Did you know? The Green Energy Act's Feed-in-Tariff program is the single largest climate change initiative in Canada
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Green Loan Officer
Tianna
Do you like finding ways to help people save money? As a green loan officer, you can help homeowners secure loans, grants, or reduced mortgage rates for energy-efficient home renovations or renewable energy projects. Many financial institutions and insurance companies are beginning to offer significant financial incentives for energy-efficient retrofits and renewable energy add-ons to the home.
You will need to meet with clients to determine their needs and complete paperwork for the loans. As the requirements for these types of loans vary among institutions, you may be required to have a broad knowledge of energy-efficiency guidelines and other grants, rebates, and programs available to the client depending on their needs.

Understanding: finance, energy efficiency principles, and an understanding of renewable energy technologies and government policies.

Skills: problem solving, decision-making, organization, research, report writing, analysis, computers, communication, English

A university degree in finance, economics, or business is necessary. Additional qualifications may be necessary as determined by the institution.

Relationships: Most communication is done with clients, though as part of a large bank, you may also meet with other loan officers and employees of the institution.

Atmosphere: Your time is spent almost entirely in an office. You may be required to travel to conventions or conferences to maintain skills and connections.

$50,000-$60,000

Sustainability manager, environmental economist, green business development manager, renewable energy sales representative, program manager (for non-profit), sustainability manager, social marketer, policy analyst, policy advocate

Analytical, Math, Working With People
Green Business Development Manager
Mike Brigham
These days, a career in Business doesn’t have to mean working in a corporate office or as part of a financial institution. Indeed, behind every successful solar company, wind development firm, or innovative eco company is a business-savvy wheeler and dealer soliciting investors and making the big decisions! As going green continues to bring in big economic opportunity, more business-minded people will be needed to drive the industry forward.
As a Business Development Manager, you will be responsible for soliciting investors and developing business strategies to help your company expand. Depending on the size of your company, you may be making presentations to clients and potential investors, managing a sales team or working to develop key partnerships and business leads.

Understanding: knowledge of different renewable energy types and energy markets, knowledge of applicable green energy regulations (eg. the Feed-in-Tariff program)

Skills: communication, decision making, sales, project management, business

A college or university degree is necessary, though a combination of education and experience may be enough. Useful courses include business, marketing, economics, geography, physics, and environmental science.

Relationships: You will likely be working closely with clients, investors, and senior members of your company. You may also be managing a sales team and working with other business partners and consultants.

Atmosphere: You will spend most of your time in an office environment but may be required to travel for meetings or presentations.

$70,000-$95,000

Renewable sales representative, environmental economist, development coordinator

Analytical, Creative, Math, Working With People
Environmental Economist
University of Alberta – Office of Sustainability
Some say you can’t put a price on the environment, but that’s exactly what environmental economists do. While traditional economics focuses solely on profits and financial gains, environmental economics aims to revolutionize our economic system by placing a value on the things that typically don't end up on the corporate bottom line. Some of these new considerations include energy consumption, environmental effects, and social outcomes. Environmental economists consider the hidden cost of production and development, revealing the true gains and losses of all our actions. Examples include: the implication of lost ecosystems, the true cost of disposable items from production to disposal, and the amount of energy and resources it takes to build a home.
You may be required to make recommendations about economic policy instruments (like carbon taxes or trading systems); research local, national, and international markets; perform environmental evaluations, or develop new economic models.

Understanding: broad knowledge of environmental processes and economic principles, including life cycle analysis.

Skills: mathematics, research, analysis, communication, decision-making, organization, critical thinking.

University degrees in business, economics, or resource management are generally the minimum requirement. Courses in mathematics, calculus, economics, sociology, philosophy, and political science are all useful for this career.

Relationships: Working with government officials, other economists, or corporate officers, you will be conducting analyses, assessing costs, and making recommendations on a variety of environmental issues.

Atmosphere: Most of your time will be spent in an office, though some travel may be required for meetings. Opportunities may present themselves to also teach the skills and methods you have learned in a university setting.

$50,000-$70,000

Green business development manager, sustainability manager, policy analyst

Analytical, Creative, Math, Working With People

Energy Manager
General Electric
With energy costs on the rise, many companies and organizations are looking to Energy Managers to help them be smarter about their energy use. Energy Managers analyze an organization's energy use (including "peak times", or the times of day when the most amount of energy is being used) and help a company develop new, cost effective ways to be more energy efficient. In companies or organizations where renewable sources of energy are in place, the Energy Manager is also responsible for monitoring the energy output of those systems and reporting on its financial benefits. Working with a team, you will find ways to be as cost efficient as possible when it comes to your organization's energy use. If you've got an eye for detail and you love saving money and energy, then maybe this is the job for you!
Your responsibilities may include analyzing your organization's energy costs, developing energy efficiency programs, assessing renewable energy outputs, and developing cost effective ways to meet your organization's energy needs. You may also be expected to write detailed reports on your organization's energy use (including strategies to improve on it), as well as feasibility reports, which analyze new potential energy projects (like installing solar panels or replacing a lighting system) and determine whether they will be financially beneficial.

Understanding: energy efficiency and LEED principles, renewable energy sources, energy costs in the region, electrical and mechanical equipment (operations and maintenance), and power transmission principles.

Skills: mathematics, communication, technical language understanding, problem solving, critical thinking, decision-making.

A college degree in Energy Systems Engineering/Technology, or a related field is required in most cases, although a Licensed Electrician with a Certified Energy Manager (CEM) designation may also qualify. Useful courses include mathematics, economics, business, technology arts, and English.

Relationships: You may be managing a small team and communicating with various other departments in your organization.

Atmosphere: You will mostly be working in an office but may be required to do on-site monitoring and surveying.

$45,000-$60,000

Energy auditor, sustainability manager, energy retrofitter, environmental officer

Analytical, Math, Organized, Working With Computers
Community Investment Manager
A Community of Friends
Do you wish the corporate world would lend a hand to support the community it serves? Community Investment Managers do just that. Working for large corporations, small businesses, charities, non-governmental organizations and financial institutions, Community Investment Managers help to fund projects that give back to the community. If you’re good with money, have great organization skills and love helping people, this could be the job for you!
Your duties will include allocating resources (loans, grants, gifts-in-kind donations, etc.), facilitating programs, managing staff and volunteers, and communicating with non-profit groups and community members. You will be responsible for presenting your organization’s vision to the media and may also be required to organize events and other activities to promote your company’s involvement in the community.

Understanding: community needs, health and social wellness issues, various environmental issues

Skills: problem solving, decision-making, organization, project management, research, report writing, communication, attention to detail

University degree in Communications, Public Relations, Business, or related field is necessary. Additional education or qualifications are an asset. Useful courses include English, mathematics, sociology, political science, philosophy, geography, and sciences.

Relationships: Working with a variety of stakeholders, you will communicate the ideas and goals of the organization. You may manage a team or work independently.

Atmosphere: Working largely in an office environment, though some travel may be required.

$30,000-$50,000

Sustainability manager, green loan officer, communications officer, community animator, social marketer, program manager for a non-governmental organization, policy advocate

Analytical, Organized, Research-Based, Working With People
Sustainability Manager
Michigan Municipal League
As environmental responsibility and energy efficiency become bigger priorities amongst businesses and organizations, companies have begun employing personnel to deal specifically with its environmental practices. Sustainability Managers are responsible for the overall environmental picture within a company or organization, from cost analysis to policy implementation. You will develop energy efficiency or waste reduction policies, ensure that eco-friendly supplies and materials are being used, and monitor the overall environmental impact of the organization's operations. Working with a team, you will find practical and innovative ways to green your organization's practices.
You will be designing and implementing environmentally friendly programs and policies in businesses, hospitals, NGOs or any number of other institutions. Whether it's creating a new waste reduction program or developing strategies to be more energy efficient, your work will ensure that your company or organization is taking its environmental responsibility seriously. Other responsibilities include conducting monitoring greenhouse gas emissions, surveying energy data and costs, and preparing status reports.

Understanding: energy efficiency principles, energy-saving technology, energy markets, and time-of-use pricing

Skills: critical thinking, problem solving, decision making, organization, communication, English, accounting, program management, research, writing

University degree in Environmental Studies, Economics, or related field. Engineering degree is also relevant/useful. Relevant courses include sciences, computers, English, sociology, political science, environmental studies, mathematics/economics, and communications.

Relationships: As manager, you are responsible for a number of other employees. You may find yourself in meetings with government officials, other managers, and corporate officers.

Atmosphere: Your time is largely spent in an office, though some travel may be required if you are acting as a consultant or for policy recommendations.

$65,000-$90,000

Policy advocate, compliance specialist, environmental consultant, policy analyst, policy maker, environmental officer, environmental economist

Analytical, English, Organized, Working With People
Environmental Policy Analyst
IESO
Designing new policy to protect the environment is what this dynamic and challenging career is all about. You are responsible for researching how people feel about the environment, what they want to see government do about it, and determining the best course of action. Policy affects many people, so finding a balance can be difficult, but also very rewarding.
You will work mostly with numbers, statistics and other forms of data to analyze trends in social thought and environmental concerns, and suggest or advocate for possible policy solutions. If you work for a government official, you may be responsible for crunching the data and writing brief reports for her or him to present to a committee. Policy Analysts compile all the research and data that make change in policy possible.

Understanding: broad understanding of environmental issues, though specializing in one area may be beneficial

Skills: communication, critical thinking, research, writing, and statistical analysis

A university degree is the minimum requirement, though a graduate degree in economics, law or public policy is an asset. Courses in sociology, political science, mathematics, economics, writing, and international relations are useful.

Relationships: You will be required to develop many different types of relationships, with government officials, businesses, NGOs, and members of the public, among others.

Atmosphere: You may find yourself working at any level of government, for a private company, or a non-governmental organization.

$50,000-$90,000

Policy advocate, environmental lawyer, environmental economist

Analytical, English, Math, Research-Based
Environmental Officer
Environment Canada
Are you tired of seeing companies get away with poor environmental performance and practices? Becoming an Environmental Officer can be the solution. Usually employed by a government body, environmental officers help to enforce environmental regulations within the public and private sector. By making sure that companies are managing their energy, waste and pollution in accordance with the law, environmental officers help to ensure public safety.
As an environmental officer, you will need to be familiar with related environmental laws and regulations. You will conduct rigourous site assessments and track sustainability trends and compliance records within a particular sector. You may also be asked to develop best practice guidelines and strategies that will help companies understand and comply with laws and regulations. Alternately, you may find yourself working in the private sector, helping to ensure that your company meets all applicable laws and regulations.

Understanding: energy efficiency and pollution prevention principles, environmental law, and broad knowledge of environmental issues.

Skills: problem solving, critical thinking, organization, research, English (both official languages an asset), report writing, communication, attention to detail, analysis.

University degree in environmental science, environmental policy, or environmental engineering is necessary. Graduate degrees may be desired and provide additional earning potential. Relevant courses include English, biology, sociology, chemistry, and geography.

Relationships: You will be working with other members of government as well as sector councils and companies to develop compliance strategies.

Atmosphere: Your time will be split between being on site and in the office, travel to conferences or meetings may be required.

$50,000-$75,000 (depending on education and experience)

Environmental impact assessor, environmental consultant, engineer/project manager, energy auditor, policy advocate, policy analyst, environmental lawyer

Analytical, English, Organized, Science, Working With People
Environmental Lawyer
Kevin Lam
A passion for the environment and a strong sense of justice drives you. Environmental law is a new and challenging area where fresh ideas and determination really pay off. As an Environmental Lawyer, you may work with environmental disputes between parties, criminal cases, or perhaps in negotiating contracts and land claims for renewable energy developments.
Environmental lawyers are responsible for upholding and protecting the environmental laws of the country. This can mean representing an NGO (non-governmental organization), working independently with individuals and groups impacted by pollution, being part of a larger legal firm, or working for the government. Environmental legislation in Canada is complex, and varies from province to province, so staying up-to-date on your particular area of expertise will be key. As stricter laws are passed, corporations and private businesses will also need legal expertise to ensure that they comply with the latest environmental regulations. Environmental lawyers are sometimes also called upon to help develop new policies.

Understanding: broad understanding of environmental laws and issues, though specialization in a specific area is beneficial.

Skills: problem solving, public speaking, critical thinking, organization, research, negotiation, report writing.

A graduate law degree (called a J.D., or juris doctorate) is necessary to practice law, which requires articling with a law firm and successful completion of the LSAT (Law School Admissions Test) following university education. Attending seminars and conferences can provide additional education. Useful courses include political science, sociology, philosophy, environment, business, psychology, and English.

Relationships: Connections will be made with a number of other lawyers, government agencies, NGOs (non-governmental organizations), and businesses.

Atmosphere: Work will be in an office, in a courtroom, in a boardroom negotiating settlements, in the field interviewing witnesses, and visiting sites. Lawyers are often required to work very long hours.

Varies with education and experience; $60,000-$150,000+

Policy advocate, policy analyst, policy maker, green business adviser/consultant

Analytical, English, Organized, Research-Based, Science, Working With People

Environmental Impact Assessor
Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation
Environmental Impact Assessors review the feasibility of proposed development sites and evaluate the potential impacts on air, soil, water, and wildlife. They also evaluate the construction process itself, making sure that it conforms to regulations. More and more governments and investment agencies are making environmental site assessments mandatory for new development projects, so this field provides great opportunities to make a difference.
You will be responsible for gathering and analyzing data from sites, conducting inspections, identifying potentially adverse effects and recommending preventative measures, ensuring that the site conforms to environmental regulations, meeting with residents or government agencies, and possibly making policy recommendations.

Understanding: familiarity with air/soil/water contaminants, chemical processes, and applicable regulations.

Skills: analytical, attention to detail, communication, report writing, English, technical language, computers, research.

University degree in environmental science is a minimum requirement, though a master's degree is preferred. Useful courses include chemistry, biology, English, physics, sociology, political science, philosophy, mathematics, and geography.

Relationships: You may find yourself conducting meetings with local residents and businesses or in discussions with government offices. You will often work alone or as part of a small team and sometimes meet with other experts in the field.

Atmosphere: You will either be in an office or outdoors. Some travel may be necessary.

$50,000-$100,000 (depending on experience and education)

Environmental auditor, energy auditor, energy educator, social marketer, policy advocate, policy analyst

Analytical, Hands-on, Science, Working Outdoors
Environmental Consultant
PNNL
Environmental consultants are on the rise, as more businesses seek to implement environmentally-friendly practices in the workplace. Consultants are involved in a wide range of activities that address both the technical and behavioral aspects of "greening" a workplace, but essentially, their job is to interpret environmental regulations and help businesses stick to them. From implementing waste reduction programs to assessing the water quality in the area, environmental consultants play an important role in helping companies and organizations recognize their responsibilities to the environment. This is your chance to change the world, one company at a time!
Environmental consultants advise businesses and other organizations on how to create a more environmentally-friendly workplace. On the technical side of things, you may be performing energy audits and giving out advice on how to be more energy efficient. Alternately, you may be more involved in the scientific aspect of things, like conducting site assessments or surveying habitat loss. Other areas of responsibility can include helping businesses apply for permits, designing eco-friendly training practices for employees and ensuring that nearby ecosystems remain protected. Whatever your role, the goal is to establish a set of green policies that comply with the law and foster a culture of environmental responsibility in the workplace.

Understanding: broad knowledge of environmental policies and heath and safety regulations, with specific expertise in areas that include biology, waste and water management, pollution, energy efficiency, ecosystem and habitat assessment.

Skills: critical thinking, analysis, organization, communication, decision-making, attention to detail, report writing.

A university degree in Environmental Studies or related studies is required. Useful courses include chemistry, biology, physics, geography, mathematics, English and political science.

Relationships: You will constantly be working for new clients, but may also spend time working alone or with a small team.

Atmosphere: As a consultant, you may work from home or in a small office, with frequent trips on-site.

College diploma: $30,000-$35,000 University degree: $40,000-$60,000

Environmental impact assessor, sustainability manager, energy auditor, energy manager, environmental educator

Analytical, English, Organized, Science, Working With People
LEED Consultant
US Green Building Council
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is an internationally-recognized green building certification that measures efficiency in green design and construction. LEED recognizes achievements in areas such as water efficiency, energy efficiency and sustainable building materials. Some LEED consultants work alongside sustainable architects, others are hired by homeowners or organizations to ensure that the architects and contractors are making good on their green promises. As organizations and homeowners continue to demand more environmentally responsible building choices and smarter designs, LEED consultants will become more and more in demand.
LEED consultants advise on all aspects of a building’s LEED certification process. You will make recommendations and assist with the design and implementation of LEED principles. At times, you may make presentations on LEED certification or perform a LEED rating analysis on a building. You will also be responsible for preparing the necessary paperwork for certification.

Understanding: energy efficiency and design principles.

Skills: problem solving, decision-making, critical thinking, organization, English, research, report writing, communication, analysis, and attention to detail.

University degrees in architecture, engineering, or construction sciences are desirable, but experience in construction or trades is highly recommended. LEED accreditation through the Canada Green Building Council is highly recommended.

Relationships: You will be interacting with a variety of people such as contractors, construction managers, building inspectors, architects, and industry professionals.

Atmosphere: Travel between an office, construction site, permit offices, and various other agencies will be required.

$85,000 on average

Sustainable architect (LEED AP), energy auditor, policy analyst, communications officer, energy educator, social marketer, environmental manager, environmental economist, energy manager

Analytical, Math, Research-Based, Working With Computers
Industrial Design Engineer
Sheila Franklin
Do you like building things? Does the challenge of designing smarter, more efficient, eco-friendly products appeal to you? An industrial design engineer with that kind of drive is needed to steer the future of the manufacturing industry in the right direction. This can mean anything from designing energy efficient light bulbs or biodegradable take-out containers, to inventing solar-powered laptops or robots! If innovation and a technical brain is what you’ve got, then this is the career for you!
You will be responsible for designing and developing products, which may include testing prototypes, coordinating the manufacturing process, managing a small team, and ensuring that your company complies with appropriate manufacturing standards. You may also be responsible for making sure the machines involved in the manufacturing process and the raw materials used to make the product are environmentally-friendly.

Understanding: life cycle analysis, air quality, pollution prevention, sustainable design, energy efficiency.

Skills: problem solving, decision making, critical thinking, technical programs, organization, English, management, report writing, research, communication, analysis, attention to detail.

A university degree in Engineering is necessary. Additional qualifications are an asset. This position requires at least 5 years experience in engineering. Important courses include sciences, mathematics, English, technical arts, and computers.

Relationships: You will manage or work with a team and should be able to communicate your creative ideas effectively. You may also be interacting with suppliers and clients. Atmosphere: You will work indoors, splitting your time between the office and a lab or factory.

$80,000-$150,000

Sustainable architect (LEED AP), electrical engineer, automotive engineer, geothermal engineer, HVAC technician, energy manager

Analytical, Design Work, Hands-On, Innovative, Math, Science, Tech Arts

Geothermal Engineer
Edmonton Journal
Geothermal energy is a rapidly expanding and increasingly popular technology for both residential and industrial applications. Geothermal technology takes advantage of the heat that naturally radiates below the earth's surface. Because the temperature underground is always constant, geothermal technology can be used for both heating in the winter and cooling in the summer. As a geothermal engineer, you may be exploring new ways to harness and use this exciting technology, or determining the best design, methods and technology for individual installations.
As a geothermal engineer, you will work to develop geothermal technology and drilling techniques, monitor reservoirs and energy fields, use computer models, and diagnose and resolve problems.

Understanding: energy efficiency principles, thermodynamics, pollution reduction, climate change

Skills: problem solving, organization, critical thinking, innovation, report writing, technical knowledge, complex tools, computers, mathematics, English, communication, attention to detail, analysis

An engineering degree is necessary, though additional education is preferred. Training and certification is offered by the Canadian GeoExchange Coalition. Useful cources include chemistry, geology, physics, mathematics, English, computers, and geography.

Relationships: Daily interaction with technicians and technologists, as well as other engineers, will be necessary. Some meetings with energy policy planners may occur.

Atmosphere: You will often be working out in the field, taking measurements and ensuring operations are running smoothly.

$70,000-$85,000

Energy manager, renewable energy researcher, electrical engineer, biofuel/bioenergy researcher, industrial design/engineer

Analytical, Innovative, Math, Science, Tech Arts
Biofuel / Bioenergy Researcher
Sandia Labs
Do you love science, but hate how fossil-based fuels pollute the environment? Biofuel and bioenergy researchers and engineers challenge existing energy beliefs and develop progressive ideas that can be part of the solution to climate change.
You will conduct extensive research on biofuel or bioenergy, conduct experiments, publish studies, analyze data and make recommendations to improve existing technology.

Understanding: Research, communication, technical language, computer, report writing, attention to detail, mathematics.

Skills: Climate change, energy efficiency, pollution prevention, biological and chemical processes.

A master's degree or Ph.D. in engineering (chemical, biological, biochemical), chemistry, biology, or related field. Useful courses include biology, chemistry, physics, English, geology, and mathematics.

Relationships: You will work mainly with other scientists, engineers, educators, and professionals.

Atmosphere: You will likely spend most of your time in a lab, though at times you may be presenting your findings at conferences or universities. You may find yourself working for private agencies, governments, engineering firms, or universities.

$80,000

Renewable energy researcher, geothermal planning, energy retrofitter, energy auditor, energy manager

Analytical, Innovative, Research-Based, Science

Automotive Engineer
Suma
You love cars but not the pollution they generate. Be part of the solution! Design automotive components and systems that will combat pollution, conserve fuel, or use alternative fuelling methods. As environmental regulations about emissions become more stringent, more engineers will be required to make innovative and efficient vehicles.
An automotive engineer's duties can include designing and developing transmission and engine systems, developing prototypes and testing vehicles, and producing innovative fuel systems (including hybrid and electric models).

Understanding: fuel economy and emissions, transmission and engine systems, vehicle dynamics.

Skills: problem solving, critical thinking, organization, research, report writing, computers, analysis, mechanical and electrical engineering.

A university degree in Engineering (electrical, automotive, or mechanical) is required. Useful courses include mathematics, sciences, computers, automotive technology, and English.

Relationships: As part of a team, you will be reporting to a supervisor and communicating with other engineers and researchers. As you advance, you may make presentations to potential clients, become a supervisor yourself, or manage the design of an entire project.

Atmosphere: You may be working in a laboratory, out in the field, or in a manufacturing plant.

$70,000-$90,000 (may increase with experience)

Biofuel/bioenergy researcher, renewable energy researcher, geothermal engineer, industrial engineer, electrical engineer

Analytical, Creative, Design Work, Innovative, Science, Tech Arts

Wind Turbine Technician
Wind turbine technicians can be found high up on platforms inspecting, cleaning, calibrating, repairing, and troubleshooting the various components of a turbine to ensure efficient operation. As this exciting field continues to expand and countries begin to include more and more renewable energy content in their energy mixes, technicians will be in increasingly high demand.
Attention to detail is key here. You will need to be comfortable working in a small team or on your own as you assess the components of wind turbines and write field reports. Your ability to read technical diagrams, schematics, and illustrations will be essential. Problem-solving and technical skills will be important for this position.

Understanding: wind energy technology, electrical engineering, energy efficiency principles.

Skills: report writing, mathematics, attention to detail, problem solving, communication, technical language, computer.

A college degree is important, and an engineering background would be useful. Courses that may be helpful include mathematics, physics, chemistry, geography, geology, technological design, machine/manufacturing technology, and English.

Relationships: You will likely work as part of a small team. You may also be communicating with clients or suppliers.

Atmosphere: You will mostly be working outdoors, on high platforms so you will have to get used to working at heights.

$18-$26/hour

Solar service technician, solar panel installer, electrical engineer, industrial design engineer, HVAC technician, energy retrofitter, energy auditor

Analytical, Hands-On, Math, Science, Tech Arts, Working Outdoors
Solar Service Technician
Wayne National Forest
Do you like the challenge of working with new and emerging technology? How about a career in repairing and maintaining solar installations? A career that mixes hands-on work with technical expertise, solar service technicians are part of a progressive field that is growing at an incredible rate.
You will assist with the installation, maintenance, and repair of a solar installation. You must be a licensed or apprenticing electrician and should be familiar with different solar systems (photovoltaic, thermal), and the National Building Code of Canada. The job may require heavy lifting and use of ladders. You are also expected to be aware of applicable health and safety regulations to ensure a safe working environment.

Understanding: solar energy technology, electrical engineering, energy efficiency principles, health and safety regulations.

Skills: mathematics, computers, communication, technical language, problem solving, attention to detail.

You must be a licensed or apprenticing electrician to work as a solar technician. A college degree in Energy Systems Technology is also useful, although years of experience as a solar panel installer may be enough. Courses that may be helpful include mathematics, physics, chemistry, geography, geology, and English.

Relationships: You will likely work as part of a small team of installers and contractors. Your work will be supervised by a Master Electrician. You may also be communicating with clients or suppliers.

Atmosphere: You will mostly be working outdoors, on rooftops or ladders.

$20-$30/hour

Wind turbine technician, solar panel installer, HVAC technician, energy retrofitter, electrical engineer, green roof installer, lighting specialist, industrial retrofit designer, renewable energy sales representative

Analytical, Hands-on, Math, Science, Tech Arts, Working Outdoors
Master Electrician
mathamgri
Master Electricians (ME) have always played a major role in building projects and power generation, but with the rise of the renewable energy industry, MEs have a chance to “green” their electrical expertise and capitalize on the growing demand for clean, green energy. As we transition out of fossil fuel-based energy sources, these tradesmen will be important players in helping to kickstart the new green economy.
Master Electricians manage all aspects of an electrical project, be it a residential solar PV installation, or getting a turbine up and running. Your work may include installing and connecting solar panels, connecting installations to inverters, testing electrical components and ensuring that the wind or solar installation is safely hooked up. You will also need to be able to read PV line drawings (technical diagrams indicating how the panels are hooked up) and blueprints. You will be supervising a small team of installers and solar technicians and will ultimately be responsible for ensuring that all electrical aspects of the job are safely connected, comply with Electrical Safety Authority and regulations and Local Distribution Company (LDC) requirements, and in good working order.

Understanding: solar and wind energy technology, electrical engineering, Ontario Electrical Safety Code, building code regulations, health and safety regulations.

Skills: mathematics, computers, communication, technical language, problem solving, attention to detail.

In order to qualify for a Master Electrician license, you must have 3 years of experience as an electrician, an engineer or an engineering technician. You must also pass a qualifying exam administered by the Electrical Safety Authority, who offers a preparatory training course.

Relationships: You will be overseeing a small team of installers and electrical contractors. You may also be communicating with engineers, clients or suppliers.

Atmosphere: Your work will include both indoor and outdoor work (which may include being on rooftops or ladders) and may involve some heavy lifting. You should also be comfortable dealing with electrical hazards, as you will face the risk of electrical shock.

$50,000-$70,000

Wind turbine technician, solar panel installer, HVAC technician, energy retrofitter, electrical engineer, green roof installer, lighting specialist, industrial retrofit designer, renewable energy sales representative

Analytical, Hands-on, Math, Science, Tech Arts, Working Outdoors
Energy Auditor
Greensaver
Are you tired of walking past empty buildings with their lights still on, and do you see each drafty old building as an opportunity for energy savings? As an energy auditor, you are asked to review energy-inefficient areas in homes and businesses and suggest improvements for energy saving. As environmental awareness spreads, expectations about environmental responsibility will also grow. The public is demanding higher standards and better practices, and you could be the person who makes it happen.
You will investigate and evaluate energy use within a home or facility to determine changes that can be made to improve efficiency. Using cool diagnostic tools (like blower doors or thermal imaging), you will identify poorly insulated areas and leakages, assess the efficiency of HVAC systems, and make reccommendations for energy-conserving retrofits. Your reports will often be implemented by an energy retrofitter.

Understanding: energy-saving practices, familiarity with HVAC systems and building sciences, understanding of LEED principles an asset.

Skills: report writing, communication, critical thinking, problem solving, organization, mathematics, materials and technical language knowledge.

A Certified Energy Advisor (CEA) licence is offered by some colleges and various service organizations. The course includes a 5-day workshop, a practicum and a Natural Resources Canada exam. A background in engineering, HVAC, or construction is also handy. Useful courses include mathematics, physics, chemistry, technology, computers, and English.

Relationships: You will work closely with energy retrofitters, clients (who may be home owners), business representatives, or government employees.

Atmosphere: You may find yourself working for a consulting firm or NGO, a government office, or any other number of other organizations. Your work will take you to a variety of sites including homes, businesses, schools, government buildings, institutions, and manufacturing facilities.

$40,000+ (may increase if commission is part of compensation)

Environmental consultant, energy adviser, energy retrofitter, energy manager

Analytical, Hands-on, Math, Tech Arts

Electrical Engineer
Jason Osmann
Your creativity, technical savvy and keen sense of innovation are put to the test in this rapidly growing career. These skills will help you design and install electrical equipment used for power generation or transmission. Electrical engineers are key players in both the wind and solar industry, and will be in great demand as those fields expand and evolve.
Your responsibilities may vary depending on whether you specialize in solar, wind or another field. Generally speaking, you will develop, install, test and maintain electrical connections, prepare plans for projects, and oversee project development. You may also be asked to conduct feasibility reports and field assessments.

Understanding: knowledge of energy generation and transmission principles, knowledge of renewable alternatives to traditional energy sources.

Skills: attention to detail, communication, project management, computers, technical understanding.

A university degree in Electrical Engineering is necessary, though a combination of additional education and experience is preferred. Mathematics, physics, chemistry, computers, data management, and earth sciences are all useful courses, most of which are mandatory.

Relationships: You may work with or oversee other engineers and/or technicians; you may be communicating with outside consultants and other professionals.

Atmosphere: Working both on-site and in an office environment, either for a private company or government.

$70,000-$85,000

Wind turbine technician/technologist, wind engineer, solar service technician, lighting specialist, industrial design engineer

Analytical, Design Work, Math, Science, Tech Arts, Working With Computers

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