Careers in the Energy and Natural Resources Cluster relate to extracting or harnessing power from a variety of sources, refining it, then distributing it safely to homes and businesses.
Whether you’re passionate about meeting current energy needs, preserving natural resources, or developing a more sustainable energy future, there are opportunities for you in this cluster.
Roles vary from outdoor fieldwork to lab research or corporate leadership, but some core skills are needed for many jobs in this cluster.
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 valuable, as are equipment maintenance and physical stamina.
For those with a high school diploma or less, the cluster offers an abundance of entry-level careers, including power plant operators, roustabouts, derrick operators, earth drillers, solar panel installers, and forest and conservation workers.
Careers that require more preparation, such as on-the-job training, apprenticeship, certification or an associate’s degree, include wind turbine technicians, hydrologic technicians, forest fire inspectors, wastewater treatment plant operators, conservation technicians, and energy auditors.
Careers that require a bachelor’s degree include geological technicians, energy engineers, environmental scientists, sustainability specialists, foresters, conservation scientists, and remote sensing technologists.
Advanced degrees are often required to work as geoscientists, environmental economists, climate change policy analysts, and environmental restoration planners.
Is a career in Energy and Natural Resources for you? Keep these points in mind:
- The energy sector is an essential industry, making job stability likely.
- Wind turbine technicians and solar system installers are two of the fastest-growing jobs in the U.S.
- While renewable energy and sustainability-related careers are growing overall, energy markets and environmental policies have an impact on job demand.
- Outdoor work and safety risks are part of a number of careers in the cluster, including mining, utility work, oil and gas extraction, and energy plant operations.
- If you like being on the leading edge, technological advancement is a major focus of careers in clean energy and resource conservation.
Whatever your career direction, you can find options that fit. Keep exploring at CareerOneStop.org/ExploreCareers
