Energy engineer
Job description
Energy engineers are involved in the research, design and implementation of new energy systems, for example wave energy, tidal energy and wind power. As yet much of the work is at research stage: as technological breakthroughs develop, more defined roles will take shape.
Work activities
- Designing equipment and developing new systems and modifying existing processes to produce energy efficiently and cause minimal damage to the environment.
- Ensuring safety standards are met.
- Assessing efficiency and costs of systems.
- Liaising with other scientific experts.
- Conducting research, tests and experiments on machinery.
Work conditions
Travel: is dependent on employers; work is split between office/laboratory and site environments. Working for multinational corporations may require regular international trips.
Working hours: work on site typically works on a shift basis. Design and research areas typically have standard office hours.
Location: vacancies exist in regions all over the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland and internationally.
Entry requirements and training
A degree in a relevant engineering or science subject is necessary. Postgraduate study is required for research positions and career development. Engineers Ireland provide listings of accredited courses. Engineers who graduate from 2013 and wish to become Chartered Engineers will need to hold an accredited Master Degree (Level 9), or equivalent.
Further information
The Energy Institute and their website Energyzone provides thorough information and advice on education, courses and training for energy engineers.
Website carrying job advertisements
www.greenjobs.ie
www.rigenergy.co.uk
www.theengineeringjob.com
www.businessgreenjobs.com
Professional bodies
Energy Institute (Republic of Ireland)
Energy Institute (Northern Ireland)
Association of Energy Engineers Ireland
Solar Energy Society of Ireland
The Irish Wind Energy Association
Further sources of information
Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland