Geothermal Jobs Heating Up for 2011

Posted by in Career Advice



by Alex A. Kecskes

While not as big as solar or wind, jobs are expected to be plentiful and growing in geothermal industry. Good news for those seeking to advance their careers in this utilities sector.

A number of geothermal projects will be coming online in 2011. These projects are expected to take off in areas known as the Ring of Fire, a zone of volcanic arcs and oceanic trenches wrapping around the Pacific Basin.

Some scientists estimate that geothermal sources (more specifically, hydrothermal) could power 3.5 million U.S. homes with 2,700 MW of energy. If you're looking for a career in geothermal utilities, check out the activities in the states with the greatest geothermal capacity in kilowatt hours:
  • California – 13,022,405
  • Nevada – 1,616,677
  • Utah – 279,121
  • Hawaii – 167,591
  • Idaho – 107,079
  • Texas – 16,360
A sustainable energy source for residential heating, cooling, and electricity production, the jobs opening up in the geothermal job market include:
  • Scientists/Designers: These include hydrogeologists, balneologists, geologists, and other researchers who will design the geothermal projects.
  • Engineers: Experts who will implement the designs of geothermal power systems.
  • HVAC Techs: Skilled hands-on experts who can maintain geothermal heating and cooling systems of various sizes. Included here will be efficiency operators.
  • Constructors: Welders, machinists, pipe fitters, electricians, carpenters, mechanics, sheet metal workers, installation technicians.
  • Environmental and Regulatory Consultants: To ensure geothermal projects are installed and operated in accordance with established safety guidelines.
  • IT Techs: Specialists who will build and manage that software that will monitor and control geothermal systems
Alex A. Kecskes has written hundreds of published articles on health/fitness, "green" issues, TV/film entertainment, restaurant reviews and many other topics. As a former Andy/Belding/One Show ad agency copywriter, he also writes web content, ads, brochures, sales letters, mailers and scripts for national B2B and B2C clients. Please see more of his blogs and view additional job postings on Nexxt.
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