Solution Engineer

The Solution Engineer at Planted will play a central role in early customer engagement and solar project strategy, supporting project development from site analysis through proposals and optimization. This is an onsite role based in Oakland, with a focus on engineering support, business development, and pipeline growth for solar power applications.

Location

Oakland, CA (onsite)

Compensation

$90,000 - $110,000 per year

Summary

As the Solution Engineer, you will own critical elements of early-stage project engineering and support customers using Planted’s technology and energy market knowledge, including solar development and construction. The role emphasizes early-stage strategy, proposal development, project optimization, and building a pipeline of solar power applications.

Responsibilities

• Support project origination and development activities to expand the project pipeline and win contracts.
• Own site analysis, array design, and cost estimation for early stage solar projects.
• Produce financial analyses, energy models, and project proposals for external stakeholders.
• Provide engineering support to clients throughout the project development process.
• Assist with detailed design and optimization for later-stage projects.
• Drive creation and improvement of development tools, project management processes, and standard operating procedures.
• Develop and present analysis and materials for senior management.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree
• Proactive, high-ownership, hands-on mentality
• Curiosity and resourcefulness in problem-solving
• Track record of organization, attention to detail, and effective project management
• Ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and succinctly to internal and external stakeholders
• Eagerness to navigate ambiguity, manage risks, and make decisions with imperfect knowledge
• Proficiency in financial modeling using Microsoft Excel
• Located in the SF Bay Area or willing to relocate for a 100% in-person role

Required Experience

2+ years minimum experience

Technologies

• Microsoft Excel

Benefits

• 11 paid company holidays and flexible PTO
• Company-paid in-office lunches
• Stock options
• Medical, vision, dental, and other benefits
• Pre-tax commuter benefits
• 401(k)
• An empowered, meaningful, early role in climate

Preferred Qualifications

• 1+ years of professional experience in solar or energy industry
• Bachelor’s in engineering, physics, mathematics, or related field
• Experience in energy markets or energy project development and construction
• Experience with solar industry software (for example, PVsyst, Anderson Optimization)

Physical and Sensory Requirements

• Mostly desk work using standard office equipment
• Some travel for customer site visits, conferences, and company-wide meetings