The Upside of Utility Jobs

by Alex A. Kecskes

If you’re looking for a high paying job in this down economy, you might consider a career in the utilities industry. This is one industry that is hiring and the pay is pretty cushy--about $56,000 a year. If you’re in sales, marketing or real estate, you’ll like the stability and career path in this ever-changing industry.

According to the Center for Energy Workforce Development, about 42 percent of current workers in a consortium of electric, natural gas, and nuclear utilities will be retiring at the end of 2015. Some states like Connecticut even have federal stimulus money available to help connect the unemployed with utility jobs.

Most utility jobs are physically demanding, which is why your average worker leaves at age 58, after 25 years on the job. Currently, the average utility worker is 50 years old and looking to retire. That leaves the field wide open for eager newcomers with the skills, stamina and training to take over.

The impeding shortage in skilled utility workers has prompted the utility industry to do whatever it takes to recruit and train a new labor force. Florida's Gulf Power, for example, has teamed up with a high school to offer courses that introduce students to the opportunities in the utility industry. The company also provides mentoring, training and even pays for the required exam to work in the industry.

Yes, you’ll have to give up your cubicle to work in the fresh outdoors climbing poles. But you can say goodbye to office politics, as well as mindless reports and meetings. And no unpaid late nighters or weekends.