What are the most promising renewable energy career paths for engineers?

2 Wind Engineer

Wind engineers specialize in the development, operation, and improvement of wind energy systems, such as wind turbines, wind farms, or offshore wind platforms. They can be involved in various stages of the wind energy lifecycle, from site assessment, feasibility studies, and design, to construction, commissioning, and maintenance. Wind engineers need to have a solid foundation in mechanical, electrical, or aerospace engineering, as well as expertise in wind dynamics, aerodynamics, structural analysis, and control systems. They also need to have creative, analytical, and teamwork skills.

3 Hydro Engineer

Hydro engineers work on the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of hydroelectric power plants, dams, reservoirs, or waterways. They can also contribute to the planning, management, and protection of water resources and ecosystems. Hydro engineers need to have a strong background in civil, environmental, or geotechnical engineering, as well as knowledge of hydraulics, hydrology, fluid mechanics, and power generation. They also need to have good communication, leadership, and environmental awareness skills.

4 Bioenergy Engineer

Bioenergy engineers develop, implement, and optimize bioenergy systems, such as biomass conversion, biogas production, biofuels synthesis, or biochar application. They can work on various sources of biomass, such as agricultural waste, forest residues, municipal solid waste, or algae. Bioenergy engineers need to have a solid foundation in chemical, biological, or agricultural engineering, as well as expertise in biotechnology, microbiology, thermochemistry, or catalysis. They also need to have innovative, entrepreneurial, and sustainability skills.

5 Geothermal Engineer

Geothermal engineers harness the heat from the earth's crust to generate electricity, heat buildings, or provide cooling. They can work on different types of geothermal systems, such as dry steam, flash steam, or binary cycle. Geothermal engineers need to have a strong background in mechanical, electrical, or geological engineering, as well as knowledge of geology, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and drilling. They also need to have adventurous, curious, and safety-conscious skills.

6 Hydrogen Engineer

Hydrogen engineers design, build, operate, and improve hydrogen energy systems, such as electrolyzers, fuel cells, or hydrogen storage and distribution. They can work on various applications of hydrogen, such as transportation, industry, or grid balancing. Hydrogen engineers need to have a solid foundation in chemical, electrical, or materials engineering, as well as expertise in electrochemistry, nanotechnology, or metallurgy. They also need to have visionary, collaborative, and risk-taking skills.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?