Solar Designer I

Solar Designer I
Supervisor: Director of Estimating & Interconnections
Classification: Full-time, non-exempt
About Cal Solar Inc.:
California Solar Integrators, Inc. (Cal Solar) is California's leading commercial renewable energy design-build partner for new construction and retrofit projects. Cal Solar is the premier provider for solar and battery storage systems for real estate portfolio owners, real estate developers, architects, third party system owners and general contractors of multi-family and commercial projects throughout California. Our clients return again and again due to our deep understanding of new construction, project development, and our vertical integration of engineering and construction teams throughout California.
Summary Description:
We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive individual to join our team as an Entry-Level Solar Designer I. In this role, you will support the Engineering and Estimating department by contributing to solar designs, energy production estimates, and budgeting.
Key Responsibilities (include but are not limited to):
Estimation and Budgeting:

• Design and create estimates for solar projects, considering all relevant factors such as materials, labor, equipment, and potential risks.

Collaboration:

• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including sales, engineering, and construction to gather necessary information for accurate estimations and assist them with the proper design approach.

Technical Skills and Responsibilities:

• Learn and understand basic grid-tied photovoltaic system design.
• Prepare site maps that show solar array and major equipment placement.
• Ability to quickly read and understand architectural, mechanical, and electrical plans.
• Use PVWatts and Helioscope solar modeling software along with shading analysis to provide accurate energy production estimates.

Qualifications (required):

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field.
• Strong interest in solar energy and sustainable development.
• Excellent organizational skills with a keen eye for detail and accuracy.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, for interaction with internal and external stakeholders.
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to build positive relationships in a team environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and project management software.
• Adaptability to changing priorities and the capacity to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills and the ability to work autonomously.
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and handling sensitive information professionally.

Additional Qualifications (desired but not required):

• Working knowledge of AutoCAD and Bluebeam Revu
• Basic understanding of NEC Electrical codes and electrical designs
• Bachelors of Science: Mechanical and/or Electrical Engineering (Strongly recommended)

Working Conditions/Physical Demands:

• Limited physical effort
• Regularly operates computer and phone
• Standard office environment

The starting hourly base pay for this role is between USD $24 - $27/hr. The actual base is dependent upon many factors, such as: location, training, transferable skills, work experience, business needs and market demands. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future.
CalSolarInc is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
Benefits:
Competitive hourly rates DOE
Health, vision and dental insurance
401(k) plan (6% match)
Paid holidays
Flexible PTO