Renewable energy jobs
Are you passionate about renewable energy? You can explore our renewable energy job vacancies, gain insights into renewable energy career paths, and discover the required qualifications and salary ranges in the renewable energy industry. Still have questions? Check out our FAQs to get your answers.
All renewable energy jobs
A career in renewable energy
As a renewable energy professional, you become a key player in the transition towards sustainable and clean energy sources, contributing to the global effort to combat climate change.
Professionals may work as Hydroelectric Project Managers, or Ocean Current Energy Technicians, contributing to the global shift towards sustainable energy. In addition to the direct technical roles, careers in renewable energy extend to fields like environmental policy, sustainability consulting, and project management. Policy analysts navigate the evolving regulatory landscape, ensuring alignment with sustainable energy goals. Sustainability consultants guide organizations in adopting eco-friendly practices. Embracing this field means embracing innovation, responsibility, and a sense of purpose in pursuit of a cleaner and greener planet.
The renewable energy sectors
Key Components of the renewable energy sector
Key Benefits of renewable energy
It will never run out: Unlike finite fossil fuels, renewable energy derived from the sun, wind, and Earth’s geothermal sources is inexhaustible. The sun will continue to shine, the wind will persistently blow, and geothermal energy will remain accessible. In essence, the reliability of renewable energy sources ensures a continuous and everlasting energy supply.
It is affordable: Advances in technology and economies of scale have led to a significant reduction in the cost of renewable energy production. Solar and wind power, in particular, have become increasingly cost-competitive with traditional energy sources. This affordability makes renewable energy more accessible and attractive.
It generates no emissions: Renewable energy stands as a champion in environmental preservation due to its emission-free electricity generation. Renewable resources such as solar panels and wind turbines offer a clean alternative, producing electricity with zero emissions and no air pollution.
Industry growth
For jobseekers, this transformative period in the renewable energy industry opens doors to career opportunities. As countries increase their focus on meeting renewable energy targets outlined in global agreements, professionals in this field are increasingly in demand. The implementation of key policies such as REPowerEU, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and China’s ambitious five-year renewable energy plan not only signals a commitment to sustainable practices, but also creates more job opportunities.
As the sector aims to increase the share of non-bioenergy renewables in the overall energy supply from 5% to around 17% by 2030, there is a pressing need for skilled and passionate individuals. This ambitious target translates into an annual growth rate of around 13% between 2023 and 2030, demonstrating the industry’s commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable future. Jobseekers can play a key role in this growth by exploring careers in solar, wind, bioenergy and other innovative fields within the renewable energy sector.
Types of jobs in renewable energy sector
Renewable energy engineering jobs
Renewable energy engineers specialising in hydropower, geothermal, tidal and wave energy have a wide range of responsibilities. In hydroelectric power, their tasks range from designing efficient turbine systems and dam infrastructure to optimising water flow for maximum energy extraction. Geothermal engineers focus on developing and implementing technologies to harness the earth’s heat, including drilling, heat exchange systems and power plant design. In tidal and wave energy, engineers work on the design and deployment of systems that effectively capture ocean motion and convert it into electrical energy. They conduct feasibility studies, manage project implementation and continually innovate to improve the efficiency of these renewable energy systems.
Renewable energy entry level jobs
Entry-level positions in hydropower, geothermal, tidal and wave energy often involve supporting the planning, implementation and maintenance of projects specific to these sources. Duties may include carrying out site assessments for hydroelectric installations, assisting with the design and drilling of geothermal energy systems, and contributing to the deployment and monitoring of tidal and wave energy technologies. Entry-level professionals in these areas can work closely with experienced engineers and technicians, gaining hands-on experience of the unique challenges and opportunities presented by each renewable energy source. They may also be involved in data collection, environmental impact assessment and safety protocol compliance
Renewable energy finance jobs
Renewable energy finance professionals are responsible for assessing project viability, securing funding and managing financial aspects throughout the project lifecycle. Their responsibilities may include financial modelling, risk analysis and securing investment or grants for renewable energy initiatives. These roles involve working with various stakeholders, including project developers, investors and financial institutions, to ensure the successful financing and implementation of renewable energy projects. Renewable energy finance professionals contribute to the growth of the industry by navigating complex financial landscapes, staying abreast of regulatory changes, and optimising financial structures to facilitate the adoption of renewable technologies.
Renewable energy laboratory jobs
Renewable energy laboratory jobs involve carrying out precise experiments and analyses to drive advances in sustainable energy. Professionals in these roles test hydroelectric, geothermal, or tidal and wave energy technologies to optimize their efficiency and reliability. Responsibilities include data interpretation, technology refinement and working with interdisciplinary teams to deliver breakthroughs in the renewable energy landscape.
Skills and qualifications in the renewable energy sector
Success in the renewable energy sector requires a unique set of skills and qualifications. However, naturally, these depend on the type of specialization, energy sub-sector, region, etc
- If you are looking for a job in the solar energy sector, it is a must to ensure the following qualifications: Solar PV1 and PV2 (for photovoltaic installations), Work at Height (for working at wind turbines), along with health, safety and environment qualifications.
- Technical skills are crucial and include knowledge of engineering, data analysis and project management, particularly for roles in renewable industries such as hydro, geothermal, tidal and wave energy.
- Soft skills include effective communication and collaboration skills, involving working with engineers, researchers, financiers and policy makers.
Renewable energy job salary ranges
The salary ranges for other renewable energy jobs vary based on factors such as the specific industry, job role, level of experience, education, and geographic location.
For instance, In North America, Entry-level positions, like technicians or analysts, typically range from $40,000 to $60,000 annually. Engineers, project managers, and specialists with a few years of experience can expect salaries between $60,000 and $90,000, while senior roles, such as directors or executives, often surpass $100,000.
In places where demand is increasing but talent is scarce, salaries can be in your favor. For example, in countries with big and coming projects such as the UK (wind farms in the North Sea), Netherlands and Germany (with new renewable technologies), this can be the case with salaries ranging from €22,000 to €77,000 depending on the position.
Frequently asked questions about renewable energy jobs
Getting started in the renewable energy sector involves a combination of education, gaining relevant skills, and practical experience:
A bachelor’s degree in engineering, renewable energy, environmental science, or a related field.
Acquire specific skills and certifications related to renewable energy technologies. This can include courses or certifications in hydroelectric power, geothermal energy, and tidal and wave energy.
Career paths can vary in different renewable energy sectors.
Normally, starting as an engineer or technician, individuals contribute to day-to-day operations and projects.
Mid-level positions, such as project manager or reservoir engineer, involve optimizing systems and overseeing development.
Senior roles, such as director or chief engineer, involve strategic planning, policy development and leadership on a wider scale.
Renewable energy jobs are distributed globally, some key locations for renewable energy jobs include:
- America: The United States, Canada, Brazil
- Asia: China, India
- Australia
- Europe: Germany, UK, Denmark
- Middle East: UAE, Saudi Arabia
