Solar Designer
Big Sun Solar | San Antonio, TX | Reports to Project Manager & Senior Construction Manager
About Our Company
Big Sun Solar provides turnkey rooftop, carport,and ground-mount solar systems to Texas businesses to help counter risingenergy costs, meet corporate sustainability goals, and enhance property value.Big Sun Solar is an industry leader trusted by prominent brands, includingCavender Auto Group, Rush Enterprises and Baywood Hotels, and has helped SanAntonio become 5th in the nation for most solar megawatts installed. With apassion to build a more renewable future for the next generation of Texans, BigSun Solar is headquartered in San Antonio and serves businesses across thestate.
Company Purpose
Big Sun Solar exists to help save the planet.
Summary
Big Sun Solar is seeking a skilled Solar Designer to develop engineering designs and system layouts for commercial solar PV installations. The ideal candidate will translate customer energy goals andsite conditions into precise, code-compliant solar system designs that meet utility, AHJ, and company standards. This role bridges the gap between sales, engineering, and field installation teams.
Key Responsibilities
• Develop and produce accurate solar PV system designs, single-line diagrams, and site layout plans using industry-standard software.
• Conduct shading analysis, energy production modeling, and financial simulations for proposed projects.
• Prepare permit-ready design packages, including structural and electrical drawings, for submission to AHJs and utilities.
• Collaborate with project managers, sales, and construction teams to ensure designs are feasible and buildable.
• Review and interpret structural, electrical, and architectural drawings for rooftop, carport, and ground-mount systems.
• Ensure all designs comply with NEC, IBC, and local jurisdictional codes and utility interconnection requirements.
• Manage design revisions based on engineering review, permit feedback, or site conditions.
• Maintain organized design files and documentation in company project management systems.
• Coordinate with third-party engineers for stamped drawings as required.
• Support field teams during installation by answering design-related questions and issuing design clarifications.
Qualifications
Required:
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Architecture, or a related technical field —or equivalent practical experience.
• 2+ years of experience in solar PV system design for commercial projects.
• Experience working with AutoCAD.
• Proficiency with solar design software such as Helioscope, PVsyst, or similar.
• Working knowledge of NEC Article 690, utility interconnection standards, and AHJ permitting processes.
• Ability to read and produce electrical single-line diagrams and mechanical layout drawings.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple active projects simultaneously.
• Effective communication skills to coordinate across departments.
Preferred:
• Experience with rooftop, carport, and ground-mount commercial solar design.
• NABCEP PV Design Specialist certification or in progress.
• Familiarity with structural loading calculations and rooftop assessment.
• Experience working with AutoCAD or similar drafting tools.
Skills and Competencies:
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• High proficiency in solar design and energy modeling software.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to accuracy.
• Collaborativemindset with ability to communicate technical information clearly.
• Commitment to quality and continuous improvement.
Physical Requirements
• Primarily office-based with occasional site visits for field assessments.
• Ability to travel to project sites across Texas as needed.
• Ability to access rooftops or construction sites during site walks (with proper PPE).
Benefits
• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Opportunities for career growth within Big Sun Solar.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and retirement benefits.
• Company-provided tools and relevant professional development training.
• Travel allowances for project site visits as needed.
The ideal candidate will have a passion for solar PV, an interest in mitigating climate change, and a desire to build distributed solar resources across Texas.