Yes, energy is a good career path for individuals who are interested in sustainability, engineering, and technology.
The energy sector includes a wide range of industries, including renewable energy, oil and gas, nuclear power, and energy storage.
The demand for energy is expected to continue to grow as the global population increases and economies develop.
Additionally, there is an increasing focus on reducing carbon emissions and transitioning to cleaner energy sources, creating new opportunities in the renewable energy sector.
There are a variety of career paths available in the energy sector, including engineering, project management, operations, sales, and research and development.
Salaries in the energy sector can also be competitive, particularly for those with specialized skills and expertise.
Whether it’s oil and gas, power, or renewables that is your chosen career path, our e-learning courses can help you get a leg up on the competition and get your food in the door.
We often hear from learners who successfully use our courses to prepare for the interview process. After all, you’re using the same courses that companies themselves use to prepare their teams.
As this student passed on:
I would like to thank you for your brilliant Oil 101 materials. I did use it to prepare for the recruitment process, and managed to take a new role in the oil and gas industry!
Get started with our Energy 101 courses today!
However, it’s important to note that the energy sector can also be subject to market fluctuations and geopolitical events, which can impact job availability and stability.
Additionally, some energy industries, such as oil and gas, have come under scrutiny for their environmental impact.
As such, individuals considering a career in energy should weigh their personal values and goals against the potential opportunities and challenges in the field.
What do Energy Jobs Pay?
Energy jobs can vary widely in terms of pay, depending on the specific industry, job title, location, and experience level.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2020, the median annual wage for workers in the energy and utilities sector was $72,200.
However, this can vary significantly by job title. For example, the median annual wage for electrical engineers was $101,250, while the median annual wage for power plant operators, distributors, and dispatchers was $85,950.
In the renewable energy sector, salaries can also vary widely depending on the specific industry and job title.
According to a 2020 report from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, the median annual salary for solar installers was $45,490, while the median annual salary for wind turbine technicians was $56,230.
It’s important to note that salaries can also vary depending on location.
For example, energy jobs in cities or regions with a higher cost of living may offer higher salaries to account for this. Additionally, higher levels of experience and education can lead to higher salaries in the energy sector.
Be sure to see our report on ‘What Do Energy Jobs Pay’ to learn more.
What are some of the key jobs in energy?
There are many different jobs in the energy sector, and the specific roles can vary depending on the industry and company.
However, some of the key jobs in energy include:
- Electrical Engineer: Electrical engineers design and develop electrical systems for a variety of energy applications, including power generation, transmission, and distribution.
- Mechanical Engineer: Mechanical engineers design and develop mechanical systems and equipment for energy applications, including power plants and wind turbines.
- Renewable Energy Specialist: Renewable energy specialists work to develop and implement renewable energy technologies, such as solar, wind, and geothermal power.
- Energy Analyst: Energy analysts analyze energy data to help identify opportunities for energy efficiency and cost savings.
- Energy Auditor: Energy auditors evaluate buildings and systems to identify opportunities for energy efficiency improvements.
- Operations Manager: Operations managers oversee the day-to-day operations of energy facilities, such as power plants and oil and gas facilities.
- Project Manager: Project managers oversee the planning and execution of energy projects, including construction of new energy facilities and installation of renewable energy systems.
- Sales Representative: Sales representatives work to sell energy products and services to customers, such as solar panels and energy-efficient appliances.
- Researcher: Researchers work to develop new energy technologies and improve existing energy systems.
- Environmental Specialist: Environmental specialists work to ensure that energy facilities comply with environmental regulations and minimize their impact on the environment.
Oil and Gas versus Renewable Energy Jobs?
Oil and gas jobs and renewable energy jobs represent two very different types of career paths within the energy industry.
Oil and gas jobs are typically focused on the extraction, refining, and distribution of fossil fuels such as oil, natural gas, and coal.
These jobs may involve working in oil and gas fields, offshore drilling platforms, refineries, and pipelines.
Some common jobs in this sector include engineers, geologists, drill operators, and logistics and supply chain professionals.
Renewable energy jobs, on the other hand, are focused on the development and deployment of clean energy technologies such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal power.
These jobs may involve working in industries such as solar panel manufacturing, wind turbine installation, and energy storage.
Some common jobs in this sector include engineers, technicians, project managers, and sales representatives.
While both oil and gas and renewable energy jobs can offer competitive salaries and career advancement opportunities, there are some notable differences between the two.
One key difference is the level of environmental impact associated with each sector.
Oil and gas jobs are often associated with environmental concerns such as air and water pollution, while renewable energy jobs are focused on reducing carbon emissions and minimizing environmental impact.
Another difference is the level of innovation and growth in each sector.
The renewable energy industry is relatively new and rapidly growing, with many opportunities for innovation and new job creation.
The oil and gas industry, while still a large and important part of the energy industry, is more established and may offer fewer opportunities for growth and innovation.
Ultimately, the choice between oil and gas and renewable energy jobs will depend on an individual’s personal values, skills, and career goals.
What are some entry level jobs in energy?
There are many entry-level jobs in the energy industry that require little or no prior experience.
Some examples of entry-level jobs in energy include:
- Solar Panel Installer: As the demand for solar power continues to grow, there are many opportunities for entry-level jobs in solar panel installation. These jobs involve installing and maintaining solar panels on residential and commercial buildings.
- Wind Turbine Technician: Wind turbine technicians work to install and maintain wind turbines, which generate renewable energy from the wind.
- Energy Auditor: Energy auditors evaluate buildings and systems to identify opportunities for energy efficiency improvements. These jobs may require a background in engineering or environmental science.
- Operations Technician: Operations technicians work in energy facilities such as power plants and oil and gas facilities to operate and maintain equipment and systems.
- Customer Service Representative: Customer service representatives work to assist customers with energy-related questions and issues, such as billing and service inquiries.
- Entry-level Engineer: Some energy companies offer entry-level engineering positions for recent graduates or those with a background in engineering.
- Sales Representative: Sales representatives work to sell energy products and services to customers, such as solar panels and energy-efficient appliances.
- Research Assistant: Research assistants work to support energy research projects, assisting with data analysis and laboratory work.
- Environmental Technician: Environmental technicians work to monitor and assess the environmental impact of energy facilities, such as oil and gas wells and power plants.
- Administrative Assistant: Energy companies also have administrative roles such as receptionist, administrative assistant, and office manager.
These are just a few examples of entry-level jobs in the energy industry.
Many energy companies offer on-the-job training and career advancement opportunities for employees who show initiative and a strong work ethic.
Which segments of the energy industry are growing the fastest?
Renewable energy is one of the fastest-growing segments of the energy industry.
Over the past few years, the renewable energy sector has experienced significant growth in response to concerns about climate change and the need for a transition to a more sustainable energy system.
Solar and wind power, in particular, have seen significant growth in recent years, and the International Energy Agency (IEA) predicts that renewable energy will be the fastest-growing source of electricity generation over the next decade.
Another fast-growing segment of the energy industry is energy storage.
As the demand for renewable energy grows, there is a need for reliable energy storage solutions to ensure that energy can be stored and used when it is needed.
Battery storage technologies, in particular, have seen significant growth in recent years, with many new projects underway to develop large-scale battery storage facilities.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are also driving growth in the energy industry. As more and more consumers switch to EVs, there is a growing demand for charging infrastructure and other related technologies.
This is driving growth in industries such as electric vehicle charging, battery technology, and smart grid infrastructure.
Finally, digital technologies are also driving growth in the energy industry.
The use of data analytics, artificial intelligence, and other digital technologies is helping energy companies to optimize their operations, reduce costs, and improve efficiency.
This is driving growth in areas such as energy management software, smart grid technologies, and digital control systems for energy facilities.
What are the best paying jobs in oil and gas?
The oil and gas industry is known for offering high-paying jobs, especially for those with specialized skills and experience.
Here are some of the best-paying jobs in the oil and gas industry:
- Petroleum Engineer: Petroleum engineers design and develop methods for extracting oil and gas from underground reservoirs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), petroleum engineers had a median annual salary of $137,720 in May 2020.
- Geoscientist: Geoscientists, including geologists and geophysicists, study the physical aspects of the Earth to locate and evaluate oil and gas reserves. According to the BLS, geoscientists had a median annual salary of $93,580 in May 2020.
- Drilling Engineer: Drilling engineers design and oversee the drilling process for oil and gas wells. According to the BLS, mining and geological engineers (which includes drilling engineers) had a median annual salary of $94,240 in May 2020.
- Operations Manager: Operations managers oversee the day-to-day operations of oil and gas facilities, including drilling sites and refineries. According to Payscale, the average annual salary for an operations manager in the oil and gas industry is $118,000.
- Financial Analyst: Financial analysts in the oil and gas industry analyze financial data related to exploration, production, and refining activities. According to the BLS, financial analysts had a median annual salary of $83,660 in May 2020.
- Chief Executive Officer: CEOs of oil and gas companies are some of the highest-paid individuals in the industry. According to Payscale, the average annual salary for a CEO in the oil and gas industry is $183,000.
It’s important to note that salaries can vary widely depending on factors such as location, company size, and level of experience.
What are the best paying jobs in renewable energy?
Renewable energy is a growing industry, and it offers a wide range of high-paying jobs.
Here are some of the best-paying jobs in renewable energy:
- Renewable Energy Project Manager: Renewable energy project managers oversee the development and implementation of renewable energy projects. According to Payscale, the average annual salary for a renewable energy project manager is $95,000.
- Wind Energy Engineer: Wind energy engineers design and develop wind turbines and other components of wind energy systems. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), mechanical engineers (which includes wind energy engineers) had a median annual salary of $89,880 in May 2020.
- Solar Energy Engineer: Solar energy engineers design and develop solar panels and other components of solar energy systems. According to the BLS, electrical engineers (which includes solar energy engineers) had a median annual salary of $103,390 in May 2020.
- Energy Storage Engineer: Energy storage engineers design and develop energy storage systems, including batteries and other technologies. According to Payscale, the average annual salary for an energy storage engineer is $88,000.
- Data Analyst: Data analysts in the renewable energy industry analyze data related to renewable energy generation and consumption. According to Payscale, the average annual salary for a data analyst in the renewable energy industry is $73,000.
It’s important to note that salaries can vary widely depending on factors such as location, company size, and level of experience.
However, as the renewable energy industry continues to grow, these high-paying jobs are likely to become more abundant.
Where are energy jobs located?
Energy jobs can be found in many locations around the world, depending on the type of energy and the specific job function.
Here are some examples:
- Oil and Gas: Oil and gas jobs are primarily located in regions where oil and gas reserves are found, such as the Middle East, North America, South America, and the North Sea. However, oil and gas companies also have operations and job opportunities in many other regions, including Africa, Asia, and Australia.
- Renewable Energy: Jobs in renewable energy can be found in many different locations, depending on the type of renewable energy. For example, wind energy jobs are typically located in regions with strong wind resources, such as the Midwest and West Coast of the United States, Europe, and China. Solar energy jobs are often found in sunny regions, such as the southwestern United States, Australia, and the Middle East. Hydroelectric energy jobs can be found in regions with strong water resources, such as Canada, Brazil, and China.
- Energy Efficiency: Jobs in energy efficiency can be found in many different types of organizations, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private companies. These jobs are often located in major cities or regions where there is a strong focus on sustainability and energy efficiency, such as San Francisco, New York City, and Europe.
- Nuclear Energy: Jobs in nuclear energy are primarily located at nuclear power plants, which are often located in rural or suburban areas. In the United States, many nuclear power plants are located in the eastern and southeastern regions of the country.
It’s worth noting that many energy companies and organizations have global operations, which means that job opportunities may be available in many different countries and regions around the world.
Is the oil and gas industry a stable job?
The stability of the oil and gas industry can depend on many factors, including fluctuations in global demand and supply, geopolitical tensions, and environmental regulations.
Historically, the oil and gas industry has been characterized by cycles of boom and bust, with periods of high demand and high prices followed by periods of oversupply and low prices.
While it’s difficult to predict the future of any industry with certainty, there are some indications that the oil and gas industry may face challenges in the coming years.
The increasing availability and decreasing cost of renewable energy sources, along with growing concerns about climate change and environmental impact, have led many governments and organizations to shift their focus towards clean energy sources.
However, it’s worth noting that the oil and gas industry is still a significant global industry, and many experts predict that it will continue to play an important role in the global energy mix for the foreseeable future.
Moreover, the industry has shown resilience in the face of economic and geopolitical challenges, and there is still a significant demand for skilled workers in many areas of the industry.
Overall, the stability of jobs in the oil and gas industry can vary depending on the specific role, the location, and the company.
While some jobs may be more vulnerable to fluctuations in the industry, others may be more stable and offer long-term employment opportunities.
Are jobs in renewable energy stable?
Jobs in renewable energy are generally considered to be more stable than jobs in the fossil fuel industry. The renewable energy sector has seen steady growth over the past decade, and this trend is expected to continue in the coming years.
According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the renewable energy sector employed over 11 million people worldwide in 2018, and this number is expected to continue to grow.
One reason for the stability of jobs in renewable energy is that the industry is less susceptible to price fluctuations and supply disruptions than the fossil fuel industry.
Renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric power are not subject to the same market volatility as oil and gas, and once renewable energy infrastructure is in place, it tends to have lower operating costs than fossil fuel infrastructure.
Another factor contributing to the stability of jobs in renewable energy is government policies and incentives.
Many governments around the world have implemented policies to promote renewable energy development, such as renewable energy targets, feed-in tariffs, and tax incentives.
These policies provide a stable and predictable market for renewable energy companies and help to create long-term employment opportunities in the industry.
Overall, while no industry is completely immune to economic or geopolitical challenges, the renewable energy industry is generally considered to be a stable and growing sector, offering a range of employment opportunities for workers at all levels.
Where can I find jobs in energy online?
There are many websites and job boards where you can find job opportunities in the energy industry.
Here are some examples:
- LinkedIn: LinkedIn is a great resource for finding job opportunities in the energy industry. You can use the search function to find jobs that match your skills and experience, and you can also join industry groups and connect with other professionals in the field.
- Indeed: Indeed is one of the largest job boards on the internet, and it has a dedicated section for energy jobs. You can search for jobs by keyword, location, and other criteria, and you can also set up job alerts to receive notifications when new opportunities are posted.
- Energy Jobline: Energy Jobline is a specialized job board for the energy industry, featuring job opportunities across a wide range of sectors, including oil and gas, renewable energy, and energy efficiency. You can search for jobs by location, job function, and industry sector, and you can also sign up for job alerts.
- Rigzone: Rigzone is a job board specifically for the oil and gas industry, featuring job opportunities in a variety of roles, including drilling, engineering, and operations. You can search for jobs by location, job function, and level of experience, and you can also browse industry news and resources.
- GreenJobs: GreenJobs is a job board specifically for the renewable energy and sustainability sectors, featuring job opportunities in a variety of roles, including engineering, project management, and policy. You can search for jobs by location, job function, and level of experience, and you can also sign up for job alerts.
These are just a few examples of the many resources available for finding jobs in the energy industry online.
It’s a good idea to explore several different job boards and websites to get a sense of the range of opportunities available and to find the best match for your skills and experience.
How do I prepare for a job interview with an energy company?
Preparing for a job interview with an energy company requires research, practice, and a solid understanding of the industry and the company you are applying to.
Here are some tips to help you prepare:
- Research the company: Take the time to learn about the company’s history, mission, values, and products or services. Look for information about recent news or developments in the industry and the company’s place in the market. This will help you to understand the company’s priorities and goals and to demonstrate your knowledge and interest in the industry.
- Review the job description: Make sure you understand the requirements and responsibilities of the job you are applying for, and think about how your skills and experience match up. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your past experience that demonstrate your ability to handle the job’s responsibilities.
- Practice answering common interview questions: Prepare answers to common interview questions, such as “Tell me about yourself,” “What are your strengths and weaknesses,” and “Why do you want to work for this company?” Practice your answers with a friend or family member to help you feel more confident and prepared.
- Brush up on technical knowledge: Depending on the role you are applying for, you may be asked technical questions related to the energy industry. Review basic technical concepts and terminology related to your field to ensure that you are prepared to answer these questions.
- Dress professionally and arrive early: Make a good first impression by dressing professionally and arriving early to the interview. This will demonstrate your respect for the interviewer’s time and your commitment to the job opportunity.
- Show enthusiasm and ask questions: During the interview, demonstrate your enthusiasm for the job and the company by asking thoughtful questions and showing interest in the interviewer’s responses. This will help you to build rapport with the interviewer and to demonstrate your interest in the industry.
By preparing thoroughly and demonstrating your knowledge and enthusiasm for the industry and the company, you can increase your chances of success in a job interview with an energy company.
Related Resources
Energy Risk Management
Risk Management in Oil and Gas
Oil 101
Power 101
What is a Nuclear Power Reactor Operator
Watts, Kilowatts, Megawatts, Gigawatts
Jobs Data
Global Energy Talent Index (GETI)
US Energy & Employment and Jobs Report (USEER)
Career Path in Energy Articles
Is Oilfield Services/Equipment a Good Career Path
Is Oil and Gas Production a Good Career Path
Is Electric Utilities a Good Career Path
Is Power Generation a Good Career Path
