The energy landscape is undergoing a rapid transformation. Renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and offshore wind are not quite yet taking centre stage, but they're certainly waiting in the wings and getting a lot of deserved attention. This shift presents exciting career opportunities for professionals with backgrounds and experience in traditional energy sectors such as oil and gas. The fossil fuel and renewable sectors attract workers with similar and highly valuable skill sets, enabling profitable transition from one to the other.

Skill Crossover: A Valuable Asset

Oil and gas professionals possess a wealth of experience and expertise that is directly transferable to the renewable energy sector. These include:

• Project management: The kind of rigorous project management skills that have been honed in the demanding oil and gas sector are highly sought after for the successful development and deployment of renewable energy projects: be they offshore wind farms or large-scale solar installations.
• HSE expertise: A strong emphasis on Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) is paramount in all sectors of the energy industry. So, experience in risk assessment, safety protocols, and environmental compliance will make a candidate’s CV stand out.
• Technical know-how: Deep technical understanding of complex systems, equipment maintenance, and troubleshooting is crucial in both oil and gas and renewable energy. This includes experience with engineering principles, data analysis, and operational efficiency learned in one sector and entirely applicable to its neighbour.

Seamless Transition: Leveraging Existing Skills

Oil and gas professionals can seamlessly transition into renewable energy roles by leveraging their existing skills and adapting them to the specific requirements of the new sector. For example:

• Drilling Engineers can transition into roles related to geothermal energy, where drilling expertise is highly valuable.
• Subsea Engineers can leverage their experience in subsea infrastructure for offshore wind projects.
• Maintenance Technicians can readily adapt their skills to maintain and repair wind turbines, solar panels, and other renewable energy equipment.

Career Opportunities in Renewables

The renewables sector has grown from practically nothing to become a serious player in energy generation in the last few decades, following the pattern of first oil then gas in the century before. In the process, the sector has offered up a diverse range of career opportunities for professionals from all backgrounds. Some key roles include:

• Wind Turbine Technician: Responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of wind turbines, a technician’s role may include blade replacement, gearbox repairs, and electrical system troubleshooting.
• Solar Project Manager: Managing a solar project means overseeing all aspects of a solar power plant, from site selection and design to construction, commissioning, and ongoing operations.
• Offshore Wind Operations Specialist: Focuses on the safe and efficient operation and maintenance relating to the particular challenges presented by offshore wind farms, including turbine inspections and repairs, and the logistics of maintenance at sea.
• Renewable Energy Consultant: Provides expert advice on modern renewable energy technologies, project feasibility, and regulatory compliance to powerful clients such as businesses, governments, and investors.

Practical Steps for a Successful Career Pivot

Your skills from a previous job in a related sector are highly valuable. But it’s how you present them that will enable a career pivot into the very best jobs in the industry. These are some practical steps to make you stand out from the other candidates.

• Research and Upskilling: Research the specific skills and knowledge required for your desired role in the renewable energy sector. Consider relevant certifications and training programs to fill any gaps in your knowledge.
• Networking: Attend industry events, connect with professionals working in renewable energy, and leverage online platforms like LinkedIn to build your network.
• Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter: Highlight the transferable skills and experience you gained in the oil and gas sector that are relevant to your preferred renewable energy role.
• Consider a Temporary Role: Explore temporary or contract positions in renewable energy to gain practical experience and expand your professional network.

Contact People with Energy

People with Energy is a leading recruitment specialist in the energy sector based in the East of England. We can assist you in your career transition. Our expert consultants can provide valuable guidance, connect you with potential employers, and help you find the right role in the dynamic renewable energy sector.

Contact us today to explore exciting career opportunities in renewable energy. Get in touch with our team of consultants or browse our job listings. Give our office a call on 01502 564892 or email us cvs@peoplewithenergy.co.uk