Senior Design Engineer

ZipRecruiter; Dana Point (CA); Hybrid; USD 125,000 - 145,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in renewable energy is seeking a Senior Design Engineer to lead the design and optimization of solar PV projects. This hybrid role requires collaboration with cross-functional teams to enhance system efficiency and ensure compliance with industry standards. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in solar PV design, project management, and technical oversight.

Qualifications

• 5–8 years of experience in solar PV system design and engineering.
• Strong knowledge of solar PV components and electrical system design.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize electrical and mechanical designs for solar PV projects.
• Ensure designs comply with NEC, IEEE, UL, IEC regulations.
• Support project development teams with technical feasibility studies.

Skills

Solar PV Design

Energy Modeling

Project Management

Technical Compliance

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor’s degree in Renewable Energy

Tools

PVsyst

Helioscope

AutoCAD

Job description

Job Description

Job Purpose

The Senior Design Engineer leads the technical design and optimization of solar PV projects. This role is responsible for developing high-performance solar system designs, ensuring technical accuracy, and supporting project execution from early-stage development to construction. The engineer will collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance system efficiency, reduce costs, and incorporate industry advancements. This is a hybrid role, expected onsite at our Dana Point office 2-3 days per week.

Responsibilities

1. Solar System Design & Engineering

• Develop and optimize electrical and mechanical designs for utility-scale and commercial solar PV projects.
• Perform detailed energy modeling, system sizing, and performance analysis using PVsyst, Helioscope, and other industry tools.
• Create electrical one-line diagrams, layouts, and technical specifications for solar and hybrid energy systems.
• Analyze site constraints such as topography, shading, and interconnection feasibility to inform design decisions.

Technical Oversight & Compliance

• Ensure designs comply with NEC, IEEE, UL, IEC, and local permitting regulations.
• Collaborate with permitting and regulatory teams to facilitate project approvals.
• Conduct quality control reviews on engineering deliverables to ensure technical accuracy and adherence to industry standards.

Project Development & Collaboration

• Support project development teams with technical feasibility studies and cost-benefit analyses.
• Work with procurement teams to evaluate and select PV modules, inverters, and other system components.
• Coordinate with construction and project management teams to ensure smooth project execution and manage risks.
• Assist in planning interconnection and utility coordination for grid-tied systems.

Innovation & Process Improvement

• Stay informed about emerging solar technologies, materials, and design methodologies to promote innovation.
• Contribute to developing design standards, automation tools, and workflow enhancements.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior engineers and designers.

Qualifications & Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Renewable Energy, or a related field.
• 5–8 years of experience in solar PV system design and engineering.
• Strong knowledge of solar PV components, electrical system design, and energy modeling.
• Proficiency in PVsyst, Helioscope, AutoCAD, and other electrical design tools.
• Familiarity with interconnection requirements, permitting processes, and construction best practices.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and communicate effectively with cross-functional teams.

Salary Range: $125,000 - $145,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications.