Senior Design Engineer

Valta Energy is seeking a Senior Design Engineer to lead the design and optimization of solar PV projects in Dana Point, CA. This hybrid role involves developing high-performance solar system designs, ensuring compliance with regulations, and collaborating with cross-functional teams. Candidates should have a relevant degree and 5-8 years of experience in solar PV design. The position offers a salary range of $125,000 - $145,000.
Job Purpose

Senior Design Engineer leads the technical design and optimization of solar PV projects. This role will be responsible for developing high-performance solar system designs, ensuring technical accuracy, and supporting project execution from early-stage development to construction. The Senior Design Engineer will collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance system efficiency, reduce costs, and integrate the latest industry advancements. This is a hybrid role, expected onsite at our Dana Point office 2-3 days per week.

Responsibilities

Solar System Design & Engineering
• Develop and optimize electrical and mechanical designs for utility-scale and commercial solar PV projects.
• Perform detailed energy modeling, system sizing, and performance analysis using PVsyst, Helioscope, and other industry tools.
• Generate electrical one-line diagrams, layouts, and technical specifications for solar and hybrid energy systems.
• Analyze site constraints, including topography, shading, and interconnection feasibility, to inform design decisions.

Technical Oversight & Compliance
• Ensure designs comply with NEC, IEEE, UL, IEC, and local permitting regulations.
• Collaborate with permitting and regulatory teams to support project approvals.
• Conduct quality control reviews on engineering deliverables, ensuring technical accuracy and industry best practices.

Project Development & Collaboration
• Support project development teams by providing technical feasibility studies and cost-benefit analyses.
• Work closely with procurement teams to evaluate and select PV modules, inverters, and balance-of-system components.
• Coordinate with construction and project management teams to facilitate seamless project execution and mitigate risks.
• Assist in interconnection planning and utility coordination for grid-tied systems.

Innovation & Process Improvement
• Stay updated on emerging solar technologies, materials, and design methodologies to drive innovation.
• Contribute to the development of design standards, automation tools, and workflow improvements.
• Provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior engineers and designers.

Qualifications & Skills
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Renewable Energy, or a related field.
• 5–8 years of experience in solar PV system design and engineering.
• Strong knowledge of solar PV components, electrical system design, and energy modeling.
• Proficiency in PVsyst, Helioscope, AutoCAD, and electrical design tools.
• Familiarity with interconnection requirements, permitting processes, and construction best practices.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and communicate effectively with cross-functional teams.

Salary Range: $125,000 - $145,000 based on experience and qualifications.