Engineers who pass this exam are called engineers in training (EITs) or engineer interns (EIs). After gaining four years of work experience, EITs and EIs can go on to take the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam to qualify for licensure. Several states require engineers to participate in professional development activities in order to keep their licenses. Most states recognize licensure from other states, as long as that state's requirements meet or exceed their own licensure requirements. More complex jobs may require a master's or doctoral degree. Engineers are expected to participate in professional development to keep up with technological developments. They should also be familiar with AutoCAD, a computer-aided design program widely used in engineering. Within solar engineering, AutoCAD is used for photovoltaic system layout. Some firms may also use Google SketchUp. Because solar engineers must consult with clients, create technical reports, and write emails, they should also have good communication skills.
How Much Do Solar Jobs Pay per Year in San Diego, CA? $21, 463 - $31, 682 19% of jobs $33, 215 is the 25th percentile. Salaries below this are outliers. $31, 683 - $41, 902 24% of jobs $41, 903 - $52, 122 16% of jobs $52, 123 - $62, 343 11% of jobs The average salary is $64, 229 a year $62, 344 - $72, 563 6% of jobs $73, 074 is the 75th percentile. Salaries above this are outliers. $72, 564 - $82, 783 5% of jobs $82, 784 - $93, 003 4% of jobs $93, 004 - $103, 224 5% of jobs $106, 801 is the 90th percentile. $103, 225 - $113, 444 3% of jobs $113, 445 - $123, 664 2% of jobs $123, 665 - $133, 885 1% of jobs National Average $21, 463 $64, 229 /year $133, 885
Computer skills are essential for creating designs and testing photovoltaic systems. Where Does a Solar Engineer Work? Most solar engineers work in offices, but may also travel frequently to different work sites, including overseas locations. They often must climb ladders onto rooftops to inspect installations, and may need to carry heavy loads for short distances. According to the Solar Foundation, California is by far the leading state for solar jobs in general, with over 10, 000 solar jobs as of 2013. New Mexico offers the second highest number of solar jobs. New York, New Jersey, and Massachusetts are also home to relatively high numbers of jobs in the solar industry. What Is a Typical Solar Engineer's Salary? The average salary listed in nationwide job postings for solar engineers was $82, 000 in December 2014. This is 42% higher than average salaries for all job postings nationwide.