Position
Salary
A Solar Engineer focuses on designing and building solar energy systems. The salary for this role can vary based on experience and location. On average, a Solar Engineer earns about $66,757 per year. This figure can go higher with more experience and specialized skills.
Looking at the salary distribution, about 42.78% of Solar Engineers make between $35,000 and $48,864 a year. Around 8.89% earn between $48,864 and $62,727. A notable 16.67% of engineers fall into the $76,591 to $90,455 range. Those at the top end, making over $132,045, represent 2.22% of the workforce. This data shows a wide range of earning potential, especially for those with more experience and specialized skills.

Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $54,888
In Atlanta, one finds a bustling tech industry that supports green energy. Companies like NextEra Energy lead the way in solar projects. The city’s warm climate makes solar power a practical and growing sector.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $47,692
Charlotte boasts a strong economy with many opportunities in renewable energy. Firms like Duke Energy invest heavily in solar initiatives. The city’s commitment to sustainability creates a dynamic environment for professionals in this field.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $45,417
Austin is a hub for innovation, with many tech companies pushing green energy solutions. Capitalizing on the city's tech-savvy population, companies like SunPower are at the forefront of solar technology. The diverse job market in Austin makes it ideal for growth in solar engineering.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $43,200
With its abundance of sunshine, Phoenix is an excellent place for solar professionals. Companies like First Solar harness the city's natural resources. The sunny climate and growing green energy sector create many opportunities in solar engineering.
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Columbus, OH
Average Salary: $41,000
Columbus offers a growing market for green energy jobs. Companies like American Electric Power invest in solar technology. The city’s support for renewable energy provides a promising career path for those in this field.
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Dallas, TX
Average Salary: $38,750
Dallas is a thriving hub for energy innovation. Solar companies like Tesla are expanding their footprint here. The city's commitment to sustainability and strong job market make it an attractive place for solar engineers.
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Tucson, AZ
Average Salary: $38,045
Tucson enjoys plenty of sunshine, making it an ideal location for solar energy work. Companies like Suniva are making significant investments in solar technology. The city's dedication to renewable energy creates a vibrant job market.
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Detroit, MI
Average Salary: $37,538
Detroit is revitalizing its economy with a focus on green energy. Companies like DTE Energy are at the forefront of solar projects. The city’s commitment to sustainability provides many opportunities for those in the solar industry.
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Nashville, TN
Average Salary: $35,000
Nashville offers a blend of southern charm and modern energy initiatives. Companies like SolarCity are driving the growth of solar energy in the city. The growing interest in sustainability creates a promising career path for solar professionals.
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Omaha, NE
Average Salary: $35,000
Omaha is investing in green energy with a focus on solar solutions. Firms like MidAmerican Energy are leading the way in solar projects. The city's supportive environment for renewable energy creates a promising career in solar engineering.
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United Employment Group, Inc.
Average Salary: $83,643
United Employment Group, Inc. offers competitive salaries for Solar Engineers. The company is known for its commitment to renewable energy. It operates across the United States, providing numerous opportunities for growth and professional development in various locations including California, Texas, and Arizona.
Everlight Solar
Average Salary: $35,000
Everlight Solar provides rewarding careers for Solar Engineers with a strong focus on sustainability. They work with cutting-edge technology and offer innovative solutions. The company operates in several locations, including New York, Colorado, and Florida, giving employees diverse opportunities to work on exciting projects.
Solar engineers can increase their earnings through various strategies and skill enhancements. Gaining certifications in specialized areas of solar technology can lead to higher-paying positions. These certifications demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills, making an engineer more valuable to employers. Networking with other professionals in the industry can open up opportunities for higher-paying roles. Attending industry conferences and joining professional organizations can help build these connections.
Experience plays a crucial role in earning more as a solar engineer. Working on a variety of projects helps engineers build a diverse skill set. Each project offers new challenges and learning opportunities, increasing overall competency. Engineers with more experience often qualify for senior roles that come with higher salaries. Leadership positions, such as project manager or team lead, also tend to offer better compensation. Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest technology and industry trends are essential for career growth.
Geographic location can impact earning potential. Solar engineers in areas with high demand for renewable energy may find better-paying jobs. Urban centers and regions with significant investment in solar technology often offer higher salaries. Relocating to these areas can be a strategic move for those looking to maximize their earnings. Additionally, engineers who specialize in high-demand areas such as battery storage or smart grid technology can command higher salaries. Developing skills in these specialized fields can lead to more lucrative job opportunities.
Here are five key factors to help solar engineers earn more: