If you are interested in the energy industry, you are lucky because there are a wide variety of roles in the field. Different positions require different skills and qualifications but with many options, you can be sure to find something that matches your profile. Here we review common types of careers in the energy sector to help you get an idea of what your responsibilities might be if you choose one of them.
- Electrician
Electricians are in charge of installing power systems in various locations such as homes or business premises. They also help users solve various issues with their electrical equipment or wiring.
- Water treatment specialist
Water treatment specialists help communities get access to clean water. They also inspect facilities to make sure water is not contaminated and does not pose a risk to the health of those who use it.
- Solar panel installer
Nowadays more and more people use solar panels to source their energy. Solar panel installers mount and install them on rooftops, making sure they are placed there in a safe manner. They also perform system maintenance.
- Petroleum engineer
Petroleum engineers specialise in identifying natural reservoirs with petroleum deposits. They also come up with ways to extract petroleum and develop cost-effective drilling strategies.
- Environmental engineer
Environmental engineers create innovative solutions to environmental issues such as climate change, sustainability, and access to clean drinking water. They also come up with strategies for improving the quality of air and water, or for reducing pollution.
- Power plant operator
The main responsibility of a power plant operator is to ensure the safety of electrical equipment at the plant. They also need to oversee maintenance of equipment and ensure that it matches safety guidelines.
- Hazardous material removal worker
As the name indicates, hazardous material removal workers are in charge of removing and neutralising hazardous materials such as lead, mould, or radioactive waste. They also clean up substances that are toxic or flammable.
- Chemist
Chemists do experiments with various chemical substances to make sure products are safe for those who use them. They also collaborate with engineers to conduct safety tests.
- Wind turbine technician
Wind power is becoming more and more common and wind turbine technicians are responsible for installing, repairing, and maintaining wind turbines. They also monitor their performance and come up with suggestions for improving their effectiveness.
- Transmission system operator
Transmission system operators usually work at utility companies where they operate generators and systems these companies use and regulate the electricity flow. They also analyse prognoses for weather conditions to plan future power needs.
According to data published by Unity College, here are five fastest-growing jobs in energy:
- Wind Turbine Technician: 68% projected employment growth from 2020-30
- Solar Panel Installer: 52% projected employment increase from 2020-30
- Derrick Operator: 30% projected employment increase from 2020-30
- Software Developer: 22% projected employment increase from 2020-30
- Industrial Machinery Mechanic: 19% projected employment increase from 2020-30.
Is energy a good career path?
The energy sector is essential to everyday activities of people around the world. With it being so important, there is no risk that jobs in the field will ever stop being needed. And, it constantly keeps evolving and growing so new employment opportunities are being created, especially as the demand for renewable energy keeps growing.
Those who work in the energy sector are responsible for making sure that homes and businesses get their energy supply without any disruptions. There is a wide variety of careers in the field so there is no single profile of a successful applicant.
This makes security a job in the energy sector easier than in many other fields where there is less diversity. And, if you are not satisfied with one of the roles, you can easily use the experience to find another position in the similar area.
Renewable energy skills shortages
If you are thinking of getting a job in the energy sector but you do not know what is the best option, you should consider finding a position in renewable energy.
Renewables have great growth potential and can play a leading role in the UK government getting closer to achieving net zero and other environmental goals. Besides, more and more people are becoming aware of the impact their energy consumption has on the Planet and switching to renewables to reduce it and improve their energy efficiency.
‘There is now a skills shortage for all types of engineers – from general mechanical, design and environmental engineers to more specific wind energy engineers – and scientists such as ecologists, as well as those with design and technical skills, including landscape and wind analysts,’ says Asif Rehmanwala, chief executive officer at Ecotricity, and adds that ‘Starting salaries vary from £19,000 to £28,000 depending on the job type, company and location’
There is a growing need for people with skills and qualifications to fill a range of technical roles. If you have them, you can easily find a job in renewables.
What if I do not have technical knowledge?
While many positions in the energy sector require expertise in science, there are also possibilities for those who do not have technical knowledge. You can, for example, become an energy consultant and help energy consumers use their energy supply more efficiently. You can also get employed as an energy manager where you help people monitor their consumption and implement solutions designed to save energy.
The main skills you need to be successful in these roles are:
- Project planning
- Understanding energy efficiency
- Flexibility
- Confidence
- Time-management
- Communication
- Decision-making
- Creativity
- Attention to detail.
In both of these roles main responsibilities include identifying opportunities for saving energy and reducing consumer’s impact on the environment. You might be asked to prepare a strategy for a business to use less energy or achieve certain green goals. And, most clients will ask you how they can reduce their costs. After all, reducing energy consumption is a great starting point for cutting energy bills.
While some aspects of working as an energy consultant require you working independently and analysing various reports and data, often you will be working with people and discussing ideas and plans with them so you need to enjoy it. Good communication skills are essential for these and other similar roles.
‘Be aware that at non-graduate entry level, energy consultant can often refer to a junior sales position. Paid between £16,000 and £22,000, you’ll spend your time on the phone, cold calling businesses to try to sell them your company’s services (such as brokering cheaper deals on utility bills).
For this, you don’t need previous knowledge of the energy industry and some telesales experience is usually the only qualification required. However, this isn’t typically a stepping stone to the graduate energy consultant role, for which you’ll need a degree in a relevant subject,’ Prospects explains.
All things considered, there are many employment opportunities in the energy sector and which one you should pursue depends on your interests, skills, and experience. Even if for the time being there is nothing you are interested in, do not worry. The energy sector is very dynamic and new positions are being created all the time so you can keep polishing your skills and getting more knowledge and soon you can be sure to find a suitable opening.