The Best Paying Jobs in Energy in 2021: An Overview

The world runs on energy. From the energy required to power computers, vehicles and lights to the energy that keeps people alive via healthcare equipment, energy is a requirement in our modern world. For those looking to pursue a career in this important sector, we’ve compiled the best paying job in energy.

Before we dive into the different job opportunities, let’s review the basics of the field and what type of education is typically required.

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A Look at Energy Careers

When choosing to work in energy, there are many industries that require energy professionals. For example, you can choose to work in oil, wind, solar, gas, and the like. From the gas industry to the petroleum sectors, these areas of expertise boast highly lucrative jobs.

As society’s progress, the world has witnessed the increasing need and desire for sustainable energy. This has created more jobs within the field of energy as renewable energy sources gain popularity.

Typical Educational Requirements for Energy Careers

Depending on the role you want, the required education will vary. However, most professionals in the energy industry will have to have at least a bachelor’s degree, if not graduate degrees, in one of the following fields or a related subject:

• Engineering
• Information Technology or Computer Science 
• Science
• Math

Best Paying Jobs in Energy

Let’s take a look at some of the best paying jobs in energy and what they entail.

Wind Farm Site Manager

Wind farm site managers oversee wind energy harvesting at a wind farm site. In order to fulfill this role successfully, a wind farm site manager must have deep knowledge about wind turbines and related technology. Since they serve as a manager, they must also possess strong communication and leadership skills. According to Ziprecruiter, the average nationwide salary for this position is $58,680 annually, with a range of $20,500 to $119,500.

Financial Analyst at an Energy Company

Renewable energy companies hire financial analysts to plan for their financial future. Financial analysts provide insights and advice on strategy and direction so that business leaders can make the best business decisions. Based on data from Payscale, a financial analyst earns an average salary of $61,996 per year.

Solar Project Developer

Solar energy is growing in its popularity. Solar project developers plan, build, and upkeep solar farms and/or solar installations. Not only do they locate the best sites for such developments, but they also manage the construction of the site. For this reason, they have to have a firm grasp on solar energy, as well as construction and project management. Ziprecruiter reports that the average salary for this role is $83,980 annually.

Petroleum Engineer

A petroleum engineer works within the oil and gas industry to find petroleum resources. They are tasked with extracting and refining the oil and gas repositories. As a petroleum engineer, you can either expect to work within an office setting or on-site. In most cases, you’ll need at least a bachelor’s degree in the subject to find a job. This is one of the highest paying jobs in the field of energy. According to Payscale, the average annual salary is $100,918. 

Chemical Engineer

Chemical engineers aid in advancing energy and are often time changemakers in the industry as they find new sources of sustainable energy. They apply their knowledge of chemistry, biology, math, and physics to solve problems concerning fuel. Depending where they work, they may run tests and perform research within manufacturing, establish safety procedures, troubleshoot issues, and design equipment, to name a few responsibilities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, chemical engineers earn an average of $108,540. 

Civil Engineer

Civil engineers assist energy and electricity companies in planning power plants and constructing them. From designing and constructing highways to energy grids, civil engineers play a crucial role in this sector. To work in an entry level position, you’ll need to earn a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. If you want to earn more money and hold higher positions, a master’s degree will be required. On average, civil engineers earn an annual salary of $67,775, per Payscale.

Information Systems Manager

Information systems managers apply their understanding of technology and software within the field of energy to achieve efficiency. They work alongside engineers and experts to reduce energy consumption and find alternative ways to access energy optimally. On a daily basis, they are responsible for maintaining computer systems and networks, including: uploading software, improving databases, and upholding security. Glassdoor reports the average salary to be $100,871 per year, but that figure can go upwards of $160,000 for the top 10% within the field.

Materials Engineer

Materials engineers create materials like ceramics, metals, and plastics to be used by the energy sector. They may create glass or ceramics for solar panels or plastics for energy storage, for example. They do so by creating and studying materials on an atomic level. To accomplish this, they leverage computers so that they can model materials. Payscale shares that materials engineers can expect to earn an average salary of $77,850 annually.

Scientific Researcher

Scientific researchers work for private research companies to perform research and provide information. For example, the solar sector employs scientific researchers to create efficient cells. The average salary of a scientific researcher will depend on level of experience, as well as employer and location. However, Indeed reports that the average base salary for this position is $102,105 per year.

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Final Thoughts

Based on the U.S. Energy Employment Report, the energy sector did face lost jobs due to the pandemic in 2020; however, it is quickly rebounding. For example, there was an 8% increase in jobs within the electric vehicle sector, a 2% increase in jobs within wind generation, and a 1% increase in battery storage jobs, per the source. Overall, employers in this sector reported that there will be an increase in job growth moving forward.

The list above includes some of the best paying jobs in energy, but it is by no means an entirely complete list. If you have a desire to work within this field, there are countless opportunities to pursue based on your interests, skills, and goals.