Renewable energy manager
Lead teams to deliver wind, solar or hydro projects from first idea to final switch-on. Each day brings new challenges as you turn renewable potential into real, reliable power.
Also known as: energy manager, green energy manager, clean energy manager, renewable energy project manager
About the job
What it's like
You'll lead teams focused on sustainable power sources and manage every stage of a renewable energy project. Your goal is to make sure the project finishes on time, within budget and meets green regulations. You'll also play a key part in helping organisations reduce their carbon footprint and meet energy targets.
You'll focus on planning, developing and overseeing renewable energy projects, such as wind farms, solar installations or bioenergy systems. It's a rewarding role if you enjoy seeing real-world impact, from cutting emissions to helping communities access cleaner energy.
To work in this role, you’ll need both technical and managerial skills. One day, you may plan a project’s finances and the next, you might help out with engineering or construction work.
You'll find renewable energy managers in sectors like utilities, construction, local government and consultancy. Some specialise in a particular technology, like solar or offshore wind, while others focus on policy, project management or technical operations.
Your tasks might include:
managing the design and delivery of renewable energy projects
analysing site data to assess project feasibility
preparing reports and presenting findings to stakeholders
monitoring project budgets and timelines
making sure compliance with environmental and safety regulations
liaising with engineers, contractors and government bodies
Green job
In this job you'll be doing work to help the environment. Find out more about green jobs.
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
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Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
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Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- managing resources
- social conscience
- innovative
- attention to detail
- developing a plan
- negotiating
- networking
- motivating others
- adaptability
- written communication
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
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Maths (Mathematics)
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Physics
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Chemistry
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Design and Technology
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Environmental Science
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Geography
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Business Management
You’ll likely need a degree or postgraduate qualification for this job. You can work towards this after school by going to university, college or by getting an apprenticeship.
Explore the information you need for each route into this career.
University
For many roles, you'll need a degree or postgraduate qualification.
Subjects related to energy and engineering are very useful, such as:
renewable energy engineering
environmental science
environmental earth science
energy and environmental engineering
mechanical or electrical engineering
Other university subjects which could be helpful for this career include:
geography
project management
engineering
What you need to enter a degree course depends on the subject and university. For a renewable energy engineering degree, you'll likely need:
At least two Highers at BBCC or better. These must include maths and a science-based subject.
You should also have English at National 5 level as a minimum.
Some universities will have more difficult entry requirements – these are what you'll need as a minimum. A relevant HNC or HND will allow you to apply for some courses.
For entry to a postgraduate course, you'll need an honours degree in a relevant subject.
College
Getting qualifications at college, such as an HNC or HND, could help you find work or move on to more advanced study. Subjects at college could include:
energy and environmental engineering
engineering systems: renewables
engineering systems
electrical engineering
building services engineering
What you'll need for a college course depends on the qualification level, subject and college. As a guide, for an HND in energy and environmental engineering, you'll likely need two Highers at C or better. These should include Maths and Physics – or another engineering-based subject.
Apprenticeships
Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) mean you learn on the job. You get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time.
You might want to consider an MA in areas such as:
Getting work experience in a relevant role can help you break into the renewable energy sector. Search for opportunities on Volunteer Scotland.
Find more volunteering through:
Have you heard of The Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology? Joining a renewable energy body can help you make contacts in the industry and find training opportunities.
The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) is another fantastic group! SEIA has a range of events, webinars, newsletters and resources that you may find useful.
You'll likely need a driving licence for this role.
You'd need to demonstrate an up to date knowledge of energy practices and management. As this is a quickly evolving and expanding area of work, on-going training will be needed to stay current.
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Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Renewable energy manager'
