Want to save the planet and put your background in science to good use? Consider a career in the growing energy sector! If you’ve got a passion for biology, chemistry, or even engineering, then you can use that passion to help the world cut down on pollution and increase its use of alternative energy sources like solar and wind power. Here are 10 awesome energy career options to consider:
Solar Installer: As advances in solar energy continue to be made, the demand for commercial and residential solar energy systems grows. Become an in-demand solar installer and affix the energy-saving solar panels to homes and businesses looking to go green. This is a pretty physical job that you can feel good about — you’ll be saving the planet one panel at a time!
Grant Writer: If you’ve got a knack for turning complex scientific arguments into easy-to-understand words, consider a career as an energy grant writer. Clean energy non-profits are always in need of sharp writers with science backgrounds who can help secure outside funding, so the march toward clean energy can continue apace.
Energy Auditor: Tons of energy is lost every year through poorly insulated walls and cracks around windows and doors. As an energy auditor, you’ll visit homes and businesses and conduct a series of tests that rate the energy efficiency of the building, so owners can make energy improvements that will save money on utility bills and cut down on wasted energy. The Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) has lots of resources for aspiring energy auditors.
Genetic Scientist: The bioenergy industry is in high need of biologists and scientists who are eager to study plant genetics to make improvements to our crops and advances in biofuel. Must love research, high-powered microscopes, and whole-genome splicing!
Environmental Engineer: From controlling air pollution to improving recycling systems, environmental engineers draw on their knowledge of biology, chemistry, soil science, and — of course — engineering to design innovations that improve the environment and public health. The employment outlook for this career is strong, with employment of environmental engineers predicted to grow by 12 percent by 2024.
Hydropower Strategist: Harness the incredible power of rushing water by assisting with the strategy involved for designing and building dams. Hydropower might not sound as on-trend as newer industries like solar and wind power, but this form of renewalable energy actually accounts for more energy production than wind, solar, and geothermal energy combined!
Wind Turbine Technician: If you have a background in electrical or mechanical engineering, a keen technical mind, and a mastery of math, you can carve out a career servicing the giant wind turbines that are the hallmark of the wind power industry. One caveat: you shouldn’t be afraid of heights, since the turbines you’ll climb and fix are very, very tall!
Land Surveyor: It’s your job as an environmental land surveyor to assess the environmental impact construction and real estate projects may have on a parcel of land. Day-to-day activities may consist of water sampling, studying historical data and maps, and visually inspecting properties.
Environmental Consultants: Make sure companies remain in compliance with environmental regulations as an environmental consultant. Often, these kinds of consultants first gain experience either on the industry side (for example, in construction) or energy side before transitioning to consulting, and they typically hold master degrees in environmental science, engineering, or a similar degree.
Geophysical Data Technician: Calling all data nerds: use your analytical skills to collect and record geological data for use in water, oil, or gas extraction. These bachelor degree-wielding technicians can make up to nearly $100,00 a year.
Have you snagged a job in the energy sector? Share your career advice in the comments below!
