The energy industry is constantly evolving, and the job market is likely to change significantly over the next few years.
In the pipeline industry, demand for workers is expected to increase as companies look to expand and upgrade existing pipelines, as well as build new ones to transport oil, gas, and other substances. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of pipeline transport workers is projected to grow by 6% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. Job opportunities will be particularly strong for workers with technical skills and experience in welding, engineering, and construction.
The solar industry is also expected to see strong job growth in the coming years. As the demand for renewable energy sources increases, more solar panel systems are being installed on homes and businesses. According to the Solar Foundation, employment in the solar industry grew by 25% in 2020, and it is expected to continue growing in the coming years. Solar panel installers, electricians, and other workers with specialized skills will be in high demand as the industry expands.
These industries offer the potential for good salaries and long-term career prospects, making them attractive options for job seekers in the energy sector.
Recent forecasts indicate that the highest paying oil, gas, solar, and energy jobs that are expected to be in demand in 2023 are as follows:
1. Petroleum engineer: Petroleum engineers are responsible for designing and implementing plans for extracting oil and gas from the earth. They use specialized software and techniques to assess the feasibility of drilling in a particular location, and they work closely with geologists and other experts to determine the best course of action.
Petroleum engineers typically earn a median salary of $137,170 per year, making it one of the highest paying jobs in the energy industry. Petroleum engineer careers are found within significant oil and gas reserves, such as Texas, Alaska, and Alberta.
2. Solar panel installer: As the demand for renewable energy sources grows, so does the demand for solar panel installers. These professionals are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing solar panel systems on homes and businesses.
Solar panel installers typically earn a median salary of $45,000 per year, but those with more experience and specialized skills can earn significantly more. This job is in high demand in sunny regions with strong solar incentives, such as California, Arizona, and Florida.
3. Geothermal technician: Geothermal technicians are responsible for installing and maintaining geothermal heating and cooling systems, which use heat from the earth to provide heating and cooling for buildings. These systems are becoming increasingly popular as a more sustainable and energy-efficient alternative to traditional systems.
Geothermal technicians typically earn a median salary of $52,000 per year. Geothermal technician jobs can be found in high activity regions, such as California and Nevada.
4. Wind turbine technician: Wind turbine technicians are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing wind turbines, which are used to generate electricity from wind power. These technicians typically earn a median salary of $54,370 per year, and those with more experience and specialized skills can earn significantly more.
Wind turbine technicians positions can be found in areas with strong wind resources, such as the Great Plains and the Midwest.
5. Energy manager: Energy managers are responsible for developing and implementing strategies to improve the energy efficiency of buildings and facilities.
They may work in a variety of settings, including commercial, industrial, and residential buildings. Energy managers typically earn a median salary of $88,580 per year.
6. Pipeline engineer: Pipeline engineers are responsible for designing and overseeing the construction of pipelines that transport oil, gas, and other substances. They may work on projects ranging from small pipeline systems to large, cross-country pipelines. Pipeline engineers typically earn a median salary of $93,720 per year.
Pipeline engineers are in demand in regions with significant oil and gas reserves, such as Texas, Alaska, and Alberta.
7. Drilling engineer: Drilling engineers are responsible for designing and implementing plans for drilling oil and gas wells. They work closely with geologists and other experts to determine the best drilling locations and techniques, and they may also be involved in the completion and production of wells. Drilling engineers typically earn a median salary of $100,160 per year.
If you're looking for high paying oilfield jobs, energy jobs EJS has thousands of career resources and job postings both in Canada and the USA.
