Despite the reports of continued high unemployment, the energy efficiency sector of the energy industry is seeking workers for both existing and newly created positions. And, according to a survey conducted by the Association of Energy Services Professionals (AESP), nearly 60 percent believe there is a lack of talented workers for this field; and 82 percent believe that today’s graduates do not understand the career opportunities present in energy efficiency.
The energy efficiency field refers to the entities and/or departments within utilities, consulting firms and non-profit organizations that are dedicated to creating an energy resource through efficiency programs. “Energy efficiency is a rapidly growing segment of the overall energy industry and we believe there is a clear lack of talent that is necessary to fill the positions that are open,” says Meg Matt, president and CEO. “The public and private sectors are spending record amounts on energy efficiency programs that reduce the pressure on supply; and, as the current workforce in the energy field ages, many will be retiring. In fact, every eight seconds a Baby Boomer turns 65. These dynamics are creating widespread hiring. We anticipate that the number of jobs in this field will double over the next 10 years.”
In the informal survey, more than half of the respondents reported that they are seeking workers for newly created positions, and/or existing open positions that need to be filled. Open positions at a salary range of between $50,000 and $100,000 were cited by more than 80 percent of the respondents, and positions with compensation of between $100,000 and $150,000 were cited by 28 percent of the respondents. The specific job functions that present opportunities, according the respondents, are sales, program management, engineering, management and marketing/communications.
The Association of Energy Services Professionals provides professional development programs, a network of energy practitioners, and promotes the transfer of knowledge and experience. Our members work in the energy services industry and represent electric and natural gas utilities, public benefits associations, regulatory and non-profit entities, vendors, manufacturers and consulting firms. Founded in 1989, AESP is a member-based association dedicated to improving the delivery and implementation of energy efficiency, energy management and distributed renewable resources. AESP provides professional development programs, a network of energy practitioners, and promotes the transfer of knowledge and experience. Learn more at www.aesp.org.
