Is Energy A Good Career Path? [29 Top Energy Jobs]
Energy is a wide sector and comprises oils, natural gas, and even electricity. This career field is categorized into energy demand sectors, including transportation, commercial, residential, and agriculture, and energy supply sectors, which comprise exploration, resource extraction, refining, and delivery of energy products.
Energy is a good career path. Most careers in the energy sector have seen a big increase in demand for good prospects and pay well. In addition, endless opportunities in the energy sector reward well. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics of the United States, jobs in this sector have an average salary of between $80,000 and $100,000 per year.
If you are aspiring to pursue a career in energy, there are numerous careers that have different educational requirements and pay different salaries. In this article, I will discuss some of the best careers you may pursue in this field, among other things you may need to know.
Is Energy A Good Career Path?
Energy is a great career path. It comes with numerous opportunities, and these jobs pay extremely well. The energy sector is divided into renewable energy, nuclear power, infrastructure, coal power, petroleum, energy trading systems, and gas.
Are Energy Engineers In Demand?
Energy engineers are always in high demand. Energy is constantly evolving, and numerous changes typically happen in the energy industry occasionally that multiply the jobs in the sector. Therefore, as the need for reliable energy and green power increases, the jobs and demand for energy engineers also increase.
Reasons For Considering A Career In Energy
There are different considerations that people check when choosing a career in energy. First, most people would want to know how much one job pays over another, but there are other considerations. For example, in the energy career as well, some of the reasons for considering a career in energy include but are not limited to the following:
A Transforming Work Culture
The energy industry is one of the best in that it aligns culture with its strategy and processes. Also, it does staff empowerment, development, and continuing practice of self-knowledge to help employees grow and adapt to the work environment.
Thus, inclusion and diversity are vital to promoting better work culture in the changing world. In addition, energy careers recognize the need to develop different cultures of employees to adapt to the norms and align them to a new strategy or direction.
Opportunity To Work Abroad
Most of the companies in the energy sector are multinational companies with branches across the world. Therefore, different employees, especially young employees, may wish to switch their place of work to a foreign country they love. Thus, one of the reasons why you may want to choose an energy career is the flexibility that allows you to work in any country in the world.
Diverse Career Paths
Energy comes with a diverse pool of careers that you can pursue. Most of these jobs have long-term prospects and are rewarding and fulfilling. Therefore, you need to find out what careers suit your qualifications, skills, and preferences. Some examples of these careers are hydro energy, wind energy, solar power, and bioenergy, among others.
Changing Our World And Making A Difference
Jobs in the energy industry are transformative, and you can use your skills to make a difference. If you are innovative, you can help come up with cost-effective, reliable, and emission-free energy solutions to the problems that the industry may have been facing. For instance, in green energy, innovations in bioenergy and other innovations have helped reduce pollution and produce reliable and safe energy.
What Are the Best Paying Jobs In Energy?
As I did mention, numerous jobs pay well in the energy industry. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the energy sector comes with multiple careers with good prospects and well-rewarding. Some of these jobs include the following:
1. Civil Engineer
A civil engineer is a professional who plans, designs, builds, and maintains major transportation projects like roads, dams, airports, and drainage systems. It is one of the lucrative jobs with great prospects.
Educational Requirements
To become a civil engineer, you need to have a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or civil engineering technology. Of course, this is the minimum requirement, but you can as well have advanced studies in the same field.
Average Annual Salary
According to Talent, the average salary for a civil engineer is $86,965 per year in the United States. The entry-level pays an average of $71,648 annually, and the most experienced pay even more.
2. Geoscientist
Geoscientists are professionals who discover and develop natural resources like gas, oils, water, and minerals. Therefore, their work is basically to explore the earth for its valuable resources that are commercially viable.
Educational Requirements
To be a Geoscientist, one needs a college degree in geoscience or any other related field, such as geology or physics. In addition, some employers may require a master’s degree for more specified geoscience roles.
Average Annual Salary
According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for geoscientists is $83,680 per year. However, the salary for geoscientists can vary based on their level of experience and educational qualifications.
3. Green Construction Manager
Green construction managers perform the roles of any manager. Still, they top up to ensure that all the activities that are carried out in the construction comply with green and safe standards that are environmentally friendly.
Educational Requirements
If you aspire to become a green construction manager, you need a degree in construction management, construction science, architecture, or a related field. Advanced degrees in any engineering-related field can also qualify you for this role.
Average Annual Salary
Green construction managers earn an average of $65,354 per year. This, therefore, may differ from one state and city to another, depending on the experience level and qualifications.
4. Wind Farm Site Manager
A wind farm site manager is responsible for the execution of day-to-day operations of the wind plant and other logistics. They are also known as wind energy operation managers, and their work is to oversee wind farm operations, among other duties.
Educational Requirements
To become a wind farm site manager or wind operation manager, one needs to have at least a high school diploma with practical knowledge of wind turbines and an experience in the renewable energy sector.
Average Annual Salary
According to Talent statistics, the average salary of a wind farm site manager is $97,500 per year. However, the pay may vary based on the location and depending on the level of experience, among other factors.
5. Solar Project Manager
A solar project manager is the overseer of solar energy projects. They are tasked with overseeing the installation works and ensuring the energy efficiency of the solar project. In addition, the manager also does logistical plans such as keeping track of the resources, schedules, tasks, and costs, among other things.
Educational Requirements
To become a solar project site manager, one must have a high school diploma or a GED. Some employers may want an associate’s degree in construction projects management, engineering, or any other relevant field.
Average Annual Salary
Regarding earnings, the average salary of a solar project manager in the United States is $95,000 per year, and entry-level positions earn about $70,000 per year. The salary, therefore, increases with the level of experience.
6. Solar Power Plant Operator
Solar power plant operators are tasked with the general maintenance of solar power equipment and ensuring efficiency and safety in production. They also perform repairs to the solar energy system whenever there are faults to ensure that the production needs are met.
Educational Requirements
You will need a high school diploma or equivalent to become a solar power plant operator. However, some employers may require an associate’s degree in power plant technology or a related field.
Average Annual Salary
According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, solar power plant operators earn an average of $94,790 annually. This, however, is dependent on the level of education, skills, and experience, among other factors.
7. Solar Project Developer
A solar project developer is different from a plant operator in that the developer is tasked with the initial design and planning, securing land and interconnection rights, and building permits in the first phases of the solar project development. They also work with other engineers to ensure that the solar project moves to the next phase until it is actualized.
Educational Requirements
Solar project developers must have a bachelor’s degree in engineering or science. Depending on the employer, a Master’s degree or other qualifications may be required.
Average Annual Salary
According to Glassdoor salary statistics, solar project developers earn an average of about $70,927 per year. This can differ depending on location, employer, and experience level.
8. Energy Company Financial Analyst
The work of a financial analyst is to analyze the financial statements of the company and use them to predict how the future performance of that company would be. This is no different from the energy sector or energy company financial analysts.
Educational Requirements
A career in energy company financial analyst needs one to have a bachelor’s degree in business, finance, or any other relevant field. You also need strong problem-solving and quantitative skills to succeed in this career.
Average Annual Salary
Indeed salary statistics show that the average salary for financial analysts in the energy sector is approximately $102,926 per year. This, therefore, is one of the best-paying jobs in the energy sector.
9. Solar Engineer
Solar engineers are responsible for the overall development of the solar plant from the design, installation, and maintenance, among other works. A solar engineer also builds solar cells for commercial projects in the solar industry.
Educational Requirements
To become a solar engineer, you need a bachelor’s degree in electrical, mechanical, or civil engineering, among other relevant fields. In addition, education with some background in mathematics, computer science, or physics is also essential.
Average Annual Salary
According to Zip Recruiter statistics, the average salary of a solar engineer is about $91,619 per year. Some states, of course, pay more, while others may pay less.
10. Solar Energy Software Developer
A solar energy software developer is tasked with developing custom energy software systems that are used to improve productivity, safety, sustainability, and agile decision-making in the solar and renewable energy sector.
Educational Requirements
To become a solar energy software developer, you need a bachelor’s degree in software engineering, computer science, or any other relevant field or qualification.
Average Annual Salary
Software engineers in solar energy earn an average salary of about $142,038 per year. This is one of the highest salaries in energy careers.
11. Industrial Engineer
Industrial engineers are professionals who are qualified to manage the energy production process, devise systems that are efficient and reliable, and reduce or eliminate wastefulness in the production process. These systems work to integrate machines, workers, information, and materials to provide service or to make a product.
Educational Requirements
A bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering or engineering technology is a requirement for this career. Some relevant degrees, such as mechanical or electrical engineering, can also qualify.
Average Annual Salary
The median salary of an industrial engineer is approximately $70,914 per year, according to PayScale. But, of course, salaries differ from employer to employer and depend on the location, among other factors.
12. Scientific Researcher
Scientific researchers are professionals who conduct scientific research and experiments in laboratories for different fields, such as biology, chemistry, and the environment, among other areas.
Educational Requirements
You need a bachelor of science degree in any relevant field you want to qualify for as a scientific researcher. However, a master’s degree is preferred in some fields and by some employers.
Average Annual Salary
As a research scientist, you will earn an average salary of about $84,315 per year, depending on your experience, location, and employer, among other factors.
13. Renewable Energy Consultant
This is one of the best renewable energy jobs that pay handsomely. It involves carrying out energy surveys, auditing, and advising clients on sustainable energy solutions in the renewable energy industry.
Educational Requirements
To become a renewable energy consultant, you need a bachelor’s degree in renewable energy and management. Of course, the requirements may vary depending on the employer.
Average Annual Salary
The average salary of a renewable energy consultant is about $94,129 per year. It is one of the luxurious and competitive careers that pay well.
14. Roofers Site Assessor
A roofer site assessor performs functions assigned by the site construction manager, including measuring roof planes, vents, chimneys and assessing shading, among other duties as may be assigned.
Educational Requirements
A high school diploma, GED, or a general degree and past solar experience is a requirement for this position.
Average Annual Salary
The average salary of a roofers site assessor is about $52,558 per year, according to Glassdoor salary statistics.
15. Service Unit Operator
Service unit operators work in energy companies and are tasked with mining operations and oil and gas drilling, among other functions. They also work in mining exploration sites and perform other related functions.
Educational Requirements
You don’t necessarily need a degree to become a service unit operator. You are good to go with a high school diploma and work experience in a related occupation.
Average Annual Salary
According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary of service unit operators working in the gas and oil industry is about $48,410 annually.
16. Environmental Science And Protection Technician
Environmental science and protection technicians are tasked with analyzing samples from the field using microscopes to determine the impact of those samples on public health and the environment. They thus investigate the source of pollution and its impacts.
Educational Requirements
This incredible career opportunity will require a post-secondary qualification, an associate’s degree in environmental science, or a related.
Average Annual Salary
According to Glassdoor salary statistics, an environmental science and protection technician earns an average salary of $61,972 per year. However, this may vary from employer to employer and depends on other factors, such as location.
17. Solar PV Installer
Solar PV installers, as the name puts it, are tasked with assembling and setting up rooftop systems that work to convert sunlight into energy. They also maintain and repair solar systems, among other solar power generators and devices.
Educational Requirements
You need a high school diploma or equivalent to qualify for this job. A related course in technical or vocational schools is also vital for this career.
Average Annual Salary
The median salary for solar PV installers is about $46,470 per year. Experienced solar PV installers can earn even more depending on the employer, state, or city, among other factors.
18. Solar Power Plant Construction Worker
A solar power construction worker’s primary role is installing solar panels. However, they also perform various other technical duties that involve installing and assembling solar panels for maximum output.
Educational Requirements
To become a solar power plant construction worker, you need a high school diploma or equivalent qualifications. You will gain skills through on-the-job training or an apprenticeship program.
Average Annual Salary
The national average salary for this position, according to Glassdoor salary statistics, is about $37,576 per year. Of course, compared to other similar professions in the energy sector, this earns a bit low, but the pay can differ from employer to employer.
19. Energy Sales Representative
The energy landscape is not complete without sales. Once the solar energy plant or system has been set up, the energy sales representative or specialist identifies target markets and assesses clients’ energy needs for energy supply.
Educational Requirements
You need a bachelor’s or associate’s degree in marketing, accounting, business, or any other relevant field to qualify for this role.
Average Annual Salary
According to Zip Recruiter salary statistics, energy sales representatives earn an average of about $48,213 annually.
20. Environmental Engineering Technician
The work of environmental engineering technicians is to help combat pollution by collecting and analyzing samples for monitoring pollution, then setting up, testing, and modifying equipment for environmental issues and clean-up.
Educational Requirements
An entry-level position as an environmental engineering technician needs an associate’s degree in environmental science, environmental technology, or any other relevant field.
Average Annual Salary
Environmental engineering technicians earn an average salary of about $49,251 per year. However, this salary can vary from employer to state or state to state.
21. Wind Turbine Service Technician
A wind turbine technician with wind turbines and roles include inspection of wind turbine plants or systems, installation, repair, and maintenance of turbines, among other functions.
Educational Requirements
To qualify for this career, one would need at least a high school diploma and an associate’s degree in wind energy technology. In addition, of course, an apprenticeship or other professional qualifications may be required depending on the employer.
Average Annual Salary
The salary of a wind turbine technician is approximately $53,806 per year, according to Glassdoor salary statistics.
22. Chemist
A chemist is a professional that deals with chemicals in different industries. They also conduct chemical experiments and research projects involving chemicals, such as in the oil and natural gas industry.
Educational Requirements
To become a chemist, you need a strong background in chemistry, and most employers need at least a bachelor’s degree in chemistry or equivalent qualifications.
Average Annual Salary
According to Indeed salary statistics, chemists in the United States earn an average salary of approximately $75,988 per year. Chemists with more relevant experience make more, which can also differ from employer to employer.
23. Solar Energy Technician
A solar energy technician is also referred to as a solar installer who works to install, repair, and maintain solar panels. They also work with other equipment such as pumps, fans, and collectors, but their main work is designing and assembling solar power panels and other structural works.
Educational Requirements
You can qualify for this role with a high school diploma or equivalent qualification and experience in electrical and mechanical installation. Of course, this job doesn’t need a bachelor’s degree, but a diploma in solar energy engineering is an added advantage.
Average Annual Salary
The average salary for a solar energy technician is about $58,270 per year, according to Zip Recruiter. This, however, can vary based on location, among other factors and considerations by the employer.
24. Renewable Mechanical Engineer
A renewable mechanical engineer is a professional tasked with innovating, designing, and implementing renewable energy projects such as hydroelectric generation, solar, nuclear, and all other aspects relating to energy production and its conversion to different forms.
Educational Requirements
To become a renewable energy mechanical engineer, you need a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or equivalent. In addition, a degree in electrical or construction engineering may also qualify you for this role.
Average Annual Salary
According to Glassdoor statistics, the average salary for a renewable mechanical engineer is about $75,607 per year. But, of course, most energy careers pay well, and this is no exception since the salary increases with levels of experience, among other factors.
25. Chemical Engineer
Chemical engineers work in the gas, nuclear energy, and petroleum sectors. They design useful processes for producing fuels, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals, among other products.
Educational Requirements
To venture into a career in the chemical field, you must have at least a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering or any other relevant field. Some employers may need advanced studies, such as a master’s degree in a relevant field.
Average Annual Salary
According to Career Explorer, the average salary of a chemical engineer in the United States is about $105,550 per year. Depending on the city or state you practice in or your employer, this may come with other benefits.
26. Power Line Installers
This is another fantastic career in the energy field. As the name puts it, a power line installer does the installation, maintenance, and repair of power lines or power distribution channels to ensure safe and efficient distribution.
Educational Requirements
Power line installers must have a high school diploma and a vocational training program. They must also complete an apprenticeship program that can last up to 3 years, giving them the hands-on experience they need to succeed in this career.
Average Annual Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for power line installers in the United States is $78,310. However, some states, like California and others, pay higher while others pay less.
27. Oil And Gas Production
Oil and gas production is a job that involves the exploration and production of natural gas and oils. This, in most cases, is done by multinational companies that are well-equipped with qualified staff and equipment. Therefore, a career in oil and gas production is one of the best, with good prospects and an attractive salary.
Educational Requirements
Most entry-level positions require one to have at least a bachelor’s degree in geological sciences or equivalent qualifications. A Master’s degree is an added advantage, and a degree or qualification in petroleum engineering is an excellent option for this field.
Average Annual Salary
The oil and gas industry pays an average of $104,572 per year in the United States, according to salary statistics. However, the salary can differ based on location and the level of experience, among other factors.
28. Drilling Supervisor
A Drilling supervisor is tasked with managing the drilling department of the company and oversees the drilling operations and other functions. In addition, they work closely with the management of companies involved in extracting precious minerals and oils to develop operational plans, among other functions.
Educational Requirements
To become a drilling supervisor, you need at least IWCF certification. Some employers, however, would require one to have an associate’s degree in drilling science or a relevant field.
Average Annual Salary
According to Zip Recruiter and other related salary statistics, the average salary for a drilling supervisor in the United States is $120,866 per year. This puts drilling supervisors at a competitive level with a good salary compared to most other related professions.
29. Nuclear Technician
A nuclear technician is a professional who works in nuclear energy production and assists engineers, physicists, and other nuclear professionals in operating the special equipment used to conduct nuclear research, among other functions.
Educational Requirements
To become a nuclear technician, you need an associate’s degree in nuclear-related technology or nuclear science. A certificate in nuclear technology or nuclear science is also considered.
Average Annual Salary
According to PayScale, the average salary for a nuclear technician is $67,216 per year. However, the salary may depend on the city, experience, skills, and qualifications.
How To Get A Job In The Energy Industry
To get a job in the energy industry, you must pursue a course related to energy. Then, after completing your education qualification in energy, you need to find an apprenticeship program. This will help you gain some practical skills through hands-on training and mentoring.
After an apprenticeship, you need to prepare for pre-employment tests, then take the tests with the Center for Energy Workforce Development (CEWD), and once you pass the tests, you can apply for energy jobs.
Pros And Cons Of Energy As A Career Path
An energy career is one of the most exciting. However, if you are passionate about energy, you must align your skills and find a career that suits you best. Some of the benefits or advantages of an energy career include the following:
Job Security
As I indicated earlier, the energy industry careers are continually expanding at a consistent rate. That means jobs in the sector will continue to increase. You will never miss an opportunity with plenty of job opportunities if you have the right qualifications, skills, and experience.
Competitive Pay
The opportunities are not just numerous, but there are a lot of jobs that pay well. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, most careers in the energy industry pay between $80,000 and $100,000. Therefore, it is a lucrative industry that you can venture in if you have the right skills and qualifications.
Rewarding Work
The energy sector is diverse and with a demanding need for reliable and safe energy. Therefore, if you are innovative in developing solutions that improve the industry, you will earn some outstanding achievements and rewards that benefit you and the community.
Cons
Of course, the energy industry is packed with many goodies ranging from job security, competitive pay, numerous opportunities, and reliability. But unfortunately, the industry also comes with some disadvantages, including the following:
Can Be Dangerous
Some jobs in the energy sector are dangerous. These subject the workers to hazardous working conditions. Some jobs include working in coal mines, nuclear power generation, and fossil fuels industries. Of course, many jobs pose a significant risk to the health and safety of the workers in this sector.
Advanced Educational Requirements
Most of the jobs in the energy sector require advanced educational requirements. Unlike some jobs that just need one to have a high school diploma or equivalent qualifications, most of the jobs in energy need some advanced studies and specializations in specific areas.
For instance, if you aspire to become an energy engineer, you need at least a bachelor’s degree in energy engineering or related options.
Top Companies In The Energy Field
There are so many companies in the energy field in the United States. Among the thousands of companies in this field, some of the most renowned include the following:
ExxonMobil
ExxonMobil is one of the largest multinational companies in the United States dealing in oil and gas. Based on employee reviews, this is rated one of the best companies, with a star rating of 3.6 out of 5. It employs over 60,000 employees and is thus one of the best companies to work for in the energy field.
ConocoPhillips
This is another multinational in the field of hydrocarbon exploration—the company deals in producing natural gas and liquids. The company has its headquarters in Houston, Texas, United States. Some of the company’s major brands include Kendall, Conoco motor oil, and Phillips 66.
Chevron
Chevron was initially known as Standard Oil and is thus the successor of the same. It is a multinational company that deals in natural gas and oil. It also deals in the exploration, production, and refining of hydrocarbons and power generation, among other functions.
Xcel Energy
Xcel Energy is one of the largest companies in the energy field and with headquarters in Minneapolis, United States. It is a trusted company that deals in clean essential energy and serves about 6 million consumers in electric and natural gas.
Imperial Oil
Imperial Oil is one of the largest and most well-renowned companies in Canada and the world. It is the 2nd largest integrated oil company and is owned by the American Oil company. The company has its headquarters in Calgary, Canada.
Cameco
Cameco is another well-renowned and one of the largest companies that deal in uranium fuel. The company was founded in 1988 and had its headquarters in Saskatoon, Canada. Therefore, it is one of the largest companies dealing in nuclear fuel products that are emission-free, safe, and reliable.
NextEra Energy
NextEra Energy is the largest electric utility company with headquarters in Florida, United States. The company provides reliable, clean, and affordable electric energy to over 12 million people. The company is ranked No. 1 on Fortune’s 2021 list and thus is one of the world’s most admired companies.
Canadian Natural Resources
This is one of the largest natural gas and crude oil producers, with headquarters in Calgary, Canada. The company produces heavy crude oil, bitumen, light crude oil, synthetic crude oil, natural gas, and liquids, among other products. Of course, it is one of the best companies in the energy sector that you can dream of working for.
Enbridge
This company is also headquartered in Calgary, Canada, and is one of the largest multinationals dealing in crude oil, natural gas, and liquids. The company’s primary purpose is to provide reliable, safe energy to fuel people’s quality of life.
Cenovus
Cenovus is another largest company that deals in natural gas and oils. The company acquired Husky Energy in 2021, and the companies amalgamated to form the second-largest company in the region. This Integrated energy company explores, develops, refines, and markets crude oil and natural gas, among other functions.
Future Engineering Job Outlook
Engineering is a luxurious career with good pay. Most engineering jobs pay well, and career prospects are always on an upward trend. According to the employment outlook for the engineering career, it is expected that the employment for engineers will continue to increase or grow by 4.0% between 2014 and 2024.
In other statistics by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in architecture and engineering is projected to grow at the same rate of 4% between 2021 to 2031. This means that engineering jobs will continue to grow consistently, giving engineering a good career prospect.
Final Thoughts
Energy is a good career path. With numerous opportunities with good prospects and good pay, this industry is thus a great career path that anyone with a passion for energy can pursue. You, however, need to align your qualifications, skills, and preferences to find an opportunity or career that suits you the most in the energy industry, as I have discussed above.
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