Career Pathways in Renewable Energy

The renewable energy sector is bright and promising. This sector which includes solar, wind, hydropower, biofuels and more, is aimed at moving away from carbon-intensive energy systems. These are generated using fossil fuels and produce more CO2 emissions. Not only is renewable energy less carbon intensive, it is more sustainable in the long term which indicates its critical role in ensuring the transition to clean energy.

Globally, there have been positive policy developments in the European Union, the United States, China and India, among others, which is thought to drive faster renewables growth in the years to come. With demand for renewable energy on the rise both globally and nationally, several careers can be pursued in the renewable energy sector.

Here is a small selection of resources you should know if you are interested in exploring a career pathway in renewable energy.

Clean Energy Council’s Clean Energy Careers Guide

The peak body for renewable energy in Australia represents and works with businesses operating in solar, wind, energy efficiency, hydro, bioenergy, energy storage, geothermal and marine. 

Their Careers Guide provides a snapshot of roles and careers within the Australian clean energy sector across wind, solar, hydro and batteries. The guide shares where the demand for skills is, where gaps exist, and provides insights into emerging career opportunities.

For more information, visit the Clean Energy Council’s Clean Energy Careers Guide

Community Power Agency’s Energy Hub

Community Power Agency (CPA) is a non-profit organisation that enables and advocates for community energy as well as provides expert advice and support for the development of community energy.  

Their Energy Hub provides several resources and information on employment pathways programs.

For more information, visit the CPA’s Energy Hub.

Queensland’s Future Energy Jobs Guide

The Queensland Government has produced a great resource to help individuals kickstart a career in renewable energy, offering pointers and tips on jobs, skills and training requirements. Several job categories key to Queensland’s renewable energy future are also identified.

For more information, visit Queensland Government’s Future Energy Job Guide.

Pathway for First Nations Australians

The First Nations Clean Energy Network Clean Energy Job Pathways Initiative aims to identify clear pathways for jobs and careers for First Nations Australians. The project which began in 2023 is expected to be completed in 2024.

For more information, visit the Clean Energy Jobs Pathway Initiative.

Clean energy career stories that inspire

We have found several unique stories of individuals, working in the renewable energy sector, who are happy to share their perspectives and career lessons learned along the way.

Oliver Coleman studied for a Bachelor of Engineering (Environmental) at the University of Newcastle and journeyed from fossil fuels to renewables. He shared his story as a University of Newcastle alumni in Pathways to careers in wind and solar.

E-learning provider, myfuture, also offers several clean energy career stories.

In conclusion, remember that the growth and development within the renewable energy sector signals that skills are required across several disciplines. So, while we do need solar panel installers, electrical engineers and specialised technical roles, we also need a range of supporting roles. This means a diverse range of careers in finance, IT, human resources, procurement, law, customer service, communication and much more are required.

Resolute Training offers industry-leading training for the real world. We offer courses to support those who are keen to work in the renewable energy sector including courses in PV systems, battery storage, power systems, and a Certificate IV in Electrical (Renewable Energy). 

Employers who are getting started in renewable energy can visit our Getting started in renewable energy for more information.