Solar Energy Systems Engineer

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  Career Profile

Solar Energy Systems Engineer

What they do

Perform 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.

Also Called: Consulting Engineer, Engineer, Photovoltaic System Designer (PV System Designer), Power Systems Engineer, Project Engineer, Research Engineer, Solar Design Engineer, Solar Designer, Solar Energy Engineer, Solar Engineer, Consulting Engineer, Engineer, Photovoltaic System Designer (PV System Designer), Power Systems Engineer, Project Engineer, Research Engineer, Solar Design Engineer, Solar Designer, Solar Energy Engineer, Solar Engineer

$62,130
Starting Salary (2023)
$111,970
Median Salary (2023)
3.3%
Projected Job Growth
150,990
Employment (2022)

Typical Tasks

Conduct engineering site audits to collect structural, electrical, and related site information for use in the design of residential or commercial solar power systems.
Create electrical single-line diagrams, panel schedules, or connection diagrams for solar electric systems, using computer-aided design (CAD) software.
Create plans for solar energy system development, monitoring, and evaluation activities.
Perform computer simulation of solar photovoltaic (PV) generation system performance or energy production to optimize efficiency.
Provide technical direction or support to installation teams during installation, start-up, testing, system commissioning, or performance monitoring.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Realistic
Practical, Physical Work
Investigative
Studying, Research based work
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Attention to Detail
Dependability
Integrity
Cooperation
Adaptability/Flexibility
Persistence

What key skills are needed for this job?

Reading Comprehension
Critical Thinking
Writing
Speaking
Complex Problem Solving
Active Listening

Expected Knowledge

Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Design
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Building and Construction
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.

Common Activities

Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.

More Info

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