As the world becomes more conscious of climate change and we look for ways to reduce our carbon footprint, it’s time to take a closer look at our jobs. As many are increasingly aware of their impact on the environment, they’re also looking for professions that don’t negatively contribute to global warming. So, what are some examples of jobs that help save energy?
Educational Requirements
Before we review some of the top jobs you can apply for, we need to go over the educational requirements. Most of them require at least a bachelors, the first step is getting an education. Whether you’re just out of high school or going back to college, you might want to consider an Earnest student loan. They are low-interest loans that you can use to pay for tuition and other educational expenses.
Energy Engineer
Energy engineers are the ones who design and implement energy efficient processes. They work in the energy industry, with engineering companies, or with consulting firms. As an engineer, you will be responsible for developing and implementing projects related to energy conversion and use. This may include working on industrial plants, buildings, or transportation systems. You may be involved in designing new products such as vehicles that use less carbon emissions, or help businesses to become more efficient by improving their processes so they use less energy.
Building Analyst
Building analysts work with engineers, architects, and builders to analyze the energy efficiency of buildings. They may also help maintain and repair existing buildings. The job of a building analyst can be challenging because it involves analyzing building materials and systems, identifying ways to save energy. To be successful as a building analyst, you’ll need strong interpersonal skills and an understanding of how to enhance workplace efficiency so that you can communicate effectively with your team members. You’ll want experience in problem solving, too.
Solar Panel Installer
Solar panel installers are responsible for the installation of solar panels on homes, businesses, and other properties. This field requires a great deal of knowledge about the different types of equipment used in the process and how to properly install them. Here are a few examples of what you might be expected to do as a solar panel installer:
· Install rooftop solar panels on houses and businesses
· Install carport or canopy-style roofing systems with integrated photovoltaic (PV) modules
· Install commercial-scale photovoltaic power plants (i.e., farms)
· Energy manager
An energy manager is someone who manages and oversees the use of energy in a company. You’ll work with engineers to improve efficiency, motivate employees to do their part, and find new ways to make improvements. You’ll also determine how electricity each piece of machinery uses, how long it takes for certain jobs to finish, and then how much time goes into cleaning up after work is done. The next step is educating employees on why they need to save energy, and how it impacts them personally and also the environment.
Solar Power Engineering Technician
Solar power engineering technicians install, maintain, and repair solar panels. They also recommend new designs for solar panel systems to customers, who are typically government agencies or large corporations. The job requires a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as electrical engineering or physics. Working as a solar power engineering technician can be physically demanding; you may spend most of your day on ladders or on roofs installing or repairing panels. You should be comfortable working with tools and performing heavy manual labor for long periods of time in order to do this job safely and efficiently.
Wind Turbine Service Technician
Wind turbine service technicians are responsible for maintaining the turbines in wind farms. These technicians must have strong communication skills and experience working in a team. Strong math skills are also helpful, as the job involves calculating wind speed, torque, blade speed, and voltage on the fly to determine what needs to be done next. Wind turbine service technicians need to be able to climb ladders and work on roofs of tall buildings up to 300 feet high, which requires strength and agility. They may need to lift heavy objects such as parts for a broken turbine down from their perch atop an 80-foot tower if necessary, again requiring a significant amount of physical strength.
