Renewable Energy Careers

Renewable energy is defined as a clean and unlimited source of power or fuel. This energy is harnessed from different sources such as wind, sunlight (solar), water (hydro), organic matter (biomass), and the earth's internal heat (geothermal). Unlike nonrenewable energy sources like oil, natural gas, or coal, or nuclear energy, renewable energy is not based on extracting a limited resource.

The renewable energy industry is actually a vast group of sub-industries that offer employment opportunities for people with many different educational backgrounds. Engineers, scientists, architects, farmers, technicians, operators, mechanics, lawyers, businesspeople, sales workers, human resource and public affairs specialists, as well as a host of administrative support workers make their living by researching, developing, installing, and promoting renewable energy. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory estimates that renewable energy industries will provide at least 300,000 new jobs for American workers in the next two decades.

Salary Range

Below $25,000 to $100,000+

Minimum Education Level

High School Diploma

Certification/License

Required

Outlook

Faster than the Average

Personality Traits

Problem-Solving

Social

Technical

Career Ladder

Manager or Consultant

Experienced Renewable Energy Worker

Entry-Level Renewable Energy Worker