5 Ways To Break Into The Energy Sector

With trillions of dollars pumped into renewables, vacancies to fill, and major global energy project launches to reach net-zero targets and double down on energy security, the sector is desperate for skilled workers.

Projects like EACOP need experienced workers to go ahead – and worldwide efforts to overcome the skills gap mean there are plenty of opportunities to enter the sector.

So, what does it take to break into an industry crying out for talent? Here’s our perspective…

1. Choose your role

The energy industry is vast, with all manner of roles in organisations of various shapes and sizes.

The first step to landing a job in the sector is to decide which area interests you. From renewables and marine to oil and gas, there are many opportunities.

Second, you need to determine which role suits your interests and skills, such as:

Skilled trades
Construction
Transportation
Finance
Accounts
Law
Management
Information technology
Sales
Medical

If you don’t immediately know where your dream job lies, it’s worth considering your strengths, weaknesses, ambitions, and interests and looking at what skills and qualifications you’ll need.

There are also paths where further education isn’t necessary, and you can instead gain experience on the job.

2. Grad schemes and internships

Graduate schemes and internships offer core experiences and insights, with first-hand knowledge of the ins and outs of different roles.

Big players in the industry – like BP, Shell, and Equinor offer graduate schemes that can catapult your energy career forward:

Equinor’s two-year graduate programme offers the chance to face some of the challenging issues in the world today, such as climate change and energy affordability, as part of a 20,000-strong workforce.
Shell’s graduate programme trains new talent to develop energy solutions and power change.
BP offers internship opportunities ranging from 11 weeks to one year, where interns can work on new, exciting, and technically challenging projects in the industry.

3. Find an entry-level role

If you have no experience in the field, there are many entry-level jobs available – like apprenticeships or roles with on-the-job training.

Entry-level positions mean you can get your foot in the door to work your way up in the industry, learning valuable skills and finding your niche.

To find these roles, research companies within the sector and filter any job openings you qualify for. Alternatively, you might find them on job boards or through recruiters.

4. Build connections

As the old saying goes, sometimes it’s not what you know; it’s who you know.

Qualifications and relevant experience are obviously important to land a role in the energy sector, but building up your network of key people can only propel you further.

Check out industry big names on LinkedIn to build connections and attend networking events online or in person to get experts at your fingertips.

It’s a great opportunity to ask questions and get real answers that will better shape your chances of breaking into the sector. It’s especially good to seek out people in particular roles or disciplines you’re interested in.

5. Select a specialist recruiter

Shaping your CV, applying for the right role, and preparing for your interview can be time-consuming – particularly if you’re not familiar with the industry.

With an experienced recruiter like WRS, you’ll have the support and resources to make your career move.

We have strong links to candidates and clients around the globe. While we largely recruit experienced candidates for more senior roles, WRS can help you find entry-level jobs or opportunities to upskill.

At our East Africa office (WQS), we have a dedicated training arm to train local talent and provide them with skills to work on major energy projects.