25 Best Paying Jobs In Energy In 2024

Best paying jobs in energy – Is working in the energy sector a wise career choice? That’s a difficult topic that has to take into consideration a wide range of aspects, including personal talents and interests, the best-paying energy jobs now on the market, the oil and gas employment market, and the many “green” energy careers opportunities.

The globe is in desperate need of energy. Vehicles, computers, appliances, and healthcare equipment are all powered by electricity.

Professionals that thrive in the energy sector are likewise in high demand. There must be individuals who understand the fundamental concepts of energy; how to take a raw resource and transform it into the movement of a car, the heat of a dwelling, or the power of an educational institution.

They come from a wide range of backgrounds when it comes to energy. Software developers, chemists, engineers, technicians, and managers may be found all over the place. How many positions are there in the energy sector? Consider all the positions, from accountants to engineers and technicians, the total number of people employed is likely millions of people.

Online education may help you establish one of the most lucrative occupations within the energy sector if your goal is to produce a new kind of energy, improve an existing resource, or just manage and lead people in a breakthrough industry. An online degree can help you get the education you need to land these fascinating and profitable positions.

Are Jobs In Energy In Demand?

Jobs in the energy sector are in high demand, in part because more and more nations are encouraging and requiring a move away from fossil fuels toward renewable sources of energy.

As a result, there is a need for a variety of individuals in the workforce.

Many solar and wind energy firms are on the lookout for recent college grads with the appropriate credentials. Because of this, it is easier to incorporate people into the technology and business processes without requiring lengthy on-the-job training.

However, due to a dearth of competent applicants, many businesses are turning to on-the-job training for people with technical or engineering backgrounds.

An electrical engineer might be astonished at how fast he or she can make the switch to working at a solar power plant.

Some geothermal power plants aggressively seek petroleum engineers with a background in geology and physics, for example.

According to the most recent statistics from the Department of Energy, the following are some of the highest-paying positions in the energy sector:

• The predicted increase in employment at energy efficiency firms is 10.1%.
• Increase of 8.1% in the number of enterprises providing services for the generation of energy
• A 5.5% increase in the number of positions in the renewable energy industry.
• Green energy distribution and storage create an additional 4,2 percent of new employment.

How Much Money Can You Make Working in the Energy Sector?

People in the energy sector make 34% more than the average American, according to the most available data. Wind farms, solar panels, and other energy efficiency technologies have some of the highest-paying employment in the country, and that disparity is widening.

Average wages in the energy range from $40,000 to over $110,000, according to my research, and the best-paying occupations are listed below.

It’s crucial to remember that these are only averages and that your actual earnings will be influenced by a variety of factors, as they are in any other business.

Newly certified solar energy technicians, on the other hand, may begin their careers with a salary of less than $40,000. However, with time and expertise, the same worker may make upwards of $100,000 in management positions.

In addition to your qualifications, the location of the work is an important consideration.

An operator of an offshore wind power plant in a remote region will make far more money than an operator of a wind farm near a big urban center, where they have to travel to work every day. In addition, wages will vary from one state to the next, as they do in every other sector as well.

Finally, your entire energy sector experience will be taken into consideration. Experienced renewable energy consultants who have worked on a variety of technologies and projects will be able to command far greater salaries than new hires.

Career Opportunities In The Renewable Energy Industry

Consider this advice on how to break into the energy industry before rushing straight for the highest-paying positions.

Identify your interests and skills.

As far as green energy is concerned, there are a plethora of options available. Finding out what you’re most interested in is the most important step in deciding which renewable energy source is best for you.

If your experience is in building, you might want to consider specializing in the field of thermal insulation. Alternatively, if you’re an electrician, you may take a course in solar power and become a solar technician.

When it comes to green energy employment, even petroleum engineers have the skills and expertise to land them.

Update your resume

You should also take a close look at your own CV to see what skills, training, and work experience can be applicable to a green energy career.

Finally, focus on those areas and make them more relevant to green energy companies needs. Look through green energy job advertisements to determine what qualifications are required, and then highlight the ones you think you have.

There are a number of non-specialized professions that can serve as a starting point from which you might improve your career.

Engage with Local Green Energy Organizations

Community outreach programs for alternative energy groups and projects may be found in almost every town and city. Look for opportunities like these in your community and give your services as a volunteer.

Helping to set up a gathering is a great way to meet people who can introduce you to others. Companies place a high value on candidates who can demonstrate a genuine interest in and commitment to the subject.

If they are volunteers, this is much more true.

Attend University.

For the best-paying energy professions, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in a variety of fields. To begin, check the programs offered by several institutions and see how closely they match your own particular preferences.

For a large investment in terms of both time and money, the benefits might be enormous after only a few years.

Look for Internships and Part-Time Jobs

Don’t apply for internships if you aren’t sure what field you want to pursue. These may run anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, and their main purpose is to give job seekers a better idea of what they’re getting themselves into.

Internships and apprenticeships might open up even more options for you if you take advantage of these changes.

Consider Attending a Trades School

Many green energy occupations need a variety of crafts, as well as supplementary training related to the green sector. Green energy projects require a variety of tradespeople, including electricians, plumbers, and even carpenters.

Look into local trade schools to see if they offer solar and wind energy training as an option for a new job path.

Is There A Requirement For A Certain Degree?

In the energy sector, many of the highest-paying positions will demand a bachelor’s degree or above. However, you may be able to take advantage of your current qualifications in a different way.

Engineering

Many high-profile green careers need a degree in engineering. There are many different types of engineering that fall under this umbrella term. If you have a bachelor’s degree in green technology, you may be able to complete a Master’s degree in a few semesters.

IT

Everything is dependent on IT systems, and green technology relies heavily on IT experts. IT professionals will have a wide range of options when it comes to working in the renewable energy business, from analyzing data at wind farms to creating precise solar energy monitoring systems.

Science

The green business is in desperate need of biologists, chemists, and physicists. If you’re interested in studying climate technology, consider enrolling in one of the many scientific degrees offered by universities and institutions.

Business

This employment market is more accessible to those who have earned an MBA. It seems like every year, new technology and start-up enterprises spring up all over the place.

Trades

Finally, if you’re not the academic kind, you don’t have to pursue a bachelor’s degree. Green technology for both home and commercial use is a major focus for many conventional industries.

Best Paying Jobs In Energy Sector

1. Wind Farm Site Manager

Average Salary: $107,029

Requirements: In Wind Energy, a Bachelor’s Degree

As a wind farm grows in size, so does the amount of staff and equipment that must be managed to keep it running smoothly.

In order to optimize the output of both equipment and employees, site managers often need a bachelor’s degree or higher in business or management. This is one of the highest-paying positions in the energy sector.

2. Geoscientist

Average Salary: $99,532

Requirements: Degree in Geology from an accredited university or college

For the oil and natural gas business, geophysicists were essential in both land and sea-based exploration. However, the move to renewables and large declines in oil prices throughout the world are gradually rendering these professions obsolete.

To work in geothermal energy, you need to have a lot of the same skills and knowledge everywhere around the world. Climate change jobs are in high demand right now because of this. A bachelor’s or master’s degree in a geoscience subject is required for most job opportunities.

3. Civil Engineer

$86,640 is the average annual salary.

Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering is required.

Civil engineers will be needed by any electrical and energy firm building a new power station.

Experience in industrial construction is a prerequisite, as is a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field. Existing civil engineers may take advantage of one of the energy’s best-paying careers.

4. Financial Analyst For Renewable Energy Companies

Typical Earnings: $85,660

An accountancy degree is a prerequisite.

Numerous renewable energy sectors are still developing, and financial analysts play a critical role in boosting energy efficiency, as well as in performing quantitative evaluations of investments and in selling new services for businesses operating in this sector.

Finance and/or accounting majors with a demonstrated track record in a related area are required for success in the job market.

Hundreds of renewable energy firms are looking for financial analysts.

5. Solar Project Developer

Average Salary: $84,130

Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in solar energy and a certification in project management

As the number of small and big solar energy projects grows, this sector has a lot of room to develop as well, both in the US and throughout the world. Permits and grid connections are obtained through meticulous preparation, which is a must for any project.

To make sure that each project is a success, solar project developers must also interact with engineers, financial analysts, and attorneys.

There are many firms where you may apply to be a solar project developer.

6. Solar Power Plant Operator

Average Salary: $83,173

Requirements: Electrical Engineering Bachelor’s Degree

The idea that solar renewable energy systems are self-sustaining once they begin to produce is widely held by many individuals. The opposite is actually true.

One or more operators are needed to run a large-scale solar installation. A background in mechanical or electrical engineering is required, and you’ll have to get your hands filthy.

7. Solar Project Manager

Average Salary: $83,134

Requirements: Project Management and a Bachelor’s Degree in Solar Energy

Solar installations need project managers and/or construction managers, who arrange timelines and budgets, and align team members so they can do the proper tasks at the right time.

A bachelor’s degree or higher in a business-related subject is required for this post. Working expertise in the management of industrial or construction projects is also required for this position

8. Renewable Energy Consultant

Typical Earnings: $82,450

Requirements: In the field of solar energy, a bachelor’s degree

It’s one of the most specialist professions, and current data predicts a large increase in employment. New and existing customers will be advised on the most efficient energy solutions and possible upgrades in this position.

Because renewable energy management is so distinct from the rest of the energy industry, many employers prefer candidates with a degree in this field.

Find more sustainable energy jobs on this page.

9. Scientific Researcher

The average income is $77,173.

A bachelor’s degree in chemistry, physics, or biology is required as a precondition.

Physicists and chemical engineers have the most to contribute in these positions, which may be found in both for-profit and academic institutions. Scientists in the solar industry, in particular, are being asked to build more efficient EV cells.

There is a good chance that you will require a master’s degree in teaching, but many firms are also looking for PhD students.

Job openings for scientists can be found here.

10. Industrial Engineer

There is an average salary of $77,130 each year

Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering required

The size of renewable energy projects is increasing, and several already approach industrial proportions.

Industrial engineers with prior expertise working in big oil and gas processing facilities have a leg up in the renewables industry.

Find industrial engineer job listings here.

11. Solar Energy Software Developer

Average Salary: $72,976

Requirements: IT or Computer Science and Engineering Bachelor’s degree

A large part of solar energy production relies on software that continually monitors and fine-tunes each piece of equipment in order to maximize efficiency.

Job prospects for software engineers with previous experience working on large industrial systems are excellent, with wages to match. There is a lot of opportunity for advancement if you have a bachelor’s degree in computer science.

Here, you may search for software development positions in the environmental industry.

Over 2.5 million Americans are employed in sustainable energy occupations, according to a study by Clean Jobs America. There was a lot of employment in energy efficiency, with renewable energy generation taking second place. There is a lot of renewable energy employment already available, but don’t believe that there aren’t more to come in the future.

12. Solar Engineer

The typical annual salary is $72,323.

Requirements: Bachelor of Science in Solar Technology degree.

In order to ensure that renewable energy sources are properly integrated into the electric grid, solar engineers have seen a steady rise in employment opportunities.

Electrical and electronic engineers are in high demand, and many companies have a big backlog of projects that require their expertise. Job seekers with these degrees generally climb to the top of the list.

13. Solar Energy Technician

Salary on average: $70,000

Requirements: a degree from a technical college

Whether it’s a little solar panel in a home or a major solar power plant, constant maintenance is required.

Applicants with previous expertise in electrical appliances, HVAC, central heating, and solar panel installation will have no problem finding work.

It’s also one of the best-paying occupations you can get without a degree.

Find renewable energy technician jobs here.

14. Chemist

Salary on average: $70,195

Requirements: Chemistry Bachelor’s Degree

Oil and gas companies have long relied on chemists with expertise in fuel and lubricant manufacturing to supply their products.

New biofuels require the same set of skills as those used in the alternative and renewable energy industries.

Even for an entry-level career, a master’s degree in chemistry is typically required.

Find chemist jobs immediately.

15. Wind Turbine Service Technician

Average salary: $54,370

Requirements: a degree from a technical college

It’s no surprise that renewable energy producers foresee a near-100 percent increase in the number of service specialists needed to keep up with the rising number of wind turbine installations.

Installing new wind farms and maintaining existing ones involves professional employees with a background in construction, welding, and electrical installations.

Here you may look for employment opportunities at a wind farm.

16. Sales Representative

There is an average annual salary of $53,804

Requirements: No formal education, although at least a few years of sales experience in the industrial sector is required.

Most people are shocked to learn just how specialized sales work in the renewable energy industry can be.

Customers, installers, and utility providers all need someone who can inspect current equipment, properly understand consumer needs, and serve as a liaison between the three parties.

This position requires a proven track record of selling high-tech products.

Here, you may find renewable energy sales representative jobs.

17. Environmental Engineering Technician

Average Salary $50,560 per year.

Requirements: Environmental Engineering Bachelor’s degree.

Environmental professionals that work closely with engineers to examine the effects of new energy plants are in great demand since the sector is still undergoing transformation.

More jobs have been created by geothermal and hydroelectric power projects, such as dams.

An environmental engineering technician’s job description may be shown in further depth in the following video.

Here are some other careers in the environmental industry that could interest you.

18. Service Unit Operator

Average Salary: $47,860

Requirements: a degree from a technical college

Many construction equipment operators who were laid off by the oil and mining industries have been able to find work in the renewable industry.

When it comes to finding a new job, having previous experience in the oil and mining industries may be a huge advantage.

Jobs for unit operators are available right now.

19. Environmental Science And Protection Technician

$46,170 is the average annual salary

Requirements: Environmental Science Bachelor’s Degree

In order to guarantee that renewable energy installations and energy production facilities don’t have an unintentional impact on the environment, these workers perform both field and laboratory work.

The health of employees and the broader public would also be assessed by monitoring all sources of pollution, such as air, water, and soil. It’s one of the most rewarding renewable energy professions you’ll ever have, in my opinion.

The most frequent educational prerequisite is a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering.

20. Solar PV Installer

Salary on average: $42,680

Requirements: a degree from a technical college

Solar panels are one of the most popular and cost-effective ways for people to power their homes with clean, renewable energy.

The installation and integration of these panels and batteries in private and commercial structures is a highly specialized job. HVAC and electrical installation skills are necessary but not sufficient for a good solar installation. specialist training is also required.

21. Solar Power Plant Construction Worker

The typical annual salary is $41,940.

Requirements: a degree from a technical college

The beautiful thing about solar power plants is that they come in a variety of sizes and shapes..

No matter how big or little your project is, there is no shortage of construction work to be done, no matter where you’re located in the United States. These tasks need a high level of expertise in construction, welding, and scaffolding.

Here you may locate solar power facilities in need of building employees.

22. Site Assessor

$40,000 is the average annual salary

Requirements: a degree from a technical college

Site evaluations are an essential first step in every renewable energy project. Different sites’ suitability for solar or wind energy can be determined in this way.

In addition to obtaining local measurements for several weeks and months, the task also includes determining the system’s cost, analyzing the sorts of mounting structures, and so on.

How Many Jobs Are Available In Energy

Are there many jobs in the energy industry? No matter what, as a society, we must endeavor to reverse the loss of minerals and convert them to renewable energy sources if only because all those dinosaur bones will dry up one day. People’s concerns over CO2’s environmental repercussions outweigh the depletion of recognized resources. American employees’ technical skills and general well-being must remain a top priority in all decision-making as we move away from fossil fuels and toward renewable energy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

Even whether you’re just beginning your college career or want to break out of the oil and gas business, you can’t afford to neglect renewable energy job categories.

It’s not simply a means for students to increase their prospects of paying off their school loans—also it’s a way to make a positive impact on the environment while securing a long-term career.

Here are 5 frequently asked questions about the best paying jobs in the energy sector:

1. What are the highest paying jobs in the energy sector? The energy sector offers a wide range of high-paying jobs in technology, engineering, business, and management. Some of the highest paying jobs in the energy sector include construction manager, civil engineer, renewable energy project manager, environmental engineer, and petroleum engineer.

2. What is the average salary of a construction manager in the energy sector? The average salary of a construction manager in the energy sector is $83,368 per year.

3. What are the primary duties of a civil engineer in the energy sector? Civil engineers design and manage energy-efficient infrastructure, such as power plants, hydroelectric dams, windmills, and renewable energy projects. They also conduct environmental impact assessments to ensure energy projects comply with environmental regulations. The average salary of a civil engineer in the energy sector is $85,096 per year.

4. What is the average salary of a renewable energy project manager? The average salary of a renewable energy project manager is $85,825 per year. They oversee the development, construction, and operation of renewable energy projects, such as solar and wind farms.

5. What is the average salary of an environmental engineer in the energy sector? The average salary of an environmental engineer in the energy sector is $86,456 per year. They plan, design, and supervise processes to prevent, control, or restore potential environmental impacts and harness energy more efficiently .