So what’s the scoop with the green jobs? As a Human Resources
professional I hear and read a lot about companies creating new jobs in
order to be more mindful of the environment and/or improve
sustainability. In addition, the federal government is setting aside
recovery funding for green-job training, and many states and local
governments have created websites specifically focused on green jobs and
training. However, simultaneously to creating and funding green jobs,
there is much being written and talked about regarding the confusion of
what is a green job? (So
What is A Green Job Anyway)
According to the
United Nations Environment Program a green job, also known by the term
green-collar job, is "work in agricultural, manufacturing, research and
development (R&D), administrative, and service activities that
contribute(s) substantially to preserving or restoring environmental
quality. Specifically, but not exclusively, this includes jobs that help
to protect ecosystems and biodiversity; reduce energy, materials, and
water consumption through high efficiency strategies; de-carbonize the
economy; and minimize or altogether avoid generation of all forms of
waste and pollution." That covers a lot of positions!
My
career development advice is to leave the defining and tracking of
these jobs to the politicians. Your time will be better spent focusing
on researching those opportunities available in the “green” marketplace
for you. Whatever the definition ends up being, it appears the
positions falling into the “green job” categories will cover the
spectrum of qualification from less technical all the way to MBA level
and beyond. So what do you know about renewable energies and the
environment? Are you interested in going back to school and learning
more?
According to Ezra Drissman of Green Careers Guide there
are currently five training programs focused on green jobs today (read
full article). As you consider these options, be especially tuned
in if you are currently employed in a renewable energy or “green”
industry. As you are most aware – your industry is still in its
evolution stage (no pun intended). With continued research,
development and expansion of technologies and applications your past
experiences and education will carry you only so far until those coming
up behind you with more current knowledge, skills and experiences will
dash ahead.
1. Renewable Energy Training – anything
from solar to geothermal; cost $2,000 - $25,000
2. LEED
Certification – a rating system for buildings to determine how
sustainable it is; cost $500 - $1,000 per course, $250 for the exam.
Check out (www.everblueenergy.com)
one of the many institutions that offer certification
3.
Ecotourism – a combination of science, nature and travel; cost $200 -
$10,000
4. Wind Programs – for most training a college
degree is needed; in addition to engineers, meteorologists and
mathematicians there are career opportunities aligning with machinists,
manufacturing, and construction
5. Energy Auditors –
help individuals and businesses save on energy costs, check out Everblue
(see above) or your community college; cost $600 - $15,000
But
what if you don’t have time for training and need to find or switch
jobs right now? According to the experts, there are several industries
currently available for beginning green career opportunities, as well as
transitioning senior leadership experiences to help grow a new business
in a booming industry. Have you ever thought about:
1.
Landfill gas plant operator – no college degree required
2.
Solar power salesperson, installer, repair person, business owner, etc.
– plenty of opportunities depending on your field of interest
3.
Wind power machinist or engineer – the number of Americans now employed
in wind power jobs has moved beyond the number of people employed in
the coal industry
4. Green engineering – with a
growing focus on society being more environmentally responsible, careers
associated with green designs and construction will continue to be more
plentiful. This could include design and construction of anything
from schools and manufacturing plants, to sewage treatment facilities
and transportation systems.
5. Green building – coupled
with the green engineering, federal and local governments are
continuing to raise the bar on energy efficient facilities. See LEED
certification above.
While I’ve got your attention,
let’s take it a step further. How innovative and creative can you be?
In addition to the careers noted above, there may be opportunities for
you to lead the way for your company to think green. What can you do
to initiate recycling – even if it’s just a start with paper and
plastics in the office? How about starting a carpooling/ride sharing
program? What about making improvements to systems to reduce paper
copies, or improving work processes to promote teleworking? You may be
in a situation to design the green job ---- a win/win for you and your
firm!
We’re hearing about green jobs and we will
continue to hear about them. Funding has been set-aside to aid those
interested in developing a career or transitioning a career into this
emerging field. Can you envision a link between your passions, talents
and a “greener society”? Don’t overlook the possibilities embedded in
the economic recovery to strengthen key attributes you have to offer to
an employer. Or better yet, to start your own business!
I’m
interested in chatting about how you see the “green” employment field?
For those still confused about what a green job is, here is one
person’s interpretation. Enjoy!
Wish List for 2013
11 years ago