Senior Application Engineer

Why Work at SMA America At SMA America, we believe in Energy that Changes. Since 1981, we’ve been developing innovative solar technology that simplifies, secures, and enhances the performance of photovoltaic systems — all while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in clean energy. But we’re not just transforming power — we’re empowering people. We’ve built a culture where bold ideas are welcomed, collaboration is second nature, and your career growth truly matters. With our Rocklin, CA headquarters as the hub, we offer a hybrid work model, competitive benefits, and a team-driven environment where your impact is seen and felt. Whether you’re a sales expert, service pro, or engineering innovator, if you’re ready to join a purpose-driven team committed to shaping the future of energy — we’d love to meet you. WORK AUTHORIZATION Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. SMA America does not offer employment visa sponsorship of any kind, including H-1B, OPT, CPT, or TN visas. Candidates who currently require or will in the future require visa sponsorship are not eligible for this role. Candidates operating under a temporary work permit or any visa-tied employment authorization are also not eligible. This position is open to candidates located within the continental United States only. AI-GENERATED APPLICATION MATERIALS We review all resumes and application materials for AI-generated content. Submissions that show evidence of AI manipulation -- including AI-written resumes, cover letters, or responses -- will be disqualified from consideration without further review. We want to hear your authentic voice and see your genuine experience. POSITION OVERVIEW The Senior Application Engineer, serves as a technical product specialist for PV and Battery Energy Storage solutions and systems. The role is responsible for advising SMA's customers across North America by analyzing system specifications and requirements, reviewing and proposing system designs, and supporting the sales organization through technical expertise and joint customer engagement. The ideal candidate brings deep knowledge of power electronics, utility-scale PV and BESS, a collaborative approach, and the ability to work cross-functionally across U.S. and global teams. PRIMARY DUTIES / RESPONSIBILITIES Serve as a senior technical specialist for SMA, assisting customers with technical questions via telephone, email, and face-to-face meetings. Review customer and utility interconnection requirements and help select the appropriate SMA products and services; assist customers in the project design process and support key and EPC customers. Serve as a liaison between the U.S. sales team and the technical team at SMA headquarters in Germany. Create and deliver internal and external technical training materials and presentations. Develop sales materials for use by the sales team during customer meetings and new client engagements. Conduct competitor analysis and provide technical argumentation to effectively compete against analyzed products and solutions. Attend industry conferences and trade shows as necessary. Interface with product management, engineering, and service teams to ensure alignment on technical requirements. Other duties as may be required or assigned. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor's degree in electrical or mechanical engineering, or equivalent relevant experience, is required. A master's degree in electrical or mechanical engineering is a strong plus. Minimum 5--7 years of experience in renewable energy engineering. Experience in PV or storage systems and solutions is a plus. In-depth knowledge of power electronics, including inverters and transformers, is preferred. In-depth knowledge of power systems design is preferred. Sound knowledge of the U.S. energy sector, including applicable norms, standards, and regulations, is strongly desired. Knowledge of the energy sector in Mexico and/or Central America is a plus. Knowledge of solar electric (PV) installation and system design is preferred. Knowledge of PVSyst or similar PV system modeling tools is preferred. Knowledge of battery systems and solutions is preferred. Proven ability to collaborate cross-functionally and perform effectively in a fast-paced environment managing multiple projects concurrently. Willingness to travel periodically domestically and internationally, including to Canada, Latin America, and SMA headquarters in Kassel, Germany. Proficiency in English, with strong written and verbal communication skills, is required. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel) is required. Note: Degrees completed more than three years ago are preferred for this role, as we are seeking candidates with substantial hands-on industry experience beyond their academic foundation. WE OFFER Base salary range of $125,000 to $145,000 annually, dependent on experience, plus bonus eligibility. Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, and vision coverage, including $0 premium options. Remote-first work schedule. Continental U.S. candidates only. Relocation assistance available; budget to be confirmed. 401(k) plan with company match. Opportunities for professional development, training, and industry engagement. Inclusive, collaborative, and innovative work environment with global cross-functional exposure. Our EEO Policy We are an equal opportunity employer and we make our employment decisions on the basis of merit and without regard to one’s race, color, creed, sex (includes gender, pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions), gender identity, religion, marital status, age (over 40), national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability (includes HIV/Aids), medical condition (cancer, genetic characteristics), veteran’s status, sexual orientation, or any other consideration made unlawful by law. In accordance with applicable law protecting qualified individuals with known disabilities, SMA will attempt to reasonably accommodate qualified applicants with known disabilities, unless doing so would create an undue hardship on SMA. Any qualified applicant with a disability who believes he or she requires an accommodation in order to perform the essential functions of the job for which he or she is applying should identify the accommodation(s) needed in the application. Our Privacy Policy During your job application or recruitment process with us: (a) SMA may collect your personal information directly from you, such as when you submit your application and resume on our online portal or when you have job interviews with us. We may also obtain your personal information from third parties, including but not limited to your former employers, background or employment check service providers or third-party recruiters; and, (b) SMA may use or process applicants' personal information for relevant purposes including but not limited to general communications with you, identity verification, background or employment checks, determination of eligibility, and making hiring decisions. For successful job applicants who become SMA’s staff, we may retain and integrate your personal information collected during the recruitment process into your records at SMA. For unsuccessful job applicants, [SMA may retain your application for internal records or for future recruitment purposes]. If you are a California resident, you have specific rights regarding your personal information under the California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018, as amended including by the California Privacy Rights Act of 2020, and its implementing regulations (the “CCPA”). This Company Personnel and Covered Individuals Privacy Notice for California Residents issued by SMA is applicable to you and explains your CCPA rights and our collection, use or disclosure of your personal information. If you have any question regarding our privacy policy, please contact us at [email protected] Apply To This Job