If we asked you to envisage what a career in the energy industry might be like, your first thoughts will probably be of a middle-aged man stood on an oil rig in the middle of the North Sea and covered in oil – something that could not be any further from the truth.

We are consuming increasing amounts of energy in our day-to-day lives and the need to keep the lights on has made the energy industry the cornerstone of modern society. It is a diverse and exciting industry to work in, offering fantastic career opportunities both in the UK and around the world for people of all ages, genders and background.

So, to begin with, let’s put pay to the myth that a career in the energy industry to limited to working on oil rigs. The truth is that there are in the region of 637,000 people employed either directly or indirectly by the energy sector in the UK. Their roles include: 

• The sale and distribution of petroleum, gas (including natural gasses) and electricity
  
• The coal industry
  
• The nuclear power industry
  
• Onshore and offshore renewable technologies
  
• The Ongoing maintenance of infrastructure
  
• Sales and marketing
  
• Finance
  
• IT
  
• Human resources
  
• Customer service

Choosing to start a career with a company in the energy industry can open you up to a wide range of possibilities. Most companies will offer you clear paths for career progression, with the chance to develop new and existing skills along the way. On top of this, the average salary is typically higher than the UK national average – your starting salary will be dependent on skills and experiences, but graduates can expect to receive between £24,000 and £32,000.

Depending on the career path you take, you may be required to hold relevant qualifications and skills, but a ‘can do’ attitude, flexibility and the ability to work as part of a team of good starting points that employers look for. 

If you are looking for a career in the energy industry, please send a copy of your CV to cvs@peoplewithenergy.co.uk and one of our consultants will contact you.