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Job outlook for solar mechanical engineers in the United States
Are solar mechanical engineer jobs in demand?
Solar mechanical engineer job and salary trends over time
Solar mechanical engineer jobs over time
Solar mechanical engineer job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 8 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 8 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 8 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 8 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 8 | 0.00% |
Average solar mechanical engineer salary over time
Solar mechanical engineer salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $94,202 | $45.29 | +2.0% |
| 2025 | $92,395 | $44.42 | +1.2% |
| 2024 | $91,287 | $43.89 | +1.7% |
| 2023 | $89,731 | $43.14 | +2.0% |
| 2022 | $87,965 | $42.29 | +0.7% |
Solar mechanical engineer jobs by state
Most common states for solar mechanical engineers
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 406 | 59% |
| 2 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 1,620 | 24% |
| 3 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 1,931 | 23% |
| 4 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 904 | 22% |
| 5 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 1,573 | 21% |
| 6 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 1,199 | 20% |
| 7 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 273 | 20% |
| 8 | California | 39,536,653 | 7,569 | 19% |
| 9 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 1,090 | 19% |
| 10 | Vermont | 623,657 | 117 | 19% |
| 11 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 550 | 18% |
| 12 | Delaware | 961,939 | 174 | 18% |
| 13 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 906 | 16% |
| 14 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 552 | 15% |
| 15 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 160 | 15% |
| 16 | Arizona | 7,016,270 | 976 | 14% |
| 17 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 366 | 12% |
| 18 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 236 | 12% |
| 19 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 92 | 12% |
| 20 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 69 | 12% |
Most common cities for solar mechanical engineers
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fremont | 1 | 0% | $119,140 |
Solar Mechanical Engineer job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of solar mechanical engineer experts
Oregon State University
Marshall University
University of Wisconsin - Green Bay
Fairfield University
University of Hawaii at Manoa
Xavier University
Cincinnati State Technical & Community College
East Tennessee State University
New Mexico Tech
University of Delaware
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
University of Alaska Fairbanks
Idaho State University
University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Liberty University
Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
Northern Michigan University
Jiayue Shen
Mechanical Engineering Technology Program CoordinatorWhat general advice would you give to a Solar Mechanical Engineer?
Jiayue Shen: To maximize your salary potential when starting your career in Mechanical Engineering Technology, contemplate acquiring certifications like the FE or PE license, or additional training in high-demand specialized areas such as semiconductors. Moreover, gaining practical experience through academic clubs, undergraduate research, internships, or co-op programs can increase your appeal to employers, potentially resulting in higher salary offers.
What Solar Mechanical Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Jiayue Shen: It's essential to stay curious and eager to learn, as the field is continually evolving. Keeping abreast of the latest technologies and trends through seeking out learning opportunities and maintaining a curiosity about new developments is crucial. Additionally, building a robust professional network and seeking mentorship can offer valuable insights and guidance. Embracing interdisciplinary projects is also key, as the field is expanding beyond purely mechanical aspects. Being dynamic and proactive in interacting with individuals from diverse backgrounds will be beneficial, as collaboration across disciplines is increasingly important in this field.
What will help Solar Mechanical Engineers increase their earning potential?
Jiayue Shen: In the next 3-5 years, skills such as electronic control, basic programming, and critical thinking will become increasingly important in the field of Mechanical Engineering Technology. As industries like robotics, automation, and semiconductors continue to grow, professionals will need to be well-versed in these areas to stay competitive. Additionally, skills such as collaboration and effective oral and written communication will be crucial for advancing in one's career.
What Solar Mechanical Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Devin Roach PhD: Apart from a strong knowledge of mechanical engineering fundamentals, students should focus on developing proficiency in emerging technologies such as machine learning (ML) applied to mechanical systems. Additionally, skills in computer-aided design (CAD) and simulation software will continue to be essential, especially as these tools evolve to incorporate advanced features like generative design and optimization algorithms. Moreover, expertise in sustainable design principles and renewable energy systems will likely become increasingly important as industries prioritize environmental sustainability. Finally, strong communication and collaboration skills will remain crucial, especially as mechanical engineers work in interdisciplinary teams and interact with stakeholders from diverse backgrounds.
What Solar Mechanical Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Mohammed Daqaq: Given its breadth, I feel that ME is the most versatile engineering degree. It covers many different fundamental fields including thermofluidic sciences, dynamical systems, controls, design, mechatronics, robotics, etc. With minor additional training, ME graduates can also easily adapt to work in the aerospace industry, nuclear, and bioengineering domains. Thus, an ME degree is always trendy and companies seek to hire ME graduates regardless of how the market changes.
What will help Solar Mechanical Engineers increase their earning potential?
Mohammed Daqaq: It depends on what aspect of the job they are hired to do. Some graduating MEs work in industrial plants where they are expected to deal with and fix engineering related problems, or work on the design and testing of innovative industrial solutions. Many MEs end up in the sales and maintenance departments of companies that manufacture specialized machinery and equipment. Some ME graduates are hired by the research departments of companies and federal labs where they participate in the research and development of new technologies, etc. A recent trend that we have been observing with our graduates is that they are being sought after by major consulting companies especially in business development and finance. Such companies like the versatility of the engineering education, and the logical/structured way of thinking that engineers are trained to follow during their studies.
Dr. Yousef Sardahi
Associate Professor of Mechanical EngineeringMarshall University
Engineering
What will help Solar Mechanical Engineers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Yousef Sardahi: To maximize salary potential in mechanical engineering, focus on companies with growth opportunities, develop in-demand skills and specializations, and enhance your marketability through continuous learning and effective networking. Negotiating skills and considering geographical influences on salary also play a key role.
Uises Gonzalez-Valle
Assistant ProfessorUniversity of Wisconsin - Green Bay
Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians
What will help Solar Mechanical Engineers increase their earning potential?
Uises Gonzalez-Valle: The beginning of professional life is not simple independent of the career path that you follow and ME and MET can have their own complications. However, some good advice would be to develop independence and adaptability which are key traits of an engineer, and always keep yourself updated with the most recent technological developments. If you are independent and adaptable, you have all the skills to learn and further your professional development. In addition, I would say it is essential to start building a network, including peers and mentors. Having a strong network of peers and mentors helps you significantly to progress in your professional line. From day-to-day to daily changing decisions, having a strong network to support would significantly help in building your professional path. Lastly, I would say that having a good Work-life balance is vital too, since our personal life is as important as our professional life. Remember, we should work to live instead of live to work.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Solar Mechanical Engineers?
Dr. Harvey Hoffman: At least shortly, the pandemic will impact us all. Clear communication with our managers, co-workers, and clients will remain vital, especially as we may not be meeting with each other in person. Documenting project details, actions discussed, and following up to close the circle so to speak will go a long way to maintain clear communication. While this should have taken place before this pandemic, it is more important than ever, now. Being flexible, helping when needed, and being proactive when you see something that needs to be done will contribute to a better work environment.
Keeping abreast of new products and processes within the field and continuing to learn new technologies. This will allow workers more agility to change careers and transition into new roles or industries, if need be.
Song Choi Ph.D.
Assistant DeanUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa
What skills stand out on Solar Mechanical Engineer resumes?
Song Choi Ph.D.: On a ME student resume, the things that I would look for vary depending on the position description, but it would be under the 'projects that were conducted by the student as 1) extramural undergraduate research projects that may be part of work/study, senior design/capstone projects, other course-related projects, and personal interest projects.
Next may be their overall performance in classes via a GPA and/or descriptions of skills within the projects described above. As leadership, organization, and communications are also very important assets, close scrutiny of positions on/for the projects, and involvement and roles in student chapters of professional societies, clubs, extramural activities, etc.
Overall, GPA is not of primary importance, but it does show how quickly a student can/may pick up new ideas and concepts thoroughly.
Dr. Heidrun Schmitzer
Professor and ChairXavier University
Department Of Physics
What skills stand out on Solar Mechanical Engineer resumes?
Dr. Heidrun Schmitzer: Programming languages, numerical design and simulation tools, knowledge of various measurement equipment.
What soft skills should all Solar Mechanical Engineers possess?
Dr. Heidrun Schmitzer: Communication, teamwork.
What skills will help Solar Mechanical Engineers earn the most?
Dr. Heidrun Schmitzer: Problem-solving, troubleshooting, independent learner.
Mike DeVore Ph.D.
Professor & Program ChairCincinnati State Technical & Community College
Mechanical Engineering Technology
What hard/technical skills are most important for Solar Mechanical Engineers?
Mike DeVore Ph.D.: -Computer-Aided Design
-Knowledge of manufacturing processes
-A good mathematics foundation
-Technical communication
-Problem solving
Jared Wilson
Assistant Professor and Faculty CoordinatorEast Tennessee State University
Surveying and Mapping
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Solar Mechanical Engineers to find work opportunities?
Jared Wilson: Within the field of land surveying and related employment opportunities, work is available. However, in my experience, work may not be in the exact location a person wishes to live. So, a move may be necessary, or potentially traveling to where the work is located. Should a graduate, or person for that matter, want to work, work is available.
What experience really stands out on Solar Mechanical Engineer resumes?
Dr. Seokbin Lim Ph.D.: The education curriculum in the New Mexico Tech Mechanical Engineering department is routinely evaluated by both the faculty and an advisory board that consists of external members from nearby national laboratories, alumni, and regional universities. Our department takes this process seriously because this process provides real-world feedback and improves our program by applying their feedback into our curriculum.
Time and time again, comments from those reviewers directly relate to hands-on training and communication skills, and we have applied this feedback in our program for many years. This element in our program has brought significantly positive responses from various sectors outside the university where our students eventually will spend their time in their careers.
From this example, we believe the hand-on and communication skills would stand out among other pools of students, and the addition of these components in their resume would be beneficial.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Solar Mechanical Engineer job market given the pandemic?
Ajay Prasad: Medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and most consumer goods are still strong. The pandemic is also unlikely to slow the demand in areas like artificial intelligence, robotics, and virtual reality. While more manufacturing jobs are believed to return to the U.S., this likely will drive innovation for the automation of manufacturing processes. Going forward, demand is likely to be strong in infrastructure, renewable energy, automotive, and aerospace industries.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Solar Mechanical Engineers to find work opportunities?
Ajay Prasad: Hiring here in the mid-Atlantic seems to be as strong as anywhere else. This region is a hub for manufacturing of all kinds as well as pharma.
The UD Career Outcomes page highlights where grads tend to gravitate towards: Udel
Zippia also has a database that shows the best states for Engineers: Zippia
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Solar Mechanical Engineers?
Dr. Mingshao Zhang: Most of the graduates are able to secure the job they wanted. However, for this year, the number of positions are very limited. Most companies canceled their positions due to the uncertainties in their own future. There are definitely many long-lasting impacts. In many aspects, the pandemic changes the working environment, forever. For Engineering students, especially in Mechatronics and Robotics, the students need to recognize that the opportunities outweigh the challenges.
What experience really stands out on Solar Mechanical Engineer resumes?
Dr. Mingshao Zhang: Internship and Co-op (Cooperative Education) experiences that related to the industry.
What type of skills will young Solar Mechanical Engineers need?
Dr. Mingshao Zhang: Interdisciplinary knowledge base. Mechatronics and Robotics Engineering is a rapidly changing industry, with or without the pandemic. The students need to have a good background in many disciplines, as well as the ability to acquire and apply new knowledge.
Charles Jenckes
Assistant ProfessorUniversity of North Carolina at Charlotte
Mechanical Engineering
What skills stand out on Solar Mechanical Engineer resumes?
Charles Jenckes: For new graduates
1.Where the candidate went to school and what was studied
2.GPA
3.Any successful internships
4.Projects completed by the student
How would you rate the starting salaries for Solar Mechanical Engineers, as well as the prospects for salary advancement?
Daisy Huang: Above average, but you won't be a millionaire easily (you can with some effort, saving, and investing well). It is very unlikely you'll ever be *super* wealthy, but it's also very unlikely you'll ever not find employment in your field. You'll have a solid ticket to a modestly comfortable life, with some luxuries, too.
How would you rate the starting salaries for Solar Mechanical Engineers, as well as the prospects for salary advancement?
Marco Schoen Ph.D.: Starting salaries for new engineers have been competitive for many years. Engineers progress on two different pathways: technical and managerial, leading to different pay scales and careers.
Dr. Sohrab Asgarpoor
Associate Dean for Undergraduate Programs, Professor of Electrical and Computer EngineeringUniversity of Nebraska–Lincoln
College of Engineering
How do you envision technology impacting Solar Mechanical Engineers in the next 5 years?
Dr. Sohrab Asgarpoor: Adopting new technology should be an exciting (and expected) reality for those with an engineering degree. The virtual space will continue to grow as folks seek jobs and work online more. But what holds paramount, no matter what particular technological changes arise, is the ability to adapt-and to demonstrate that critical aptitude in their application documents and through their interviews, always highlighting those moments they've done so and articulating their propensity for learning.
What experience really stands out on Solar Mechanical Engineer resumes?
Robert Rich: -Certification such as green belt, black-belt, machine learning, Lean Manufacturing, and APICS supply chain/inventory
-Specialized undergraduate research projects that go deep into various leading-edge topics like integrating AI with manufacturing and logistics
-Consulting experience/real projects within areas of undergraduate research
Dr. Galen Duree
Head of the Department of Physics and Optical Engineering and ProfessorRose-Hulman Institute of Technology
Department of Physics and Optical Engineering
What experience really stands out on Solar Mechanical Engineer resumes?
Dr. Galen Duree: It depends on what you are applying for. If you are working on product development, then internships or co-ops provide a definite advantage. If you are working on developing new ways of doing things, research experiences in academia or companies are advantageous. Either case, this shows a certain maturity in your career path - you have participated in an activity related to the career you are currently pursuing.
What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for Solar Mechanical Engineers in the next 3-5 years?
Dr. Galen Duree: People with knowledge, even introductory experience, in quantum effects, quantum computing, optics in general (communication, measurements, imaging, illumination, detection), material science and engineering, biotechnology, and nanotechnology, will be in high demand.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Solar Mechanical Engineers?
Michael Rudisill: It depends on what you really mean by enduring, but for all practical purposes, once the pandemic has passed, the economy will return, and anyone in the engineering field who wants a job will have many opportunities. Obviously, the short-term effect can be brutal for new graduates as jobs are not as plentiful as "usual"-but in the long term, those that persevere will end up in great careers. In some ways, it will be harder on the senior engineers who haven't stayed employed, as they are missing out on years when their income should be the highest. New graduates are missing relatively low earning years, so the long-term effects should not be as bad looking at lifetime earnings.
How do you envision technology impacting Solar Mechanical Engineers in the next 5 years?
Michael Rudisill: Technology will continue to advance-which will increase the need for trained engineers. Even areas such as sales that not many people would think would be looking for engineers when dealing with technologically advanced products need people who understand how the product works, perform, etc.-in other words-trained engineers.
How would you rate the starting salaries for Solar Mechanical Engineers, as well as the prospects for salary advancement?
Michael Rudisill: From what we've seen, salaries haven't been reduced, even though demand is down. I would expect wages and salary progression to remain strong as the need for engineering will only continue to grow.