Renewable energy is a hot sector for jobs. With all the things humans like to do, energy is required for a lot of our activities. Because of this, having cost-effective and reliable sources of energy is critical. According to Jobflare.com, the number of jobs in renewable energy could triple to 24 million by 2030. Solar panel installers and wind turbine technicians are two of the fastest growing careers in the field. Here are a few steps to consider if you’re interested in a job in the energy field.
Look into the green sectors. In terms of jobs, the fossil fuel industry in terms of energy has been declining for several years. However, more renewable resources like wind, water, solar and nuclear energy are projected to see continued growth and therefore provide job security. A trend for the energy industry is finding ways to improve wind energy and solar storage capacities. Jobflare.com also reports, “The number of solar energy jobs is growing 12 times faster than the average field in the U.S.”
Join a local energy chapter. Few things will help you get your foot in the door with an energy-related job than other people who already work in the industry. Fortunately, every sector of energy has a related organization you can get involved in. And that’s exactly what you should do to get started. Attend meetings. Sign up for events. Volunteer to be in charge of their charitable activities. One such example of a related organization is the American Solar Energy Society.
Start getting experience. Another sure-fire way to land your ideal job is to start putting some practical experience under your belt. Of course, the challenge is getting hired for jobs you don’t have a background in yet. You can gain your initial experience by volunteering or through an internship. Go beyond the job postings and approach a company you’d like to work for and offer to work either for free or at an intern’s pay level. Organizations like the Sierra Club are advocacy groups for renewable energy and might offer opportunities. This kind of initiative on your part demonstrates to potential employers that you’re serious and proactive about the industry.
Fortunately, if you have a passion for the environment and the energy fields, there are also technical and non-technical roles available. You are likely to find more technical jobs in design and manufacturing, installation and commissioning and operation and maintenance. If you’re less inclined for these kinds of roles, look into administration, supply chain management and sales. Regardless of the direction you pursue, renewable energy is likely to produce opportunities for you in the years to come.