Energy career cluster | Explore Careers

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Energy career cluster

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. With vast supplies of natural resources and ever-improving technologies, the United States is a global leader in the production of energy.

What makes up the energy industry?

Non-renewable energy sources include oil and natural gas, nuclear, and coal.

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.

Renewable energy sources include solar, wind, hydroelectric, and biomass.

Experts predict increasing shifts to “green” energy in the coming decades to meet ever-growing demand.
Technology advances will make renewables more cost effective.

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

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Quick facts

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.

Where the oil is

In the oil and gas sector, job sites may be at offshore drilling rigs, but most jobs are located in western states, chiefly Texas, Colorado, Utah, and North Dakota.

Is a career in energy 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 hoursare common and many workers are exposed to extreme weather conditions.
The work canbe physically demanding and require safety gear and precautions.
Renewableenergy sector growth offers opportunities for entrepreneurs and inventorsto create new products and services.
Cybersecuritypositions 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 education

Electricians

Power distributors and dispatchers

Roustabouts

Solar photovoltaic installers

Wellhead pumpers

Short-term training, apprenticeship, on the job learning or specific license

Electrical power-line installers and repairers

Industrial machinery mechanics

Power plant operators

Wind turbine service technicians

More advanced training or bachelor’s degree