Blog Img

Highest-Paid Jobs Across The US Energy Industry

Back to Blogs

It’s an exciting time to work in the energy industry, as businesses continue to embark on a pivotal journey: the energy transition. With projects across multiple disciplines like Marine, Renewables, and Oil & Gas making headway around the globe, a job in this sector offers the chance to see the world while enjoying a varied role.

And although there are plenty of positives beyond the paycheck, we know that money talks. Fortunately, the industry is full of high-paid opportunities across a range of positions. Join us as we take a closer look… 

Biofuels Product Development Manager

Median annual salary: $132,800

Considered to be a “green job”, Biofuel Product Development Managers have the potential to influence how we meet future energy requirements. The role involves identifying and evaluating potential feedstock sources, optimizing production processes, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

Petroleum Engineer 

Median annual salary: $130,850

As a Petroleum Engineer, you’ll analyze geological data and use engineering principles to create drilling plans and production techniques. Your responsibilities will involve designing and developing methods to extract oil and gas from reservoirs beneath the Earth's surface. Petroleum Engineer’s also ensure safety and environmental regulations are followed during extraction processes.

Nuclear Engineer

Median annual salary: $120,380

Nuclear Engineers specialize in the design, development, and operation of nuclear systems and technology. The role involves working with nuclear power plants, research reactors, or nuclear weapons; conducting research; analyzing data; and developing safety protocols for nuclear facilities. A Nuclear Engineer’s expertise is crucial for harnessing the potential of nuclear power while mitigating associated risks.

Solar Project Manager 

Median annual salary: $109,935

Solar Project Managers are responsible for overseeing the planning, execution, and completion of solar energy projects. They handle permits, regulatory compliance, and reporting. Other duties include coordinating with stakeholders such as engineers, contractors, and clients, to ensure the project is delivered on time and within budget. 

Solar Project Developer 

Median annual salary: $100,744

Solar Project Developers collaborate with numerous stakeholders including engineers, contractors, and financiers to plan and implement solar installations. The role includes identifying potential project sites conducting feasibility studies, and securing any necessary permits and approvals. You’ll play a pivotal part in advancing the adoption of solar energy, ultimately driving the transition to a greener and more sustainable energy industry. 

Environmental Engineer 

Median annual salary: $96,820

Environmental Engineers conduct research, perform assessments, and develop strategies to mitigate the impact of human activities on the ecosystem. The role usually involves working with scientists, policymakers, and key stakeholders to develop effective environmental management plans. Your focus will be on issues such as air and water pollution, environmental sustainability, and waste management. 

Power Plant Operator 

Median annual salary: $94,790

Power Plant Operators perform regular inspections, conduct maintenance tasks, and respond to any emergencies or malfunctions. You’ll be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of power generation facilities, ensuring that all systems are functioning correctly, and they adjust controls to maintain a stable and consistent power output. Safety protocols are a crucial aspect of this role, as it involves working with high-voltage equipment and potentially hazardous materials.

Atmospheric Scientist 

Median annual salary: $94,570

An Atmospheric Scientist is sometimes referred to as an Atmospheric or Climate Researcher. Working in this role, you’ll study the Earth’s atmosphere and its interactions with the environment. On a day-to-day basis, the position entails conducting research, collecting samples, and using advanced technology to study weather systems, air quality, and the impact of greenhouse gasses and pollutants on the Earth’s atmosphere.

Wind Farm Site Manager 

Median annual salary: $75,664

If you take up a role as a Wind Farm Site Manager, your responsibilities will include ensuring the wind turbines are operating efficiently and safely, and coordinating with maintenance teams to perform regular inspections and repairs on site. You’ll also manage health and safety protocols, budgets, and environmental compliance. Further aspects involve monitoring energy production and performance, analyzing data, and implementing strategies to optimize energy output on the wind farm.

Secure your next energy role with WRS 

Ready to move up in your energy career? Whether you’re in the Marine, Oil & Gas, or Renewables sector, at WRS, we’re no strangers to connecting top talent with their next role. 

Our recruiters liaise with candidates throughout the hiring process. We provide valuable insight into the company, offering interview tips, and even organizing your travel and accommodation once you’ve secured the role.

Explore our current job opportunities or upload your CV. And for more information, get in touch with our team today.