Top Tips to Help You Secure a Job in Green Energy

The green energy sector is experiencing significant growth, especially following the UK government's ambitious objective of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. As the industry continues to evolve, now presents an opportune moment to explore new employment prospects. Whether you have just started your career or are looking to make your next career move, there is no better time to start looking into roles within the green energy sector. But where do you start? And what should you do to ensure you are successful in the recruitment process? Read on for our top tips on how to land a green energy job.

1. An Overview of the Green Energy Market

Before engaging in recruitment activities, take a moment to check in with yourself and ensure you have a solid understanding of the industry. Proper knowledge about the variety of opportunities in this field will help you in your job search. The term "green energy" refers to a range of sectors, including wind, solar, hydro, geothermal, and bioenergy. Each of these sectors presents a diverse array of job opportunities that necessitate a variety of skills and expertise.

Spend time studying each sector and identify which discipline appeals to you the most. This will depend on your interests, knowledge, and values. For instance, someone interested in engineering or large-scale infrastructure projects might be intrigued by the scale of the wind energy industry. In contrast, someone interested in commercial technological innovation might be drawn towards the forward-thinking nature of solar energy. It’s worth taking the time to familiarise yourself with the intricacies of the industry so that you can identify what’s best for you and how to focus your job search. Ultimately, by doing so, you will also be positioning yourself as an attractive candidate.

2. Build the Right Skill Set

The green energy sector has many elements; hence, a diversity of skills is needed. For example, the advanced delivery of energy solutions requires a range of transferable competencies, including engineering, technical expertise, project management, business analytics, and policy development.

If you’re looking for more technical roles, of course, having the right qualifications is essential. Degrees in environmental science, renewable energy, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering are particularly sought after. Furthermore, obtaining professional certifications in green energy can also help to increase your credentials.

This might sound obvious, but if your role is not technical, try to acquire skills that can be widely applied in other industries. Project management, data analysis, and core commercial acumen are highly valued in green energy recruitment. If you have experience in these areas from another industry, consider how you can apply that knowledge to the green energy sector.

3. Gain Relevant Experience

Nothing impresses a prospective employer more than relevant experience in your chosen field. That doesn’t just include the right educational background but also practical, hands-on work experience; the more extensive, the better. If you are just beginning your career in green energy, the challenge will be to achieve that elusive ‘relevant experience’. But it can be done.

Start by taking on internships or volunteering for nonprofits with renewable energy programmes. These jobs often don’t pay much (or at all) but offer great practical experience and networking opportunities. Consider using your green energy skills in your local community by volunteering to install solar panels on local buildings or improve energy efficiency.

If you’re already working up the ranks in another industry, start your job by focusing on positions that require similar skills you have already developed. For example, if you have experience in capital project management within construction, you could be an ideal candidate for a project management role in renewable energy. Highlight your transferable skills and experience in your application to show the employer how they are relevant.

4. Work with a Recruitment Agency

It’s always worth approaching specialist recruitment agencies when on the job hunt, as they often have extensive industry knowledge and contacts, which can help you find the right opportunities more quickly. For example, green energy recruitment specialists such as NES Fircroft work with some of the largest employers in the industry, being able to connect companies with like-minded individuals.

Make sure to communicate clearly with the recruitment agency about your goals, ambitions, the skills you possess, and the types of roles you are interested in. Recruitment consultants can help you improve your CV, prepare for interviews, and negotiate offers if they are received. They also come armed with valuable insider knowledge of the industry including where the highest demand exists and the types of roles and companies where you might want to target your efforts.

5. Tailor Your Application

A one-size-fits-all application approach won’t cut it for green energy recruiters. Applicants need to show that they’re involved in the industry beyond having a 9-to-5 job.

Take the time to customise each application for the specific role and organisation. Research the organisation’s mission, values, and current projects, and include this information in your cover letter and CV. This will demonstrate that you align with their goals and showcase how your work fits with their aspirations and can make an impact.

Be sure to list the skills and experience that are most relevant to the job you are applying for, particularly those tailored specifically to this position. If you are applying for a technical position, emphasise your qualifications and any relevant hands-on experience. For non-technical jobs, highlight your project management, analytical, and commercial skills, and how these can benefit the business.

6. Prepare for Interviews

If you want to nail a green energy job interview – just like any other interview – expect to be peppered with questions about your knowledge of the sector and your enthusiasm about the position.

First, review the job description and list the skills and experiences the employer is seeking. Prepare examples from your career that illustrate those competencies. Practice explaining how your background meets the job requirements and how your work demonstrates your potential to achieve the company’s goals.

Be prepared to discuss your awareness of the green energy industry and its challenges, as well as technical questions. Employers want to find candidates who demonstrate a genuine commitment to the role but who are also advocates of creating a greener world.

7. Network within the Industry

As with any job hunt, networking is key to finding employment in green energy. Building relationships with industry professionals can open doors to job opportunities that are not publicly advertised, providing you with valuable insights into the industry.

Also attend relevant industry events, conferences, and webinars, and network with other professionals in your field. Join groups and discussions on LinkedIn. When the opportunity arises, ask these professionals for an informational interview or advice - keep in mind that most people enjoy being helpful.

Remember, networking isn’t just about getting a job; it’s about understanding what’s going on in the industry and learning from others in the business. It provides a sense of community and support as you progress in your career.

8. Stay Updated on Industry Trends

The green economy constantly innovates and develops, with new technologies, policies, and market trends emerging regularly. Staying on top of these changes can be helpful for anyone looking to build a career in this industry.

Read trade media and newsletters and join professional associations to keep up with developments. Knowing the latest in green energy will help your job search, but it will also show potential employers that you are up-to-date with what is happening in the world.

9. Be Persistent and Patient

Lastly, understand that this industry is competitive, and finding the right job can take time. Be patient if it takes several applications and interviews before you find the right role. Don’t give up.

Use failed applications to hone your pitch, learn from the process – and keep trying. Build skills, get more experience, and broaden your network until the right opportunity arises. That’s the strategy.

Specialists in Green Energy Recruitment

NES Fircroft is a leading staffing agency that specialises in sourcing and placing skilled professionals across various industries worldwide, including green energy projects. We have successfully supported thousands of contractors in both contract and permanent positions, partnering with some of the world's top companies to provide them with the best talent available. Our discipline-specific recruiters possess extensive industry knowledge, ensuring you receive comprehensive support and advice during your job search and throughout the hiring process.

Are you ready to make the move? Browse our latest vacancies or get in touch to talk to one of our specialist recruitment consultants and start your career in the renewable energy industry!