Renewable Energy Careers

Wind and solar power technicians rank among the most-popular and fastest-growing careers in the clean energy sector. Wind turbine service technicians earnings that ranged from $49,110 to $88,090 or more in 2024, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). Earnings for solar photovoltaic installers ranged from $39,070 to $80,150 or more.

The Association of Energy Engineers conducted a survey of its members (which include engineers, executives, educators, and others in the energy field) in 2024. It found that 62 percent of its members earned between $100,000 and $199,999. Salaries ranged from $10,000 to $300,000 or more.

Mechanics who worked as electrical and electronics repairers of commercial and industrial equipment had a median salary of $71,300 in May 2024, according to the DOL. Geoscientists earned a median salary of $99,240, hydrologists earned $92,060, and geological technicians earned $48,390 per year. Farmers and agricultural managers' salaries vary due to weather conditions and other factors that affect crop production. Agricultural managers had a median salary of $87,980 per year.

Hydroelectric plant technicians employed in the United States earned an average base salary of $54,973 in November 2024, according to ZipRecruiter.com. Salaries ranged from $21,500 to $115,000 or more.

Annual salaries for nontechnical workers vary according to the position, type and size of the employer, and job responsibilities. The DOL reported that human resources managers had a median salary of $140,030 in May 2024. Architects received median salaries of $96,690, and lawyers earned $151,160 per year. Sales managers earned $138,060 per year. Administrative services managers earned $108,390 per year. Secretaries and administrative assistants earned salaries that ranged from $33,840 to $76,550 or more. Administrative workers employed by nonprofit organizations tend to earn slightly less than their corporate counterparts.

Most employees receive a standard benefits package including medical insurance, paid vacation and sick days, and a retirement savings program.