Solar Energy Engineer

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Work Tasks

• Make solar heating and hot water systems for homes
• Estimate how much energy a building will need
• Decide what kind of solar system to use and draw diagrams of it
• Watch the construction to make sure it is done correctly
• Write reports and consult with other engineers
• Work for manufacturers of solar parts, utility and construction companies, architectural firms, engineering companies, and university research centers
• Work with solar hot water and space heating systems, panels, pumps, pipes, storage tanks, drafting tools, and computers

Salary, Size & Growth

• $80,500 average per year ($38.75 per hour)
• A medium occupation (139,600 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow slowly (0.6% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: A 4-year degree in engineering
• Employers Prefer: A master's degree in solar engineering
• Certification/Licensing: A license may be needed, which requires a degree, 4 years experience, and passing 2 tests.