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Your checklist before applying to your next renewable energy job

Ellie Dyksman our consultant managing the role
Posted by Ellie Dyksman
Published on 22 May 2023

The renewable energy industry is booming, and as the world is shifting towards a more sustainable future there's been an increase in demand for industry professionals. Renewable energy jobs are not only highly rewarding but also offer a chance to contribute to a brighter future. However, before you apply for a renewable energy job, there are a few things you need to consider to ensure you are the right fit for the job and the company.

 

Research the industry

A great first step to getting a job in renewable energy is to learn as much about the industry as possible.  What are the different types of renewable energy? What are the latest trends? What are the challenges facing the industry? The more you know about the industry, the better prepared you'll be to answer questions in interviews and to make a good impression on potential employers. It's a relatively new industry and developments and technologies are constantly surfacing.

 

Identify your skills and experience

Once you have a good understanding of the renewable energy industry it's time to take stock of what you can bring to the sector. What are your skills and experience? As technologies emerge and projects gather in the pipeline the need for skilled professionals grows and this may mean that resources will be recruited from other industries. Think about your transferable skills and how they could benefit the project you're applying for.

Contributing to a greener future for our planet is not only a job, but a passion for many people in the renewable energy industry.  If you can combine this passion with the right skills and experience you will be more likely to stand out against other applicants. 

Network

Networking is an essential and effective aspect of any job search and as the old saying goes, "it's not what you know, it's who you know" and whilst that might not be entirely true when it comes to successfully landing a job in renewable energy it certainly helps. 

To get your name out there attend industry events, join relevant online forums and groups and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn. Not only does this provide a chance to learn more about the industry and all its sub sectors but also potential jobs opportunities.

Freshen up your resume and cover letter

As with any job hunt it's important to update your resume and cover letter for the job you're applying for. Remember that this might be your first point of contact with your potential employer so it's important that you make a good impression.  Make sure both are up to date and take the time to read the job description carefully and highlight the skills and experience that are most relevant to the position. You should also customise your resume and cover letter to reflect the company culture and values of the organisation you're applying to.

 

Prepare for interviews

If the letter and resume have done their job, you may be invited to an interview. The more you practice your interview skills, the more confident you'll feel when you're sitting across from a potential employer. Practice answering common interview questions and get feedback from friends or family members on your performance.

As well as preparing for the usual questions, make sure you familiarise yourself with the company’s culture and values and have a list of questions that you would like to ask the interviewer, this shows that you’ve done your research have a legitimate interest in the company and industry.  

 

Stay up to date with industry news and trends

Figures show that that by 2024 almost 33% of the world's electricity is forecast to come from renewables. Proof that the industry has come a long way and continues to move rapidly. To stay ahead of the curve, it's important to stay up to date on the latest trends. Subscribe to industry newsletters, follow relevant social media accounts, set up relevant Google alerts and read industry publications. Staying informed will enable you to keep up with the latest trends and developments, making you a more attractive candidate to potential employers. 

 

Speak to Quanta

As the renewable energy industry evolves, so do we. Our dedicated team of renewable energy recruitment consultants have been keenly tracking new developments in the field and harvesting the best talent to meet the modern needs of the sector. Do you have the technical skills and knowledge that could land you an emerging profession in the field? We would love to hear from you. Search our renewable energy jobs or get in contact with one of our team today.