Solar Energy Systems Engineer

Your Fit

Income

$112K

Preparation

Considerable

Growth

3.3%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Solar Energy Systems Engineer?

Solar Energy Systems Engineers design, develop, and manage the installation of solar energy systems for residential, commercial, and industrial applications. They focus on optimizing efficiency and sustainability in harnessing solar power.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Solar Energy Systems Engineer.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Solar Energy Systems Engineer earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$62K per year	$83K per year	$112K per year	$146K per year	$177K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $64K above the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Solar Energy Systems Engineer do?

Work environment

Solar Energy Systems Engineers typically work in a variety of settings, including engineering firms, renewable energy companies, and government agencies. Their work can involve office-based design and planning, as well as on-site visits for system implementation and evaluation. They may collaborate with architects, engineers, and other specialists.

Quick task list

Designs and evaluates solar energy projects and systems.
Develops technical specifications and project plans for solar installations.
Conducts financial feasibility studies for solar energy projects.
Collaborates with clients and contractors to implement solar energy solutions.
Monitors and analyzes the performance of installed solar systems.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Photovoltaic System Engineering: Designing and implementing solar photovoltaic systems for electricity generation.
Solar Thermal Systems: Specializing in systems that use solar energy for heating purposes.
Project Management: Overseeing the entire lifecycle of solar energy projects.
Research and Development: Innovating new solar technologies and applications.
Sustainability Consulting: Advising on integrating solar energy into broader sustainable practices.

Description

Solar Energy Systems Engineers are integral to the growing field of renewable energy, focusing on the practical application of solar technology. They design systems that convert sunlight into energy, considering factors like local climate, site location, and energy needs. Their role requires a blend of technical engineering knowledge, environmental awareness, and project management skills.

These engineers work on the cutting edge of energy technology, constantly adapting to new advancements and regulatory changes in the field of renewable energy. They must be proficient in various engineering software for design and simulation and have a solid understanding of electrical systems and energy efficiency principles.

Collaboration and communication are key aspects of their role. Solar Energy Systems Engineers often work with a range of stakeholders, including government officials, clients, and other engineering professionals. They must be able to translate complex technical information into understandable terms and make informed recommendations for solar energy solutions.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Contributing to the advancement and implementation of renewable energy.
Working on projects that have a positive environmental impact.
Being part of a growing, innovative, and socially relevant field.

You might make a good Solar Energy Systems Engineer if you are...

Passionate about renewable energy and environmental sustainability.
Skilled in engineering principles, particularly in electrical or mechanical systems.
Proficient in problem-solving and project management.
Able to work collaboratively and communicate effectively with diverse teams.
Interested in staying updated with technological advancements in solar energy.

Pros:

Growing demand for renewable energy expertise.
Opportunity to work on projects that positively impact the environment.
Diverse career opportunities in various industries.

Cons:

Need to continuously update skills due to rapid technological changes.
Projects can be subject to regulatory challenges and varying public policies.
Work can sometimes require travel and on-site evaluations.

How to become a Solar Energy Systems Engineer

Typical education

A bachelor's degree in engineering, specifically in fields like electrical, mechanical, or energy engineering, is typically required, which involves about 4 years of post-secondary education. Additional certifications in solar energy or renewable energy systems can enhance job prospects.

High school preparation

Courses:

Mathematics and physics to build a strong foundation in engineering principles.
Environmental science to understand sustainable practices and renewable energy.
Computer science for skills in software used in system design and analysis.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participating in science clubs or fairs with a focus on renewable energy projects.
Engaging in environmental advocacy or community projects related to sustainability.
Joining robotics or engineering clubs to develop practical skills in technology and design.

Preparation after high school

Pursue a bachelor's degree in engineering, ideally with a focus on electrical, mechanical, or energy engineering.
Consider internships or cooperative education opportunities in renewable energy companies or related organizations.
Seek out certifications or additional courses in solar energy systems and sustainable design.
Gain hands-on experience through project-based learning, workshops, or research projects in solar energy.

More resources

Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) - Provides resources and information on the solar energy industry.
North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) - Offers certification programs for solar energy professionals.
International Solar Energy Society (ISES) - A global organization dedicated to advancing the use of solar energy.
Renewable Energy World - An online resource for the latest news and information in the field of renewable energy.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.