Of President Obama's $787 billion stimulus package, an impressive $40 billion will be spent on the creation of "green jobs," jobs that have a positive impact on the environment. This should come as great news to job seekers. Many are getting on board for a green career. Some facts you may want to consider:
- Opportunities for green careers are growing, and can be found across the nation.
- Contrary to popular belief, green jobs are not just for scientists and PhDs.
- Many traditional jobs are being given a green makeover.
- Building and manufacturing are popular sectors, but green jobs also include retail, science, and agriculture.
The U.S. is currently seeing an expansion of two-year college programs focusing on green careers. Many students are betting on a boom in the green-collar job industry -- careers they can train for without a four-year degree. With the right training, you can green your own career. Below are some of the most exciting green careers and information on how to train for them.
HVACR Mechanic and Installer
As part of the green building sector, many buildings are being retrofitted to save energy and meet new environmental standards. Heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, and refrigeration workers today can specialize in solar power installation, for example, and find their niche in the green industry.
Career Training: Technical school training such as a diploma in HVACR installation and repair, with certification in EPA standards, is a solid route to success in this field.
Job Outlook: Job growth for the profession as a whole is about as fast as average. It is hard to say how much more growth one can expect for green specialties, but considering overall job growth in green industries, the outlook certainly seems favorable.
Average Annual Salary: $42,240.
Construction Manager
Oversee green development as a construction manager and be on the front lines of the green revolution. Construction managers, also called project managers, help coordinate and plan projects of all kinds, from residential and industrial buildings to water treatment plants, bridges, and roads.
Career Training: A bachelor's degree in civil engineering or construction management is preferred by most employers, and hands-on experience in the construction area is a must.
Job Outlook: Faster than average at 16 percent, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Average Annual Salary: $89,770.
Environmental Engineer
Environmental engineers tackle such problems as air and water pollution, waste disposal, recycling, and public health concerns. Many work as consultants, advising clients on safe environmental practices and compliance regulation issues.
Career Training: A bachelor's degree in engineering, with a specialty in environmental engineering, will likely be required for most entry-level positions.
Job Outlook: Environmental engineers are expected to see the fastest job growth of all the engineering specialties. Growth of 25 percent is projected over the next seven years.
Average Annual Salary: The BLS reports that starting salaries for engineers are among the highest of all college graduates. Environmental engineer salaries on average are $77,970.
Electrician
Many electricians are self-employed or work in the construction industry. With the boom of green construction, this could be good news for those entering the field.
Career Training: You may be able to start at a more advanced level if you begin your training early through vocational education. An associate's degree in electrical trades or electronics technology, for example, might be one way to prepare for a career as an electrician. Most electricians go on to complete an apprenticeship in order to solidify their skills and training.
Job Outlook: About as fast as average, according to the BLS. Opportunities will be good for those with the widest range of experience.
Average Annual Salary: $49,890.
Sales Manager
Sustainable, eco-friendly products of all kinds are being made available to consumers, and are more in demand as buyers become more aware of environmental issues. Sales managers coordinate a company's sales efforts, train and advise salespeople, and collect valuable market research about customer's preferences.
Career Training: Many employers prefer a bachelor's or master's degree with an emphasis on marketing. It is more and more common for schools to offer special degrees for green job seekers, for example, a bachelor's degree in business with a specialty in green and sustainable enterprise management.
Job Outlook: 12 percent growth, or about as fast as average. Job competition is keen, so opportunities will be best for those with the right career training.
Average Annual Salary: $110,390
Plant the seed today for your green career, and watch it grow into a healthy, lush future.
Patricia Cecil-Reed is a writer based in Brooklyn, NY. She holds a B.A. in literature from Sarah Lawrence College.
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