Commercial Electrical/Solar Designer

1st Light is a leader in renewable energy solutions, specializing in commercial and industrial solar PV installations across the U.S. We design and deliver high-performance solar systems that help businesses reduce energy costs, meet sustainability goals, and transition to clean power. Join our innovative team and contribute to the clean energy transition!

Job Summary This is an in office role; remote work is not an option. We are seeking a skilled Commercial Electrical/Solar Designer to join our engineering team. In this role, you will be responsible for designing efficient, code-compliant commercial solar photovoltaic (PV) systems for rooftops, carports, ground mounts, and other applications. You will use industry-leading software to create detailed layouts, electrical schematics, and construction documents while collaborating with project managers, installers, and clients to deliver optimized solar solutions. This is an in office role; remote work is not an option. Applicants seeking remote work will not be considered.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform site-specific engineering analysis and design of commercial solar PV systems (typically 50 kW to 2 mW scale), including rooftop, canopy, and ground-mounted configurations.
• Create detailed design drawings, including site plans, electrical single-line diagrams (SLDs), three-line diagrams, panel layouts, racking plans, conduit/wire schedules, and equipment specifications using CAD software.
• Use solar design tools (e.g., Helioscope, Aurora Solar, PVsyst, AutoCAD, or similar) to model energy production, account for shading, orientation, tilt, and system performance.
• Select appropriate PV modules, inverters, racking, and balance-of-system components to optimize efficiency, cost, and reliability.
• Ensure designs comply with NEC (National Electrical Code), local building codes, utility interconnection requirements, permitting standards, and structural/safety regulations.
• Conduct energy yield simulations and provide technical recommendations to maximize system output and ROI for clients.
• Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams (sales, project management, installation, and permitting) to refine designs based on site surveys, client needs, and feedback.
• Prepare permit-ready drawing packages, support interconnection applications, and provide technical support during installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting.
• Stay current with industry advancements, new technologies (e.g., energy storage integration), and best practices in commercial solar design.

Qualifications & Requirements

• 2+ years of experience designing commercial solar PV systems.
• Proficiency in solar design software such as Helioscope, Aurora Solar, PVsyst, SketchUp, and AutoCAD.
• Strong understanding of electrical engineering principles, PV system components, and grid interconnection processes.
• Knowledge of NEC, IBC, ASCE standards, and utility requirements for commercial solar projects.
• NABCEP PV Design Specialist certification or similar (preferred but not required).
• Excellent attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and ability to manage multiple projects with tight deadlines.
• Strong communication skills for collaborating with internal teams and explaining technical designs to non-technical stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment; remote work possible with reliable internet and tools.
• Must be able to reliably report to work as scheduled.

Preferred Skills

• Experience integrating battery storage (BESS) with commercial solar systems.
• Familiarity with permitting processes in multiple states (especially California).
• Prior field experience (e.g., site assessments or installation support).