Find high-paying, green careers for job seekers who help the environment. … [+]
While the common perception is that green jobs pay less, a Deloitte study reports that demand for high-paying jobs in environmental sustainability is increasing. The study found that more than 40% of Gen Z and Millennials will change jobs because of climate concerns. The report found that climate change is a major concern for Gen Z and Millennials, with approximately 60% of respondents reporting feeling worried about the environment in the past month and over 70% minimizing their impact on the environment. It added that the respondents said they were actively working to keep the number of cases to a minimum.
In honor of Earth Day on April 22nd, Resume Genius researchers also debunked the myth that sustainable, green jobs are low-paying. They identified 10 green career options for job seekers interested in green jobs and environmental sustainability. They took data from his O*NET Green Occupations Database and categorized jobs into the following groups: “Green New and Emerging,” “Green Enhanced Skills,” and “Green Demand Growth.” They cross-referenced job titles using data from the BLS's Occupational Outlook Handbook and found that each job offers the lowest national average salary of $59,540 and exhibits faster-than-average growth. did.
6-figure green job
Each job title includes the median annual wage for that job, number of U.S. jobs, projected job growth through 2032, degree requirements, and industry. We found the 10 highest paying Environment jobs in 2024.
- Natural science manager. Median annual salary (2023): $157,740. Employment (2022): 86,300. Estimated employment growth rate (2022-2032): 5%. Bachelor's degree required.
- Marketing manager.Median annual salary (2023): $157,620. Employment (2022): 389,800. Estimated employment growth rate (2022-2032): 6%. Bachelor's degree required.
- Software developer. Median annual salary (2023): $132,270. Employment (2022): 1,795,300. Estimated employment growth rate (2022-2032): 25%. Bachelor's degree required.
- Aerospace engineer. Median annual salary (2023): $130,720. Employment (2022): 63,800. Estimated employment growth rate (2022-2032): 6%. Bachelor's degree required.
- Electronics engineer. Median annual salary (2023): $119,200. Employment (2022): 299,700. Estimated employment growth rate (2022-2032): 5%. Bachelor's degree required.
- Environmental economist. Median annual salary (2023): $115,730. Employment (2022): 17,600. Estimated employment growth rate (2022-2032): 6%. Master's or Ph.D. required.
- Chemical engineer. Median annual salary (2023): $112,100. Employment (2022): 20,800. Estimated employment growth rate (2022-2032): 8%. Bachelor's degree required.
- Electrician. Average annual salary (2023): $106,950. Employment (2022): 299,700. Estimated employment growth rate (2022-2032): 5%. Bachelor's degree required.
- Materials scientist. Median annual salary (2023): $106,160. Employment (2022): 95,000. Estimated employment growth rate (2022-2032): 6%. Bachelor's degree required.
- Construction manager. Median annual salary (2023): $104,900. Employment (2022): 505,800. Estimated employment growth rate (2022-2032): 5%. Bachelor's degree required.
Corissa Peterson, career expert at Resume Genius, says: “With climate change becoming the biggest challenge of our time, interest in green jobs is growing, along with the need for skilled professionals. However, many job seekers are worried about the inability to achieve financial security. Our research finds fulfillment in a growing profession that can move society towards a greener economy. It shows that there is ample opportunity to find an impactful career.”
4 steps to find a green job
1- Aim for education and qualifications. According to the report, it is not mandatory to obtain a specific degree or certification to enter the green jobs field, but these certifications can significantly strengthen your qualifications and increase your chances of getting a job. “Earning a sustainability-related degree, such as a bachelor's or master's degree in environmental science, can significantly increase your chances of getting a job,” the study found. “For job seekers who already have a degree or are transitioning in their career, professional certifications such as Certified Environmental Professional (CEP) or LEED Green Associate demonstrate expertise and commitment to the field and provide a sustainable way to grow. It helps applicants build a suitable profile in the sex field.”
Natalie Lavery, Director of Marketing at Climate People, points out that “I am an advocate of approaching the transition to the climate field like any other career change,” adding: Masu. “Just like a healthcare startup doesn't need a healthcare degree for marketing, a professional 'green' background is not required to work at a climate company. '' But in the eyes of employers, showing a passion for climate change can make up for a lack of experience, Lavery stresses. “Many great climate cohorts like Terra, Climatebase, Voiz Academy, and One Point Five can help job seekers get the lay of the land.”
2- Develop a robust skill set. His LinkedIn Global Green Skills Report for 2023 shows that the demand for green skills is increasing rapidly, with job openings increasing by 22% from 2022 to 2023. However, the report shows that the supply of qualified candidates is not keeping up. “Instead, the amount of green talent increased by only 12% over the same period,” the researchers found. “This gap highlights a critical skills shortage in the green jobs market. To compete effectively, job seekers need to develop solar skills alongside essential soft skills such as analytical thinking, leadership and communication. “A combination of hard skills such as panel installation and sustainable product design will need to be developed,” the report advises.
“Sustainability is a rapidly growing field and employers are always looking for top talent,” explains Sebastian Morgan, careers expert at CV Genius. “But don't be discouraged from applying for jobs that match your skills and experience. Highlight your transferable skills and previous work that proves you're capable of performing the role.'' Please concentrate on.”
3- Network with green industry experts. “Networking can lead to meeting more like-minded professionals, accessing valuable learning opportunities, and even potentially securing a green job,” the researchers found. . “Effective ways to network include joining professional associations, attending industry workshops and conferences, and interacting with local green businesses. Additionally, BSR, ClimateAction. You can further support your career development in the sustainability industry by joining online communities focused on environmental initiatives, such as Tech and Work on Climate.
Conrad Benz, Recruitment Manager at Resume Genius, is an active participant in online discussions for job seekers looking to pursue a green career or increase their presence in the field. says that by keeping up to date with the latest articles, you will be in a position to have an informed voice in the field of green work. . “By consistently participating in and contributing to the sustainability conversation, you can increase your visibility and also establish yourself as a deep environmental thinker,” he points out.
4- Make effective use of social media. “Platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter can help you learn about companies, find job openings, and make professional connections,” the researchers conclude. “To effectively use social media for job hunting, applicants should customize their profiles with relevant keywords, follow companies, and use hashtags like #greenjobs to see more job openings. , engage with content in your desired career field. You can also increase your visibility through employee referrals and professional networking by connecting with employees on LinkedIn and participating in initiatives like the #OpenDoorClimate movement. You have a better chance of getting a job.”
