What Solar Energy Systems Engineers DoPerform site-specific engineering analysis or evaluation of energy efficiency and solar projects involving residential, commercial, or industrial customers. Design solar domestic hot water and space heating systems for new and existing structures, applying knowledge of structural energy requirements, local climates, solar technology, and thermodynamics.
- Create plans for solar energy system development, monitoring, and evaluation activities.
- Conduct engineering site audits to collect structural, electrical, and related site information for use in the design of residential or commercial solar power systems.
- Design or coordinate design of photovoltaic (PV) or solar thermal systems, including system components, for residential and commercial buildings.
- Create electrical single-line diagrams, panel schedules, or connection diagrams for solar electric systems, using computer-aided design (CAD) software.
- Review specifications and recommend engineering or manufacturing changes to achieve solar design objectives.
Solar Energy Systems Engineers Education, Salary, and GrowthOnly you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.
Minimum EducationBachelor Degree
Career ProspectsSteady (Staying constant (within 1%))
Training Time2 to 4 years
Job Openings9,300 Annually
Median Earnings
$128,830 in California
$117,750 Nationally
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Is This Career Right For You?
YOU Like
- Thinking and problem solving
- Working with my hands
you value
- Accomplishing things
- Having freedom
- Job security
you are skilled in
- Critical Thinking
- Repairing
- Troubleshooting
- Monitoring
- Operations Monitoring
- Quality Control Analysis
Go Deeper: Solar Energy Systems Engineers Explained
Solar Energy Systems EngineerExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.
How Do You Train for This Career?
Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 4-5+ years
Hybrid CollegeA hybrid college combines online learning with the student support typically offered on college campuses, giving students flexibility and accessibility while still providing a comprehensive educational experience.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 2-5 years
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Architecture & EngineeringThe primary activities of this group involve designing and developing plans, blueprints, and technical specifications for buildings, machines, and other products, as well as testing and evaluating prototypes to ensure they meet required standards and regulations.