require you to have three to five years of solar project experience, acquired through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level positions. Excellent problem-solving skills and a solid understanding of power conversion station equipment, structural energy and thermodynamics, and AutoCAD systems are also beneficial.