Solar Designer & Project Developer

Company Description

IKIO is a leading U.S.-based LED lighting manufacturer specializing in Commercial, Industrial, Multi-family Residential/Hospitality, Hazardous Location, and Solar Outdoor applications. Known for its innovative approach and vertically integrated infrastructure, IKIO delivers high-quality, energy-efficient LED lighting solutions and provides services such as lighting audits, power quality improvement, installations, and financing options.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Solar Designer & Project Developer to support the design, development, and execution of solar photovoltaic (PV) projects across residential, commercial, and utility-scale installations in the United States.

This role combines technical system design, project development, permitting coordination, and engineering documentation to ensure solar projects are delivered efficiently, safely, and in compliance with all applicable codes and regulations.

The ideal candidate has strong experience in solar PV system design, engineering software tools, project coordination, and utility interconnection processes.

Key Responsibilities

Solar System Design

• Design solar photovoltaic (PV) systems for residential, commercial, and industrial applications.
• Develop site layouts, panel configurations, and system sizing based on project requirements.
• Perform energy production modeling and shading analysis using solar design software.
• Create single-line diagrams (SLD), electrical layouts, and construction drawings.

Engineering & Technical Documentation

• Prepare detailed engineering drawings and technical documentation using CAD software.
• Conduct system sizing, string calculations, inverter selection, and electrical load analysis.
• Ensure compliance with NEC, local codes, and utility interconnection requirements.
• Collaborate with structural engineers for mounting and load calculations.

Project Development

• Support the development of solar projects from concept to installation readiness.
• Coordinate utility interconnection applications and permitting documentation.
• Conduct site feasibility studies and preliminary system layouts.
• Work with project managers to support project scheduling and execution.

Permitting & Compliance

• Prepare permit packages for AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction) approvals.
• Coordinate with utilities for interconnection approvals and documentation.
• Ensure projects comply with local, state, and federal energy regulations.

Collaboration & Coordination

• Work closely with sales, engineering, procurement, and installation teams.
• Provide technical support during project installation and commissioning.
• Review project plans and assist with resolving technical issues.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Renewable Energy, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• 2–5+ years of experience in solar PV system design or renewable energy projects.
• Strong understanding of solar PV system components and electrical design principles.
• Experience with solar design and simulation software.
• Familiarity with NEC codes and US solar permitting processes.
• Ability to read and produce technical engineering drawings.

Preferred Skills

Experience with the following tools:

• Helioscope
• Aurora Solar
• PVsyst
• AutoCAD
• SketchUp
• Google Earth / GIS tools
• Additional certifications preferred:
• NABCEP PV Associate or PV Installation Professional
• Professional Engineer (PE) license (preferred but not required)

Key Skills

• Solar PV system design
• Energy production modeling
• Electrical system design
• Utility interconnection processes
• Solar permitting
• Technical documentation
• Project coordination
• Problem-solving and analytical skills