Energy
Powering Tomorrow: Explore Careers in Energy!
Discover the Greater Whitsunday Energy Industry!
Energy is everywhere — it powers our homes, fuels our tech, and drives the world forward. As one of the fastest-growing industries, energy is rapidly evolving to meet the demands of a cleaner, smarter future.
In the Greater Whitsunday region, this momentum is driving Queensland’s clean energy transition, with 16 active projects and more on the way. From solar and wind to hydrogen, hydro and bagasse, and waste coal mine gas, these energy sources produce over 800 megawatts of power[1]. Whether you’re building infrastructure, maintaining systems, or working with next-gen storage and transmission tech, the sector offers exciting and meaningful career opportunities that drive real-world impact and sustainability.

Why Consider a Career in Energy?
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Power a Changing World
The energy industry is driving global change. As Australia shifts towards cleaner, greener power, you could be part of building the systems that support everything from electric vehicles to sustainable cities. This isn’t just a job — it’s a chance to shape what powers the future.
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Diverse Career Opportunities
Whether you’re into working outdoors, fixing things, coding systems, or designing new technologies, there’s a role for you in energy. The industry needs electricians, engineers, data analysts, tradespeople, project managers, and more — and many pathways start with local training or apprenticeships.
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Job Stability & Security
Energy is essential — it powers everything, everywhere. That means jobs in this industry are stable and long-term. As Australia shifts to renewables, there’s a growing demand for workers to help build and run energy projects across regional renewable zones.
Industry Insights
100,000 is a big number…and that is how many new electrical workers are estimated will be needed by 2050 to support Australia’s energy transition! [2]. This highlights the demand for skilled professionals in the energy industry.
And these jobs will be available right across regional Australia, including our very own Greater Whitsunday region. A single wind farm can create up to 1,500 jobs during construction, and many projects need long-term workers to keep them running. That means more local opportunities for young people to train and work in solar, wind, hydrogen, and beyond—without needing to leave home. [3]
Exciting Career Opportunities in Energy
When people think of energy, they might picture power lines and power stations — but that’s just the beginning. The energy industry is broad, fast-moving, and full of opportunity. It takes a wide range of skills and roles to generate, manage, and innovate how we power our world. From renewables and battery tech to efficiency and smart systems, here are some of the exciting spaces where you could spark your career:
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Renewables & Emerging Tech
Work in solar, wind, hydro, or hydrogen energy systems. Install, manage, and innovate new technologies to help build a greener energy mix.
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Engineering & Project Delivery
Help design and deliver major infrastructure like power plants, substations, and transmission lines. Solve technical challenges and manage complex builds.
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Trades & Technical Roles
Become an electrician, electrical linesperson, technician, or maintenance specialist. These hands-on roles keep energy systems running—from solar panel installs to maintaining wind turbines and local power networks.
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Energy Retail & Markets
Work behind the scenes in energy trading, billing, customer service, or business development as part of the evolving energy economy.
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Sustainability & Environmental Science
Help ensure our energy systems reduce emissions, protect natural resources, and meet environmental standards.
Explore what a future in
Energy could look like
Power Up Your Path to Energy Careers!
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Switched On: Real Energy Careers
Discover how tradition meets sustainability & innovation in energy —hear from people making a difference in this fast-growing industry.
Find Out More About Energy and Potential Careers!
The energy industry is powering change across our region, creating a wide range of opportunities to kickstart a meaningful career. Check out these resources to see how energy is transforming and how you can be part of it:
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Futureville
Dive into this interactive game and see how renewable energy is changing the way we live, work, and build a more sustainable future.
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Oresome Resources
Explore a wide range of resource sector careers—watch videos, read profiles, and find out more.
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The Climate Game
Play this interactive game and discover what it takes to tackle climate change and build a sustainable future—can you make the right choices for the planet?
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Your Career Clean Energy
Explore clean energy occupations, carer pathways and occupation insights here.
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Clean Energy Careers Guide
Explore energy careers by occupation and demand, technology, occupation or entry pathway with the Clean Energy Council’s Careers Guide.
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Discover the Renewable Energy Industry Course
Want to know more about the renewable energy industry before committing to a full study program? Check out this lower-cost entry-level online course to learn more.
Want to learn more about study and career pathways?
Explore regional options and find out who to contact for more information here.
Step into a world of innovation, impact, and opportunity—could you find your future in Energy?
Keep exploring to see where your future could take you
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Electrical Engineer
Design and develop electrical systems that power everything from renewable energy to heavy industry across diverse sectors.
As an Electrical Engineer in the energy field, you’ll work on systems for power generation, distribution, and automation. Your work may support solar, wind, or battery storage projects, or help maintain and improve energy infrastructure across mining, agriculture, rail, and construction. You’ll use advanced modelling software and emerging technologies to boost efficiency, safety, and sustainability.
In the Greater Whitsunday region, Electrical Engineers are in demand across multiple industries—playing a key role in driving innovation, supporting regional infrastructure, and enabling the shift to cleaner energy.
What you might do day-to-day:
- Design and test electrical systems and components
- Work on energy supply, automation, and control systems
- Use specialised software to model and improve performance
- Collaborate with teams to deliver safe, efficient solutions
This role suits people who:
Enjoy problem-solving, technology, and applying logic to real-world systems.Pathway:
A university degree in electrical engineering is required. -
Electrician
Install, maintain, and repair electrical systems that power homes, industries, and the growing renewable energy sector.
As an Electrician, you’ll work with wiring, switchboards, lighting, and control systems to ensure safe and reliable power. You may work on residential, commercial, or industrial projects—including renewable energy systems such as solar panels, wind turbines, and hydro infrastructure. With the shift towards cleaner energy and smart technology, electricians are increasingly using digital tools, automation, and energy-efficient systems in their work.
In the Greater Whitsunday region, electricians are in high demand across renewable energy projects, mining, agriculture and construction—supporting the transition to a more sustainable future.
What you might do day-to-day:
- Install and maintain electrical wiring and systems
- Work on solar, wind, battery, and hydro power installations
- Troubleshoot and repair faults in homes and industrial sites
- Use advanced tools and diagnostics to improve efficiency
This role suits people who:
Are hands-on, safety-focused, and passionate about energy and technology.Pathway:
Complete a Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician as part of an apprenticeship. -
Project Manager
Lead the delivery of large-scale renewable energy projects that support Queensland’s transition to net zero emissions.
As a Project Manager in the energy sector, you’ll oversee the planning, design, construction, and delivery of solar, wind, battery, and hydro projects. You’ll coordinate teams, manage budgets and timelines, and ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards. This role involves overseeing the use of drones for aerial site inspections, progress tracking, and improving safety on large or remote sites. You’ll also work with digital tools and project management platforms to streamline communication, track performance, and reduce project risks.
In the Greater Whitsunday region, Project Managers are driving major renewable projects that power local communities and build a more sustainable future.
What you might do day-to-day:
- Plan and manage renewable energy construction projects
- Coordinate contractors, engineers, and environmental teams
- Monitor budgets, timelines, and safety compliance
- Visit worksites regularly to track progress and solve on-the-ground challenges
This role suits people who:
Are strategic, organised, and passionate about clean energy.Pathway:
A degree in engineering, construction, or project management plus industry experience is typical. -
Technical Advisor
Support businesses and industries in making smarter, more sustainable energy decisions across generation, usage, and infrastructure.
As a Technical Advisor in the energy sector, you’ll provide expert advice to improve energy efficiency, reduce emissions, and support transitions to low-carbon or renewable systems.
You may guide upgrades to existing infrastructure, advise on battery and grid integration, or support large organisations to meet sustainability goals. This role uses modelling tools, real-time data systems, and energy performance software to deliver smarter solutions.
In the Greater Whitsunday region, Technical Advisors work across mining, agriculture, construction, and manufacturing—helping industries lower costs, improve reliability, and meet environmental targets.
What you might do day-to-day:
- Analyse and improve industrial or commercial energy systems
- Recommend efficiency upgrades and emissions reductions
- Support planning of future-ready energy infrastructure
- Use data and modelling tools to guide decisions
This role suits people who:
Are analytical, forward-thinking, and passionate about smarter energy use.Pathway:
A degree in engineering, energy systems, or sustainability is typical with industry experience valued. -
Energy Retail Customer Service
Support customers with their energy accounts, billing, and service options, helping them navigate a rapidly evolving energy market.
As an Energy Retail Customer Service professional, you’ll assist residential and business customers with enquiries, account management, and switching plans—including options for renewable and smart energy. You’ll use advanced CRM (Customer Relationship Management) systems, digital portals, and communication tools to provide personalised and efficient service. This role helps improve customer satisfaction and supports energy-saving initiatives.
In the Greater Whitsunday region, Energy Retail Customer Service roles are important to connect communities with energy providers and promote sustainable energy choices.
What you might do day-to-day:
- Respond to customer enquiries about accounts, billing, and energy services
- Assist customers in switching to renewable or cost-effective energy plans
- Use CRM and digital tools to manage and resolve customer issues
- Provide advice on energy efficiency and billing options
This role suits people who:
Are strong communicators, enjoy problem-solving, and comfortable with technology.Pathway:
You don’t need university study for this role—many start through traineeships where you learn on the job and earn while gaining experience, with VET qualifications in customer service or business administration helpful but not essential. -
Energy Auditor
Assess energy use in homes, businesses, and industries to identify opportunities for improved efficiency and reduced emissions.
As an Energy Auditor, you’ll conduct inspections, analyse energy data, and recommend upgrades or behaviour changes that support decarbonisation and cost savings. Using advanced diagnostic tools, thermal imaging, and energy modelling software, you’ll help clients in the Greater Whitsunday region reduce their environmental impact while lowering energy costs. Your insights guide investments in energy-efficient technologies like solar, smart meters, and battery storage.
In the Greater Whitsunday region, Energy Auditors play a vital role in supporting local businesses and households to meet sustainability targets and improve energy performance.
What you might do day-to-day:
- Conduct energy assessments and site inspections
- Analyse energy usage and identify inefficiencies
- Recommend energy-saving upgrades and decarbonisation strategies
- Use digital tools and software for data collection and reporting
This role suits people who:
Are detail-oriented, analytical, and passionate about sustainability.Pathway:
Many start with VET qualifications in energy management or auditing. A degree can help but isn’t always needed. Getting practical experience and industry certifications will open more doors. -
Policy Advisor
Help shape Australia’s energy future by developing policies that promote clean, reliable, and affordable power.
As an Energy Policy Maker, you’ll analyse energy markets, emerging technologies, and regulations to create strategies that support sustainability, decarbonisation, and energy security. Your work involves consulting with stakeholders across government, industry, and communities to balance economic growth with environmental responsibility. Using data analytics and modelling tools, you’ll evaluate policy impacts and guide decision-making to meet regional and national energy goals.
In the Greater Whitsunday region, Energy Policy Makers work closely with government and industry to support local businesses and communities through the transition to sustainable energy systems.
What you might do day-to-day:
- Analyse energy markets and new technologies
- Develop and review energy policies and regulations
- Consult with government, businesses, and community groups
- Use data and software to model energy scenarios
This role suits people who:
Are curious, analytical, and passionate about sustainable energy.Pathway:
Most people study a degree in energy policy, environmental science, or economics, and gain experience through internships or work placements in government or energy organisations.
References
- Strengthening the Greater Whitsundays | State Development, Infrastructure and Planning
- Charged Up: Strategies for Addressing the Skill Shortage in Electrical Trades for the Clean Energy Transition – Per Capita
- Renewable Energy is Powering Jobs and Regional Communities: Fact Sheet | Clean Energy Council