20 Best Paying Jobs In Energy In 2022

Some of the best paying jobs in energy are found in the green and renewable energy sector. This is a result of the recent transition into clean and renewable energy by governments and organizations to reduce the emission of harmful gases.

The energy sector is a massive industry that is never going to be at a halt. The world thrives on energy. Whether for home appliances or running enterprises, we require a constant energy supply.

If you want to know the best paying energy jobs, read this article. Also, You will learn about energy in general and how to get a job in this sector.

Why Choose Energy?

Energy and oil are at the heart of everything we do, making them a vital part of our daily lives. Figures from 2011 show the UK energy industry employed some 175,000 people directly, with an additional 200,000 employed through supporting roles.

These figures are expected to increase in the coming years, meaning there has never been a better time to consider a career within the sector.

Here are some reasons why you should choose energy as a career:

Demand

The continued growth in technologies and the rising population have led analysts to predict that there will be a 50% increase in demand for energy by the middle of this century.

With customers demanding a continuous and low-cost power supply, an expanding field of career opportunities for technical and non-technical graduates is expected.

At present, the energy industry is suffering from a considerable skills shortage. This means that it is possible for those who can demonstrate the necessary skills and qualifications to progress quickly within this industry.

Roles

Whilst the industry generally recruits from science and engineering backgrounds, there are a variety of other roles available for people with a wide range of skills. These include, among other things:

• Apprentices
• Hands-on technicians
• Designers
• Engineers
• QHSE
• QS
• Proposals
• Sales
• Project engineers and manager

Opportunities to travel domestically and abroad

You can travel the world with the skills you gain working in the energy and utility sector. There are also opportunities to travel domestically. Some roles, especially engineering and maintenance, can entail routine trips to rural and remote areas.

Pay

If you have the necessary engineering or technical skills, the average salary can be considerably higher than the UK national average. Starting salaries can vary, but a salary survey has found that graduates can expect to receive between £24,000 and £32,000.

The Future

The need to keep the lights on ensures that the energy industry continues offering excellent job security levels. When decommissioning is considered, it is expected that work in the North Sea alone will continue for at least another 50 years, with new global oil and gas discoveries requiring qualified workers.

In addition, the growth of renewable energies will play an important role for many years to come. Research in 2012 found that the renewables industry supported over 100,000 jobs across the supply chain – a figure expected to reach 400,000 to meet the 2020 renewables targets.

Read also: Is Energy A Good Career Path In 2022?

What Are The Best Paying Jobs In Energy?

The renewable energy sector has grown in popularity as more individuals become concerned about the environment. Learning about the best energy jobs available can help you plan your career path and set long-term goals.

To help you find the right opportunity, here are the 20 best paying jobs in energy that pay well over minimum wage.

1. Power plant operator

Average salary: 95,618 per year

Power plant operators conduct various tasks to ensure the safety of all electrical power equipment when in use. They also control different power-generation equipment items during operation, reviewing meters, control boards and gauges to ensure they meet operational parameters.

2. Nuclear engineer

Average salary: $91,346 per year

This is one of the high paying energy jobs. Nuclear engineers conduct various forms of research to create instruments, systems and processes to find medical and industrial uses for different radioactive materials.

Many of their responsibilities include developing nuclear equipment like radiation shielding, reactor cores or associated instrumentation, writing operational instructions to use in nuclear plant operations and conducting experiments that test the effectiveness of nuclear products.

3. Mechanical engineer

Average salary: $90,279 per year

A mechanical engineer manufactures, develops, designs and reviews various mechanical devices, like heating and cooling systems, robotics and transportation machinery. 

Additionally, key responsibilities include evaluating problems closely to determine how thermal and mechanical devices help solve certain problems, designing mechanical systems through computer-aided design software and investigating various equipment failures to provide proper diagnoses.

4. Environmental engineer

Average salary: $82,301 per year

Environmental engineers follow common engineering, biology and soil science principles to create innovative solutions to common environmental issues like climate change, environmental sustainability and clean drinking water.

They often develop strategies for improving air and water pollution control, public health and recycling. Also, other duties are preparing environmental investigation reports, designing environmental protection projects and conducting quality-control checks based on scientific data. This is one of the best paying jobs in energy.

5. Chemist

Average salary: $80,583 per year

Chemists perform experiments on various chemical substances to review quality control or to create innovative products. Many closely research the chemical make-up of different materials often used in manufacturing to keep products safe for consumers. 

Additionally, responsibilities may include coordinating and advising regular test procedures, developing and enhancing products, formulas and analytical methods and collaborating closely with scientists and engineers to interpret and conduct tests.

6. Petroleum engineer

Average salary: $75,189 per year

Petroleum engineers work to find natural reservoirs containing petroleum deposits. They also spend time developing solutions for extracting petroleum cost-effectively and productively. 

Furthermore, other key duties include reviewing geological formation data to create lasting extraction methods, evaluating new reservoirs to develop low-cost drilling strategies and making computer-simulated models to map out drilling equipment and formations.

7. Sustainability engineer

Average salary: $82,930 per year

A sustainability engineer is responsible for developing and building systems that meet particular sustainability criteria. They use mapping technologies and various tools to generate models. They also collect data that can aid in the development of designs.

8. Recycling worker

Average salary: $16.88 per hour

Recycling workers are responsible for sorting recyclable items such as glass, plastics, paper, wood, and concrete. They may also use heavy machinery to separate goods to sorting them properly. 

Workers in the recycling industry pay close attention to any hazardous materials restrictions. This is one of the best paying jobs in energy.

Check this: Is Basic Industries A Good Career Path In 2022?

9. Environmental technician

Average salary: $21.68 per hour

An environmental technician is responsible for collecting scientists’ samples in their studies. Also, they specialize in water, air, or soil pollution. They also conduct testing to understand better and avoid pollution.

10. Environmental specialist

Average salary: $19.86 per hour

An environmental specialist, or environmental expert, determines how a population impacts the environment. Based on their study of the samples they collect and the surveys they conduct, they establish strategies to prevent or repair frequent environmental concerns. They also promote environmental and human health.

11. Wind turbine technician

Average salary: $24.29 per hour

This is also one of the high paying energy jobs. A wind turbine technician is in charge of wind turbine installation, maintenance, and repair. They examine the equipment regularly to ensure it is in good working order. Wind turbine technicians are knowledgeable about the equipment’s hydraulic, mechanical, and electrical systems to identify issues accurately.

12.  Solar installer

Average salary: $21.02 per hour

A solar installer is in charge of installing solar panels on the roofs of structures, such as family houses and businesses or land. They may also install additional equipment like batteries and controllers. Solar installers adhere to strict safety regulations.

13. Industrial engineer

Average salary: $74,228 per year

An industrial engineer designs and builds production processes and layouts to help companies eliminate waste, enhance productivity and reduce costs. 

They may also be responsible for reviewing an organization’s production schedules to provide suggestions, crafting control systems to minimize economic and environmental waste throughout the company and designing facility layouts.

14. Geologist

Average salary: $67,177 per year

A geologist closely studies and researches the Earth, its processes, history, and materials. They use this information to understand how it affects the environment to keep it healthy and sustainable for humans and animals.

15.Electrical Engineer

Average salary: $103,390 per year

Electrical engineers take part in designing, developing, and testing electrical equipment. They work in industries focused on research and development, engineering, manufacturing, and the federal government.

Electrical engineers impact the energy sector by working with power generation equipment and designing automobile and aircraft systems. 

16. Computer and Information Systems Manager

Average salary: $141,150 per year

They plan, coordinate, and direct computer-related activities in an organization. They determine the information technology goals of a company, implementing computer systems to meet those requirements.  

In addition, they analyze the business’ computer needs and propose upgrades. IT managers direct the installation and maintenance of computer hardware, security, and electronic documents.

17.  Architectural Manager

Average salary: $149,530

Architectural managers plan, direct, and coordinate activities in architectural and engineering companies. Most architectural managers work in offices, while some work in research laboratories or industrial production plants. 

18. Material Scientist

Average salary: $97,000

This is one of the best energy jobs. The primary job of a material scientist is to study and analyze the chemical properties of different materials. That sounds like a vague description because these scientists aim to develop new products or improve existing ones through their findings.

How does that relate to energy? With the rise of renewable energy, material scientists are in high demand. They work to improve solar panels, composites, semiconductors, and more. Material scientists are why renewable energy is making so many strides.

19. Atmospheric Scientist

Average salary: $99,740

Atmospheric scientists study the weather and climate with a background in meteorology or another related field. They focus on determining how weather affects both humans and the Earth.

These scientists hone their skills with forecasting and collecting data, developing instruments, and advising others on weather risks, such as climate change. 

20. Construction Manager

Average salary: $97,180

Construction managers need a moderate amount of on-the-job training. Their primary duties are planning, coordinating, budgeting, and supervising construction projects from beginning to end.

Also, construction managers are responsible for preparing cost estimates, budgets, and timetables. Also, managers must be on-site when an emergency or problem occurs.

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How To Get A Job In Energy

If you wish to work in renewable energy, take the following steps:

Identify your areas of interest

There are several job routes available in renewable energy. Although you may always change positions later in your career, consider analyzing the sector and choosing the path that seems the most exciting to you. Also, if you can narrow down the many job choices available, you may be more deliberate about your training, education, and volunteer activities.

Go over your resume and adjust it

Your resume represents your education, experience, skill set, and accomplishments that qualify you for the position. A hiring manager may review your application materials and determine whether to contact you for an interview.

The resume you submit must contain the key information about you regarding the position. Compare your resume to the job description to ensure you include all the information that hiring managers are searching for in the resume.

Volunteer at alternative energy groups

Volunteering allows you to make a difference in the subject you’re passionate about before you even obtain a career in it. One advantage of volunteering is that it allows you to network with individuals in the field who may be able to help you with your job search. It also increases your experience in the field.

Get a bachelor’s degree

Many careers in renewable energy do not require a bachelor’s degree, but if you want to work in a specialized sector, consider getting a degree in a related subject. Depending on your interests, look at chemistry, bioinformatics, chemical engineering, and environmental policy degrees.

Additionally, you may distinguish yourself from other candidates for the same role with the proper degree. Suppose you want to take it a step further. In that case, graduate certifications may teach you even more about issues like sustainability, green energy, the environment, and power systems.

Enrol in an apprenticeship or internship

An apprenticeship or internship can offer you important work experience. You can gain experience, manage a project, network with individuals in the field, and learn more about your chosen specialization in renewable energy. If your work impresses your employer, they may even ask if you want to work for the organization full-time.

Stay updated on industry trends

Even if you have a bachelor’s degree or have done some training, you may find more information when you keep researching and looking for new developments in the industry. You may feel better prepared to answer some questions during an interview, which can also help you grow in your career.

Take specialist training

Many jobs in renewable energy require some on-the-job training, especially if you want to advance to a more technical role. Explore courses and other training possibilities that may provide you with the skills and information required to succeed in your chosen specialization.

Even if you are currently working, you may be able to locate possibilities that match your schedule. You may also demonstrate to a hiring manager that you have completed training, which can help you stand out as a candidate.

Connect with other experts

Look for ways to network with individuals in the field. Visiting networking events, reading and commenting on industry blogs published by professionals, attending industry conferences, and attending seminars are all strategies to do this.

Those you meet may be able to mentor you, encourage you on your professional path, or connect you to hiring managers for entry-level jobs.

Also read: 20 Best Paying Jobs In Real Estate Investment Trusts In 2022

What Are Skills Required For A Career In Energy?

Some important skills for the role of energy jobs are:

1. Basic Skills

The most in-demand skills within the energy sector are classified as “basic skills.” The top five for the sector include active listening, critical thinking, speaking, reading comprehension, and monitoring. In other words, people from almost every background will possess the five most critical skills companies in the energy sector seek..

2. STEM Knowledge

Studies surrounding science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) are highly prized within the industry, particularly for those in tech-related roles. However, it’s important to remember that the field relies on countless professions, so although a STEM background benefits many roles, not having one isn’t a deal-breaker.

3. Cross-Functionality

While most careers expect job candidates to be able to perform many tasks, this ranks quite high for those in energy, particularly concerning possessing technical skills.

4. Social Awareness

Not surprisingly, top-performing companies within the industry always strive to meet people’s needs while being mindful of environmental impact. They intentionally seek out employees who not only have an interest and deep understanding of social responsibility but are conscious of these aspects throughout their work.

5. Project Management

Performance and profitability are paramount but difficult to attain in an industry with higher levels of risk and scarce resources. Those with strong backgrounds in project management, particularly with achievements in challenging situations, will often move to the front of the line when interviewing.

6. Collaboration

One of the reasons employers prize communication skills is the frequency with which collaboration is leveraged in the energy sector. Those who are adept communicators and can relate information to technical and non-technical teams have a leg up when working collaboratively.

You might also want to check out: Is Real Estate Investment Trusts A Good Career Path in 2022?

What If I Don’t Have a Degree?

Nearly 780,000 Americans are employed in the country’s solar, wind, bioenergy, and hydropower operations. But renewable energy jobs don’t end with manufacturing and maintaining energy operations.

So if you’re not a scientist or engineer, don’t fret – there are plenty of opportunities to find work in the clean energy revolution without a degree.

• Look into positions in marketing or social media strategy. As the clean and renewable energy technology market expands, companies must brand themselves to consumers and differentiate their services from competing ones. Strategic marketing and social media engagement are essential to bridge the gap between companies and consumers.
• Consider a position in economic and financial analysis. Financial analysts in the renewable energy industry develop mathematical models to analyze economic trends and predict future energy prices. These models may help renewable energy developers secure funding or decide what kinds of technology to produce and help businesses and individuals determine if renewable energy is profitable for them.

How Much Do Energy Jobs Pay?

The salary you stand to earn in this industry varies according to the profession or job. Hence, it is not predictable. For example, while a nuclear engineer earns an average annual salary of $91,346, an architectural manager earns an average salary of $149,530 annually. However, you stand to make a reputable income in energy.

See also: Is Consumer Services A Good Career Path In 2022?

FAQs On Best Paying Jobs In Energy

Conclusion

The energy sector is a massive industry that is never going to be at a halt. The world thrives on energy. Whether for home appliances or running enterprises, we require a constant energy supply. So, jobs in this industry are in high demand.

We have successfully discussed and analysed the 20 best paying jobs in energy and how to get a job in this sector. So, if you are looking for the best energy jobs, read this article rigorously.

You might need these: 20 Best Paying Jobs In Consumer Services In 2022

References

• indeed.com– salaries of best paying jobs in energy
• theimpactinvestor.com– best paying jobs in energy
• careerkarma.com– high paying energy jobs

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