Posted by Among the myriad of career paths available in energy, we are going to be listing the best-paying jobs in energy worldwide. These roles/jobs, spread across traditional and renewable energy sources, offer not just attractive remuneration, but also the chance to contribute to a sustainable future.
Stay tuned as we delve into these lucrative roles, exploring their responsibilities, required qualifications, and of course, their earning potential. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a fresh graduate, there’s a high-paying energy job waiting for you. Let’s discover them together!
Table of Contents
General Skills and Qualifications for High-Paying Energy Jobs
Below is a list of some of the skills and qualifications of high-paying energy jobs:
- Technical or safety-related certifications
- Vocational or Apprenticeships
- A degree (either in Petroleum/Oil and Gas Engineering or in a similar field)
- Masters level qualification (mostly in the sciences or engineering)
- Doctorate (typically in science or engineering)
Criteria for Selecting the Best-Paying Jobs in Energy Worldwide
When selecting the 25 best-paying jobs in the energy sector for the article, we consider several criteria:
1. Salary: Included jobs that offer high earning potential compared to industry standards. Consider both entry-level salaries and growth potential.
2. Demand: Focused on roles that are in high demand within the energy sector. Jobs with strong growth prospects are likely to offer better compensation.
3. Education and Skill Requirements: Included jobs that typically require specialized education, certifications, or skills. Higher education and technical expertise often correlate with higher salaries.
4. Career Advancement Opportunities: Included roles that offer clear paths for career progression and professional development. Jobs with opportunities for advancement tend to offer competitive salaries.
List of the 25 Best-Paying Jobs in Energy Worldwide
Below is a list of the 25 Best-Paying Jobs in Energy Worldwide:
- Geoscientist
- Solar Power Plant Operator
- Information Systems Manager
- Land Acquisition Specialist
- Material Scientist
- Chemist
- Architectural Manager
- Agricultural Engineer
- Petroleum Engineer
- Civil Engineer
- Nuclear Engineer
- Wind Energy Engineer
- Biochemical Engineer
- Environmental Engineer
- Power Plant Operator
- Electrical Engineer
- Mechanical Engineer
- Industrial Engineer
- Energy Analyst
- Energy Consultant
- Energy Auditor
- Energy Manager
- Energy Broker
- Energy Trader
- Energy Policy Analyst.
25 Best-Paying Jobs in Energy Worldwide
1. Geoscientist
- Average Salary: $87,480 per year
Geoscientists play a crucial role in the energy sector, making it one of the best-paying jobs in the industry worldwide. They study the earth’s many different facets, including its geological composition, processes, and history.
Their work often involves planning and conducting studies in the field, collecting samples, and analyzing these samples. They also use tools like aerial photographs or drilling records to help locate deposits of oil, precious gems, and other resources.
The demand for Geoscientists is expected to increase by 7% between 2020 and 2030, driven by growing demand for environmental resources and improvements in extraction technologies.
The job requirements for geoscientists are quite specific and require a solid educational background. Entry-level positions typically require a bachelor’s degree in geosciences, geology, physics, or a related field. However, to achieve a higher-paying position, a master’s degree or Ph.D. is often necessary, particularly for those seeking out research or teaching positions.
2. Solar Power Plant Operator
- Average Salary: $64,890 per year
The role of a Solar Power Plant Operator is indeed one of the best-paying jobs in the energy sector worldwide.
Solar Power Plant Operators are at the forefront of this transition, playing a crucial role in harnessing solar energy, one of the most abundant and sustainable energy sources on our planet.
Solar Power Plant Operators are responsible for the operation, repair, and maintenance of stationary engines, electrical generators, motors, and pumps that generate electrical power.
They ensure compliance with air quality permit conditions and read meters and gauges at specified intervals to verify operating conditions.
They also record data such as:
- Temperature of equipment
- Hours of operation
- Fuel consumed
- Temperature or pressure
- Water levels
- Voltage load
- Generator balance.
They also perform routine preventative and basic corrective maintenance by technical manual procedures.
3. Information Systems Manager
- Average Salary: $128,835 per year
The role of an Information Systems Manager is indeed one of the best-paying jobs in the energy sector worldwide.
An Information Systems Manager, also known as an IT manager, plays a crucial role in any organization, including those in the energy sector.
They are responsible for planning, coordinating, and directing all computer-related activities within an organization. This includes:
- Managing the IT department’s budget
- Hiring and training IT professionals
- Maintaining relationships with other department heads to determine their technology needs
- Researching new business technologies and IT software to strengthen the organization’s computer systems.
4. Land Acquisition Specialist
- Average Salary: $87,345 per year
A Land Acquisition Specialist is a key player in the energy sector, particularly in the renewable energy industry. This role is considered one of the best-paying jobs in the energy sector worldwide.
The primary responsibility of a Land Acquisition Specialist is to secure land for energy projects, such as wind farms or solar power plants. They work closely with landowners, local governments, and community organizations to gain support for proposed energy projects.
The job requirements for a Land Acquisition Specialist are quite specific and require a unique blend of skills and qualifications. A bachelor’s degree in business, real estate, or a related field is typically required.
5. Material Scientist
- Average Salary: $93,545 per year
Material Scientist is indeed one of the best-paying jobs in the energy sector worldwide. This profession plays a pivotal role in advancing technology and innovation across various sectors.
Their work spans from designing materials for specific applications, such as in electronics, aerospace, or medicine, to optimizing manufacturing processes for improved efficiency and sustainability.
The job requirements for a Material Scientist are quite extensive. A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in materials science or a related field is required. However, many research positions in academia, industry, and government laboratories may require an advanced degree.
6. Chemist
- Average Salary: $63,152 per year
Chemistry is a field that offers a wide array of career paths in various industries such as pharmaceuticals, healthcare, environmental science, materials science, forensics, and more. In the energy sector, chemists play a crucial role.
They develop new lubricants, fuels, and other usable products for the oil and gas industry. As the world shifts towards green energy, chemists are also paving the way to developing new biofuels that lower our carbon footprint.
A chemist, or Chemical Scientist, works in a lab conducting experiments on various chemical substances to create a new product or improve an old one.
Their duties include examining the chemical makeup of different materials, performing quality control tests on current experiments, and creating technical reports and papers on the specifications and outcomes of tests, products, and processes.
7. Architectural Manager
- Average Salary: $133,420 per year
An Architectural Manager is indeed one of the best-paying jobs in the energy sector worldwide. This role is pivotal in the planning, directing, and coordination of projects within the energy industry.
These professionals are responsible for overseeing work operations from initial site preparation to building completion, ensuring that construction meets set standards.
Architectural Managers are required to have an in-depth knowledge of operations, production, and design1. They must be able to multitask and communicate effectively with staff members to ensure accuracy, quality, and teamwork.
They also play a crucial role in developing and implementing plans for building projects, reviewing project plans to approve or recommend design changes, and assigning job tasks to construction personnel.
8. Agricultural Engineer
- Average Salary: $83,161 per year
Agricultural Engineering is increasingly recognized as one of the best-paying jobs in the energy sector worldwide. They play a crucial role in designing and developing agricultural machinery, equipment, and systems to solve problems related to machinery efficiency, environmental concerns, and resource management.
Agricultural engineers integrate technology with farming. They design new and improved farming equipment that may work more efficiently or perform new tasks. They also design and build agricultural infrastructure such as dams, water reservoirs, warehouses, and other structures.
9. Petroleum Engineer
- Average Salary: $107,450 per year
Petroleum engineering is recognized as one of the best-paying jobs in the energy sector worldwide. This profession is crucial in the energy industry, with petroleum engineers playing a vital role in the extraction of oil and gas from underground reservoirs.
They design methods for extracting these resources and oversee the entire drilling operation. The demand for petroleum engineers is expected to grow as the energy sector continues to expand and innovate.
The career prospects for petroleum engineers are promising. They have the opportunity to work on exciting projects, such as discovering new reservoirs of oil and gas, developing cost-efficient, effective methods of petroleum recovery, and finding new ways to extract oil and gas from older reservoirs.
10. Civil Engineer
- Average Salary: $74,220 per year
Civil engineering is indeed one of the best-paying jobs in the energy sector worldwide. Civil engineers play a crucial role in designing and managing energy-efficient infrastructure such as power plants, hydroelectric dams, windmills, and renewable energy projects.
They are involved in all aspects and phases of a major project, from gathering the required documentation to performing regular maintenance operations after completion.
As for the job requirements, civil engineers typically need a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a related field to enter the occupation.
They are expected to have excellent knowledge of design and visualization software such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, or similar. Proficiency in site layout, grading, utility design, erosion control, regulatory approvals, etc., is also required.
Strong project management, communication, and engineering skills are essential. They may also need a state-issued license if they provide services directly to the public.
11. Nuclear Engineer
- Average Salary: $95,638 per year
Nuclear engineering is one of the best-paying jobs in the energy sector worldwide. This field involves the design and application of various technologies that productively harness nuclear energy.
Nuclear engineers play a vital role in the responsible use of nuclear energy, focusing on safety, efficiency, sustainability, and compliance with regulations to contribute to the country’s energy needs while safeguarding the environment and public health.
To become a nuclear engineer, one must have a bachelor’s degree from an ABET-accredited university, typically in nuclear engineering. Gaining lab and fieldwork during school will help the student gain the most experience during their time at school.
12. Wind Energy Engineer
- Average Salary: $100,640 per year
A Wind Energy Engineer is a highly sought-after profession in the global energy sector, and it’s one of the best-paying jobs in this field. This role is pivotal in the rapidly expanding field of renewable energy, focusing specifically on harnessing the power of the wind to generate electricity.
Wind Energy Engineers work on a range of projects, from conducting feasibility studies and site assessments to designing wind farms and implementing innovative technologies that enhance the efficiency and reliability of wind turbines.
The job of a Wind Energy Engineer involves many facets. They design wind farms or their components, supervise the manufacture of rotor blades or other components, and even oversee the construction of roads and transportation of components to installation sites.
In terms of job requirements, most positions require a bachelor’s degree in energy engineering, mechanical engineering, or another relevant field of engineering from an ABET-accredited program.
13. Biochemical Engineer
- Average Salary: $115,212 per year
Biochemical engineering is one of the best-paying jobs in the energy sector worldwide. These professionals apply principles of engineering, biology, and chemistry to develop technologies and processes for the production of pharmaceuticals, biofuels, and other biochemical products.
Biochemical engineers contribute significantly to advancements in fields such as medicine, agriculture, and environmental sustainability. They leverage their expertise to create efficient and sustainable biochemical production methods.
They design and improve processes, conduct research, and contribute to the sustainable production of valuable products. By combining biology and engineering, they help create new and better solutions that benefit industries, healthcare, and the environment.
14. Environmental Engineer
- Average Salary: $96,820 per year
Environmental engineering is a highly rewarding career in the energy sector, both in terms of its positive impact on the environment and its competitive compensation.
These professionals play a crucial role in designing, planning, and supervising processes to prevent, control, or restore potential environmental impacts and harness energy more efficiently. They are often at the forefront of developing and implementing innovative solutions to pressing environmental issues.
Environmental engineers are responsible for a wide range of duties. They design technology for pollution control and waste management, carry out site assessments to determine the environmental impact of commercial activity and study human influences on the environment.
They also work on improving environmental conservation management, including recycling, public health, and water and air pollution.
15. Power Plant Operator
- Average Salary: $72,329 per year
A Power Plant Operator is indeed one of the best-paying jobs in the energy sector worldwide. Power plant operators are responsible for controlling systems that generate and distribute electric power.
They ensure the safe and efficient operation of a power plant, though their duties can vary depending on their location and specific role.
The energy sector offers competitive pay, employment benefits, and career growth opportunities, making the role of a power plant operator a lucrative career choice.
16. Electrical Engineer
- Average Salary: $83,544 per year
Electrical engineering is a highly sought-after profession in the energy sector worldwide, offering competitive salaries and promising career growth. These professionals play a crucial role in designing, developing, and maintaining electrical systems and components for consumer and business electronics.
Electrical engineers apply the principles of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism to develop electrical products and systems. They perform risk assessments and ensure compliance with safety standards and electrical engineering codes.
They also research to create new applications. Their job duties include designing and improving electrical products and systems, establishing manufacturing processes, and evaluating systems’ safety, reliability, and performance.
17. Mechanical Engineer
- Average Salary: $96,310 per year
Mechanical engineering is a highly lucrative field, particularly in the energy sector. They may work in the automotive industry, designing wheelsets, combustion systems, and bodyshells.
Biomedical companies hire Mechanical Engineers to create life-saving devices such as pacemakers, artificial valves, and robotic surgical assistants.
Mechanical Engineers may be found in the aerospace industry, building satellites, constructing fuel-efficient tanks, and designing planes, missiles, and rockets for private aeronautics companies and even NASA.
In the energy sector, mechanical engineers play a crucial role in developing sustainable energy solutions. They design, build, and test various mechanical devices, like industrial machines and transportation systems. Their main duties include locating problems with various machinery, conducting experiments to improve different product designs, and using CAD technology to build product designs.
18. Industrial Engineer
- Average Salary: $74,588 per year
Industrial Engineering is indeed one of the best-paying jobs in the energy sector worldwide. These professionals play a crucial role in designing production layouts and processes that increase productivity, eliminate wastefulness, and reduce costs while maintaining quality standards within an organization.
Industrial engineers are responsible for evaluating current manufacturing practices and identifying those needing improvement. They manage production schedules and coordinate services to maximize productivity. They enforce quality control to reduce waste and improve the efficiency of each production process. They also evaluate employees’ tasks and responsibilities, identifying procedures or tools to improve productivity.
The job requirements for an industrial engineer typically include:
- A bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering or a related field.
- Proven work experience as an industrial engineer or a similar role is often required.
- Advanced knowledge of production machinery, processes, and standards is crucial.
- Strong analytical skills and the ability to draw conclusions and determine strategies based on data are also important.
- Experience in a manufacturing environment, as well as knowledge of MES and ERP systems, SQL, and other programming skills, are often preferred.
19. Energy Analyst
- Average Salary: $80,306 per year
An Energy Analyst is a highly sought-after profession in the global energy sector, recognized for its competitive pay and significant role in shaping the industry’s future.
These specialists have a deep understanding of energy markets and are responsible for locating, gathering, and analyzing energy data to provide valuable insights to their organizations or clients.
They work across various sectors, including government agencies, energy companies, consulting firms, research institutions, and nonprofit organizations.
Their work is crucial in navigating complex energy markets, identifying opportunities for efficiency improvements and cost savings, and developing strategies to promote sustainable energy use and reduce carbon emissions.
20. Energy Consultant
- Average Salary: $72,200 per year
An Energy Consultant is a highly sought-after role in the energy sector, recognized as one of the best-paying jobs in the industry worldwide.
Energy Consultants can specialize in their field by working with commercial, industrial, or residential clients. They can advance in their career to become a senior energy modeler or an energy engineer. The profession is in huge demand, especially as more and more countries are encouraging and forcing a shift from fossil fuels to renewables.
An Energy Consultant’s daily tasks can vary depending on their specialty, employer, client, and the project they’re working on. Some primary responsibilities include:
- Determining a client’s energy consumption by conducting building assessments
- Identifying opportunities for the client to reduce their energy consumption
- Creating easy-to-understand energy usage audit reports for the client
- Overseeing the implementation of new energy systems.
21. Energy Auditor
- Average Salary: $73,788 per year
An Energy Auditor is a highly sought-after profession in the energy sector worldwide, and it’s one of the best-paying jobs in this field.
Energy Auditors are responsible for assessing the energy efficiency of buildings, industrial facilities, or other structures. They play a crucial role in helping businesses and individuals identify energy wastage, reduce energy consumption, and lower utility costs.
By conducting energy audits and promoting energy conservation practices, they contribute significantly to environmental sustainability by reducing carbon emissions and promoting a more energy-efficient future.
The job requirements for an Energy Auditor typically include a Bachelor’s degree in engineering, environmental science, or a related field. Familiarity with energy efficiency technologies and best practices, proficiency with energy modeling software and tools, and strong analytical and problem-solving skills are also essential.
Excellent communication and client service skills are necessary as they often have to explain complex information to clients.
22. Energy Manager
- Average Salary: $116,525 per year
An Energy Manager is a highly sought-after role in the energy sector worldwide, and it’s considered one of the best-paying jobs in the industry. Energy Managers are responsible for ensuring organizations reduce their energy consumption by implementing more sustainable energy, carbon, and water systems.
The job of an Energy Manager involves strategic evaluation of energy use. They evaluate energy use and design energy programs that increase efficiency and reduce energy-related costs.
They may be involved in planning new projects and improving existing ones. Some Energy Managers specialize in certain systems or aspects of energy management such as heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems or lighting.
23. Energy Broker
- Average Salary: $96,226 per year
An Energy Broker is a highly sought-after profession in the energy sector worldwide, and it’s one of the best-paying jobs in this industry.
Energy Brokers act as knowledgeable intermediaries in the complex energy market, helping businesses, government entities, and individuals navigate the intricacies of procuring energy services. Their primary objective is to secure the best energy deals for their clients, whether it’s electricity, natural gas, or renewable energy sources.
Energy Brokers conduct extensive market research, analyze energy consumption patterns, and negotiate contracts with energy suppliers on behalf of their clients.
By leveraging their expertise and understanding of market dynamics, they assist their clients in making informed decisions about energy procurement, ensuring they get competitive rates and favorable terms.
They not only save their clients’ money but also contribute significantly to promoting sustainable energy practices and ensuring a reliable energy supply for businesses and communities.
24. Energy Trader
- Average Salary: $117,089 per year
The role of an Energy Trader is one of the best-paying jobs in the energy sector worldwide. This job combines energy production and finance in a fast-paced environment, making it an exciting and lucrative career choice.
Energy Traders negotiate sales of highly valuable resources, such as oil and energy. They track prices, predict trends, and follow national and international news that might affect the energy market.
Energy Traders can work for energy companies or private trading firms, and their transactions can involve anything from the crude oil that a company purchases to the later sale of the processed product.
To become an Energy Trader, a bachelor’s degree in business, finance, geology, or engineering is typically required. Knowledge of both financial trading and energy production is helpful for this role.
25. Energy Policy Analyst
- Average Salary: $77,914 per year
An Energy Policy Analyst is a highly sought-after role in the energy sector worldwide. This role is pivotal in studying, analyzing, and reporting on pertinent energy policies, institutions, and regulations in consuming and producing countries and regions.
Key competencies for this role include communication skills, analytical and presentation skills, interpersonal skills, customer service orientation, initiative, and integrity.
Familiarity with energy efficiency technology and engineering solutions, experience working with utility data and energy management software, and strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills are also essential.
FAQs on the Best-Paying Jobs in Energy Worldwide
Are these jobs available globally or are they region-specific?
While some jobs may be available globally due to the universal nature of the energy industry, others might be more region-specific depending on factors such as energy sources prevalent in a particular region or regulatory environments.
Do these jobs require specialized education or training?
Many of the highest-paying jobs in the energy sector require specialized education, such as engineering degrees, technical certifications, or advanced degrees in related fields.
Are there opportunities for career advancement in these roles?
Yes, many of the highlighted roles offer clear paths for career advancement.
Are there opportunities for entry-level professionals in the energy sector?
Yes, there are opportunities for entry-level professionals in the energy sector, particularly in roles such as technicians, analysts, and support staff.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, the energy sector continues to be a dynamic and rewarding field, offering some of the highest-paying jobs worldwide in 2024.
As we look towards the future, the energy sector promises even more opportunities. The 30 jobs highlighted in this article are a testament to the exciting opportunities that await in the energy sector. As we said before, whether you’re a recent graduate or an experienced professional, there’s a place for you in this industry.
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