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In the workforce

You may already be in the workforce (whether in energy or another sector) and looking for a change.

Generalist roles in business functions


For roles in HR, finance, communications, project management and more you might find your skills are sector-neutral and you need no new qualifications– but a willingness to learn and make a difference always helps! Browse the RenewableUK member directory to get a flavor of the Companies involved in renewable energy.


Transitioning your skills for technical roles


For those working on wind farms, a minimum set of technical training standards must be met. For working in offshore wind training standards are set by the Global Wind Organisation (GWO) and G+. Onshore wind health and safety standards are provided by SafetyOn.


Wind energy is one of many attractive green career options for those seeking alternative employment to oil & gas or other carbon-intensive sectors. For example, a huge number of people working in offshore wind started out in offshore oil & gas, who possess technical and logistical skills that are highly sought after. RenewableUK is working to ensure that pathways are available for employees in these sectors who are looking to reskill, to make the move as seamlessly as possible into renewables.


Many members of the Armed Forces community also make the transition into the renewables sector after service in the military… Skills gained from service like working as part of a team in challenging conditions, operating complex machinery, or even being able to pilot a helicopter - are useful during the construction and operation of wind farms. Further information and support can be sourced through Mission Renewable, which specialises in supporting companies to access talent from the armed forces.


 

Resources

  • Returning from the military

    Mission Renewable, a Community Interest Company, is the Armed Forces engagement initiative for the UK Renewable Sector. Formed to harness the opportunity for skills migration from the veteran community into jobs in the renewable energy sector and addresses the transitional needs of service leavers at the same time.

    Visit the Mission Renewable website to learn more Mission Renewable

  • Upskill yourself with a skills bootcamp

    Skills bootcamps are a great way to improve your skills or change your career. These offer flexible courses of up to 16 weeks, and you’ll be offered an interview with the employer at the end of the course. Jobs in renewables can be found under the ‘Green skills’ section for each region. These span bootcamps in energy generation, manufacturing, low-carbon heating, electric vehicles and more.

    Department for Education - GOV.UK 

  • Working on a wind farm: find a training provider

    For those looking to work onsite at windfarms (for example, as technicians or engineers), the Global Wind Organisation (GWO) provides a minimum set of training standards required for working on wind farms. You can find a provider near you using the GWO's interactive tool.

    If you are interested in roles as a technician the GWO Entry Level Framework sets out the knowledge, skills and abilities for identified entry level roles in the wind industry.