With an ever-increasing demand for renewable energy, the need for Renewable Energy Engineers has never been more important. It’s also a fantastic career with plenty of benefits and opportunities!
Renewable Energy Engineers have the responsibility to work on the production of energy from both renewable and sustainable sources, including wind, marine, solar and hydro power, and identify ways to minimise environmental impact and new eco-friendly and financially sustainable sources of energy.
Just some of the many benefits that being a Renewable Energy Engineer brings includes freedom, responsibilities, career prospects, the ability to learn and, of course, making a difference for a more sustainable future.
If you’re tempted by the idea of a career as a Renewable Energy Engineer, keep on reading to find out what to expect and how to get into the career.
What to Expect as A Renewable Energy Engineer
With a wide range of roles available working for an energy company, pursuing a career in any energy specialism can be hugely rewarding. For those already working in the sector, your transferable skills will help you make a smooth transition into other specialist areas such as renewable energy where jobs are increasing as the move to greener and more sustainable energy sources continue to grow.
Job Description
The job description of a Renewable Energy Engineer will, of course, vary depending on unique responsibilities. However, the general job description includes:
- Identifying technical and economic aspects of new renewable energy sites
- Producing detailed designs and energy production estimates using computer modelling software
- Liaising with energy providers and other professionals
- Carrying out site and ground condition inspections
- Preparing project plans and cost estimates
- Creating ongoing technical reports
- Ensuring compliance with environmental laws
- Testing equipment and processes to ensure they are suitable for wide-scale use
Job Conditions
As a renewable energy engineer, you would usually operate from an office, laboratory or on-site. Working hours are typically 40 hours per week but can differ with the possibility of working overseas.
When visiting sites, you will need to wear protective clothing, including overalls, a hard hat and safety boots.
Renewable Energy Engineer Salary
Similar to any other industry, the salaries will massively differ depending on location, demands, experience and the organisation you work for.
The average starting salary is anywhere between £20,000 and £30,000, while more experienced Renewable Energy Engineers can earn around £45,000. Those of a senior level can even earn around £65,000 or more.
How to Become a Renewable Energy Engineer
In order to become a Renewable Energy Engineer, you’ll need to obtain a relevant degree, preferably with a placement year, although this isn’t always required. Your degree will need to be in the subject of engineering or science, for example; environmental engineering, renewable energy, or earth sciences. Other options include a degree apprenticeship or postgraduate qualification.
Required Skills
The required skills of a Renewable Energy Engineer generally include the ability to manage projects with varied deadlines, work as part of a team, work independently, and fluently explain technical and complex data.
Alongside this, you should have fantastic analytic skills, problem-solving skills, attention to detail, communication skills and technical skills. Of course, an interest in the environment is crucial!
Whilst it is not essential, experience in energy storage, microgrid, hydrogen, VPP, DSR or diesel generators would be highly advantageous.
It’s also preferred that you have a minimum of 2-3 years of experience working with renewable energy projects, but this will differ depending on the role.
Become a Renewable Energy Engineer
If you’re interested in a role such as this, you can take a look at our Renewable Energy Engineer jobs. As the world moves to cleaner and greener energy sources, the continuing investment in major energy projects is creating more new jobs.
This is great news for those looking to work for energy companies and develop their careers in the energy sector. But equally for those who are already in the industry, there are plenty of opportunities to use your transferable skills to move into other sectors such as renewables, solar energy or wind turbines. It’s an exciting time to be part of an industry that is so key to all our futures.
Looking for a new job? Check out the latest energy vacancies here.
