The Top 10 Best-Paying Jobs in Energy
Working in the energy industry offers an exciting opportunity to be part of a dynamic and rapidly evolving sector. Whether your work involves energy production, distribution, or advancing energy efficiency, you’ll be contributing to solutions that power the world. With the global push for sustainability and the shift toward clean energy, the energy industry continues to grow and innovate in ways we’ve never seen before.
Having said that, the million-dollar question remains: what are the best-paying jobs in energy today? Keep reading to explore careers that can power the grid and your financial goals.
Is Energy a Good Career Path?
Yes! Energy is one of the most promising industries to build a career in 2025. The global push for sustainability has created a surge in demand for professionals skilled in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and innovative technologies. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, clean energy jobs like wind turbine service technicians and solar photovoltaic installers are projected to grow much faster than average through 2030.
This field isn’t just about earning a paycheck—it’s about creating a better future. Whether you’re engineering solutions for clean energy or shaping public policies, you’ll be contributing to meaningful change. Energy careers also offer variety, with roles suited to engineers, scientists, business leaders, and public policy experts.
Advantages of a Career in Energy
- Job security: Energy is a necessity; with the world moving toward clean and sustainable energy, job security in this field is strong. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the renewable energy sector alone is projected to create 12 million new jobs globally by 2030.
- Competitive compensation: Energy professionals earn top salaries. In 2025, the average annual pay across the industry is approximately $110,000, with roles like power plant managers and renewable energy directors earning even more.
- Career growth: This industry’s rapid evolution opens doors to advancement. Whether it’s moving into management or specializing in cutting-edge tech, energy offers room to grow.
- Positive impact: Working in energy means you’re part of the solution to climate change. Whether it’s developing renewable energy or improving energy efficiency, your work benefits the environment and society.
- Diverse roles: From engineering and data analysis to policy and marketing, the energy industry welcomes talent from all disciplines.
- Innovation: Energy professionals work on the frontlines of innovation, exploring technologies like smart grids, advanced storage systems, and carbon capture. It’s an exciting, fast-paced environment for curious minds.
Challenges of a Career in Energy
- Hazardous conditions: Certain jobs, such as oil and gas extraction, involve physical risks. However, advances in safety standards and technology are reducing hazards.
- Long hours: Roles in operations or maintenance may require irregular shifts. Balancing work and personal life can be a challenge in these positions.
- Environmental concerns: Not all energy jobs focus on clean energy. Those in fossil fuel industries may face ethical concerns about environmental impact, though many are actively transitioning to greener practices.
- Economic volatility: The energy market can fluctuate with global events, creating challenges for workers in sectors like oil and gas. Renewables, while more stable, are also influenced by changing regulations.
- Education and training: High-paying jobs often require advanced degrees or certifications, which may be time-intensive and expensive.
- Regulatory hurdles: Energy policies are constantly changing. Professionals must stay informed to adapt to new laws, subsidies, and incentives that affect their work.
Top 10 Energy Jobs with the Best Pay
The energy industry offers some of the most lucrative careers in the market. While salaries vary based on location, education, and experience, many positions in this field consistently earn well above the national average. No matter your interests, there are opportunities for everyone. Below are some of the best-paying jobs in energy:
1. Renewable energy director
- Average salary for a renewable energy director: $136,750
- Growth projection: 46% over the next decade
- Education: Bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in renewable energy management, environmental science, or engineering
- Experience: Several years of experience managing renewable energy projects and leading cross-functional teams
Renewable energy directors oversee large-scale projects like wind farms, solar installations, and hydrogen energy systems. They work for private companies, government agencies, or non-profits to plan and implement renewable energy strategies.
Their responsibilities include developing budgets, maintaining regulatory compliance, and managing diverse teams of engineers, technicians, and consultants. With the continued global investment in clean energy (projected to surpass $1.7 trillion annually by 2030, according to the International Energy Agency), this position is in high demand for those looking to make a significant environmental impact while earning top-tier compensation.
2. Energy trading manager
- Average salary for an energy trading manager: $110,655
- Growth projection: 5% over the next decade
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, or a related field; an MBA can be a plus
- Experience: Several years of experience in energy trading, commodities, or risk management
Energy trading managers handle the buying and selling of energy commodities like oil, gas, electricity, and renewable energy credits. They analyze market trends, assess risks, and develop trading strategies to maximize profits for energy companies, investment banks, or trading firms.
As renewable energy markets grow, these managers must stay ahead of evolving regulations and technology like blockchain-based energy trading. Their ability to navigate the complexities of global markets makes this one of the most rewarding and financially promising careers in the energy field.
3. Drilling manager
- Average salary for a drilling manager: $127,980
- Growth projection: 6% over the next decade
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in petroleum engineering, mechanical engineering, or geology
- Experience: Extensive experience managing drilling operations, often requiring a background in offshore or unconventional drilling
Drilling managers supervise oil and gas extraction operations, ensuring projects are completed safely, on time, and within budget. Their duties include managing teams, coordinating equipment and resources, and troubleshooting technical challenges during drilling operations.
The oil and gas industry remains vital despite growing renewable energy efforts as global energy demands continue to rise. These professionals must be well-versed in emerging tech, such as automated drilling systems and carbon capture techniques, allowing for more efficient and sustainable extraction processes.
4. Petroleum engineer
- Average salary for a petroleum engineer: $138,330
- Growth projection: 7% over the next decade
- Education: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in petroleum engineering or a related field
- Experience: Several years in oil and gas exploration, reservoir management, or production operations
Petroleum engineers design and implement methods to extract oil and gas efficiently and sustainably. These engineers develop drilling plans, manage reservoir performance, and use advanced modeling software to optimize extraction.
Despite the shift toward renewable energy, oil and gas remain critical to global energy needs. They are instrumental in innovating extraction techniques to reduce environmental impact, such as enhanced oil recovery and carbon sequestration. This career combines technical expertise with problem-solving skills, making it both lucrative and essential to the energy transition.
5. Energy attorney
- Average salary for an energy attorney: $134,211
- Growth projection: 12% over the next decade
- Education: Bachelor’s degree followed by a JD degree from an accredited law school
- Experience: Several years specializing in energy law, regulatory compliance, or contract negotiation
Energy attorneys provide legal guidance on energy production, distribution, and policy matters. They work for law firms, corporations, or government agencies, handling issues such as renewable energy contracts, environmental regulations, and disputes over land rights.
As renewable energy adoption accelerates, these attorneys are increasingly sought after to navigate complex regulations and negotiate deals in the clean energy sector. This role requires staying up to date with federal and state policies, making it ideal for detail-oriented professionals with strong negotiation skills.
6. Power plant operations manager
- Average salary for a power plant operations manager: $157,640
- Growth projection: 4% over the next decade
- Education: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering, energy management, or a related field
- Experience: Extensive experience in power plant operations and leadership roles
Power plant operations managers oversee the daily performance of plants generating electricity from diverse sources, including natural gas, nuclear energy, and renewables. Their responsibilities include ensuring regulatory compliance, managing teams, and optimizing efficiency.
The rise of distributed energy resources, such as microgrids and battery storage systems, has added complexity to this role. They must stay ahead of technological advancements while navigating shifting regulations and environmental standards. This high-stakes position offers significant compensation and leadership opportunities.
7. Solar energy manager
- Average salary for a solar energy manager: $87,553
- Growth projection: 28% over the next decade
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in renewable energy, engineering, or environmental science
- Experience: Several years managing solar energy projects or installations
Solar energy managers direct the planning, implementation, and operation of solar projects, from large-scale farms to residential installations. Responsibilities include managing teams of technicians, ensuring compliance with regulations, and coordinating with stakeholders to meet project deadlines and budgets.
The solar energy market continues to expand, driven by advancements in technology and decreasing costs of solar panels. In 2025, the U.S. solar industry is expected to employ over 500,000 workers, reflecting its rapid growth. This role is ideal for those wanting to combine project management with a commitment to sustainability.
8. Geothermal energy engineer
- Average salary for a geothermal energy engineer: $92,500
- Growth projection: 9% over the next decade
- Education: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in mechanical engineering, civil engineering, or environmental science
- Experience: Experience designing and managing geothermal systems or working in geothermal exploration
Geothermal energy engineers design and implement systems that harness the earth’s heat to produce electricity or provide direct heating. Tasks include performing feasibility studies, designing geothermal power plants, and monitoring compliance with environmental regulations.
With growing interest in geothermal as a reliable renewable energy source, this role is increasingly important. The Biden administration’s recent incentives for geothermal projects in underserved regions aim to boost this industry, opening new opportunities for professionals skilled in geothermal tech.
9. Electrical power engineer
- Average salary for an electrical power engineer: $99,197
- Growth projection: 8% over the next decade
- Education: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in electrical engineering or power systems
- Experience: Several years in power generation, distribution, or system design
Electrical power engineers design, develop, and maintain systems for generating, transmitting, and distributing electricity. They work on projects ranging from renewable energy grid integration to upgrading aging power infrastructure.
The growing adoption of smart grids and energy storage tech has created high demand for these engineers. They are also crucial to upholding the stability and resilience of power networks as renewable energy sources become a larger share of the grid.
10. Energy consultant
- Average salary for an energy consultant: $92,189
- Growth projection: 3% over the next decade
- Education: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in energy management, environmental science, or engineering
- Experience: Extensive experience in energy efficiency, renewable energy, or sustainability
Energy consultants help organizations optimize their energy use and transition to sustainable practices. They conduct energy audits, recommend energy-saving solutions, and advise on renewable energy adoption.
In 2025, their role has expanded significantly, with businesses striving to meet net-zero carbon goals and comply with stricter environmental regulations. This career combines technical expertise with client-facing communication skills, making it a rewarding option for those passionate about sustainability.
