Overview
Wind Energy Development Managers lead or manage the development and evaluation of potential wind energy business opportunities, including environmental studies, permitting, and proposals. May also manage construction of projects.
Careers in the energy industry relate to extracting or harnessing power from a variety of sources, refining it and distributing it, and ensuring its safe use by consumers.
What makes up the energy industry?
- Oil and natural gas account for nearly 60% of current energy production.
- The exploration and extraction of shale and deep-water resources has led to growth in this field with many jobs in western states or off-shore areas.
- Experts predict increasing shifts to “green” energy in the coming decades to meet ever-growing demand.
- Technology advances will make renewables more cost effective.
Non-renewable energy sources include oil and natural gas, nuclear, and coal.
Renewable energy sources include solar, wind, hydroelectric, and biomass.
The safe distribution of electricity is another vital aspect of the energy industry. Different energy sources may be used to generate electrical power for both business and home needs
Facts to note
Employment numbers
More than 600,000 people work in mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction. The utility sector employs more than 500,000 workers.
Where the jobs are
The vast majority of energy jobs are in private companies; public utilities employ a small percentage of workers in every state.
Renewable growth
By 2050, renewable energy is projected to grow to as much as 80% of total energy production. Solar photovoltaic installers and wind turbine service technicians are expected to double in the next decade.
Is a career in energy fit for me?
Although energy industry careers differ widely, there are some core skills needed in many roles. Time management is helpful for the project-oriented work typical of the industry, and critical thinking is essential for problem solving when issues arise. Mechanical and mathematical skills are needed in many roles, including project construction and equipment maintenance. Some points to keep in mind:
- Long hours are common and many workers are exposed to extreme weather conditions.
- The work can be physically demanding and require safety gear and precautions.
- Renewable energy sector growth offers opportunities for entrepreneurs and inventors to create new products and services.
- Cybersecurity positions will become increasingly important to protect the power grid.
- Power-line installer jobs are projected to grow by over ten thousand in the next several years.
What are some careers in energy?
From extracting oil and harnessing the wind, to supervising a power plant or maintaining power lines, a great variety of career options is available in the energy industry.
Take a look at the list below to learn about energy careers at different levels of education. Click any link to find out more about a career, including average wages, employment projections, training requirements and more.
High school diploma
Most jobs in these careers require a diploma and some previous work experience.
- Biomass plant technicians
- Construction workers
- Electrical power-line installers and repairers
- Electricians
- Industrial machinery mechanics
- Power distributors and dispatchers
- Pump operators
- Solar energy installation managers
- Solar photovoltaic installers
- Solar thermal installers
- Water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators
Experience or associate’s degree
Most jobs in these careers require community or technical college training, related work experience, or an associate’s degree.
- Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay
- Heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers
- Wind turbine service technicians
Bachelors degree
Most jobs in these careers require a four year degree