Solar Energy Systems Engineers
Solar energy systems engineers analyze and design solar heating and power systems for homes, businesses, and industrial facilities. They evaluate sites for energy efficiency, calculate system requirements based on local climate and building needs, and develop technical specifications. Most work for engineering firms, solar companies, or as consultants.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against solar energy systems engineers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
Engineers spend time between office work and site visits. In the office, they use design software to model solar systems, calculate energy output, and prepare technical drawings and proposals. On site, they assess roof conditions, structural capacity, sun exposure, and electrical infrastructure. They also meet with clients to discuss requirements and present findings, and coordinate with contractors on installation details.
Who this work suits
Holland code RIC. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy solving technical problems and understanding how systems work—qualities that suit the investigative side of this role. You're comfortable with detailed analysis and comfortable spending considerable time developing specialized knowledge in engineering principles, solar technology, and building systems.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | $119,430 | $162,070 | $180,190 | 2,190 |
| Alabama | $116,040 | $152,550 | $183,040 | 3,460 |
| District of Columbia | $101,990 | $151,920 | $185,220 | 3,560 |
| Virginia | $116,920 | $148,160 | $181,660 | 5,060 |
| Alaska | $123,120 | $142,390 | $164,260 | 200 |
| Washington | $109,550 | $134,570 | $168,550 | 3,580 |
| Colorado | $105,050 | $132,590 | $164,800 | 2,540 |
| New Jersey | $93,670 | $132,450 | $170,460 | 4,540 |
| Massachusetts | $103,010 | $131,260 | $162,470 | 2,850 |
| Idaho | $100,430 | $130,970 | $153,570 | 560 |
| California | $98,520 | $130,850 | $169,830 | 28,610 |
| Maryland | $83,840 | $129,770 | $172,580 | 7,340 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Practitioner in Energy Management Systems (50001) — Association of Energy Engineers
- Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) — American Society for Quality
- Certified Energy Procurement Professional (CEP) — Association of Energy Engineers
- Residential Energy Inspector/Plans Examiner (REI-PE) — International Code Council
- Certified Energy Manager (CEM) — Association of Energy Engineers
- Certified Green Building Engineer (GBE) — Association of Energy Engineers
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against solar energy systems engineers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 17-2199.11 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.