There are many career opportunities in the energy industry, from high tech jobs requiring advanced degrees to those only requiring a high school diploma. Whether a person wants to work in an office or outdoors, there is an energy career to consider!
What’s in your future?
Discover your strengths and interests and then explore career possibilities that would be satisfying and a good match with your abilities. There is a high demand for workers in the energy field to help provide our energy needs for the future. It is estimated that by the year 2030 more than one-fifth of all Americans will be employed in the energy industry. There are many varied opportunities with excellent wages available.
Here a few examples of jobs in the electricity industry where over 700,000 people are employed as electricians and over 500,000 in renewable energy jobs. Wind and solar are rapidly growing industries. In 2012, nearly 80 percent of jobs in those fields were newly created positions. It is estimated that the energy workforce will increase by 20 percent by the year 2022.
Here are examples of the many careers in energy!
Installer or line workers are responsible for transporting equipment to a job site and putting it together properly. They repair cables, wires, transmission and distribution equipment that power buildings. Power lines, solar water heaters, photovoltaic panels, geothermal heat pump systems and many more systems need installers. A high school diploma is necessary and a two-year degree is optional. Salary range: $33,000 to $85,000.
Electric and power engineers conduct research and design electrical systems. All jobs require an engineering bachelor degree. Salary range: $50,000 to $130,000.
Energy auditors complete estimations and inspections for energy equipment and the construction of buildings to make them energy efficient. They prepare reports summarizing energy analysis results and recommendations for energy cost savings. A high school diploma is necessary and a two year degree is optional. Salary range: $20,000 to $67,000 per year.
Engineers are problem-solvers who work with electricity grid diagrams, leading projects, collecting data, improving productivity and supporting environmental, health and safety activities. An engineering degree in electrical or mechanical engineering is required. An engineer would earn a yearly salary of $49,000 to $130,000 depending on experience and expertise.
Safety managers research job sites, analyze project materials and determine disposal methods. They comply with building codes and government regulations. A bachelor degree and some years of experience (varies per company) are required. Salary range: $39,000 to $97,000.
Solar PV Installers assemble, install, or maintain solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on roofs or other structures in compliance with site assessment and schematics. May include measuring, cutting, assembling, and bolting structural framing and solar modules. May perform minor electrical work such as current checks.
