Solar Engineer Career: Salary, Education & Job Outlook

Written by Dr. Marcus Hale, PhD, Last Updated: January 26, 2026

Solar engineers design and implement renewable energy systems that harness the sun's power for homes, businesses, and communities. Electrical and electronics engineers, the category that includes solar engineers, earned a median annual wage of $118,780 as of May 2024, with projected job growth of 7% from 2022 to 2032. Most positions require a bachelor's degree in electrical or mechanical engineering plus Professional Engineer licensure.

Solar engineering combines technical problem-solving with environmental commitment, creating career paths for those drawn to both renewable energy and electrical systems design. If you're passionate about sustainability and enjoy the challenges of engineering work, solar engineering offers the opportunity to directly shape how communities power their future. Here's everything you need to know about this growing field.

What Do Solar Engineers Do?

Solar engineers plan, design, and implement solar energy projects ranging from residential rooftop installations to large-scale utility projects. The work begins with client consultation and site assessment, where you'll evaluate factors like roof orientation, shading patterns, energy consumption needs, and local building codes. Financial analysis follows-calculating system costs, energy savings projections, and return on investment timelines that help clients make informed decisions.

Design work forms the technical core of the role. Using specialized software like AutoCAD and Google SketchUp, solar engineers create detailed system layouts showing panel placement, wiring configurations, inverter locations, and grid connection points. You'll need to understand photovoltaic technology and how solar panels convert sunlight into electricity, along with energy storage systems and electrical grid integration requirements.

Project management responsibilities vary by role and company size. Some solar engineers oversee installation teams, ensuring work meets design specifications and safety standards. You might coordinate with electrical contractors, building inspectors, and utility companies to navigate permitting requirements and grid interconnection processes. Post-installation work includes system performance monitoring, troubleshooting technical issues, and conducting efficiency audits to optimize energy production.

Computer skills prove essential for both design and analysis work. Beyond AutoCAD for system layout, solar engineers use modeling software to predict energy production based on geographic location, weather patterns, and seasonal sun angles. You'll prepare technical reports documenting system specifications, expected performance, and regulatory compliance-writing clear explanations for clients who may not have engineering backgrounds.

Where Do Solar Engineers Work?

Most solar engineers split time between office environments and project sites. Office work typically involves 60-70% of weekly hours, focused on design, client meetings, proposal development, and project coordination. Field work takes you to installation sites for assessments, progress checks, and troubleshooting.

Site visits require physical capabilities, including climbing ladders to rooftops, walking on sloped surfaces, and occasionally carrying equipment weighing 40-50 pounds for short distances. Safety training and proper equipment use are mandatory-you'll work with fall protection systems and follow OSHA requirements when inspecting elevated installations. Weather affects scheduling since site assessments and installation oversight can't always proceed during rain or extreme temperatures.

Travel frequency depends on your employer's geographic scope. Engineers working for regional solar companies might visit 2-4 sites weekly within a 100-mile radius. Larger firms occasionally send engineers to distant projects or international locations, though this typically applies to senior engineers managing major installations. Most positions maintain regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8 am-5 pm) with occasional weekend or evening calls for emergency system issues.

The Solar Foundation identifies California as the leading state for solar employment, with over 10,000 solar jobs statewide as of their most recent analysis. New Mexico, New York, New Jersey, and Massachusetts also maintain strong solar industries with growing employment opportunities. Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows California employs 11,700 solar photovoltaic installers as of May 2022-the highest nationally-alongside substantial numbers of electrical and electronics engineers, many specializing in renewable energy work.

Solar Engineer Salary and Compensation

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, electrical and electronics engineers-the broader category that encompasses solar engineers-earned a median annual wage of $118,780 as of May 2024. The BLS does not track solar engineers as a separate occupational category, but most solar engineering roles fall under electrical and electronics engineers (SOC 17-2070). This represents strong compensation compared to many other engineering disciplines, reflecting the specialized technical knowledge required for renewable energy systems design.

Salary varies significantly based on experience level and specialization. The bottom 10% of electrical engineers earned less than $74,670 annually, typically representing entry-level positions or engineers in less technical roles. The top 10% earned more than $175,460, reflecting senior engineers, specialized consultants, or those in management positions. Electronics engineers focusing specifically on power systems and controls commanded even higher compensation, with median wages of $127,590.

Geographic location substantially affects earning potential. California leads the nation with mean annual wages significantly above the national average for electrical engineers. The San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara metropolitan area offers among the highest compensation nationally at $168,310 mean annual wage as of May 2022, followed by other California metros and technology hubs. Other top-paying states include New Mexico, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts.

Some industry surveys suggest Professional Engineer (PE) licensure can increase earning potential by 10-20%, though the impact varies by role, company, and market. Engineers with specialized certifications from organizations like the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) can command premium compensation, particularly in states with strong renewable energy mandates. Company size also matters-large engineering firms and utilities often pay more than small solar installation companies, though smaller firms may offer broader project exposure.

Job Demand and Career Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 7% employment growth for electrical and electronics engineers from 2022 to 2032-more than double the 3% average growth rate for all occupations. This "much faster than average" growth translates to approximately 19,700 net new positions, with about 17,800 annual job openings projected through 2032 created through a combination of employment growth and the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force.

BLS explicitly identifies renewable energy as a key growth driver, stating that electrical and electronics engineers "are expected to have key roles in developing sophisticated consumer electronics, solar arrays, semiconductors, and communications technologies." This direct recognition of solar arrays in the occupation's outlook reflects industry momentum toward renewable energy infrastructure.

The broader solar industry context reinforces strong career prospects. Solar photovoltaic installers rank as the second-fastest growing occupation in the U.S. economy, with projected 42% employment growth from 2022 to 2032. It's important to note that installer job growth applies to solar photovoltaic installers (SOC 47-2231), a different occupational category than engineers, though both benefit from expanding solar industry adoption. While installers and engineers perform different roles, installer growth indicates expanding solar adoption that requires engineering expertise for system design and oversight. BLS cites decreasing solar panel costs, solar leasing programs, and state renewable energy incentives as primary demand drivers.

State and federal policy significantly influences job opportunities. States with renewable portfolio standards requiring utilities to source specified percentages of electricity from renewable sources create consistent demand for solar engineering expertise. The federal Investment Tax Credit for solar installations has historically boosted project development, though policy specifics can shift. Engineers tracking these policy landscapes gain strategic advantages in career planning.

Career advancement typically follows technical or management tracks. Technical advancement leads from project engineer to senior engineer to principal engineer or technical specialist, with increasing responsibility for complex systems and innovation work. Management tracks progress from project engineer to project manager to engineering manager or director positions, overseeing multiple teams and larger project portfolios. Some experienced engineers transition to independent consulting or start their own solar development companies.

Getting a Solar Engineering Degree

A bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or mechanical engineering provides the foundation for solar engineering careers. Both pathways work, though electrical engineering aligns most directly with the power systems, circuit design, and grid integration knowledge central to solar work. Through our partnerships with accredited engineering programs, we've found that successful solar engineers typically combine core engineering coursework with electives in renewable energy systems, power electronics, and sustainable design.

ABET accreditation matters significantly for engineering degrees. Employers and state licensing boards recognize ABET-accredited programs as meeting rigorous quality standards for engineering education. Most Professional Engineer licensure requirements specifically require an ABET-accredited degree, making this a non-negotiable consideration during college selection. Environmental engineering programs offer an alternative path emphasizing sustainability and environmental systems, though you'll want to ensure adequate electrical systems coursework.

Professional Engineer (PE) licensure enhances career prospects and opens doors to senior positions and consulting work. Licensure generally requires four components:

• ABET-Accredited Bachelor's Degree: Four-year degree in electrical, mechanical, or related engineering discipline from an ABET-accredited program.
• Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam: A comprehensive exam testing undergraduate engineering knowledge, typically taken shortly after graduation. Passing this exam grants Engineer in Training (EIT) or Engineer Intern (EI) status.
• Professional Experience: Minimum four years of relevant work experience under a licensed PE's supervision. This experience must demonstrate progressive responsibility and technical competency.
• Professional Engineering (PE) Exam: Discipline-specific exam demonstrating advanced engineering knowledge and professional judgment. The Electrical Power exam most closely aligns with solar engineering work.

Several states require continuing professional development to maintain PE licensure, typically 15-30 hours of approved education every two years. Most states recognize licensure from other states through comity agreements, facilitating career mobility across state lines.

Graduate education in renewable energy, sustainable design, or power systems can accelerate career progression, though it's not required for entry-level positions. Renewable energy master's programs offer specialized knowledge in photovoltaic systems, energy policy, and utility-scale project development. Some engineers pursue graduate certificates while working, allowing specialization without committing to full master's programs.

Strong communication skills complement technical expertise. You'll write technical proposals, present system designs to clients, explain complex concepts to non-engineers, and coordinate with diverse stakeholders, including contractors, inspectors, and utility representatives. Coursework or experience in technical writing and public speaking proves valuable.

Essential Skills for Solar Engineers

Solar engineering demands both broad engineering competencies and specialized renewable energy knowledge:

• Electrical Engineering Fundamentals: Deep understanding of circuit analysis, power systems, and electrical safety codes. You'll apply Ohm's Law, calculate voltage drop, size conductors, and design protective systems daily.
• Photovoltaic Systems Expertise: Knowledge of solar panel technology, inverters, charge controllers, and battery storage systems. This includes understanding efficiency ratings, temperature coefficients, and degradation patterns.
• Grid Integration Knowledge: Understanding how solar systems connect to electrical grids, including net metering, interconnection requirements, and utility coordination processes. Engineers must navigate different rules across utility territories.
• Computer-Aided Design (CAD): Proficiency with AutoCAD for system layout and electrical schematics. Many solar firms also use SketchUp for 3D visualization and specialized software like PVsyst or Helioscope for performance modeling.
• Financial Analysis: Ability to calculate payback periods, net present value, levelized cost of energy, and return on investment. You'll build financial models showing clients how systems pay for themselves over time.
• Regulatory Compliance: Knowledge of National Electrical Code (NEC) Article 690 covering solar installations, local building codes, utility interconnection standards, and state-specific regulations.
• Project Management: Skills in scheduling, budgeting, contractor coordination, and progress tracking. Even engineers focused primarily on design need basic project management capabilities.
• Problem-Solving: Troubleshooting underperforming systems, addressing shading issues, resolving interconnection problems, and finding creative solutions to site constraints.
• Site Assessment: Evaluating roof conditions, structural capacity, electrical service adequacy, and site access. This requires both technical analysis and practical construction knowledge.

Career Advancement Pathways

Solar engineering careers typically progress through distinct stages with increasing responsibility and compensation:

Entry-Level Engineer (Years 0-3): Junior engineers work under PE supervision, performing site assessments, preparing preliminary designs, supporting installation oversight, and learning company systems and standards. Expect compensation in the $65,000-$85,000 rang,e depending on location. Focus during this phase includes building technical skills, studying for the FE exam, and understanding how projects flow from conception through completion.

Project Engineer (Years 3-7): With EIT credentials and growing experience, project engineers take primary responsibility for system designs, client relationships, and project delivery. You'll manage smaller projects independently while supporting larger initiatives. Compensation typically ranges from $85,000 to $120,000. Many engineers pursue PE licensure during this phase, completing their four-year experience requirement and preparing for the PE exam.

Senior Engineer (Years 7-12): Senior engineers with PE licenses handle complex projects, mentor junior staff, and make final technical decisions. You might specialize in particular project types (utility-scale installations, integrated storage systems, commercial developments) or maintain broad capabilities. Compensation typically ranges from $120,000 to $160,000. Some engineers move toward management while others deepen technical specialization.

Principal Engineer/Manager (Years 12+): Principal engineers serve as technical authorities on challenging projects and help set engineering standards across organizations. Engineering managers oversee multiple project teams, handle client relationships, and make strategic business decisions. Compensation exceeds $160,000, reaching $200,000+ in expensive metro areas or senior positions. Career options include advancing to director or VP-level roles, transitioning to consulting, or starting development companies.

Specialization opportunities emerge as careers progress. Some engineers focus on utility-scale projects requiring deep knowledge of high-voltage systems and complex regulatory environments. Others specialize in integrated energy storage, combining solar with battery systems for grid services or backup power. Research and development paths exist at solar equipment manufacturers and national laboratories for engineers interested in advancing photovoltaic technology rather than project implementation.

How to Get Started

For high school students considering solar engineering, focus on building strong foundations in mathematics (through calculus), physics, and chemistry. Computer-aided design (CAD) courses, if available, provide valuable early exposure to tools you'll use throughout your career. Advanced Placement courses in calculus, physics, and computer science demonstrate readiness for engineering curricula.

During college selection, prioritize ABET-accredited engineering programs with strong electrical engineering departments. Look for schools offering renewable energy coursework, sustainability focuses, or research opportunities in photovoltaic technology. Some universities maintain solar energy laboratories or partnerships with solar companies, providing internship pipelines. Geographic location matters less than program quality, though schools in states with strong solar industries may offer more relevant research and networking opportunities.

Internships prove crucial for building practical skills and making employment connections. Many solar companies hire seasonal interns for summer work, providing exposure to real projects and professional engineering environments. We've found that students who complete two or more internships receive significantly more job offers before graduation. Target internship applications to your sophomore and junior years, using career services resources and professional organization job boards.

Student chapters of the American Solar Energy Society (ASES) or the IEEE Power & Energy Society offer networking and learning opportunities during college. These organizations host conferences bringing together students, professionals, and researchers. Attendance demonstrates initiative and helps you understand industry directions. Some chapters organize solar installation projects at local schools or nonprofits, providing hands-on experience.

Entry-level position expectations vary by company type. Large engineering firms typically hire new graduates into structured training programs with mentorship and rotational assignments. Mid-size solar developers may offer broader immediate responsibility with less formal training. Small installation companies sometimes hire recent graduates for hybrid engineer/project manager roles requiring quick learning and diverse skills. Your first job should prioritize learning opportunities and PE-qualified mentors over compensation alone.

The typical timeline from high school to PE-licensed engineer spans approximately 9 years: four years for the bachelor's degree, immediate FE exam passage, four years of supervised work experience, then PE exam preparation and passage. Some engineers complete the journey faster by taking the FE exam during senior year and aggressively pursuing challenging work experiences. The timeline to meaningful career advancement (senior engineer level) typically requires 10-15 years, combining education, licensure, and progressive experience.

Advancing Your Career Through Professional Organizations

Professional organizations provide essential resources for career development, continuing education, and industry connections. Three organizations serve solar engineers particularly well:

The American Solar Energy Society (ASES) (http://www.ases.org/) serves as the foremost association of solar professionals and advocates, working to accelerate the transition to sustainable energy. ASES publishes Solar Today magazine, covering industry trends, policy developments, and technical innovations. Their annual conference brings together engineers, researchers, and business leaders for technical sessions and networking. Regional chapters host local meetings and site tours, while technical divisions focus on specific aspects of solar technology. Student membership costs significantly less than professional membership, making this accessible during college.

The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) (http://www.nabcep.org/) operates primarily as a professional certification organization, offering credentials that demonstrate competency in solar PV installation, design, and technical sales. While NABCEP certifications target installers more than engineers, the PV Associate certification and PV System Inspector certification add valuable credentials for engineers interfacing with clients or overseeing installation quality. NABCEP also accredits training programs and provides continuing education opportunities, helping professionals maintain certifications and stay current with evolving technology.

The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) (http://www.seia.org/) functions as the solar industry's primary trade association, advocating for policies supporting solar adoption and providing market research and analysis. SEIA maintains information on solar training opportunities, certifications, and accredited training programs. Their job board lists positions across all solar industry sectors, including engineering roles at developers, manufacturers, and utilities. State chapters provide local networking opportunities and policy engagement forums. LinkedIn groups affiliated with SEIA offer informal networking and information sharing.

Participation in these organizations signals professional commitment to employers and clients. Conference attendance keeps you current with technology advances and policy shifts affecting project economics. Writing for organization publications or presenting at conferences builds professional visibility valuable for consulting careers or senior positions. Many engineers find that professional organization involvement generates business development opportunities and client referrals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What degree do you need to be a solar engineer?

Most solar engineers hold bachelor's degrees in electrical engineering or mechanical engineering from ABET-accredited programs. Electrical engineering aligns most directly with solar work, covering power systems, circuit design, and electrical codes central to photovoltaic system design. Some engineers enter the field with degrees in environmental engineering, though they typically need additional coursework in electrical systems to be effective in solar roles.

How much do solar engineers make?

Solar engineers, classified under electrical and electronics engineers by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, earned a median annual wage of $118,780 as of May 2024. Entry-level positions typically start around $70,000-$80,000 annually, while experienced engineers with PE licensure can earn $150,000-$175,000 or more, particularly in high-paying markets like California, where compensation significantly exceeds national averages.

Is solar engineering a good career?

Solar engineering offers strong career prospects combining competitive compensation, solid job growth, and meaningful environmental impact. The field projects 7% employment growth from 2022 to 2032-more than double the average for all occupations-driven by declining solar costs and renewable energy policy support. Engineers find satisfaction in creating tangible projects that reduce carbon emissions while solving complex technical challenges. The field suits those who value both engineering rigor and sustainability outcomes.

What does a solar engineer do on a daily basis?

Daily work varies by project phase and role focus. Typical activities include designing solar system layouts using CAD software, analyzing site assessment data to optimize panel placement, calculating energy production estimates and system costs, coordinating with clients to review designs and answer questions, preparing permit applications and technical documentation, conducting site visits to verify installation progress, and troubleshooting system performance issues. Office-based design work typically occupies 60-70% of time, with the remainder spent on site visits and client meetings.

Do solar engineers need to travel?

Travel requirements depend on your employer's project geography. Engineers working for regional solar companies typically make 2-4 local site visits weekly within a 100-mile radius, requiring day trips but not overnight stays. Larger firms occasionally send engineers to distant projects requiring overnight or extended travel, though this typically applies to senior engineers overseeing major installations. International travel remains rare except in specialized roles supporting overseas project development. Most positions maintain predictable schedules with occasional travel rather than constant movement.

Dr. Marcus Hale, PhD

Dr. Marcus Hale is a dedicated environmental scientist with a deep commitment to conservation and sustainable solutions. Holding a PhD from the University of Florida, he has spent over 15 years in the field, from hands-on restoration projects with The Nature Conservancy to advising on policy and climate resilience. His research and publications focus on protecting ecosystems and guiding the next generation toward impactful green careers. Outside of work, Marcus enjoys kayaking in Florida's waterways and volunteering with local environmental education programs.

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2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and employment figures for electrical and electronics engineers reflect national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed January 2026.