Do I need a degree to become a solar engineer?

While not always strictly required, a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, or renewable energy engineering is highly recommended and preferred by most employers. The degree provides essential technical knowledge of power systems, circuits, and energy conversion. However, experienced electricians, HVAC technicians, or construction professionals can transition into solar engineering roles through specialized certifications like NABCEP and intensive training programs, typically starting at entry-level design or technician positions.

How long does it take to become a solar engineer?

The timeline varies by path: A traditional electrical engineering degree takes 4 years, plus 2-4 years of experience for senior roles. Career changers with adjacent experience can transition in 6-12 months through intensive training and certifications, starting in entry-level positions. To reach senior solar engineer or manager roles typically requires 4-7 years total experience. Fast-tracking is possible through master's programs (1-2 years post-bachelor's) which can qualify you for senior roles immediately.

What certifications do I need to be a solar engineer?

The most valuable certifications are NABCEP PV Installation Professional ($1,200-$2,000, 3-6 months prep) and NABCEP PV Design Specialist ($800-$1,500, 2-4 months prep). For senior roles, a Professional Engineer (PE) license is often required to stamp engineering drawings, which requires an ABET-accredited degree, 4 years experience, and passing the FE and PE exams. OSHA 30-Hour Construction certification ($150-$300) is also essential for safety compliance. These certifications significantly boost employability and earning potential.

How much do solar engineers make?

Solar engineers earn competitive salaries with strong growth potential. Entry-level junior engineers earn $60,000-$75,000, mid-level solar engineers make $75,000-$95,000, senior engineers earn $95,000-$130,000, and solar engineering managers command $120,000-$180,000. Directors and VPs with 10+ years experience can exceed $150,000-$250,000. Total compensation varies by location, with California, Massachusetts, and tech hubs offering 15-30% higher salaries. Many companies also offer bonuses, stock options, and comprehensive benefits.

What software do solar engineers need to know?

Essential design software includes PVsyst (industry standard for system modeling), Helioscope (cloud-based commercial design), Aurora Solar (all-in-one platform), and SAM (free NREL performance modeling tool). CAD skills are critical: AutoCAD for site plans, SketchUp for 3D modeling and shading, and ETAP/SKM for power systems analysis. Programming knowledge in Python and MATLAB is increasingly valuable for data analysis and automation. Project management tools like Microsoft Project, Jira, and Salesforce are also important for career advancement.

Can I become a solar engineer without an electrical engineering degree?

Yes, but it's more challenging and typically starts at a lower level. Professionals with backgrounds in mechanical engineering, physics, construction management, or as licensed electricians can transition through specialized training programs, NABCEP certifications, and starting in technician or junior designer roles. After 2-3 years of hands-on experience and obtaining relevant certifications, many advance to full engineering positions. However, advancement to senior roles requiring PE licensure will be limited without an ABET-accredited engineering degree. Some professionals pursue evening/online engineering degrees while working.

What's the job outlook for solar engineers?

Excellent. Solar engineering is one of the fastest-growing careers in America with 24%+ annual job growth projected through 2030. This growth is driven by declining solar costs, federal tax credits (IRA), state renewable energy mandates, and corporate net-zero commitments. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects solar installer jobs to grow 48% by 2031, and engineering roles are growing proportionally. Demand is particularly strong for engineers with energy storage expertise, utility-scale experience, and grid integration knowledge. Job security is high, with multiple pathways for advancement.

What's the difference between residential and utility-scale solar engineering?

Residential solar engineering focuses on rooftop systems (3-10 kW), involves simpler designs, faster project cycles (days to weeks), and emphasizes customer interaction and local permitting. Utility-scale solar engineering involves massive ground-mounted arrays (50+ MW), requires complex interconnection studies, involves multi-year projects, demands advanced grid integration knowledge, and needs PE stamping authority. Utility-scale roles typically pay 20-40% more, require more experience, and involve working with utility companies, EPCs, and developers. Most engineers start residential and transition to utility-scale after 3-5 years for higher compensation.

How to Become a Solar Engineer in 2025

Your complete roadmap to launching a rewarding career in solar engineering. From education and certifications to skills and salary expectations.

$95K-$150K

Manager Salary

Open Positions

4-6 years

To Manager

+24%

Job Growth

What Does a Solar Engineer Do?

Solar engineers design, develop, and optimize photovoltaic (PV) systems that convert sunlight into electricity. They work on projects ranging from residential rooftop installations to massive utility-scale solar farms generating hundreds of megawatts.

The role combines electrical engineering principles with renewable energy expertise, requiring deep knowledge of power systems, energy storage, grid integration, and solar technology. Solar engineers are responsible for ensuring systems are safe, efficient, cost-effective, and compliant with all electrical codes and regulations.

Career Outlook

Solar engineering is one of the fastest-growing careers in America, with 24%+ annual job growth projected through 2030. Senior Solar Engineering Managers earn $95K-$150K+ with strong benefits and career advancement opportunities.

Step 1: Choose Your Education Path

There are multiple routes into solar engineering depending on your current situation and career goals:

Electrical Engineering Degree

4 years (BS) + 2 years (MS optional)

The most traditional and versatile path into solar engineering. Covers power systems, circuits, controls, and energy conversion - all directly applicable to solar design.

Best for: Students starting from high school or those seeking the most comprehensive technical foundation

Career Outcomes

Qualify for licensed Professional Engineer (PE) status
Eligible for senior engineering roles immediately after graduation
Highest starting salaries ($70K-$85K entry level)
Clear path to Solar Engineering Manager roles ($95K-$150K)

Renewable Energy Engineering Degree

4 years (BS)

Specialized undergraduate programs focusing specifically on solar, wind, and sustainable energy systems. Growing availability at major universities.

Best for: Students certain about renewable energy careers who want specialized knowledge from day one

Career Outcomes

Immediate applicability to solar industry
Strong network within renewable energy sector
Starting salaries: $65K-$80K
May need additional EE coursework for PE licensure

Career Transition + Bootcamp/Certificate

3-6 months intensive training

For professionals with adjacent backgrounds (HVAC, construction, electricians) looking to transition into solar engineering roles.

Best for: Experienced professionals pivoting from related fields

Career Outcomes

Fastest path to employment (3-6 months)
Starting salaries: $50K-$70K
Entry-level design or technician roles initially
Can advance with experience and NABCEP certification

Master's Degree in Renewable Energy

1-2 years (post-bachelor's)

Graduate programs for those with engineering, physics, or related bachelor's degrees who want to specialize in renewable energy.

Best for: Engineers from other disciplines seeking to specialize or advance into leadership roles

Career Outcomes

Qualify for senior and specialized roles immediately
Starting salaries: $80K-$100K
Opens doors to R&D and advanced technology roles
Preferred for utility-scale project engineering

Step 2: Obtain Essential Certifications

While not always required, these certifications significantly boost your employability and earning potential:

NABCEP PV Installation Professional

North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners

The gold standard certification for solar professionals. Demonstrates comprehensive knowledge of PV system design, installation, and troubleshooting.

Investment

$1,200 - $2,000 (including prep)

Time to Complete

3-6 months preparation

Requirements:

58 hours of solar-specific training
2 years of installation/design experience OR 4-year degree
Pass rigorous 4-hour exam covering NEC, system design, and safety

NABCEP PV Design Specialist

NABCEP

Focused specifically on PV system design. Excellent for engineers primarily involved in system sizing, layout, and specifications.

Investment

$800 - $1,500

Time to Complete

2-4 months preparation

Requirements:

40 hours of solar design training
1 year of design experience OR engineering degree
Pass design-focused exam

Professional Engineer (PE) License

State licensing boards

Required to stamp engineering drawings in most states. Critical for senior roles and project leadership positions.

Investment

$500 - $1,000 (exam + application)

Time to Complete

4 years experience + exam

Requirements:

EAC/ABET accredited engineering degree
Pass FE exam (Fundamentals of Engineering)
4 years of progressive engineering experience
Pass PE exam (8-hour discipline-specific exam)

OSHA 30-Hour Construction

OSHA

Essential safety certification for anyone working on or designing solar installations. Often required by employers.

Investment

$150 - $300

Time to Complete

1 week online

Requirements:

Complete 30-hour online or in-person course
Pass final exam
Renewal every 5 years

Step 3: Develop Core Skills

Here's a realistic timeline for building the technical skills needed to advance from entry-level to senior solar engineer:

Months 1-6: Fundamentals

Solar PV basics: system components, electricity fundamentals
National Electrical Code (NEC) Article 690
System sizing and energy production calculations
Basic AutoCAD or design software
Safety standards and best practices

Months 6-12: Intermediate Design

PVsyst or Helioscope system design software
Shading analysis and loss calculations
Balance of system (BOS) component selection
Financial modeling: ROI, NPV, payback calculations
Permitting requirements and AHJ interactions

Year 2: Advanced Engineering

Utility interconnection requirements and studies
Energy storage system integration
Commercial/industrial system design
Electrical one-line diagrams and stamping
Project management and team coordination

Years 3-5: Specialization & Leadership

Utility-scale solar farm design
Grid integration and power quality analysis
Advanced energy storage and microgrid systems
Team leadership and mentoring
Business development and client relations

Essential Software & Tools to Master

Design Software

PVsyst: Industry standard for detailed system modeling and loss analysis
Helioscope: Cloud-based design tool popular for commercial projects
Aurora Solar: All-in-one platform for sales and engineering
SAM (System Advisor Model): Free NREL tool for performance modeling

CAD & Electrical Design

AutoCAD: Essential for creating site plans and layouts
SketchUp: 3D modeling for shading analysis and visualization
ETAP/SKM: Power systems analysis for commercial projects
Microsoft Excel: Financial modeling and energy calculations

Data Analysis & Monitoring

Python: Data analysis, automation, and custom tools
MATLAB: Advanced modeling and simulation
SQL: Database queries for performance monitoring

Project Management

Microsoft Project: Timeline and resource management
Jira/Asana: Agile project tracking
Salesforce: CRM for client and project management

Career Path & Salary Progression

Junior Solar Engineer

$60K - $75K

0-2 years | Entry-level design work, system calculations, permitting support

Solar Engineer

$75K - $95K

2-4 years | Independent project design, client interaction, technical leadership

Senior Solar Engineer

$95K - $130K

4-7 years | Large commercial projects, PE stamp authority, mentoring junior engineers

Solar Engineering Manager

$120K - $180K

7-10 years | Team leadership, strategic planning, utility-scale projects, P&L responsibility

Director of Engineering / VP

$150K - $250K+

10+ years | Executive leadership, company strategy, large team management

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions about becoming a solar engineer and career paths in solar engineering.

Your Next Steps

If You're a Student

Pursue electrical or renewable energy engineering degree
Seek internships at solar companies (summer/co-op programs)
Join solar/renewable energy student organizations
Learn PVsyst, AutoCAD, and Python on your own

If You're Transitioning Careers

Take NABCEP or online solar engineering courses
Start with entry-level solar technician or designer role
Highlight transferable skills from previous engineering work
Network at local solar industry events and trade shows

Ready to Start Your Solar Engineering Career?

Browse 33+ solar engineering positions and find your entry point into this high-growth field.

View Solar Engineering Jobs Optimize Your Resume

Related Resources

Top 10 Renewable Energy Jobs

Explore all career paths

Salary Insights

Compare engineering salaries

Solar Sales Salary Guide

Compare to sales careers

Career Transition Guide

Make the switch to solar