Embarking on your first job search as a 16-year-old can be an exciting yet challenging endeavor. To...
Introduction:
Electricity is a necessity in modern times. We all need it to perform various functions and activities. Several other appliances and devices that we use daily also work on electricity. With electricity, it would be easier for communities to operate in current times. Without it, there would be a lot of difficulties when it came to adapting our lifestyles.
Table Of Contents
- What Is The Energy Industry?
- What Do Energy Jobs Pay?
- 7 Best Paying Jobs In Energy Sector
- Final Thoughts
What Is The Energy Industry?
Energy is a broad term that covers power generation and its various methods. The energy industry deals with all the companies and organizations that are involved in producing power. It encompasses various roles and has lots of opportunities as a career path, too.
Relevant Post: Is Power Generation a Good Career Path
What Do Energy Jobs Pay?
The energy industry offers a lot of roles, some of which are office-related or management-based, and others that require hands-on work that is also more entry-level. Entry-level jobs can pay about $15 an hour, while jobs held by more experienced workers can pay $35 or more per hour (source: Salary.com).
Another important thing to note is that the aforementioned figures are based on averages and may vary by region depending on various economic factors. Hence, it is important to always check with the employer.
7 Best Paying Jobs In Energy Sector
Now that you’ve got a basic idea of the salary range in the industry, let's take a look at some of the highest-income roles in this field. These numbers are based on averages and are variable based on several factors.
- Geoscientists
Average Salary in The United States - $86,411 (Source: Glassdoor)
Apart from the energy sector, the oil and gas industry also has them in demand, along with the geothermal energy sector. They must visit sites and may have to perform surveys and collect samples. Typically, a job in this profession will require a Bachelor’s degree in Geology at the very least.
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Industrial Engineer
Average Salary in The United States - $85,662 (Source: Glassdoor)
More and more renewable energy projects are scaling up to industrial levels. Hence, job seekers with experience and a degree in industrial engineering have scope in the renewable energy sector. Apart from energy, oil and gas processing plants also require candidates with these qualifications.
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Solar Engineer
Average Salary in The United States - $83,296 (Source: Glassdoor)
They are responsible for the design, development, and maintenance of solar power systems, which may be used for business or other purposes. They may be required to interact with clients and help develop solar power-based solutions to their problems.
They also ensure systems are installed correctly and work efficiently. They may also have to research, implement, and test new technology. A degree in solar technology or electrical engineering is typically required.
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Renewable Energy Consultant
Average Salary in The United States - $76,497 (Source: Glassdoor)
It is a career path that seems to be gaining popularity in recent years and requires a fair bit of specialization. You also need good people skills, as you must deal with many clients, advise them on their renewable energy-related queries, and provide solutions. Those interested in this job must have a degree in renewable energy management.
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Wind Farm Site Manager
Average Salary in The United States - $69,827 (Source: Glassdoor)
Wind turbines need to be taken care of well. Site managers typically need at least a Bachelor’s degree in the Wind Energy field. They must have good interpersonal and leadership skills since it is a management role, and they also need good technical knowledge of the machines and equipment.
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Environmental Engineering Technician
Average Salary in The United States - $65,519 (Source: Glassdoor)
They normally have to assist with equipment testing and lab-related work. It requires analytical abilities, technical competency, and attention to detail. Their main task is to protect the environment and ensure environmental regulations are followed. They may also be required to perform sampling activities. A degree in Environmental Engineering is needed.
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Solar Power Plant Operator
Average Salary in The United States - $63,964 (Source: Glassdoor)
Renewable solar energy installations do not run by themselves, as a lot of people think. They need operators, and larger plants need multiple operators to function properly. You will need to be an Electrical Engineering graduate at the very least to enter this field. It also requires hands-on work, so be prepared.
Final Thoughts
Energy is an important sector that contributes greatly to the functioning of our communities. It also employs millions of people worldwide and is one of those fields that is in demand everywhere you go.
Hence, it is a secure field to enter and can also pay well if you have the necessary qualifications and experience. You can also reach high-level positions by working hard and climbing the corporate ladder.
Some of the high-paying roles are managerial as well. Hence, along with technical expertise, you need soft skills too. So being personable and having good communication, along with leadership, are important.
In this field, you also need to expect the unexpected and be prepared for surprises. Adaptability and the ability to think quickly on your feet are important. You also need good decision-making and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
For example, there may be some technical failures that result in a power cut in some areas. The team must be adaptable, figure out the cause, and have it resolved as soon as possible. If they struggle to adapt, it will cause problems for people in the affected area. So they must be competent, as others are also dependent on them.
They also need to ensure health and safety standards are followed well. They must also know what procedures to adopt in case something goes wrong and ensure they and everyone else in the workplace remain safe and unharmed.
All in all, it is an interesting career prospect and one that has good scope for growth. There are also options for blue-collar roles. One can join these roles, climb up to managerial positions, and make decent pay.
