Renewable Energy Engineer

Design, analyze, and optimize renewable energy systems including solar, wind, geothermal, and energy storage projects from feasibility through commissioning. Conduct energy resource assessments, develop system performance models, prepare technical specifications, and manage engineering deliverables for project development and construction. Collaborate with project developers, contractors, and utilities to deliver technically sound and economically viable clean energy projects.

Median salary: $112,000. Projected growth to 2033: 11% (faster than average) - driven by IRA renewable energy tax credits. Typical education: Bachelor's Degree.

At a glance

Median salary: $112,000
Entry-level: $72,000 - $92,000
Senior: $165,000+
Growth by 2033: 11% (faster than average) - driven by IRA renewable energy tax credits
Demand: Growing Fast
Remote: Hybrid
Hours per week: 40-55 hours/week
Stress: Moderate

What you'd do

People interaction: Moderate
Team vs solo: 60% Team / 40% Solo
Client facing: Sometimes
Impact visibility: High

How to get there

Minimum education: Bachelor's Degree
Licensing: Varies by State
Years to mid-career: 3-5 years
Years to senior: 7-10 years
Career switching: Moderate
Typical student debt: $30,000 - $65,000

Skills you'll use

Hard skills

Solar & Wind Energy Resource Assessment
PVsyst & WindPRO Energy Modelling
Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Design
IEEE & NEC Electrical Standards
Interconnection Application Engineering
AutoCAD & Civil 3D for Site Design

Soft skills

Technical Problem-Solving
Analytical Thinking
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Project Management
Written Communication

Technical complexity: High

Typical career path