[The Vector] Green Jobs: Energy Industry Survey 2011
The Association of Energy Engineers (AEE), which is an association of more than 14,000 members, recently issued a survey to its members regarding Green Jobs. The Center for American Progress indicated in a March 2010 report that by 2020, clean energy should be one of the world’s biggest industries, at perhaps $2.3 trillion. The AEE wanted to hear perspective and opinion for its own members, and it offers advice and assistance to those who are looking for training.
The respondent pool profile includes:
- 86% that have graduated from a four-year college, while 40% have a post-graduate degree.
- 35% that are registered Professional Engineers or Architects.
- 80% that are certified in one of a number of categories (such as Certified Energy Manager, Certified Energy Auditor, Certified Building & Sustainability Technician, Certified Lighting Efficiency Professional, etc.)
Section one examined the state of Green Jobs.
It was revealed that respondents believe there will be a dwindling supply of energy professionals at play because 32% plan to retire in the next ten years.
67% of energy professional indicate they believe there will be a heightened shortage of qualified professionals in the energy in the next five years.
72% of the respondents believe there is a strong need for national and state training in Green Jobs to address job shortages, especially in such areas as energy efficient building and construction, renewables, electric power, smart grid, energy efficient vehicles and biofuel development.
74% of certified respondents believe their company benefitted because of the certification, while 52% believe they are receiving higher visibility thanks to the certification.
86% believe that since receiving certification, their company can respond to more requests for proposals.
Salaries, Bonuses and Experience.
The average salary for the respondents as of January 1, 2011, was $96,683. This is base salary excluding any bonus, overtime or secondary employment frees.
The average bonus was $7,356 received in 2010.
Breakdown on years of experience:
0 – 5 years: 10%
6 – 10 years: 11%
11 – 15 years: 12%
16 – 20 years: 12%
21 – 25 years: 16%
26 and more years: 37%
Training Opportunities.
The AAE offers various professional training and re-training, such as online training at www.aeecenter.org/realtime and live seminar classes and training. AAE also has developed a number of partnerships (universities, institutions, organizations) for training programs in many speciality areas for Green Jobs. The report outlines many of these partnerships.
Green Jobs and Titles.
The reports lists five pages of current Green Job titles that exist in the marketplace today, coming from those surveyed. The list is quite extensive and helpful for anyone considering work in the field, from “Advisor for Management and Energy” to “Wind Power Engineer.”
The report reminds us of a March 2010 study conducted by the Center for American Progress, that believes by 2020, clean energy will be one of the world’s largest industries, perhaps totaling as much as $2.3 trillion. It also cites a 2011 Pike Research report that indicates the U.S. retro-commissioning market could grow from $160M to $1.8B by 2014. Industry growth hinges on government policy, consumer demand, scientific development and delivery to market.
