Structural Engineer
The Job of a Structural Engineer, a comprehensive guide
A structural engineer in the solar industry is responsible for designing, analyzing, and ensuring the safety and stability of solar power plants, solar panels, and other solar energy systems. They use their knowledge of civil engineering to ensure that solar structures can withstand environmental factors like wind, snow, and seismic events.
Overview of the Structural Engineer Job
Structural or civil engineers are responsible for designing and analyzing the support of systems for solar projects and can also partner to build solar panel manufacturing facilities or power plants.
Structural Engineer Salary
Structural or civil engineering earn an annual median salary of $89,940 with the lowest 10 percent earning less than $61,040, and the highest 10 percent earning more than $138,690 per the BLS.
Common Structural Engineer Job Descriptions
Structural engineers play a critical role in the solar industry by designing and analyzing solar structures to ensure they are safe and reliable. Some of the key responsibilities of a structural engineer in the solar industry include:
Designing solar panel mounting systems: Design and analyze the mounting systems for solar panels, which must be able to withstand high wind and snow loads, as well as seismic events.
Analyzing structural integrity: Perform detailed analyses of structures to ensure they are stable and able to withstand environmental loads.
Ensuring compliance with building codes: Ensure that all solar structures meet the requirements of local building codes and regulations.
Collaborating with other professionals: Work closely with other professionals, such as designers, project developers, and installation teams, to ensure to success of the solar project
Reviewing construction plans: Review construction plans and specifications to ensure they are accurate and can be constructed safely and efficiently.
Structural Engineer Job and Skill Requirements
To become a structural engineer in the solar industry, you will see the requirements below:
Generally require a bachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering. Some employers may require a master’s degree
At least 3+ years in structuring engineering. Experience in solar directly is a plus, but not a hard requirement
Proficient in AutoCAD / SolidWorks and knowledge of other software tools like Lpile and Aurora Solar a plus
Strong understanding of structural design principles, building codes, and industry standards
Knowledge of state/federal standards and guidelines from IBC, ASCE, ASTM, AISC, and ACI
Employer may require you to be licensed as a Professional Engineer (PE), which requires passing a series of exams and meeting other requirements.
Strong computer skills in Microsoft Suite to keep track of materials and costs associated with the project
What's the day-to-day of a Structural Engineer?
The day-to-day of a structural engineer in the solar industry can vary depending on the specific project and stage of the project. A typical day might include:
Conducting site visits to assess solar structures
Designing and analyzing solar mounting systems
Reviewing construction plans
Meeting with internal and external stakeholders on a project to review requirements and specifications
Modeling in CAD software to create and modify solar panel proposals to build an efficient design
Outlook for Structural Engineers
With the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, American Rescue Plan, and American Jobs Plan, the United States is poised for a once-in-a-lifetime infrastructure overhaul. Civil and Structural engineers will be in high demand to construct new, lasting projects and solar is expected to be one of the fastest growing sectors due to the legislative incentives.
Career Opportunities for Structural Engineers
Structural engineers can be an entry-point into the quickly growing solar industry if your have the academic and professional background but do not have any direct solar experience. You can progress to Project Developer roles as you can experience in the solar industry, or work on larger and large scale projects over time if you enjoy the day-to-day of the job.
How to get a job in Structural Engineering
Start by searching for open positions on job search websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn. You may also want to network with professionals in the industry and attend job fairs or other industry events. Additionally, you can reach out to solar energy companies directly and inquire about job opportunities or internships. WorkInSolar will be your portal to search for all the best solar jobs available.
Make sure to tailor your resume depending on your experience and the role itself. If you don’t have solar experience, call out your interest and research that you’ve done to demonstrate your excitement on getting into the industry.
How to keep learning more
Structural and Civil Engineers will be in high demand for the next decade and solar will be a booming industry to join. Subscribe to our blog to stay up to date on the latest information in the market.
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