Top 10 Best Paying Jobs In Energy (Renewable & Conventional) 2024

We all know how important energy is in our lives. We flick a switch as we get up and the room is illuminated. We rely heavily on our mobile phones that use energy to power the masts. And we hop on a plane bound for exotic destinations, relying on the control tower to get us in the air using energy to power the radar systems.

In the past all of this energy has been derived by fossil fuels, but as the reserves began to diminish, scientists had to put their thinking caps on and used nuclear energy to power the grid. But, sadly, all of this has had a dramatic impact on our environments and led to global change. So, the propeller heads went to work again and devised ways to harness natural resources like solar, wind and water to generate power and lower carbon footprints. All of this flux and change has meant that the job market for energy production has widened to include vocations that were never possible under the auspicious of traditional energy production.

Top 10 Best Paying Jobs In Energy (Renewable & Conventional) & Salaries 2024

1. Petroleum Engineer 

A Petroleum Engineer is a professional who specializes in the exploration, extraction, and production of oil and natural gas resources. Their primary role and career in energy revolves around designing and implementing the processes and technologies required to extract hydrocarbons (oil and gas) from underground reservoirs safely and efficiently. They play a crucial role in the energy industry, as oil and natural gas remain major sources of global energy production.

Becoming one involves a combination of education, training, and experience but generally you will require: A bachelor's degree in petroleum engineering or a closely related field such as chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, or geological engineering, specializing in petroleum engineering courses or take electives related to the oil and gas industry to gain a better understanding of the field, seeking internships or co-op opportunities with oil and gas companies during your undergraduate studies, not always required but pursuing a master's or Ph.D. in petroleum engineering or a related field, or obtaining a professional engineering license that generally involves passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and gaining relevant work experience before taking the Professional Engineering (PE) exam.

This is one of the best paying jobs in the energy sector. The average annual salary for a Petroleum Engineer in the US is $127,093.

2. Nuclear Engineer

A Nuclear Engineer is a specialized professional who works in the field of nuclear energy. These engineers are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining systems and processes related to the use of nuclear energy for various applications, including power generation, medical treatment, research, and more. Their work is crucial for harnessing the energy produced by nuclear reactions and ensuring its safe and efficient use.

Becoming one requires a combination of education, training, and practical experience, but generally you will need: A bachelor's degree in nuclear engineering, nuclear science, or a closely related field such as mechanical engineering or electrical engineering, specializing in nuclear engineering courses or take electives related to nuclear technology and reactor physics to gain a deeper understanding of the field, seeking internships or co-op programs with organizations involved in nuclear engineering, such as nuclear power plants, research laboratories, or nuclear technology companies, joining professional organizations related to nuclear engineering, such as the American Nuclear Society (ANS), and attend industry conferences and seminars, or pursuing a master's or Ph.D. in nuclear engineering can open up more advanced and research-oriented career opportunities.

The average annual salary for a Nuclear Engineer in the US is $95,270. 

3. Electrical Engineer (Renewable Energy) 

An Electrical Engineer specializing in renewable energy is a professional who focuses on the design, development, and implementation of electrical systems and technologies related to renewable energy sources. They play a crucial role in the transition to sustainable energy solutions by harnessing power from renewable resources such as solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and biomass, and their expertise is essential in creating efficient and reliable electrical systems that utilize clean energy sources.

Becoming an Electrical Engineer involves a combination of education, training, and practical experience, but generally you will need: A bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, a bachelor's degree in engineering or a closely related field such as a degree in renewable energy management, electrical and electronics engineering, or power systems engineering, focusing on courses and projects related to renewable energy systems, power electronics, power systems, and electrical grid integration to gain specialized knowledge, seeking internships or co-op opportunities with renewable energy companies, utilities, or research institutions, joining professional organizations related to electrical engineering or renewable energy, such as IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) or organizations specifically focused on renewable energy technologies, pursuing a master's or Ph.D. in electrical engineering with a focus on renewable energy systems for more advanced and research-oriented career opportunities, obtaining a professional engineering license, or obtaining professional certifications related to renewable energy technologies or electrical engineering to enhance your credentials and expertise.

This one of the important renewable energy jobs and better paying renewable energy or otherwise green energy jobs. The average annual salary in the US for an Electrical Engineer specializing in renewable energy is $79,444.

4. Chemical Engineer (Petroleum and Natural Gas)  and 

A Chemical Engineer specializing in petroleum and natural gas focuses on the processes and technologies involved in the exploration, extraction, production, and refining of petroleum (crude oil) and natural gas resources. These engineers play a critical role in the energy industry, particularly in the development of efficient and sustainable methods for recovering hydrocarbons from underground reservoirs and processing them into valuable products.

Becoming a Chemical Engineer specializing in petroleum and natural gas involves a combination of education, training, and practical experience, but generally you will need: A bachelor's degree in chemical engineering, petroleum engineering, or a closely related field such as natural gas engineering, focusing on courses and projects related to petroleum and natural gas processing, reservoir engineering, and energy sustainability, seeking internships or cooperative education (co-op) opportunities with oil and gas companies, drilling contractors, or engineering consulting firms, pursuing a master's or Ph.D. in chemical engineering with a focus on petroleum and natural gas engineering for more advanced and research-oriented career opportunities, or obtaining professional certifications related to chemical engineering or the petroleum and natural gas industry to enhance your credentials and expertise. This is quite an important role in the energy sector, so no surprise that it is one of the best paying jobs in the energy industry.

The average annual salary in the US for an Chemical Engineer specializing in petroleum and natural gas is $81,973. 

5. Geoscientist (Oil and Gas) 

A Geoscientist in the oil and gas industry, often referred to as a petroleum geoscientist or geologist, is a professional who specializes in the exploration and production of oil and natural gas resources. These experts play a vital role in identifying and assessing underground reservoirs, understanding subsurface geological structures, and providing crucial data to guide drilling and extraction operations.

Becoming a Geoscientist specializing in the oil and gas industry involves a combination of education, training, and practical experience, but generally you will need: A bachelor's degree in geology, geophysics, or a closely related field with a focus on petroleum geology or geological engineering, taking courses related to petroleum geology, geophysics, sedimentology, and reservoir characterization to gain specialized knowledge, seeking internships or fieldwork opportunities with oil and gas companies, geological consulting firms, or research institutions, Joining professional organizations such as the American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG) or relevant regional geological societies, obtaining professional certifications related to geoscience or the oil and gas industry to enhance your credentials and expertise, or pursuing a master's or Ph.D. in geology or a related field for advanced and research-oriented career opportunities.

This is a job that is in high demand in the energy sector and as such is undoubtedly one of the best-paying jobs in energy. The average annual salary in the US for a Geoscientist specializing in oil and gas is $241,006. 

6. Wind Turbine Technician 

A Wind Turbine Technician, often referred to as a wind tech or Wind Turbine Service Technician, is a specialized professional responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of wind turbines and their associated equipment. They often work with a wind farm site manager and play a crucial role in the renewable energy sector, particularly in the wind energy industry, where wind turbines are used to generate electricity from wind power.

Becoming one involves a combination of education, training, and hands-on experience, but generally you will need: A high school diploma, at least a bachelor's degree in renewable energy, enrolling in a certificate program or an associate degree program in wind energy technology, electrical technology, or a related field, obtaining certifications related to safety and technical skills such as the GWO certification, seeking apprenticeships with wind energy companies, manufacturers, or service providers, or staying updated on advancements in wind turbine technology and safety practices by attending workshops, seminars, and continuing education courses.

The average annual salary in the US for a Wind Turbine Technician is $50,422. 

7. Solar Photovoltaic Installer 

A Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Installer, often referred to as a Solar Installer or Solar Energy Technician, is a skilled professional responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of solar energy systems in the field of renewable energy. These systems capture sunlight and convert it into electricity, making solar installers key players in the renewable energy industry. Solar PV installers play a critical role in the adoption of solar energy as a clean and renewable power source. They help homeowners, businesses, and organizations reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and lower their electricity costs while contributing to a more sustainable energy future.

Becoming one involves a combination of education, training, and hands-on experience, but generally you will need: enrolling in a relevant training program or certification course, acquiring necessary safety training and certifications, especially if you plan to work with electrical systems or on rooftops, obtaining industry-recognized certifications to demonstrate your skills and knowledge, gaining practical experience through on-the-job training or apprenticeships with experienced professionals or solar installation companies, staying updated on advancements in solar technology and installation practices through workshops, seminars, and continuing education courses, or looking for entry-level positions or apprenticeships with solar installation companies or contractors. These roles often provide training and hands-on experience.

This is one of the highest-paying jobs in renewable energy. The average annual salary in the US for a Solar Photovoltaic Installer is $78,666.

8. Power Plant Manager 

A Power Plant Manager, also known as a Plant Manager or power station manager, is a senior-level professional responsible for overseeing the operations, maintenance, and management of a power generation facility. These facilities can include various types of power plants, such as coal, natural gas, nuclear, hydroelectric, solar, wind, or biomass plants. Their primary goal is to ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable generation of electricity.

Becoming one typically requires a combination of education, experience, and leadership skills, but generally you will need: A bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, or a related discipline, working in entry-level positions like power plant operator, technician, or engineer, taking on roles of increasing responsibility like shift supervisor, operations manager, or maintenance manager within a power plant, enhancing your technical knowledge and expertise in power plant operations, maintenance, and safety protocols, pursuing advanced degrees, such as a master's in engineering, business administration, or a related field, if you aspire to work at larger power plants or in more strategic leadership roles, or pursuing certifications relevant to your specialization or industry focus for example project management, energy management, or specific power plant technologies.

This is one of the highest-paying jobs in the energy sector. The average annual salary in the US for a Power Plant Manager is $152,222.

9. Energy Storage Engineer 

An Energy Storage Engineer is a professional who specializes in the design, development, implementation, and maintenance of energy storage systems. These systems are critical components of the modern energy landscape, helping to address challenges related to renewable energy integration, grid stability, energy management, and the efficient use of electricity. These specialized professionals play a critical role in the transition to a more sustainable and resilient energy infrastructure. They help enhance the stability of power grids, enable the effective use of intermittent renewable energy sources, and provide backup power during outages. Additionally, they contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by facilitating the efficient storage and utilization of clean energy.

Becoming an Energy Storage Engineer involves a combination of education, practical experience, and a commitment to staying updated on the latest advancements in energy storage technologies, but generally you will need: A bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, materials science, or a closely related discipline, focusing on energy storage technologies and systems by taking relevant courses, participating in research projects, or selecting a concentration if your program offers one, seeking internships or research opportunities with organizations, research institutions, or companies involved in energy storage projects, pursuing a master's or Ph.D. in a related field if you wish to specialize further or engage in advanced research related to energy storage, attending workshops, seminars, conferences, and webinars focused on energy storage engineering, renewable energy, and related topics, or exploring any certifications that may be relevant to energy storage technologies or renewable energy. Engineers in the energy sector are in high demand, so this is one of the highest paying jobs in the energy sector.

The average annual salary in the US for an Energy Storage Engineer is $103,556. 

10. Environmental Scientist (Energy Sector) 

An Environmental Scientist in the energy sector is a professional who specializes in studying and addressing the environmental impacts of energy production, distribution, and consumption. Their work involves assessing the environmental consequences of energy-related activities, developing strategies to minimize negative impacts, and promoting sustainable energy practices and play a crucial role in ensuring that energy production and use align with environmental protection and sustainability goals. They work for a variety of organizations, including energy companies, environmental consulting firms, government agencies, research institutions, and non-profit organizations.

To become an Environmental Scientist in the energy sector, you'll need to follow a path that combines education, experience, and specialization in environmental science and energy-related topics, but generally you will need: A bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as environmental science, environmental engineering, biology, chemistry, or a closely related discipline, focusing on energy-related topics or environmental science subjects that are relevant to the energy sector during your undergraduate studies, seeking internships, co-op programs, or research opportunities with organizations, research institutions, or companies involved in environmental science and energy projects, pursuing a master's or Ph.D. in a related field to specialize further, conduct advanced research, or pursue leadership roles, exploring certifications relevant to environmental science, energy, or sustainability, or considering specializing in areas such as environmental impact assessments for energy projects, renewable energy development, pollution control, sustainability analysis, or environmental monitoring in the energy sector. This is one of the highest paying energy jobs in the energy sector.

The average annual salary in the US for an Environmental Scientist in the energy sector is $108,756. 

Conclusion  

The renewable and traditional energy sectors are constantly fluxing and changing according to regulations and consumer demand, so many new job opportunities are coming onstream for those already in it, or those looking to break into it. Ultimately, the choice between a career in renewable energy and the traditional energy sector depends on your interests, values, and career goals. Some individuals may find fulfillment in working exclusively in one sector, while others may seek to leverage their skills and experience to contribute to a more balanced energy future that includes both renewable and traditional sources. 

With so many jobs and career opportunities on offer in the traditional and renewable energy sector, it makes sense for those showing interest to make plans to gain the necessary expertise and/or qualifications required to excel and pursue a career in energy with vocations that are the highest paying jobs in energy.

To stand out from the growing crowd it is advisable for you to pursue a BBA or better still an MBA at a reputable university such as Nexford.

FAQs

Is energy a good career path? 

Energy is a diverse and dynamic field with numerous career opportunities, and whether it's a good career path for you depends on your interests, skills, and goals. Jobs in renewable energy can be lucrative professionals in the energy industry and here are some factors to consider when evaluating a career in it: The demand for energy is constant, making working in the energy sector relatively stable compared to some other industries. This stability can provide job security.

The energy industry is continually evolving, with ongoing advancements in technology and innovation. This offers opportunities for professionals to work on cutting-edge projects. The energy sector offers a wide range of career paths, including engineering, environmental science, policy and regulation, finance, project management, and research and development. Energy professionals often earn competitive salaries, particularly in specialized roles like petroleum engineers, nuclear engineers, or renewable energy project managers. And, very importantly, energy is a global industry, and professionals may have the chance to work on international projects and gain a global perspective.

What is the future of energy?

The future of energy is expected to be characterized by significant transformations driven by several key trends and developments from the department of energy such as the well documented transition to clean energy. These trends are driven by the need to address climate change, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase energy efficiency, and transition to more sustainable and clean energy sources.

The future of energy is marked by a transition from fossil fuels to cleaner, more sustainable, and decentralized energy systems. While significant progress has been made, challenges remain, including the need for investment in infrastructure, overcoming technical barriers, and addressing socioeconomic impacts of the transition. Collaboration between governments, industries, and communities will be essential to achieve a sustainable energy future. The best paying energy jobs are out there, you just need to constantly have a finger on the pulse and be prepared to possibly work for renewable energy companies.

What is the fastest growing job in the energy field?

As the energy field evolves to meet the demands of a changing world focused on sustainability and renewable resources, several job categories are experiencing significant growth. While it's challenging to pinpoint the single fastest-growing job in the energy sector, several roles are particularly promising due to the expansion of renewable energy, energy efficiency initiatives, and the need to address climate change.

Whilst it is virtually impossible to put your finger on one as market dynamics vary from country to country, some of the fastest-growing jobs in the energy field include: Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Installers, Wind Turbine Service Technicians, Electricians and Electrical Engineers (Renewable Energy), Energy Efficiency Consultants, Environmental Scientists (Energy Sector), Battery Storage Technicians and Engineers, and Geoscientists (Oil and Gas Transition). Note this is not an exhaustive list.

Does the energy industry pay well?

The pay in the energy industry varies widely depending on several factors, including the specific job role, location, level of education and experience, the sector within the energy industry, and the demand for particular skills. Generally, the energy industry offers competitive salaries, and many positions in this field pay well.

Overall, the energy industry offers a range of job opportunities with competitive compensation packages. It's essential to research and consider the specific role, location, and your qualifications when evaluating salary expectations. Additionally, the industry is continually evolving, with a growing emphasis on sustainability and renewable energy, which can create new career opportunities with competitive pay.

Do I need a degree to work in an energy job?

Whether or not you need a degree to work in an energy job depends on the specific role and the requirements of the employer, but a degree can help to land the best-paying jobs in the energy industry. The energy industry encompasses a wide range of job opportunities, and educational requirements can vary significantly. Here are some key points to consider:  Many technical and engineering positions in the energy sector typically require a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Some specialized or leadership roles may require advanced degrees, such as a master's or Ph.D. For instance, energy analysts, researchers, and certain management positions may prefer or require graduate-level education.

In the renewable energy sector, positions like solar PV installer or wind turbine technician may not always require a degree, but they often require specialized training and certification. Certain energy jobs, such as electricians, HVAC technicians, and maintenance personnel, may require technical training and certification from vocational or trade schools rather than a traditional degree. And, in some cases, relevant work experience and industry certifications can be a substitute or complement to formal education. For example, obtaining certification as a Certified Energy Manager (CEM) can be valuable in energy management roles.

How can I progress in my energy career? 

Progressing in your energy career involves a combination of strategic planning, skill development, networking, and continuous learning, but generally you will need to: Define your career goals in the energy sector. Determine the type of role you aspire to, whether it's in renewable energy, engineering, management, policy, or another area. Consider pursuing further education or training to enhance your qualifications. This might include earning a master's degree, obtaining relevant certifications (e.g., Certified Energy Manager, LEED. Identify the skills and competencies required for your desired role.

Invest time in developing these skills, whether they are technical (e.g., data analysis, engineering), soft skills (e.g., leadership, communication), or industry-specific (e.g., knowledge of renewable energy technologies). certification), or attending workshops and courses in specialized areas. Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and policy changes by participating in continuing education opportunities. Attend webinars, read industry publications, and enroll in online courses, or, utilize professional networking platforms like LinkedIn to connect with industry professionals, join relevant groups, and share your expertise.

With so many jobs and career opportunities on offer in the traditional and renewable energy sector, it makes sense for those showing interest to make plans to gain the necessary expertise and/or qualifications required to excel and pursue a career in energy with vocations that are the highest paying jobs in energy.

To stand out from the growing crowd it is advisable for you to pursue a BBA or better still an MBA at a reputable university such as Nexford.