The 10 most in-demand roles in the US power sector

Look, the US energy market is growing right now, and we don’t mean in a click-bait “someday” kind of way.

We mean today.

Jobs are popping up faster than a heat pump meme on X. Grid upgrades, offshore wind, shiny new nuclear projects, you name it, they all need talent yesterday.

In this deep-dive, we’re breaking down the 10 most in-demand roles in the US power sector every hiring manager and job hunter should have on their radar, including where they’re hottest, what they pay, and the quick-start path to land them.

Whether you build teams, build careers, or build policy, what follows will give you the tactical intel to move first and move smart.

Ready? Let’s dig in.

The 10 most in-demand roles in the US power sector

1. Electrical Engineer

Average salary: $102,600 ($79,800–$132,700)

States with the highest demand:

1. Texas
2. California
3. New York
4. Florida
5. Illinois

Top metros with highest demand for Electrical Engineers:

1. Houston
2. Dallas
3. Los Angeles
4. New York City
5. Chicago

Two-sentence role snapshot

Electrical engineers in the power sector design, develop, and maintain systems for electricity generation, transmission, and distribution.

Their work includes everything from grid modernisation projects to renewable energy integration and troubleshooting large-scale outages.

Why being an Electrical Engineer matters

Electrical engineers are fundamental to delivering reliable power to millions of US homes and businesses.

Their expertise ensures the safety, resilience, and efficiency of the energy grid, particularly as it incorporates more variable renewables.

They support the integration of advanced grid technologies and play a critical role in emergency response and system upgrades.

As the backbone of the modern power system, their skills directly impact national infrastructure and energy security.

Why demand is high for Electrical Engineers

Rising investment in grid modernisation, the rapid deployment of renewables, and increasing electrification of transport and industry are driving the need for experienced electrical engineers.

Ongoing retirements in the existing workforce and a growing number of transmission and distribution projects create additional demand.

Federal and state incentives for clean energy infrastructure, such as the Inflation Reduction Act, are also fuelling job growth. The complexity of integrating distributed energy resources requires deep technical expertise.

How to become an Electrical Engineer in the US power sector

• Minimum education: Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering (ABET-accredited programme)
• Licences/certs: Professional Engineer (PE) licence typically required for advancement
• Typical experience ladder: Graduate engineer → Associate engineer → Professional engineer → Senior/project lead

Career pathway

Electrical engineers may advance to technical specialist, project manager, or engineering director roles, or diversify into consulting or utility executive leadership with experience.

2. Wind Turbine Technician

Average salary: $61,890 ($48,520–$82,600)

States with the highest demand:

1. Texas
2. Iowa
3. Oklahoma
4. Kansas
5. California

Top metros with highest demand for Wind Turbine Technicians:

1. Amarillo
2. Des Moines
3. Oklahoma City
4. Wichita
5. Bakersfield

Two-sentence role snapshot

Wind turbine technicians install, inspect, maintain, and repair wind turbines, primarily in large onshore and offshore wind farms.

Their day-to-day tasks include climbing turbines, troubleshooting faults, and ensuring optimal performance and safety.

Why being a Wind Turbine Technician matters

Wind turbine technicians keep the nation’s fastest-growing source of renewable power running safely and efficiently.

Their skills directly impact the output and reliability of wind farms, contributing to emissions reductions and grid stability. The physical nature and safety risks of the role make their work highly specialised.

As wind power expands, their expertise is essential for scaling up clean generation capacity.

Why demand is high for Wind Turbine Technicians

US wind capacity is forecast to nearly double by 2030, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 45% growth in wind technician roles by 2032.

The construction of new wind farms, coupled with the need to maintain an aging fleet, is creating a significant talent shortage.

Many roles are based in rural areas, making recruitment and retention more challenging. Federal clean energy targets and increased investment in offshore wind are accelerating demand.

How to become a Wind Turbine Technician in the US power sector

• Minimum education: Post-secondary certificate or associate degree (wind energy technology)
• Licences/certs: Basic safety and climbing/rescue certification (OSHA, GWO)
• Typical experience ladder: Trainee → Junior technician → Lead technician → Site manager

Career pathway

Technicians may progress to supervisory or site management positions, or move into commissioning, training, or technical sales roles within the renewables sector.

3. Solar Photovoltaic Installer

Average salary: $45,230 ($37,320–$62,780)

States with the highest demand:

1. California
2. Texas
3. Florida
4. Arizona
5. North Carolina

Top metros with highest demand for Solar PV Installers:

1. Los Angeles
2. Houston
3. Miami
4. Phoenix
5. Raleigh

Two-sentence role snapshot

Solar PV installers assemble, install, and maintain rooftop and utility-scale solar panel systems.

Their work is both technical and physical, requiring careful attention to electrical safety and system design.

Why being a Solar PV Installer matters

Solar PV installers are at the forefront of America’s decarbonisation effort, enabling homes and businesses to generate clean electricity.

Their role is critical for expanding access to solar power, reducing household energy costs, and building climate resilience. Every installed system reduces grid demand and emissions.

The quality of their work underpins the reputation and reliability of the solar sector.

Why demand is high for Solar PV Installers

The solar workforce is projected to grow 22% by 2032, with California alone expected to add over 10,000 new installer roles.

Rapidly falling technology costs, generous state and federal incentives, and strong consumer demand are driving hiring.

The US aims to triple solar capacity by 2030, necessitating a huge ramp-up in installation teams. Supply chain challenges and a need for certified talent are ongoing constraints.

How to become a Solar PV Installer in the US power sector

• Minimum education: High school diploma; many employers prefer technical training or apprenticeship
• Licences/certs: NABCEP certification highly regarded
• Typical experience ladder: Entry-level installer → Lead installer → Site supervisor → Project manager

Career pathway
Installers can specialise in commercial or utility-scale projects, move into design or quality assurance roles, or progress to project management.

4. Power Plant Operator

Average salary: $94,790 ($71,920–$110,370)

States with the highest demand:

1. Illinois
2. Pennsylvania
3. Texas
4. Ohio
5. Michigan

Top metros with highest demand for Power Plant Operators:

1. Chicago
2. Philadelphia
3. Houston
4. Cleveland
5. Detroit

Two-sentence role snapshot

Power plant operators control and monitor the equipment that generates electricity in fossil, nuclear, and renewable plants.

They manage start-ups, shutdowns, and emergency procedures to ensure safe and reliable supply.

Why being a Power Plant Operator matters

Power plant operators are responsible for the constant delivery of electricity that underpins all economic activity.

Their vigilance and skill prevent outages, maintain safety, and support the integration of new energy sources. As more renewables come online, operators play a key role in grid balancing and system flexibility.

Their decisions can have immediate, large-scale impacts on customers and communities.

Why demand is high for Power Plant Operators

Despite automation, strong demand persists due to an aging workforce and the complexity of integrating legacy and new energy systems. Many operators are nearing retirement, creating succession gaps.

Decentralisation and the growth of distributed energy resources require broader skillsets. Regulatory compliance and safety standards also necessitate highly trained staff.

How to become a Power Plant Operator in the US power sector

• Minimum education: High school diploma; some college preferred
• Licences/certs: State licensure or certification may be required
• Typical experience ladder: Entry-level operator → Control room operator → Shift supervisor

Career pathway
Operators may move into senior operational, training, or compliance roles, or transition to plant management.

5. Transmission Lineworker

Average salary: $82,340 ($63,410–$108,380)

States with the highest demand:

1. Florida
2. Texas
3. Georgia
4. North Carolina
5. California

Top metros with highest demand for Transmission Lineworkers:

1. Miami
2. Houston
3. Atlanta
4. Charlotte
5. Los Angeles

Two-sentence role snapshot

Transmission lineworkers build, maintain, and repair the high-voltage lines that carry power over long distances.

The role is physically demanding and often requires working at heights or during severe weather.

Why being a Transmission Lineworker matters

Transmission lineworkers are the first responders for storm recovery and grid restoration.

Their expertise ensures the safe, reliable delivery of power to entire cities and regions. They play a key role in building new lines to connect renewables and reduce congestion.

The complexity of their work underpins grid reliability and public safety.

Why demand is high for Transmission Lineworkers

Extreme weather, grid expansion, and the push to connect renewable energy projects are driving recruitment. Many lineworkers are retiring, and entry into the trade can be challenging due to training intensity.

Major investment in transmission infrastructure is underway, especially in states leading on renewables. Utility resilience and emergency preparedness require a robust pipeline of talent.

How to become a Transmission Lineworker in the US power sector

• Minimum education: High school diploma plus apprenticeship
• Licences/certs: Journeyman lineman card; OSHA safety certifications
• Typical experience ladder: Apprentice → Journeyman → Lead lineworker → Supervisor

Career pathway

Experienced lineworkers may move into supervision, safety training, or network operations centre roles.

6. Nuclear Engineer

Average salary: $120,380 ($93,750–$151,880)

States with the highest demand:

1. South Carolina
2. Illinois
3. Tennessee
4. Georgia
5. Pennsylvania

Top metros with highest demand for Nuclear Engineers:

1. Columbia, SC
2. Chicago
3. Knoxville
4. Atlanta
5. Pittsburgh

Two-sentence role snapshot

Nuclear engineers design, operate, and upgrade nuclear power plants and reactors.

They ensure systems run safely and efficiently, and are central to life-extension and next-generation nuclear projects.

Why being a Nuclear Engineer matters

Nuclear engineers enable reliable, zero-carbon electricity for millions of Americans.

Their expertise in reactor design, safety systems, and decommissioning is crucial for climate targets and national security. With a wave of plant retirements and new SMR (Small Modular Reactor) projects in the pipeline, their role is both strategic and highly technical.

They also drive innovation in medical and industrial uses of nuclear technology.

Why demand is high for Nuclear Engineers

The need to extend the life of existing plants and develop SMRs is creating significant new demand.

National security concerns and skills shortages are intensifying competition for nuclear expertise. Federal funding for advanced reactor research is supporting new jobs.

Ongoing regulatory compliance and safety oversight require continual upskilling.

How to become a Nuclear Engineer in the US power sector

• Minimum education: Bachelor’s degree in nuclear engineering
• Licences/certs: Professional Engineer licence (state-specific); security clearance may be required
• Typical experience ladder: Graduate engineer → Reactor engineer → Senior/lead engineer

Career pathway

Engineers may progress to principal engineer, site director, or roles in nuclear regulation or policy.

7. Project Manager (Energy Sector)

Average salary: $116,780 ($92,430–$149,000)

States with the highest demand:

1. California
2. Texas
3. New York
4. Illinois
5. Massachusetts

Top metros with highest demand for Project Managers:

1. San Francisco
2. Houston
3. New York City
4. Chicago
5. Boston

Two-sentence role snapshot

Energy sector project managers plan and deliver major power infrastructure projects, overseeing budgets, timelines, teams, and regulatory compliance.

They work across renewables, transmission, and conventional generation.

Why being a Project Manager matters

Project managers ensure that large-scale energy projects are completed safely, on time, and on budget.

Their leadership is critical for de-risking investment and delivering on national decarbonisation goals. They navigate complex stakeholder environments and ensure projects meet evolving regulatory and environmental standards.

Their decisions drive project success and sector innovation.

Why demand is high for Project Managers

Record levels of infrastructure spending and a complex regulatory environment require experienced project leaders.

The scale and pace of the energy transition have increased project complexity and risk, heightening demand for talent. Skilled project managers are in short supply as older professionals retire.

Digital transformation and ESG (environmental, social, governance) requirements add further expertise needs.

How to become a Project Manager in the US power sector

• Minimum education: Bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction, or business
• Licences/certs: PMP (Project Management Professional) credential preferred
• Typical experience ladder: Engineer/analyst → Assistant PM → Project manager → Senior PM

Career pathway

Project managers may advance to programme director or move into executive leadership roles within utilities or developers.

8. Energy Analyst

Average salary: $88,020 ($67,950–$113,500)

States with the highest demand:

1. New York
2. California
3. Massachusetts
4. Texas
5. Illinois

Top metros with highest demand for Energy Analysts:

1. New York City
2. San Francisco
3. Boston
4. Houston
5. Chicago

Two-sentence role snapshot

Energy analysts evaluate market trends, regulatory changes, and project economics to inform strategy and investment decisions in the power sector.

Their work spans utilities, consultancies, and technology firms.

Why being an Energy Analyst matters

Energy analysts provide the insights that drive investment and policy decisions in the evolving US energy market.

They help companies navigate volatile markets, policy shifts, and technology disruption. Accurate analysis underpins everything from grid planning to carbon reduction targets.

Their expertise is increasingly essential for both compliance and innovation.

Why demand is high for Energy Analysts

The growth of renewables, new regulatory requirements, and the proliferation of data are creating more complex analytical challenges.

Energy market volatility and decarbonisation targets require robust forecasting and scenario planning. Employers seek candidates with both technical and policy skills.

The digitalisation of the energy sector is generating new analyst roles.

How to become an Energy Analyst in the US power sector

• Minimum education: Bachelor’s degree in engineering, economics, or data science
• Licences/certs: None essential, but energy market certificates available
• Typical experience ladder: Junior analyst → Analyst → Senior analyst → Team lead

Career pathway

Analysts can specialise in market forecasting, policy, or technology, or move into consulting or management.

9. SCADA/Controls Engineer

Average salary: $103,520 ($82,110–$129,400)

States with the highest demand:

1. Texas
2. California
3. North Carolina
4. Georgia
5. Michigan

Top metros with highest demand for SCADA/Controls Engineers:

1. Houston
2. Los Angeles
3. Charlotte
4. Atlanta
5. Detroit

Two-sentence role snapshot

SCADA/controls engineers design and maintain the automation systems that monitor and control power plants, substations, and renewable assets. Their work is critical for operational safety, efficiency, and cybersecurity.

Why being a SCADA/Controls Engineer matters

SCADA/controls engineers enable real-time grid management and safe operation of complex assets.

Their work helps to prevent outages, optimise generation, and protect infrastructure from cyber threats. As the grid digitalises, their expertise is increasingly mission-critical.

They are vital for integrating renewables and distributed energy resources at scale.

Why demand is high for SCADA/Controls Engineers

Modernisation of the grid and increased cybersecurity risks are driving demand for advanced controls talent.

The spread of remote operations and growth in distributed generation require new skills. Many utilities are struggling to attract and retain controls engineers.

The need for resilience in critical infrastructure is creating long-term demand.

How to become a SCADA/Controls Engineer in the US power sector

• Minimum education: Bachelor’s degree in electrical, controls, or automation engineering
• Licences/certs: Professional Engineer (PE) licence preferred; cybersecurity certifications advantageous
• Typical experience ladder: Junior controls engineer → Controls engineer → Senior/lead engineer

Career pathway

Engineers may move into cybersecurity, operational leadership, or system architect roles.

10. Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) Specialist

Average salary: $76,340 ($58,470–$105,320)

States with the highest demand:

1. Pennsylvania
2. Texas
3. California
4. Ohio
5. Illinois

Top metros with highest demand for EHS Specialists:

1. Philadelphia
2. Houston
3. Los Angeles
4. Columbus
5. Chicago

Two-sentence role snapshot

EHS specialists develop, implement, and enforce health and safety policies in power generation, construction, and renewables settings.

They monitor compliance, investigate incidents, and deliver workforce training.

Why being an EHS Specialist matters

EHS specialists protect workers, the public, and the environment from harm in an industry with inherent risks.

Their oversight is essential for legal compliance, operational efficiency, and corporate reputation. As projects grow in scale and complexity, their work is more critical than ever.

Effective EHS programmes reduce incidents, downtime, and liability.

Why demand is high for EHS Specialists

Regulatory scrutiny and a focus on ESG outcomes are increasing demand for EHS talent.

The expansion of renewables, new construction, and workforce diversity initiatives create additional needs. Skill shortages and rising standards in health and safety elevate the importance of experienced specialists.

Incident prevention is a key driver of operational resilience and insurance costs.

How to become an EHS Specialist in the US power sector

• Minimum education: Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, safety, or engineering
• Licences/certs: CSP (Certified Safety Professional) or equivalent preferred
• Typical experience ladder: Safety coordinator → EHS specialist → EHS manager

Career pathway

Specialists may progress to EHS manager, director of safety, or move into compliance and training consultancy.

Get in touch!

There you have it, the real-world shortlist of power-sector roles that are driving America’s clean-energy sprint.

The opportunity is huge, but so is the competition, and the window for early movers will not stay open for long.

If you’re serious about hiring top-tier specialists, or you are a candidate who wants to land at a company that actually moves the needle, talk to Astute.

We live and breathe energy recruitment, we know where the talent hides, and we can get you in the door before everyone else even realises it is open.

Drop us a line today, tell us what you need, and let’s make it happen.

References

• https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/electrical-and-electronics-engineers.htm
• https://www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes499081.htm
• https://www.utilitydive.com/news/trends-challenges-utility-power-industry-workforce-doble/747199/
• https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=64705
• https://www.canarymedia.com/articles/energy-storage/chart-us-is-set-to-shatter-grid-battery-records-this-year
• https://irecusa.org/programs/solar-jobs-census/
• https://environmentamerica.org/center/articles/which-states-are-poised-to-lead-on-battery-storage/
• https://www.worldwide-rs.com/blog/2023/11/top-10-recruited-for-jobs-in-the-renewables/
• https://www.theutilityexpo.com/news/10-best-us-states-for-solar-wind-natural-gas-jobs
• https://workingnation.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/WorkingNation_Lightcast_GreenJobsNow_August2023.pdf

Definitions and acronyms

• NERC = North American Electric Reliability Corporation.
• NABCEP = North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners.
• OSHA = Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
• SMR = Small Modular Reactor.
• PMP = Project Management Professional.
• CSP = Certified Safety Professional.

FAQs

What is driving the sharp rise in demand for power, renewables, and nuclear professionals in the US?

The sharp rise in demand for power, renewables, and nuclear professionals in the US is driven by rapid grid modernisation, accelerated decarbonisation targets, and record investment in clean-energy infrastructure, all of which require specialist expertise to build and operate safely and efficiently.

Which ten roles are currently the most in-demand across the US power sector?

The ten roles that are currently the most in-demand across the US power sector are Electrical Engineer, Wind Turbine Technician, Solar Photovoltaic Installer, Power Plant Operator, Transmission Lineworker, Nuclear Engineer, Project Manager in the energy sector, Energy Analyst, SCADA or Controls Engineer, and Environmental Health and Safety Specialist.

Why are Electrical Engineers so critical to America’s energy transition?

Electrical Engineers are critical to America’s energy transition because they design, develop, and maintain the systems that keep electricity flowing, integrate renewable generation, and upgrade ageing grid assets, thereby ensuring national energy security and reliability.

How does someone become a Wind Turbine Technician in the US?

Someone becomes a Wind Turbine Technician in the US by completing a post-secondary certificate or associate degree in wind energy technology, gaining basic safety and climbing certifications, and progressing from trainee through junior and lead technician roles to site management.

What makes Solar Photovoltaic Installers essential to decarbonisation efforts?

Solar Photovoltaic Installers are essential to decarbonisation efforts because their installation work enables homes and businesses to generate clean electricity, lowers consumer energy bills, and directly reduces grid emissions with every completed project.

Why is there still high demand for Power Plant Operators despite automation?

There is still high demand for Power Plant Operators despite automation because an ageing workforce, the complexity of integrating legacy and renewable systems, and stringent safety standards all require human vigilance and advanced operational skill.

Where in the US is demand strongest for Transmission Lineworkers and why?

Demand is strongest for Transmission Lineworkers in states such as Florida, Texas, and Georgia because extreme weather events, large-scale renewable build-outs, and major transmission expansion plans all require experienced crews to construct and maintain high-voltage lines safely.

What career pathway does a Nuclear Engineer typically follow?

A Nuclear Engineer typically follows a pathway that starts with a bachelor’s degree in nuclear engineering, progresses through graduate or reactor engineer positions, advances to senior or lead roles, and can ultimately lead to principal engineer, site director, or regulatory and policy posts.

How do Project Managers add value to large energy projects?

Project Managers add value to large energy projects by coordinating budgets, schedules, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder relations, which ensures projects are delivered safely, on time, and on budget, thereby de-risking investment and accelerating clean-energy deployment.

What skills make an Energy Analyst indispensable in today’s market?

The skills that make an Energy Analyst indispensable in today’s market include strong data analysis, policy insight, and economic modelling, all of which help organisations navigate volatile markets, shifting regulations, and evolving technology landscapes.

Why are SCADA or Controls Engineers increasingly mission-critical?

SCADA or Controls Engineers are increasingly mission-critical because they design and maintain automation systems that enable real-time monitoring, optimise generation, and protect critical infrastructure against cyber threats, especially as the grid digitalises.

How can Astute help employers and jobseekers in the US energy sector?

Astute can help employers and jobseekers in the US energy sector by leveraging its deep recruitment expertise to connect companies with hard-to-find specialists, guide candidates toward high-impact roles, and shorten the hiring cycle with market intelligence and a vetted talent network.