How to Start a Career in the Renewable Energy Sector

As people are becoming more innovative about ways to protect the environment, the renewable energy industry has grown exponentially.

Starting a career in the renewable energy sector could help you become one of the numerous change-makers in the world today. But how does one go about entering the industry as a newbie? Although it can seem like a mammoth task at first, it’s not that different from how you’d approach joining any other sector.

how to start a career in renewable energy

1. Get Acquainted With Your Choices

The renewable energy sector is a fast-growing industry. This means you won’t be short on job options should you decide to get into it. In terms of salary, renewable energy jobs are some of the best paying jobs in the world, with a general salary range of anywhere between USD$20,000 and USD$100, 000. The more years of experience you have, the better you’re likely to be paid. If your job is more technically intensive, then your potential salary may be bumped up as well.

One mistake you might make, however, is to only look into the few job types you hear about most often and not spend enough time thinking about the other choices available to you. As with any big decisions, you’ll need to know all the options on the ground. Research each one and find out which matches your interests and passion.

Here’s a list of some of the job categories you’re going to be choosing from:

  • Commercial and business
  • Finance
  • Construction
  • Law
  • Maintenance
  • Information technology
  • Skilled trades
  • Management

You can even choose to specialise in offshore renewable energy, solar power, wind, hydropower, biomass, geothermal etc.

2. Be Passionate

Now it would be wrong to hop into the renewable energy industry only because it has gained immense popularity. It does look like this sector is here to stay, but you’ll have to be on fire for your job for the rest of your career. You should also prevent yourself from burning out too soon.

One way to do so is to ensure that you genuinely like and are greatly interested in the career path you’re about to choose. Do you truly want to make a significant change and create innovative renewable energy solutions? Your answer to this question would dictate the next steps you’re going to take.

Every job choice has its upsides and downsides. In times when it’s not so rosy to occupy whichever office you might end up occupying, what will carry you through is your passion. You’ll need this to be creative and productive once you get into the industry.

3. Get In Touch With Industry Specialists

You’ve probably already looked at various job sites to get a working idea of what will be required of you in the job you want, what it will take for you to land the job, and what you’ll be paid. That’s a good start.

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But once you’re sure that you want to take it further, you’ll have to find a specialist in the renewable energy sector of your choice to get specific insights into what you’re looking for. You don’t want to be overwhelmed by something you hadn’t expected to be part of the career, or to find out there could’ve been a quicker route to your destination after you’ve spent so much time working toward it. The industry specialist can give you information that will allow you to assess whether you’ll be able to handle the job you want.

4. Research About Any Required Training

There’s no reason to stop yourself from applying for a job just because your skills don’t exactly match what the employer is asking for. In most instances, employers with certain preliminary requirements will offer support in the form of on-the-job training, so be sure to look into this matter before you hold off applying.

While you wait for your dream job in the renewable energy sector, it’s advisable to find an internship or apprenticeship position so you can get much-needed experience. In doing so, once the right job vacancy finally shows up, you’ll be ready for it.

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5. Do Some Networking

After you’ve done everything else, go out and meet industry leaders, and stay informed on any new developments or updates. This doesn’t even require you to leave the house, at least not initially. You can turn to platforms such as LinkedIn to connect with individuals who might help you get to your goal. Your next employer might just be one brave move away, so take the initiative and get to networking.

Conclusion

Getting started in renewable energy sector isn’t as hard as it seems. You can get that job you’ve always wanted in the industry if you clarify to yourself that you indeed want that particular option. Once you have that out of the way, it’ll be easier for you to come up with a strategy on how to build your credentials and prepare yourself until you can land your desired position.

About Salman Zafar

Salman Zafar is the CEO of BioEnergy Consult, and an international consultant, advisor and trainer with expertise in waste management, biomass energy, waste-to-energy, environment protection and resource conservation. His geographical areas of focus include Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Salman has successfully accomplished a wide range of projects in the areas of biogas technology, biomass energy, waste-to-energy, recycling and waste management. Salman has participated in numerous national and international conferences all over the world. He is a prolific environmental journalist, and has authored more than 300 articles in reputed journals, magazines and websites. In addition, he is proactively engaged in creating mass awareness on renewable energy, waste management and environmental sustainability through his blogs and portals. Salman can be reached at salman@bioenergyconsult.com or salman@cleantechloops.com.
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One Response to How to Start a Career in the Renewable Energy Sector

  1. Pingback: 5 Tips for Launching a Green Career | BioEnergy Consult

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