The energy industry is a sector that's evolving rapidly, driven by advances in renewable energy, smart grids, and sustainability efforts. With so much happening, you might be wondering: Is energy a good career path for the future—and, more importantly, is it the right move for you?
In this article, we’ll break it all down—exploring where the industry is headed, the exciting roles it offers, and the ups and downs of working in this field.
The energy industry is booming
The energy sector is experiencing unprecedented growth, particularly in clean energy. “There’s been a really solid expansion of opportunities as energy and climate change, energy security, and energy affordability have become everyday topics of conversation,” says Nikki Richardson, lead training engineer at energy engineering firm EN-POWER GROUP.
Global energy jobs reached nearly 67 million in 2022, according to the most recent data available from the World Energy Employment (WEE) 2023 report. This growth is fueled by clean energy, which now employs more workers than fossil fuels. Starting in 2021, clean energy jobs surpassed fossil fuel jobs globally, with sectors like solar, wind, and energy efficiency leading the charge.
In the U.S., clean energy jobs are growing at twice the rate of the broader labor market. In 2023, the sector added 149,000 jobs, accounting for 42% of all energy employment. In total, 8.35 million workers are employed in the energy sector, according to the 2024 U.S. Energy & Employment Jobs Report.
What’s more, the same report shows that the energy workforce is becoming increasingly diverse and younger, with nearly one-third of new jobs in 2023 filled by Latino and Hispanic workers and 29% of the workforce under 30.
What’s to come? The future outlook
The future of energy careers looks bright as innovation and legislation continue to reshape the industry. Clean energy sectors are expected to keep driving job growth, especially with advancements in renewable energy technologies, battery storage, and smart grid systems.
The momentum isn’t just about technology—it’s also about policy. “In New York City, legislation passed back in 2019 to reduce energy consumption and make the city carbon neutral by 2050, thus increasing demand for energy folks in the built environment,” Richardson says. “Our own energy engineering firm has grown significantly over the last few years.”
Richardson says that cities nationwide are enacting policies to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions, sparking further demand for professionals in areas like energy engineering and sustainability consulting. “New policies have brought attention, focus, and curiosity to the sector,” she says, and this trend is expected to continue shaping the energy job market.
Over the next decade, the energy industry will likely expand its focus on emerging technologies, such as hydrogen power, carbon capture, and AI-driven energy solutions. These developments, paired with ongoing policy support and public interest in addressing climate change, will create even more opportunities for workers in clean energy.
Pros of a career in energy
Energy professionals play a vital role in one of the most essential industries globally, powering daily life and advancing sustainability efforts. Whether you’re drawn to the financial rewards, the variety of career paths, or the potential to drive innovation, the energy sector has something to offer for everyone.
High job demand
Energy fuels every aspect of modern life, ensuring a steady demand for professionals in the field. The need for energy expertise—whether it's keeping the lights on or transitioning to more sustainable solutions—is constant. Certain sectors, like renewable energy and energy efficiency, are experiencing particularly rapid growth.
“Employers are looking for forward-thinking talent with future-ready skills who are able to reduce the carbon footprint of traditional energy generation and integrate new technologies like renewable energy systems and smart grids,” says Jon Hill, chairman and CEO of The Energists, a company that offers recruitment services in the energy industry.
Competitive salaries
High job demand equals substantial paychecks. Petroleum engineers, for instance, often earn six-figure incomes, and renewable energy technician and energy analyst roles also have strong earning potential. Specialized skills and certifications in areas like solar installation or energy auditing can significantly boost salaries. The opportunities to grow financially are substantial in an industry where expertise is in high demand.
Diverse career opportunities
The energy sector is remarkably diverse, offering roles that span engineering, technical positions, research, policy-making, and beyond. Opportunities exist in both traditional fields like oil and gas and emerging sectors like solar, wind, and nuclear energy.
“One of the neatest parts about the energy sector is the wide variety of opportunities where outside skills can be utilized,” Richardson says. “I transitioned from being a high school science teacher to an energy engineer, where I help buildings optimize energy use by assessing improvements and communicating recommendations in an easy-to-understand way for decision-makers.”
Impactful work
Working in energy gives professionals the chance to directly contribute to a cleaner, greener future. Energy roles are central to fighting climate change, improving global energy access, and fostering sustainability, even with small actions.
“There’s a huge push for innovation to make small yet impactful improvements in existing energy-reliant areas, which essentially covers everything from the cars we drive to the energy we use to charge our phones,” Richardson says.
Innovation and technological advancement
The energy industry is at the forefront of technological breakthroughs, offering exciting career paths in artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and renewable energy systems. “Innovation is becoming increasingly important as the drive for greater sustainability continues to impact the energy sector,” Hill says. “For those just starting energy careers, honing your ability to innovate and your skills related to emerging technologies can help you grow your career faster.”
Cons of a career in energy
While the energy sector offers many exciting opportunities, there are also some challenges in pursuing a career in this industry. From demanding work environments to the need for constant learning, here are some of the most notable drawbacks.
Workplace hazards and physical demands
Certain energy careers, particularly those in oil and gas or offshore wind, come with significant physical demands and potential risks. Workers in these roles may spend long hours in remote or harsh environments, such as offshore rigs or construction sites for wind farms.
Handling heavy machinery, exposure to extreme weather conditions, and adherence to strict safety protocols are part of the job. While safety standards have improved, these challenges remain a notable drawback for some roles in the industry.
Market volatility
The energy sector is often at the mercy of fluctuating prices and geopolitical factors, which can lead to instability in certain career paths, especially in oil and gas. For example, during periods of low oil prices, companies may reduce operations, resulting in layoffs.
On the other hand, shifts toward renewable energy have created opportunities in one sector while others face decline. This volatility means that job security can be tied to global market trends and policy decisions, making it essential for professionals to plan for potential uncertainties.
Skill requirements and constant learning
Energy careers usually require specialized technical skills and a commitment to lifelong learning. “It’s critical for energy professionals today to stay flexible and adaptable, with a mindset of continuous learning,” Hill says. “Not only are the skills most in-demand shifting over time, but the frequent updates to environmental laws and other regulations require that professionals stay tuned in the latest changes in the industry in order to thrive in their roles.”
This dynamic nature can be both a challenge and an opportunity, as staying current may involve time-consuming and costly certifications or advanced degrees.
Read this next: 7 In-Demand Green Skills Right Now
Ethical and environmental considerations
While the energy industry drives global progress, it isn’t without ethical and environmental concerns. Professionals in traditional energy roles, like oil and gas, may face scrutiny over the environmental impact of their work, which can create tension between personal values and job responsibilities.
For those passionate about sustainability, these ethical dilemmas can pose a significant challenge, especially in roles where balancing economic and ecological priorities is part of the job.
Is energy a good career path for you?
Pursuing a career in energy can be incredibly rewarding if it aligns with your interests, skills, and long-term goals. The energy sector is diverse, offering roles that require both technical expertise and soft skills, making it accessible to individuals with a variety of backgrounds.
Here’s what you should consider when figuring out if a career in energy is the right fit for you.
Your personal interests and skills
Reflect on your interests and strengths. Do you enjoy solving complex problems, working with cutting-edge technology, or contributing to a sustainable future? If so, the energy industry might be a great match.
“Expertise in renewable energy systems is in high demand, as are related knowledge areas like energy efficiency and green building/sustainable design,” Hill says. “There are also many positions open for professionals with skills in big data and data analytics, AI and machine learning, and cybersecurity, as an increasing number of energy companies undergo digital transformation.”
It’s also important to look beyond your technical skills. “Generally, qualitative and technical skills and abilities mixed with key soft skills like communication and organization will translate well into any role,” Richardson says.
Education and experience requirements
Educational and experiential requirements vary widely across energy careers. For technical roles, such as engineering or renewable energy system design, a degree in a relevant field like engineering, environmental science, or data analytics is often necessary. Certifications in areas such as energy auditing or green building design can also be valuable.
For non-technical roles, such as project management or policy-making, a mix of relevant experience and transferable skills can help you break into the industry.
Many employers in the energy sector value hands-on experience. Internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles can provide the foundation for more specialized positions.
7 careers in energy to explore
The energy sector offers a wide range of career opportunities across traditional, renewable, and emerging fields, making it an exciting industry for professionals with diverse skills and interests. Below is a breakdown of careers along with detailed descriptions of each job, including typical responsibilities and median annual pay according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and the U.S. Department of Energy.
Renewable energy roles
1. Renewable energy project manager
Median annual pay: $104,920
Oversees the development, implementation, and execution of renewable energy projects, such as solar, wind, or geothermal installations. Renewable energy project managers work closely with engineers, stakeholders, and contractors to ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and meet environmental standards. This role combines technical knowledge with strong leadership and project management skills, and it is crucial to the growth of the renewable energy sector.
2. Wind energy engineer
Wind energy engineers design and optimize wind turbine systems, ensuring they operate at maximum efficiency. They are involved in the research and development of new turbine technologies, as well as troubleshooting and improving the performance of existing systems.
Engineers in this field play a significant role in advancing the wind energy industry, which is a key component of global efforts to transition to renewable power sources. BLS does not currently publish earnings data specific to the wind power industry, but earnings for engineers in wind power are comparable to earnings for engineers in general: $111,890.
3. Solar Photovoltaic Installers
Median annual pay: $53,140
Responsible for installing and maintaining solar panel systems that convert sunlight into electricity. Solar Photovoltaic Installers work on residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, ensuring the solar panels are securely mounted, properly wired to the electrical systems, and functioning efficiently. The role involves assessing site conditions, determining the best layout for panels, running electrical connections, and performing routine maintenance.
Traditional energy roles
4. Petroleum engineer
Median annual pay: $148,590
Petroleum engineers develop methods for extracting oil and gas from underground reservoirs. They design drilling equipment, oversee extraction operations, and implement strategies to enhance recovery efficiency. This role requires a strong background in engineering and geology, as well as the ability to adapt to changing market demands and environmental regulations.
5. Geoscientist
Median annual pay: $91,060
Geoscientists analyze geological, geophysical, and geochemical data to locate and evaluate natural resources such as oil, gas, and minerals. Their work often involves using advanced technology, including 3D modeling and seismic imaging, to predict the composition and structure of the Earth's subsurface. This career is crucial for ensuring sustainable resource exploration and development.
Emerging technologies
7. Smart grid engineer
Smart grid engineers design and maintain advanced energy distribution systems that integrate artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT). These systems enable efficient electricity delivery, real-time monitoring, and the incorporation of renewable energy sources into the grid. Smart grid engineers work on projects like modernizing utility infrastructure and creating energy management solutions for homes and businesses. Median annual pay can range from $74,440 and $124,190.
8. Energy analyst
Median annual pay: $65,810 to $86,200
Energy analysts use data analytics, modeling, and simulation tools to optimize energy use, predict energy consumption trends, and inform policy or strategy decisions. They work with large datasets, often focusing on energy efficiency, renewable energy integration, and power grid optimization. With the rise of digital technologies, data scientists in energy roles are increasingly in demand to analyze complex energy systems and provide actionable insights to optimize performance and sustainability goals.
Your future in the energy sector
A career in the energy sector offers a wide array of opportunities. Whether you choose to work in renewable energy, traditional energy, or emerging technologies, the sector provides diverse career paths that cater to a variety of skills and interests. From roles in engineering to policy advocacy and cutting-edge innovations in AI and smart grids, the energy industry is evolving and brimming with possibilities.
As you assess whether a career in energy is right for you, consider on your own skills, interests, and long-term goals. “Once you know which specific sector you want to target, enhance your resume for those roles by pursuing certifications relevant to that niche,” Hills says. “If you can bring expertise in the energy industry as well as sought-after skills, you will have an excellent chance of landing a role in this dynamic industry.”