Green technology is creating new career opportunities across the UK. While renewable energy is a major part of the sector, green technology covers much more than solar and wind. It also includes energy storage, electric vehicles, hydrogen, carbon capture, digital technology and other solutions supporting the energy transition. This means there are opportunities for engineers, technology professionals, environmental specialists, data professionals and project managers.
Green Technology Jobs
The move towards cleaner energy is increasing demand for new technology and the people needed to develop and manage it. The UK needs more renewable energy, stronger electricity networks and better ways to store and manage energy. Digital technology is also becoming more important as businesses use software and data to manage energy systems and improve efficiency.
The UK Government estimates that the clean energy workforce could grow from around 440,000 jobs in 2023 to around 860,000 by 2030. The figure covers a wide range of clean energy jobs and is not limited to green technology roles.
The Office for National Statistics also reported 652,100 full-time equivalent jobs in UK green industries in 2024. This includes a wider range of environmental jobs, so it should not be treated as a measure of green technology jobs alone.
Renewable Energy Engineers
Renewable energy projects need engineers to help design, build and maintain them. Electrical, mechanical and civil engineers can all work across renewable energy projects. Their work can include designing systems, solving problems, overseeing construction and maintaining equipment. Engineering qualifications and relevant experience are often required. Engineers from other industries may also be able to transfer their skills into renewable energy.
Battery Storage Jobs
Battery storage is becoming increasingly important as more renewable energy is added to the electricity system. Battery storage engineers, electrical engineers, project managers and technicians can all play a role in developing and operating these systems. Experience with electrical systems, batteries or industrial equipment can be useful for these roles.
Power & Grid Engineering
As more renewable energy is connected to the electricity network, there is also a growing need for people who can design and manage power systems. Power systems engineers, grid connection engineers and electrical engineers can work on connecting new projects to the grid and improving existing networks.
Environmental & GIS Jobs
Green technology projects also need environmental professionals. Environmental consultants, ecologists and GIS specialists can help projects understand their impact on the environment. GIS specialists use mapping and data to help with project planning and identify suitable locations for new infrastructure. These roles can suit people with backgrounds in environmental science, geography, GIS and related subjects.
Green Technology Project Managers
Green technology projects need people who can manage work from planning through to completion. Project managers can work across renewable energy, battery storage, electric vehicle infrastructure, hydrogen and other areas. Experience in construction, engineering, infrastructure or utilities can provide useful transferable skills.
Sustainability Careers
The growth of green technology is also creating more opportunities in sustainability. Sustainability professionals can help businesses reduce emissions, improve their environmental performance and meet sustainability targets. Depending on the role, experience in sustainability, environmental management, energy or data can be useful.
Starting a Career in Green Technology
There are different routes into green technology careers, including university degrees, apprenticeships, graduate schemes or entry-level roles. Relevant subjects include electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, environmental science, computer science, data science and energy engineering. Green technology can also provide experienced professionals with an opportunity to utilise their existing skills in a growing industry.
At ERSG, our Green Technology team recruits across areas including hydrogen, fuel cells, electric vehicle infrastructure, carbon capture and storage, energy storage and smart energy systems, as well as technology, design and environmental roles.
As the energy transition continues, green technology is likely to create opportunities across a wide range of careers. For candidates, this means there are many ways to build a career in the sector, whether you are an engineer, technology professional, environmental specialist or just starting out.
Frequently asked questions:
What are the fastest-growing green technology jobs?
Growing areas include renewable energy engineering, battery storage, power systems, energy software, environmental data, GIS and sustainability.
What is the best career in green technology?
There is no single best career. Options include engineering, energy software, battery storage, environmental and sustainability roles, depending on skills and interests.
What qualifications do you need for green technology jobs?
Requirements vary by role. Relevant qualifications include engineering, environmental science, computer science, data science and energy-related degrees, as well as technical qualifications and apprenticeships.
Are green technology jobs in demand in the UK?
Yes. Demand is growing as the UK invests in renewable energy, electricity networks, energy storage, digital technology and other areas of the energy transition.
Can engineers move into green technology?
Yes. Engineers from sectors such as manufacturing, utilities, oil and gas and construction can often transfer their technical skills into green technology roles.
What skills are needed for green technology careers?
Skills vary by role but can include engineering, data analysis, software development, project management, environmental knowledge and problem-solving.
