Jobs that contribute to preserving or restoring the environment and our planet are referred to as ‘green jobs’.
Many industries are looking to adapt their products and processes to help tackle climate change, such as exploring the use of renewable energy or becoming more energy efficient.
The drive to reduce emissions creates a whole host of new and exciting job opportunities. For example, jobs at companies that create green goods like electric vehicles or work to reduce the use of natural resources and produce clean energy.
Green jobs include environmental technicians, agricultural specialists, wind turbine or solar panel technicians, green construction managers, nuclear engineers and many more.
Whatever the offer or specialty, green jobs are on the rise and play an essential part in growing the economy and boosting skills.
What qualifications and training do I need to get a green job?
Apprenticeships are a great option for people of all ages to break into the green sector.
They offer the opportunity to earn while you learn with options to train right up to degree level.
There are a wide range of green apprenticeships available, from environmental consultancy and business sustainability to forestry and wind turbine technology. You can find a green apprenticeship here.
Another option is joining a Skills Bootcamp. These are short, flexible and free courses that give people the opportunity to build on existing experience and gain sector-specific skills.
All courses have been developed in partnership with employers to help to plug skills gaps and vacancies, so learners can be confident that they will obtain the skills they need to progress. Skills Bootcamps are available across the country and students are guaranteed a job interview with an employer once they’ve completed the training.
Courses available include electric vehicle charging point installation, green heating technology, rail engineering, and smart meter installation.
What else are you doing to support green jobs?
The Free Courses for Jobs scheme offers eligible adults the chance to study for a range of qualifications at no cost supporting them to gain new skills and secure a better well paid job.
The offer currently includes a range of qualifications in areas that could support a career in the green sector, such as building and construction, engineering, and environmental conservation.
What are the benefits of a green job?
There are lots of benefits to getting into the green industry. You can feel confident that your skills will be in high demand in this growing sector, while also knowing that you are helping to tackle climate change and boost our economic growth.
Tobias is a Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability Apprentice at Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP law firm. This apprenticeship was recently selected to receive the King’s Coronation Emblem for its green skills credentials.
“I really enjoy the day-to-day variation in my work from social impact programmes to climate action and sustainability matters all whilst studying towards my Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability Practitioner qualification,” Tobias told the Education Hub.
“Since leaving school, I was keen to contribute to movements for both social and environmental change and this apprenticeship provides the ideal opportunity.
"It’s an exciting, growing profession and I’ve developed so many personal and professional skills helping society to make the small changes which ultimately help us transition to a greener economy.”
Where can I get more advice on green jobs?
For more information about all the training offers available visit: Unlock a better way ahead - Skills for Life or for free, expert, impartial advice about careers options and learning opportunities that are right for you.
You can chat to a qualified careers adviser online or by calling the National Careers Service helpline on 0800 100 900.