Is renewable energy a good career path?
09 Apr 2025
The UK's Low-Carbon and Renewable Energy Economy (LCREE) has grown rapidly in recent years as the focus on long-term sustainable energy sources continues to intensify.
But is the energy sector a good career path for the coming years? In short, the answer is yes. We'll break down the reasons why below.
As of 2022, the Office for National Statistics reported employment in LCREE jobs at its highest level on record, up by 8% year-on-year to 272,400 full-time equivalents.
This growth is likely to continue for many years. The Local Government Association predicts that the LCREE could employ 694,000 people by 2030 and almost double again to 1.18 million by 2050.
What fields does renewable energy include?
Like every industry, renewables is made up of several job fields including:
- Onshore wind
- Offshore wind
- Solar/PV
- Hydropower (tidal/wave)
- Bioenergy/biomass
- Nuclear power
- Other renewables
Of course, there are other fields out there in renewables; these are just the most common and are applied for sectors with First Recruitment Group.
Is the renewable energy sector a good career path?
The renewable energy sector is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the world right now. With a very high demand for talent and a growing number of roles, partnered with high salary potential and good job security, it is a good, if not a great, career path to join.
Of course, money isn't the only factor making a job feel rewarding or not. Your working life in renewable energy can be incredibly fulfilling, where you'll take pride and feel a sense of purpose contributing towards making the planet greener.
Right now, the industry is in its infancy. Existing technologies are mature, and substantial infrastructure is in place, but it continues to innovate at a rapid pace, with roles growing each and every year.
All of this translates into a wealth of opportunities for professional growth, ways to sharpen your skills and position yourself for promotions as the industry continues to evolve.
How do I start a career in renewable energy?
A diverse and quickly growing sector opens many doors to joining the renewable energy workforce.
There are many ways to start a career in renewable energy, two being university and apprenticeships.
1. University
Often known and thought of as the traditional path to a career in energy is obtaining a university degree in a relevant field like engineering or chemistry - especially if you have a 1:1, 2:1 bachelor's, or master's degree.
If you have not completed university, there are online courses and certifications you can obtain to demonstrate your capability, without the time and financial commitment of a full-time degree programme.
2. Apprenticeships
The renewable energy sector is an excellent career path for vocational candidates, with apprenticeships to help you gain relevant skills in a hands-on way.
If you prefer to learn 'on the job', apprenticeships enable you to do so. In many cases, apprentices are offered a permanent position upon completion, allowing them to transition into full-time employment without any delay as their apprenticeship comes to an end.
What skills are needed for a career in renewables?
1. Technical skills
One of the most common requirements is an understanding of the industry you're going into; for example, if you're starting a career in wind power engineer, it would be expected you have an understanding of how it works.
Other required technical skills might include data analysis, project management, system management, and hands-on installation or maintenance experience.
2. Essential skills
Many roles require a university degree or equivalent in mechanical, electrical or environmental engineering. Vocational qualifications are often acceptable, too.
This could include professional certification from a recognised industry body like the Renewable Energy Institute or the Global Wind Organisation.
3. Soft skills
Transferable skills can strengthen your application for almost any job. In renewable energy roles, employers often seek solutions-oriented candidates with good problem-solving, communication and adaptability skills. Alongside these, applicants with proven leadership or management skills are also valued highly.
What could a career in renewable energy look like?
A 40-year career in renewable energy is hard to predict, as the UK's energy landscape is changing quickly. There are still some big questions to answer, such as nuclear power's role in the UK's future energy mix, and practical problems with renewable energy storage and carbon capture.
Here are some early milestones you might expect to reach and how they might look depending on the specifics of your role:
1. First job (0 years)
At the start of your career, you'll be in entry-level roles such as a renewable energy technician, junior engineer, project coordinator, renewable energy sales agent (£28,000–£56,000), or renewable energy consultant (£32,000–£60,000).
Your responsibilities focus on supporting tasks like installing and maintaining renewable systems, performing site surveys, analysing performance data, and assisting with documentation.
At this stage, you're building a foundation for your career, gaining essential technical skills, learning industry standards, and gaining hands-on experience under the guidance of senior colleagues.
2. Second job (5 years)
By around the five-year mark, you'll likely have transitioned into mid-level roles such as a senior engineer, project manager, or renewable energy consultant (£38,000–£65,000).
In these roles, you might lead small projects or play a key role in larger initiatives, designing and optimising energy systems, managing budgets and timelines, and conducting feasibility studies.
As your expertise grows, so does your ability to lead teams and collaborate across functions. At this stage, you'll likely split your time between fieldwork and office-based design or planning.
3. Third job (10 years)
With 5–10 years' experience, you may reach senior management roles such as a renewable energy project manager (£45,000–£80,000). Here, your leadership and technical expertise are tested as you manage large-scale projects or head strategic initiatives. The highest salaries in the sector reflect your proven capability, but promotions often require years of solid industry experience.
Is a career in renewable energy right for me?
A career in renewable energy offers significant advantages, including high demand, competitive salaries, long-term job security, and the deeply rewarding experience of contributing towards a sustainable and environmentally friendly future.
However, the decision ultimately depends on your interests, values, and career aspirations. If you're passionate about sustainability, enjoy problem-solving, and are eager to work in a field that combines cutting-edge technology with a mission-driven purpose, renewables will be an excellent fit.
To find out more about whether the renewable energy sector is a good career path for you, contact First Recruitment Group today and we can discuss whether your skills are a good match for the industry.
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