Solar Applications Engineer I

Cal Solar Inc • San Diego, CA

3d • $65,000 - $75,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Solar Applications Engineer I is an entry-level technical position supporting preconstruction, estimating, and engineering design workflows for commercial, industrial, and multi-building solar PV, battery energy storage systems (BESS), and EV charging infrastructure. Working under structured guidance, the engineer extracts technical specifications from architectural and electrical blueprints, models system production using specialized layout software, enters system parameters into bidding platforms, and assists with preliminary site evaluations and vendor submittals.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related technical discipline.
• 0–2 years of experience in solar PV design, project engineering, or electrical estimating.
• Foundational knowledge of CAD software, energy simulation software, and Google Workspace or MS Office.
• Ability to read and interpret single-line diagrams (SLDs), electrical panel schedules, and architectural blueprints.
• Basic understanding of National Electrical Code (NEC 70) principles and commercial solar electrical systems.

Nice To Haves

• Recent engineering graduates are welcomed.

Responsibilities

• Review architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical construction drawings—including single-line diagrams, panel schedules, and electrical room locations—to extract site constraints and layout parameters for new construction and retrofit projects.
• Configure preliminary rooftop, carport, and ground-mount PV arrays in Helioscope and CAD software, accounting for fire setbacks, structural obstacles, and shade obstructions.
• Enter system specifications, including modules, inverters, optimizers, racking systems, and service voltage, into bidding software to prepare cost estimates and scope descriptions.
• Verify electrical service ratings (208V, 240V, and 480V; three-phase versus single-phase) and main panel busbar capacities against preliminary design drawings.
• Process incoming sales requests, organize preconstruction project documentation, track vendor equipment quotes, and support lead estimators in clarifying bid deliverables.
• Assist project teams during preliminary site walks by taking field measurements and compiling basic electrical and civil material take-offs.

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level