Job Description
This job is part of our sustainability series: > See more sustainable job ideas > Find out more about sustainable careers
Energy Engineers are involved in the production of energy through natural resources such as solar, wind, wave and dynamo generation, as well as the extraction process of oil and gas. They are focused on finding efficient, clean and innovative ways to supply energy.
Entry Requirements
You can get into this job through:
Apprenticeship
You may be able to start by doing a degree apprenticeship in power or nuclear engineering.
You'll usually need 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship.
Click here to search for an apprenticeship.
University
You can do a degree in an engineering or a scientific subject. Some employers may expect you to have a postgraduate qualification.
Relevant subjects include:
- mining or petroleum engineering
- energy engineering
- Earth sciences
- environmental engineering
- renewable or sustainable energy
If you're interested in postgraduate research and want to continue your studies up to PhD level, you may be able to apply for a course like an EngD.
These courses are offered by the Industrial Doctoral Centre for Offshore Renewable Energy. You would be sponsored by a company to research offshore technologies for wind, wave and tidal power.
You'll usually need:
- 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and a science for a degree
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
Click here to search for a suitable course.
More Information
You'll find more on energy engineering careers from the Energy Institute, National Grid Careers and Talent Source Network.
Career Path and Progression
With experience, you could move into planning, policy development, or freelance consultancy.
Related careers you may be interested in:
- Nuclear engineer
- Marine engineer
- Electrical engineer
- Research scientist
Required Skills
- An interest in science, technology and environmental issues
- Good commercial awareness
- Knowledge of legislation surrounding energy efficiency
- Good communication skills
- Organisation and negotiation skills
Salary Range
£20,000 to £80,000