The energy industry has immensely contributed to the development of global industries, converting sunlight, water, wind and fuels to energy to power the world. The industry is almost as large as the medical field and has provided countless jobs for many people.
People working in the energy industry come from a variety of educational and experiential backgrounds. As a result, the world is powered by engineers, technicians, managers, chemists and software professionals.
If you want to work in the energy sector, you might be wondering, “What are the best paying jobs in energy?” There are plenty of occupations in the industry that can boost your source of income and promote your career growth while you’re contributing to the global energy industry. But before you search the internet for the best paying jobs in energy, get to know the industry first.
How Does the Energy Industry Work?
The energy industry is composed of two parts: fossil fuels and renewable energy sources.
Fossil fuels include non-renewable energy sources like natural gas, coal oil and other petroleum products. These gasses are more efficient compared to renewable sources but they can harm the environment. From the mentioned non-renewable sources, natural gas is the most eco-friendly option. It is also more affordable and releases fewer greenhouse emissions compared to the others.
On the other hand, renewable energy sources are infinite and eco-friendlier than fossil fuels. The most popular sources of green power are biomass, geothermal energy, wind power, solar power and hydropower. While they are eco-friendly options, maintaining areas that house renewable energy plants can still change natural habitats.
In the future, the world will most likely use renewable energy sources. Nowadays, we can’t store energy efficiently but you can still sell the energy you produce. This could be what tomorrow holds: instead of everyone depending on one big supplier, smaller communities can create shared energy.
Which Energy Resource Jobs Pay the Best Salaries?
There are plenty of career opportunities for people interested in the energy sector. Most of these jobs also guarantee a good paycheck. So, if you want to venture into the world of energy, consider applying for the following positions:
Nuclear Energy Technician
Nuclear technicians are one of the best-paying jobs in the industry. People with this job are trained to use special equipment to work in energy production. They are in charge of overseeing radiation levels to maintain a safe environment, which is a MUST for a world that has gone digital. Devices and machinery emit radiation, which can be harmful to the environment and to your health.
Nuclear energy technicians are also responsible for monitoring radiation rates and ensuring these rates are kept at low levels. Companies need nuclear technicians to make and design certain equipment, too.
As a nuclear energy technician, you can make a median salary of $99,340 annually ($47.76 per hour). You need an associate’s degree from a technical school to be a nuclear technician.
Renewable Energy Consultant
Another good-paying job, renewable energy consultants work with clients to determine the best renewable energy system for their workplace or home. As a consultant for renewable energy, you must possess knowledge and expertise in modern renewable energy so you can assist clients with their needs.
A renewable energy consultant can make $100,000 per year with a base pay of $72,000. All you need is a bachelor’s degree to start your career as a renewable energy consultant.
Solar Energy Technician
A solar energy technician can earn an annual pay of $52,000, which is $25.27 per hour. Solar energy technicians are in charge of solar establishments and solar boards. When introducing a new solar framework to any establishment, solar energy experts are responsible for the support and upkeep of these frameworks.
They also investigate concerns with solar energy frameworks and perform routine maintenance when needed. If you are a solar installer, you can use solar CRM to manage your customer.
Materials Engineer
Materials engineers perform different functions to make products better, which include huge infrastructural materials and tiny computers. Their in-depth understanding of plastics, ceramics, metals and other materials is used to create new materials for different machines to improve their performance and sustainability. They also partner with wind and solar engineers to design better materials for trapping wind and sunlight.
A materials engineer can make a median salary of $98,000 per year.
Chemical Engineer
Chemical engineers are in charge of the chemical production process, as well as the introduction of battery-powered technologies. From testing new techniques to large-scale manufacturing, chemical engineers are important workers in energy advancement. Their average base salary stands at $85,000 per year.
Is Energy a Good Career Path?
Like any career path, working in the energy industry has its set of pros and cons and it depends on your chosen sector. For example, the oil industry has many perks, which include high wages and established infrastructures that sustain the industry.
The question is will the trajectory continue?
The use of fossil fuels will continue for the years to come, but there could be a decline, especially as facilities and vehicles use fewer resources to perform. Jobs involving wind energy will also thrive since wind is a renewable source of energy. However, like other sources of renewable energy, the behavior of wind power remains uncertain, which can impact the industry.
Still, there is a consistent need for these forms of energy. If you possess experience in distributing, storing, harvesting and saving energy, you will always have a space in the industry.
How Can You Land a Job in the Energy Industry?
- Identify the areas you’re interested in. In renewable energy, there are several job routes to consider. Although you can change roles later, analyze the sector you’re interested in and choose the path that excites you.
- Adjust your resume if needed. Your resume represents your skillset, experience, accomplishment and education. Hiring managers review resumes to determine if you are perfect for the job. Compare your resume to the company’s job description to make sure that you have all the information needed to persuade a hiring manager.
- Enroll in an internship or apprentice. An internship or apprenticeship offers important work experience. During an apprenticeship or an internship, you can manage a project, gain experience, learn more about your specialization and network with other people.
- Take specialist training. Many jobs in the energy industry require on-the-job training, especially if the job requires advancing to a more technical role. Enroll in specialist courses and look for other training possibilities.
There are many job opportunities in the energy industry. As long as you have the education and experience, you can thrive in the field of energy.
