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.
For those with a high school diploma or less, the energy industry offers an abundance of entry-level careers, including roustabouts, wellhead pumpers, riggers, solar thermal installers, and explosives workers.
Careers that require more preparation—either on-the-job training, apprenticeship or certification—include industrial machinery mechanics, power plant operators, powerhouse electricians, wind turbine service technicians, and electrical power-line installers and repairers.
There are also in-demand energy careers that require a bachelor's or advanced degree, such as petroleum technicians, engineers, energy brokers, geoscientists, and power plant managers.
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.
Is a career in the energy industry for you? Keep these points in mind:
- Long hours are common and the work can be physically demanding and require safety gear and precautions.
- Many workers are exposed to extreme weather conditions.
- In the oil and gas sector, job sites may be at off-shore drilling rigs but most jobs are located in western states, chiefly Texas, Colorado, Utah, and North Dakota.
- Renewable energy sector growth offers opportunities for entrepreneurs and inventors to create new products and services.
- Cybersecurity positions will become increasingly important to protect the power grid.