25 Best Paying Jobs in Energy: Is Energy a Good Career Path?

Jobs in energy are on the rise. The industry saw a 4% increase from 2020 to 2021—which might not seem like a lot, but that’s 3 million more jobs. It’s also predicted to grow by another 10% by 2031. So, the energy industry could be a smart option for your next career move.

Annual salary: $79,000–$193,000

So, you want to earn the top dollar. Well, petroleum engineers make plenty by finding oil and gas for different energy requirements. You’ll also go underground by designing and developing methods to extract gas and oil.

But you won’t just be drilling. Petroleum engineers find the right sites for extraction while maintaining equipment and supervising the drilling process. You’ll also mingle with other engineers, site managers, and geologists to make sure everything is operating smoothly.

Requirements: You’ll need a bachelor's degree in petroleum engineering or a related field like chemical, mechanical, or civil engineering. Your course may also need to be accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.

Annual salary: $62,000–$187,000

Chemical engineers are a brainy bunch, using their knowledge of chemistry, mathematics, and natural sciences to solve problems related to materials and energy, such as fuel.

As a chemical engineer, you’ll have all the solutions for developing coal, petroleum, propane, and natural gas. You’ll be in your element developing energy generation processes using wind and solar power while contributing towards a greener planet.

Requirements: Ideally, employers are searching for individuals with a degree in chemical engineering, but you may also get the position with a related engineering degree or a background in chemistry.

Annual salary: $61,000–$208,000

You don’t need a scientific brain like Einstein to work in energy. If you want to show off some creative flair, plenty of energy companies are looking for marketing managers for their campaigns.

Successful marketers can get inside customers’ heads and identify their deepest desires. You’ll help companies find products or services that are up to date with the latest market trends. Savvy marketing also helps turn complex details into attention-grabbing ideas.

Requirements: Marketing managers often have a bachelor’s degree in marketing, business, or a related field. Work experience in marketing can also help you make your way to those top roles.

Annual salary: $56,000–$170,000

A wind turbine saw a solar panel at an energy convention. He leaned in and shouted, “Hey, I’m a big fan!” Yup, renewable energy is on the rise—and it’s the wind project managers that are there from the start, usually calling the shots.

Wind turbines rely on strong winds, so it’s up to wind project managers to find the ideal windy spot and install the right amount of wind turbines. But don’t expect every day to be a breeze, as you’ll have to keep everything on track and within budget via project plans, tasks, and goals.

Requirements: With all that responsibility, most employers prefer an MBA in construction management, engineering, or business management. Experience working on other wind plant projects or construction could also give you a nice advantage.

Annual salary: $75,000–$169,000

Nuclear energy provides around10% of the world’s electricity and is the second largest source of low-carbon power, so there’s a lot of demand for nuclear engineers.

You’ll be involved in designing and developing nuclear equipment while managing operations and maintenance. The most terrifying word in nuclear engineering is “oops”—so be sure to pay close attention to all safety standards.

Requirements: To land a role in nuclear engineering, you’ll need at least a bachelor's degree in engineering or nuclear engineering, with a focus on science and maths. Some employees also look for a master’s degree for more advanced positions.

Annual salary: $48,000–$172,000

If traveling and working outdoors is your cup of tea, working as a geoscientist could be a good match. You’ll also need plenty of scientific brainpower—geoscientists specialize in all physical aspects of Earth, particularly its composition, structure, and processes.

Studying wind, solar, and geothermal energy resources gives you the tools to learn how renewable energy impacts the environment and climate. Knowledge of physical elements will help you pinpoint the minerals needed to keep renewable energy technology up and running.

Requirements: You’ll need a bachelor’s degree in geoscience, geology, physical science, or natural resources. A master’s degree in geoscience or geophysics will also look impressive on your CV.

Annual salary: $90,000–$122,000

Thermal engineers work with thermodynamics—a fancy way to say you’ll be designing, building, and maintaining heating and cooling systems. You’ll be in charge of thermal testing, monitoring performance, and improving systems.

In the energy industry, you can work with the heating systems in automobiles to make sure everything is energy efficient. If you're keen to work in a thermal power plant, you can also help design and maintain energy conversion systems to push productivity and cut energy loss.

Requirements: Thermal engineering is closely tied to math and natural sciences, so recruiters are looking for someone with this kind of knowledge—which usually means you need a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or chemical engineering.

Annual salary: $48,000–$150,000

Despite popular belief, atmosphere scientists don’t always have their heads in the clouds—they can also be found studying air quality, climate, and atmospheric chemistry.

Atmospheric processes, like wind, are the driving force behind wind farming. So as an atmospheric scientist, you’ll have the brains to help assess and measure potential wind resources while helping develop valuable technologies and wind maps.

Requirements: Atmospheric scientists typically have a degree in meteorology, atmospheric science, or a similar field in earth sciences. You’ll need a master’s degree or PhD if you’re aiming for a research position.

Annual salary: $86,000–$111,000

Want to brighten someone’s day? As a solar project developer, you’ll be in charge of bringing solar projects to life. This means a lot of juggling, so this role is ideal for someone who’s no stranger to multitasking.

Why? Well, you’ll be getting building permits and land rights, going through property tax agreements, and researching funding opportunities. You’ll also work with other professionals, like financial analysts, lawyers, laborers, contractors, engineers, and investors. Knowing your numbers also comes in handy when managing the budgets for each project.

Requirements: Getting into solar energy doesn’t happen overnight—many employers want candidates with a degree in engineering, finance, or construction management, and in some cases, an MBA is preferable.

Annual salary: $69,000–$111,000

Solar power is simple—you install it, wait for the sun to do its magic, and watch that electricity flow. Well, it’s not that simple. In fact, it’s the job of the solar project manager to make sure everything runs smoothly.

Solar project managers plan and keep track of all the resources, tasks, budgets, and goals for each solar energy project. Being a team player is also key to bringing vendors, technicians, subcontractors, and financial partners together to get the job done.

Requirements: Although not always necessary, a bachelor’s degree in construction management, engineering, or a related field will be helpful. Many candidates get on-the-job training to learn about the company’s own equipment and software.

Annual salary: $78,000–$100,000

If working on a wind farm sounds like a breath of fresh air, don’t think wind farm technicians or managers are the only jobs available. Resource scientists also work behind the scenes in developing wind farms and their technology.

Resource scientists study all things atmosphere, weather, and climate-related. You’ll use this to suss out the location, safety, and weather conditions, so managers don’t end up picking the wrong site. You’ll also use wind speed, direction, and temperature data to estimate wind plant energy.

Requirements: Typically, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in engineering, atmospheric science, statistics, or mathematics to work as a resource scientist. Many employers also value a graduate degree, especially if you want to work in research.

Annual salary: $76,000–$101,000

Solar panels don’t need much maintenance—one of the reasons why they’re such a hot topic right now. The minimal upkeep is thanks to the hours spent planning, designing, and constructing done by solar engineers.

So, you’ll make sure everything is top-quality while using computer software to create the panel’s electrical systems. Your power moves will involve developing, monitoring, and evaluating the whole solar electrical system while being careful not to skip over any safety standards.

Requirements: With all the electrical work, employers look for those with a degree in electrical or mechanical engineering. But they may also accept degrees in chemistry, computer science, or engineering.

Annual salary: $62,000–$162,000

Energy and electricity come hand in hand. If you consider yourself a bright spark, you can pick from plenty of fields, such as renewable energy, green construction, and energy in the developing world.

In renewable energy, you can work with wind turbines to develop and test their electrical components. These electrical systems are no cakewalk, so you’ll need to master all their intricacies to make sure the electronics are working safely and efficiently.

Requirements: To get started, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or a related engineering field. You can also participate in internships and engineering programs to help kick-start your career.

Annual salary: $57,000–$166,000

If you have a knack for crunching numbers, plenty of energy companies need financial analysts to help calculate investments, assess business performance, and give advice on making bank.

Developing and updating investment plans is a must. But you can also lend a hand in finding new projects and market opportunities by picking the brains of other departments in the company. Additionally, you’ll take energy projects to the next level with the right revenue strategies and cost reductions.

Requirements: For an entry-level position, most employers are looking for a bachelor degree in finance, business, economics, or analytics. Work experience or a master's degree will also up your chances of getting the job.

Annual salary: $60,000–$161,000

A material engineer does precisely what it says on the tin, dealing with everything related to materials. From metals to composites and plastics, material engineers use materials to process, test, and develop a range of products.

To find energy generation solutions, you can use engineered materials to make new energy technology more widespread and cost-effective. You’ll also work on technologies like thermoelectric generators, nuclear fusion reactors, and solar and fuel cells.

Requirements: Material engineering or materials science is the obvious choice of degree if you want to get into this field. Additionally, engineering internships and programs to get real-world experience can look impressive to employers.

Annual salary: $60,000–$129,000

Industrial engineers have a lot under their belts—and not just their tools. You’ll need to bring together machinery, information, materials, and workers to improve products and services. These skills come in handy when boosting efficiency in energy facilities.

In the wind farming industry, you can help get rid of any harmful waste in the turbine manufacturing process—and brainstorm ways to cut down on time and costs. Understanding the market and singling out the best strategies will help you make the biggest impact.

Requirements: A bachelor's degree in industrial engineering is a must for most employers. Experience in engineering and a good dose of creativity and critical thinking is also a plus.

Annual salary: $60,000–$133,000

With the rise of green facilities using renewable energy, the skills of civil engineers are in hot demand. Expertise in design, construction, and maintenance is highly sought-after across energy facilities.

As well as designing and constructing wind farms and power plants, you can get stuck in with testing building materials and soil. This helps construction know if the ground is strong enough for the installation of foundations.

Requirements: You’ll likely need a bachelor's degree in civil engineering to bag this job. But many employees also look for experience in industrial construction or those who have worked in managerial positions.

Annual salary: $71,000–$92,000

In wind farms, it’s the wind that runs the show—but it’s the job of the wind farm site manager to play their part in keeping the day-to-day operations running smoothly.

Site managers maintain the equipment and facilities while making sure the staff is putting in one hundred percent. It’s also a big thumbs up if you have the people skills to communicate with vendors and contractors while keeping the local landowners and community happy.

Requirements: While a bachelor's degree is preferred, it’s usually not required, as many employers will accept a high school diploma with the right experience. Working on a wind plant or in renewable energy will give you a better chance of landing the role. No degree? No problem. Here are some other jobs that don’t require a college degree.

Annual salary: $63,000–$93,000

The way companies consume energy is under scrutiny—but you’re there to help them out. Whether trying out new energy projects or transitioning to renewable energy, environmental consultants help companies understand their environmental impact.

Your green knowledge will help companies find environmentally friendly solutions and improve pollution and climate change decisions. You can also use your environmental know-how to help businesses gain a competitive advantage, drive growth and boost that all-important profit.

Requirements: To prove your expertise, many employers look for a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, environmental studies, or environmental engineering. Going after a master’s degree in an environmental or science related-field will also be an impressive advantage.

Annual salary: $36,000–$96,000

Solar panels are better for the environment and cheaper in the long term—but it’s the job of the solar sales consultant to convince you to make that purchase. And to do that, you have to understand solar energy like the palm of your hand.

Knowledge of solar panels is handy when talking to customers, from homeowners to big companies. You’ll be expected to offer advice and information on the installation, maintenance, and functionality of solar panels—all while trying to sell. Making that sale involves going door-to-door, arranging meetings, or the much-loved cold-calling.

Requirements: Many solar sales consultants have degrees in business or communication. However, getting into this field without a degree and only a high school diploma is possible, especially if you have a knack for customer service.

Annual salary: $46,000–$77,000

Despite the name, working on a wind farm doesn’t mean you can rely on the wind for everything. Wind turbines are a big fan of technicians as they provide the maintenance needed to keep the turbines turning.

If you’re the outdoorsy type, this is ideal as you’ll be in direct contact with the wind turbines, often in maintenance and repair—jobs like cleaning the blades and checking electrical connections. However, wind turbines can reach up to 300 feet, so perhaps reconsider this role if you’re prone to shaky legs.

Requirements: Having a degree in mechanical engineering or a related field is a big plus for employers. Although, taking engineering courses in a technical school or having the right work experience will also make a good impression on employers.

Annual salary: $35,000–$89,000

You can’t just place solar panels on any old roof. Some buildings may not have enough roof space in direct sunlight, or your roof is just too old for a long-term solar panel investment. The solar site assessor’s job is to see which properties are a good match for solar panels. You’ll carry out on-site evaluations to deliver first-class recommendations to potential customers. This involves checking out roof conditions, electrical systems, and weather conditions to find the perfect solar match for each roof.

Requirements: In most cases, a degree isn’t necessary—but a high school diploma and some training in site assessment and solar energy will help you out. Apprenticeships are a great way to get started and learn the ropes for the role.

Annual salary: $36,000–$72,000

While sunlight rules the roost in solar energy, the solar energy technician makes sure the solar panels are up and running. This involves assembling, installing, and maintaining solar panels.

Solar panels are designed and installed for various facilities and homes, so you’ll be in charge of making sure they are installed safely and without a hitch. Your electrical skills will be used here as you’ll need to connect the solar panels to electrical grids.

Requirements: If college isn’t for you, becoming a solar energy technician is a great option, as you can gain experience through an apprenticeship. Any experience in electrical appliances, solar panel installation, or even central heating is also beneficial.

Annual salary: $30,000–$76,000

Working as an environmental science technician in the energy industry is a team effort, as you’ll work with environmental engineers and scientists to identify and control ecological contamination.

Environmental science technicians can apply their expertise to wind farms by helping out with construction studies to see how species and habitats will interact with upcoming plans. You’ll also carry out environmental monitoring to watch over companies during construction and make sure they aren’t bending any environmental regulation rules.

Requirements: There’s no need to spend years in education to land this role. Many employers only look for an associate degree or two years of postsecondary training in a science-related field. Some positions also require a bachelor's degree, usually in biology or chemistry.

Annual salary: $49,000–$70,000

Unlike the solar panels you see on your next-door neighbor’s roof, a solar power plant is a whole facility that uses sunlight to provide electricity to homes or industrial sites.

To keep that electricity flowing, solar power plant operators must maintain the equipment while fixing any issues or faults that may come up. You’ll often get to use computer programs to keep an eye on equipment, meet safety requirements, and make sure everything is working soundly.

Requirements: Having a degree in electrical engineering is helpful. However, having electrical or mechanical experience is better, especially if you show a good understanding of electricity or solar energy.