Become a Solar Energy Engineer

Solar energy engineers, also known as alternative energy engineers, photovoltaic (PV) design engineers, or solar array engineers, are experts in utilizing sunlight to generate electricity. In the solar energy industry, these individuals work in the manufacturing, construction, and maintenance of solar power materials and solar power plants. Various types of engineers including chemical, computer software, electrical, mechanical, and industrial work in various facets of this industry. These workers will likely spend most of their time working a regular schedule in an office, but on occasion, some overtime and field work might be required in this profession.

Gain Professional Experience
Students can look for solar energy engineering jobs through school counselors, internship supervisors, and professional organizations which are dedicated to renewable energy engineering. Examples of professional organizations include the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), the American Solar Energy Society (ASES), and the Solar Electric Power Association (SEPA).

Success Tips:
Attend conferences. Individuals can learn about the latest issues and technology in the industry by attending industry-related conferences. The U.S. Solar Market Insight Conference, hosted by SEIA and Greentech Media, is an example. SEIA also provides educational seminars, webinars, and networking events.

Join a professional training organization. Organizations offer benefits such as networking opportunities and career training information. Many professional solar energy organizations also publish journals or magazines that can provide solar energy engineers with recent updates on the latest news, products, and policy changes. For example, ASES provides its members with the Solar Today Magazine. SEPA also has an extensive amount of resources available in its digital library.

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