The Solar Design & Estimation Engineer will be responsible for developing precise solar system designs, conducting material take-offs, preparing cost estimates, and drafting technical proposals for residential and commercial solar projects across the U.S. This role requires close collaboration with Sales, Engineering, Proposal, Permitting, and Project Management teams to ensure that all project deliverables are accurate and submitted on time. The engineer will play a critical role in supporting project success from initial design through proposal submission.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare detailed solar photovoltaic (PV) system designs using industry-standard tools such as Aurora Solar, HelioScope, AutoCAD, and related engineering software.
- Perform accurate material take-offs (MTO/BOQ) for PV modules, inverters, racking, electrical equipment, balance of system (BOS) components, and other necessary project materials.
- Develop comprehensive project cost estimates, including pricing and labor/material assumptions aligned with the project scope.
- Review site information, satellite imagery, structural and electrical details, and customer requirements to create feasible and compliant system designs.
- Prepare and review system layouts, single-line diagrams (SLDs), equipment specifications, and design documentation in accordance with applicable U.S. codes and utility standards.
- Support commercial pre-sales proposals by providing precise technical and financial inputs.
- Collaborate with Sales and Proposal teams to clarify project scope, design assumptions, and pricing requirements.
- Identify design conflicts, scope gaps, material needs, and potential project risks prior to proposal submission.
- Maintain and update standardized estimating templates, equipment databases, pricing references, and design standards to ensure consistency and accuracy.
- Review design revisions and incorporate feedback from clients, sales, utilities, authorities having jurisdiction (AHJ), or engineering teams within required timelines.
- Ensure all designs and estimates comply with company quality standards and meet project deadlines.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Renewable Energy, or a related technical field.
- Proven experience in solar PV system design, estimation, and material take-offs.
- Strong understanding of PV system components, electrical systems, and solar design principles.
- Working knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and U.S. solar design requirements.
- Proficiency with Aurora Solar, HelioScope, AutoCAD, Excel, or similar design and estimation tools.
- Excellent analytical, estimation, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to interpret site information, electrical drawings, specifications, and project documentation accurately.
- High attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines effectively.
This role offers the opportunity to contribute to the growing solar energy sector by delivering technically sound and cost-effective solar solutions. Candidates who are detail-oriented, collaborative, and experienced in U.S. solar project requirements will thrive in this position.