Getting your CV up to scratch is vital for graduates looking to enter the energy sector. These CV tips will help you hit all the right notes.
Careers in energy
When so much depends on the skilful management and research of our energy capabilities in the 21st century, every related skillset must perform together to power our homes, cities and appliances. There aren’t many areas that a graduate can’t excel in – from engineers and strategists to sales and advisory roles, there’s no shortage of career paths open to someone who’s passionate about the industry making everything possible.
Energy investment over the next 10-20 years is predicted to create thousands of new jobs in Britain, especially in renewables. As such, more positions are opening up on both sides of the sector: it’s desperate for more technical workers to hone energy production methods, and environmental and risk consultants to make sure every project is controlled intelligently.
What makes the sector unique?
Employment figures in UK energy have been growing 7 times faster than the national average. Since the job market is still showing signs of recovery overall, a career in energy is a much safer bet than other industries that require highly skilled labourers and technicians. Graduates such as geologists and environmental scientists are also in high demand, with dozens of cross-country research grants approved every year.
As the focus moves away from fossil fuels to more pragmatic, eco-friendly sources of energy, graduates have the chance to be part of a wider plan for the continued health of our planet. This is all whilst enjoying the perks of working for large organisations with a clear progressive structure. The energy sector allows you to play a role in the changes that shape our world, selecting how best to navigate problems that affect all of us.
The skills organisations are looking for
UK energy firms are always looking out for candidates with the promise of greatness. Here are just some of the key skills they seek:
- Team work: Finding examples of successful team projects will go a long way to proving you can reign in differences for a single agenda.
- Technical knowledge: Anyone who designs and builds energy facilities and distribution networks should have technical expertise going into the sector.
- Pragmatism: The most amazing ideas can be ground to a halt by budgetary and real-world pressures. You should be able to solve problems when obstacles appear in your path.
- Dependability: Deadlines are a major test for energy companies to keep up with supply and demand, which means they need to depend on you.
- Attention to detail: Whether you’re able to spot flaws in a machine, or you’re really good at selecting key data, it pays to be thorough in this sector.
Tips for a top-notch CV
- Always research the company you’re applying to, including recent developments they’ve undertaken on UK soil.
- Show you’re aware of how the energy sector affects the public, with supporting evidence of how good you are as a communicator.
- Make sure you demonstrate a real love for scientific advancement in energy acquisition.
- Pick out examples of a hard task that was seen through to the end by your perseverance.
- Showcase any relevant work experience, whether that’s a placement at university or a summer job.
- Use our exclusive CV Template to create the perfect CV.
To summarise
Applying for such a dynamic and forward-thinking sector means you’ll have a lot of competition. However, with a rising growth rate year on year, UK energy is a lucrative market to enter, giving you the chance to transform this country over the ensuing decades. Keep checking our jobs page for the latest energy positions – we want you to rise to the top, with the finest CV at your back!