The public utilities sector offers a wide variety of positions, from those in public relations and administration to those in engineering and technical fields. Getting a job in the public utilities industry can give you a lot of chances to advance your career and have a good time at work.
You can determine whether the career path in public utilities is right for you by learning more about it and looking into your job options. In this article, we answer the question “Is public utilities a good career path?” and explain what public utilities mean. and look over a list of jobs in the field to learn more about them.
Yes, a career in public utilities is a good choice. You will play a crucial role in delivering water, electricity, and other essential resources to people all over the United States as a professional in Public Utilities. Of course, despite the fact that this career involves enforcing safety regulations, improving distribution systems, and providing services to communities, you will typically be paid more than the $53,000 annual salary that the average American earns.
In this manner, in the event that you’re keen on seeking after a Public Utilities vocation, it’s critical to realize which occupations are accessible to you. Fortunately, this article will cover everything you need to know about the various Public Utilities career paths available to you, as well as what you need to do to achieve one, if you are interested in any of these positions.
Is public utilities a good career path?
You might wonder, “Is public utilities a good career path?” if you’re weighing your options. If you enjoy making a difference in your community, working in the public utility sector might be a good choice for your career. There are a variety of positions to consider in this sector, including those requiring skilled trade qualifications and entry-level positions with minimal requirements.
Due to the significance of the services provided by this sector, there is typically a high demand for workers and high job security. These positions help add to the prosperity and creation of the local area, so individuals working in open utility jobs commonly experience high work fulfillment.
The following are some advantages of this career path:
- Job growth opportunities
- Competitive salary and benefits
- Job security
1. Job growth opportunities
In the public utilities sector, there are numerous job levels. There are a number of jobs that offer on-the-job training and minimal entry requirements if you are eager to begin your career without pursuing higher education.
You might also get the chance to advance in your career as you gain experience through these opportunities. For instance, although you may begin your career in the public utility sector with an entry-level position, you may eventually be able to advance to management or supervisory positions.
Assuming you choose to seek after post-optional training, either straightforwardly after secondary everyday schedule working in the field for some time, there are a lot of tasks to browse that require these certificates.
For instance, whereas a power engineer may require either a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the field, the position of administrative assistant for a public utilities company may not necessitate postsecondary education.
2. Competitive salary and benefits
There are a lot of well-paying public utility jobs and opportunities to advance your career, which is yet another advantage of working in this sector. If you go to college or get a certification, you might also be able to make more money.
Employees in many of these positions also get competitive benefits. This could include paid time off, health insurance, sick days, vacation days, or opportunities for career development.
3. Job security
Because a large number of people use public utilities every day, it is essential that they are always accessible. This indicates that jobs in the public utility sector typically have high levels of job security and are in high demand. This can assist you in developing self-assurance in your position and a sense of dedication to your employer.
What are public utilities?
Electricity, water, gas, power, transportation, communication, and other essential goods and services are necessary for any society to function and expand. that must be produced and distributed in the right quantity, at the right time, and with the right quality.
Therefore, the organizations that are accountable for that are public utilities. They deal with planning, infrastructure construction, management, maintenance, repair, distribution, and customer service, among other things, to accomplish this. While the majority of public utilities are run by government agencies, there are also a lot of private businesses in the utilities industry that either work on their own or with the government.
In the field of public utilities, you are responsible for ensuring that the general public has access to the resources they require on a daily basis. This includes removing sewage, electricity, gas, and power. Public utilities play important roles in enabling societies to function and ensure a comfortable standard of living.
From front-line positions to support roles like administration and human resources, the public utility sector offers numerous job opportunities. In order to ensure that consumers have access to resources that are consistent and secure, public and private companies collaborate to form public utilities.
There are numerous divisions within the public utility sector, including:
- Water
- Waste removal
- Electricity
- Gas
- Telecommunications
1. Water
As a public service, tap water is available to the majority of people. This water is used for cooking, cleaning, and bathing. Water is sanitized and distributed in a safe and efficient manner by roles in public utilities.
A report by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics categorizes the jobs in water utilities with the following requirements and median hourly salaries:
- General and Operations Managers: Bachelor’s Degree with 5+ years’ experience, $47.74/hour.
- Supervisors: High school diploma with less than 5 years’ experience, $27.78/hour.
- Pipelayers: No formal education and experience, $18.47/hour (Short On-the-job training)
- Plumbers and Pipefitters: No formal education and experience, $24.74/hour (Apprenticeship)
- Water and wastewater plant system operator: High school diploma and No experience, $22/hr.
- Construction and Equipment Operators: High school diploma and No experience, $21.65/hr.
- Utilities Meter Reader: High school diploma and No experience, $18.72/hr.
- Maintenance and Repair Workers: High school diploma and No experience, $17.76/hr.
- Construction Laborers: No formal education and experience, $16.07/hour
2. Waste removal
The removal of waste is yet another type of public utility segment. This includes treating sewage water prior to delivering it back into the climate. It also includes the procedures and systems used to collect waste and transport it to treatment facilities.
3. Electricity
Public utilities’ electricity division provides local electrical services. Additionally, they work to restore service in the event of disruptions, such as during a significant electrical storm. Many people’s machines, gadgets, and equipment are powered by the electricity that this industry generates.
In fact, 172,000 people were employed in just the generation of electricity in the US. Some of the jobs in this utilities sector are:
- Power Plant Engineer: $100k-$143k per year.
- Power System Dispatcher: $47k-$121k per year.
- Nuclear Licensing Engineer: $76k-$145k per year.
- Power Utility Manager: $47k-$115k per year.
- Wind Turbine Technician: $50,000 per year.
- Power lineman and electricians: $54,000 per year.
4. Gas or natural gas
Petroleum gas is normally used to warm structures. The extraction and distribution of natural gas for consumption are the responsibilities of those in the natural gas sector. In regions with cold weather, this public utility may be in greatest demand.
Some of the high-paying jobs in the natural gas sector with their national average salaries include:
- Driller: $50,800 per year.
- Gas Technician: $53,682 per year.
- Distribution Specialist: $54,710 per year
- Project Accountant: $61,016 per year.
- Project Engineer: $75,818 per year.
- Environmental Health Officer: $76,036 per year.
- Geologist: $84,955 per year.
- Petroleum Engineer: $88,378 per year.
5. Telecommunications
People are able to communicate with one another and engage in daily entertainment thanks to the telecommunications sector of public utilities. This involves a wide range of positions, including telephone operators, internet communications specialists, and linemen. Because many business processes rely on telephone and internet communications, these resources are essential to their operation.
12 jobs in public utilities
There are a few jobs in the public utilities industry that can pay nearly twice as much as the national average of just over $53,000. In light of this, the jobs in public utilities that pay the most will be discussed in this section. Keep in mind that higher pay typically comes with unique requirements for education and experience.
However, based on our research, the following are the jobs in public utilities that pay the best overall. There are a variety of fields from which to choose if you want to work in public utilities. There are a few jobs in this field that you might be interested in:
1. Wastewater engineer
National average salary: $42,104 per year
The wastewater management industry typically employs wastewater engineers. Operating and maintaining equipment at facilities that purify and distribute water for public consumption are part of their job description.
They may likewise administer different designers at water treatment plants. Additionally, wastewater engineers frequently provide government officials with reports on the efficiency and operations of the water treatment plants in which they work.
2. Water treatment plant operator
National average salary: $46,951 per year
The general upkeep of tools and equipment used in all water treatment processes is part of this job. It’s possible that these operators are in charge of running the plant and the equipment that goes with it.
Also part of the job is testing treated water to make sure it meets government standards for cleanliness and chemical levels. In addition, it may be necessary to conduct inventory, acquire supplies, and supervise other department employees to ensure that everything runs smoothly.
3. Wind turbine technician
National average salary: $59,091 per year
These technicians work on wind turbines that produce electricity. The job frequently entails inspecting turbines, carrying out procedures for maintenance, gathering data, and presenting findings. Operating procedures, safety guidelines, and quality standards may all be met in this capacity.
4. Geologist
National average salary: $60,750 per year
When employed in the public utility sector, a geologist may be responsible for the extraction of minerals for public consumption. Consulting with businesses to learn about the natural effects of their processes may also be part of the job. For example, they could work with organizations to guarantee negligible ecological harm and inform on gambles regarding normal occasions, like avalanches.
5. Water engineer
National average salary: $71,254 per year
Water engineers frequently design structures that public utility facilities use to supply the public with water. Their job may likewise include guaranteeing top notch principles of water tidiness.
These designers help to keep up with all security and natural rules and may attempt to liaise among organizations and the general population. As they evaluate water facilities, water engineers may also produce reports of their findings.
The evaluation and upkeep of an area’s water consumption depends heavily on these professionals. People all over the United States rely on Water Resources Engineers to ensure a reliable and safe water supply, whether they live in a large city or a small town.
Overall, this job is done by looking at the needs of the community and using that information to make predictions about how much water will be used now and in the future. After that, the obtained data can be put to good use in the design and management of pipelines, pump systems, supply systems, and treatment plants.
6. Utility manager
National average salary: $81,358 per year
These managers ensure that public utility facilities provide the public with plentiful and safe resources by overseeing their operations and staff. Budget monitoring and monitoring system demand may also be part of the job description.
They might also look over facilities and equipment to see if anything needs to be changed or fixed. Some portion of the job additionally includes keeping up with worker wellbeing and making objectives and plans if the office can’t fulfill customer need.
7. Radiation safety officer
National average salary: $83,696 per year
Officers in charge of radiation safety work with nuclear materials and offer assistance with their storage, handling, and transportation. Since working with nuclear materials carries a high risk, the primary objective of this position is to guarantee the safety of employees and the community.
Radiation Engineers work with nuclear energy by evaluating the effects of radiation through experiments. In most cases, this is accomplished by carrying out tests in an experimental setting. These tests can be used to evaluate the situation and make suggestions for new layouts, components, and designs.
Even though these tests are tightly controlled, radiation engineers still need to exercise caution when working with radiation. Naturally, testing networks, equipment, and systems is crucial due to the radiation’s inherent danger.
They might test fuel and equipment to make sure they work as intended as part of their job. In order to maintain best practices, they might investigate industry developments. They may also evaluate existing protocols and procedures and produce reports and presentations based on their findings, depending on their role and the facility in which they work.
8. Electrical engineer
National average salary: $93,063 per year
Electrical systems and components are frequently created and maintained by electrical engineers who work in the public utilities sector. Testing this equipment to make sure it works properly may also be part of their job.
They may work on power plants that provide power to the surrounding area and may identify and resolve issues as they arise. Additionally, collaboration with others may be required to guarantee an uninterrupted supply of electricity to the area and efficient electrical distribution.
9. Pipeline engineer
National average salary: $122,859 per year
Engineers who specialize in pipelines construct and put in pipeline infrastructure. These pipelines transport water, fuel or different materials. This job might include setting and meeting financial plans, managing the advancement of pipelines and pipeline establishment and guaranteeing all colleagues adhere to relevant regulations and guidelines.
They might also be in charge of choosing the materials for the pipelines and making and understanding technical drawings for how the pipelines will be used.
10. Petroleum engineer
National average salary: $126,197 per year
Petroleum extraction, analysis, and transportation are just a few of the many services that petroleum engineers may offer to the public utility sector. Their primary function is to extract oil and gas from the earth and collaborate with other industry professionals to ensure safety.
They might work to develop treatment and extraction facilities that are more efficient. The job typically involves working in laboratories, traveling to drill sites, evaluating products, and testing brand-new equipment.
Improved methods for extracting oil and gas are designed and constructed by these professionals with their expertise. The majority of Petroleum Engineers spend their time collaborating with managers and workers in the oilfield at drilling sites to properly evaluate and convey proposed plans.
Additionally, Petroleum Engineers frequently develop new equipment that aids in the oil or gas extraction process as well as evaluate and maintain existing equipment. An improved schematic for the machines that inject water, steam, gases, or chemicals into oil reserves, for instance, might be developed by a Petroleum Engineer.
11. Criticality safety engineer
National average salary: $98,000 per year
As the best-paying Public Utilities work, this job requires insight in working with atomic fuel in a protected and compelling manner. Criticality Safety Engineers, for instance, are in charge of researching and evaluating nuclear fuel transportation, handling, and storage methods.
A Criticality Safety Engineer’s ultimate objective is to ensure that nuclear fuel is handled safely by identifying risks and violations of regulations and developing novel storage and transportation strategies. Most of the time, these jobs are done by properly writing proposals and reports that can be sent to a government review board.
12. Nuclear licensing engineer
National average salary: $87,000 per year
Atomic Permitting Specialists additionally work with thermal power, yet their job centers around giving authorizing to thermal energy stations. These experts should perform administrative examinations by assessing and it are refreshed and working to guarantee frameworks and gear.
A Nuclear Licensing Engineer will write and submit safety analysis reports to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) after the analysis is finished.
Because the reports that these professionals submit will determine whether or not a power plant receives licensing, they bear a significant amount of responsibility. In addition, Nuclear Licensing Engineers frequently make use of their knowledge to investigate technical and legal data that can be applied to the implementation of new codes.
Why decide on a public utilities career path?
It can be hard to choose a career path in the age of automation, artificial intelligence, and technology-driven jobs. Public utilities—the system for providing essential services like water, electricity, and natural gas—have remained a consistent area of employment. But is this business a good option for job seekers in the future?
Workers at public utilities benefit from a number of advantages, including increased income potential and job security. Competitive salaries, extensive benefit packages, and retirement plans are available to public utility workers. Since there will always be a demand for skilled professionals in this field, it is an appealing option for people looking for long-term stability.
In addition, most positions only require a high school diploma or GED certification, with additional specialized training available depending on the desired position.
Public utilities are a sort of administration that gives power and water to homes and organizations, as well as other fundamental administrations. Because of this, many people take this career path into consideration when making decisions about their future. However, the query remains:
After all, people will always require these necessities as long as civilization exists. Thus, There Will Constantly Be A Great deal Of Tasks To Be Had In The Business. A career in the industry also comes with a variety of responsibilities.
Professionals in the field also require particular qualifications and skills. So, are you interested in beginning a career in the field? If that’s the case, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll talk about the career path and what it takes to get started.
What do people working in public utilities do?
You will play a crucial role in delivering electricity and water to the people of the United States as a worker in this industry. Water, gas, electricity, and other items may all fall under this umbrella.
The pay for professionals in the field has also increased as a result of the recent emphasis on enhancing public utility distribution systems. The public utilities sector also expanded this year, as it does each year.
So, if you want to start a career in the industry, the numbers in recent years are good. Yet, these numbers alone aren’t reason to the point of beginning a lifelong in the business. After all, there are a lot of things to think about when starting a career in the field.
Why choose a career in public utilities?
There are many reasons why you might want to start your career in public utilities. However, every individual would have their very own reasons for selecting a career path. Luckily, there are a lot of good reasons to work in this industry.
- Many options
- Opportunity to make a difference
- Not a sedentary lifestyle
- Easy to enter
- Higher pay
- Job perks and benefits
- Potential for Job Growth
1. Many options
There are numerous job openings in the Public Utilities industry. One could, for instance, work in the areas of electricity, water supply, and natural gas. As a result, you can choose which jobs within the industry to apply for based on your skills and qualifications.
These jobs range from entry-level positions like Utility Operator to more senior positions like Petroleum Engineer and Radiation Engineer. The industry can pay up to six figures for higher-level positions. The candidate can determine which position is best suited to their skills and qualifications with a quick online check.
2. Opportunity to make a difference
To get access to clean water, gas, electricity, and other utilities, people all over the United States rely on professionals in public utilities. By ensuring a consistent supply of these necessities, a professional in the field positively impacts people’s day-to-day lives.
As a result, knowing that there are so many advantages to working in the industry will make one feel good.
3. Not a sedentary lifestyle
A career in this field allows you to move around and be active, which is another advantage. In fact, desk jobs that require long periods of time spent in front of a screen present numerous health risks. 86% of Americans have jobs that require them to sit for long periods of time.
Therefore, you must answer “yes” to the question “is public utilities a good career path” if you despise a sedentary lifestyle. You will likely maintain your fitness by working outdoors in this industry.
4. Easy to enter
A further advantage of working in public utilities is the accessibility of entry-level positions. Advanced degrees are not required for all of the industry’s higher-level positions.
With just a high school diploma, you can often work in public utilities. It’s a great career choice for people who want to start working right away but don’t have time or money to get degrees. Additionally, industry jobs permit on-the-job training. As a result, you can begin as a trainee and advance as you acquire experience.
5. Higher pay
The salary for jobs in public utilities is higher than the national average. In fact, most jobs in the industry pay more than $50,000 to $60,000 annually. The annual salary for some jobs in the industry, like Petroleum Engineer, is around $100,000.
A career in the industry appears even more rewarding when you consider the less stringent requirements for entry. Thus, in the event that more significant compensation is the thing you are searching for, express yes to the inquiry, is public utilities a decent profession way.
6. Job perks and benefits
There are a lot of perks and benefits for employees in the industry. These include health insurance, PTO, a 401(k), and other benefits. In the end, the industry will benefit the general public. As a result, if you do a good job, you’ll get benefits.
7. Potential for Job Growth
There is a lot of room for expansion in the industry with a lot of new jobs. For instance, Wind and Sun powered energy occupations are for the future and have tremendous development potential for those with the right abilities and capabilities. Download the most recent statistical report here to learn more about public utilities’ impact.
Education and Skills required to have a good career path in public utilities
There are many skills and education qualifications that you can have in order to have a career in public utilities. Based on different roles, the skills may vary. However, here are few of the skills and requirements that allow you to have a public utilities career path:
- Minimal Requirements for Entry-level Jobs
- Guaranteed Jobs for Bachelor’s Holders
- Additional Certifications
- Good Physical Strength
- Ensuring Safety
1. Minimal requirements for entry-level jobs
Public utilities do not require advanced degrees for entry-level positions. Indeed, even a secondary school recognition ought to be enough for you to get some work as a Utility Administrator. In fact, the majority of sewerage technicians only hold a high school diploma.
Simply learn as quickly as possible on the job is all that is required. If you can do that, you won’t need fancy degrees to have a long and lucrative career in the industry.
2. Guaranteed jobs for bachelor’s holders
Now, getting a job in Public Utilities is easy if you have a Bachelor’s degree in a related field. In fact, candidates must have at least a bachelor’s degree for some of the highest-paying positions in the industry.
If you want a career in the industry that pays well, you should major in engineering. Mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering, and so on are all possible subfields.
3. Additional certifications
Additional certifications can help you advance in your career regardless of industry. The public utilities sector is the same. When starting a career in the industry, certifications like CUSP (Certified Utility Safety Professional) and PURE (Public Utility Regulations and Economics) are very helpful. Therefore, if you want to enter the industry and advance your career, these certifications may act as a catalyst.
4. Good physical strength
The candidate for the majority of jobs in public utilities will need to be strong physically. As we examined, positions in the business dislike work area occupations with a stationary way of life.
To succeed in the industry, one must also possess strong observational skills and an acute attention to detail. However, physical strength must be the most important skill for many entry-level positions in public utilities.
5. Ensuring safety
Every professional in the public utilities industry is responsible for ensuring compliance with all safety regulations. Promoting safe workplaces for employees and the general public has received renewed attention in recent decades.
Additionally, its significance grows as it pertains to the public utilities sector. Why? because it’s a business that people use every day to do their jobs. Employees’ lives and the lives of the general public can be put at risk by even the tiniest of threats. Therefore, one of the skills necessary for a successful career in the industry must be the ability to guarantee absolute safety in all processes.
Types of public utilities jobs
It would be nearly impossible to compile a list of all public utilities jobs available in the utility industry. However, the skilled trades’ most common jobs are discussed below. Extra professions that are not explicitly exchange occupations are likewise displayed beneath.
- Skilled trade careers in public utilities
- Meter reader’s / utility markers
- Wind turbine technician
- Electricians
- Plumber / steamfitter
- Utility manager
- Water treatment plant operator
1. Skilled trade careers in public utilities
These occupations do not necessitate advanced degrees, but they may necessitate some form of training or certification. Many are regarded as belonging to the manufacturing sector, which can be an exciting field for people who enjoy building and creating.
2. Meter readers / utility markers
If you’re an introvert, either of these jobs is a great fit for you because they often require you to work on your own. In order to ascertain the extent of a location’s utility usage, meter readers will visit homes and businesses to conduct meter readings. Utility markers will circle the ground and mark the locations of potential underground lines for construction projects.
3. Wind turbine technician
Wind turbine technician is one of our top choices for a career in public utilities. There is an anticipated 68% job growth in the electric power sector through 2030 for this emerging career. And with a median salary of $55,000, you can live comfortably.
Many of these technicians can earn more than $100,000 per year. However, because these jobs can take you to terrifying heights, you’ll need to be willing to take some risks. Therefore, workers who are not afraid to take risks are ideal for these positions!
4. Electricians
Electricians are always needed in a wide range of industries, including public utilities.
You can test the electrical equipment that has been installed to make sure it is working properly with testing tools. Alternately, you might be required to assist in acquiring new hardware and determining when new electrical updates are required.
5. Plumber / steamfitter
There are numerous options for plumbers, steamfitters, and other utility professionals. Working with steam or water would be the best choice, but there is also room for them in other utility trades.
6. Utility manager
Considering a career as a utility manager is an excellent first step if you want to advance in your field. The people who oversee the overall health and wellness of various public utility facilities, such as power plants, are known as utility managers.
They are also in charge of managing staff, developing budgets, and so on. The majority of major utility companies require skilled utility managers; consequently, if you possess excellent management abilities, this is an excellent career option within the sector.
7. Water treatment plant operator
You will be a part of the team that cleans the community’s water if you work in these plants. Work that important, right? Operators of water treatment plants will control the equipment and keep an eye on the processes that go into making our water safe to drink and use for bathing and washing.
Other public utilities careers
There are numerous employment opportunities in the utility sector. Support careers, marketing careers, and finance careers are a few other options if a trade job doesn’t appeal to you.
- Administration
- Customer service
- Auditing/accounting
- Engineers and engineering technicians
- Computer technicians
1. Administration
Being a part of an administrative team might be a good fit for you if you enjoy organizing and want to help workers who make our world a better place. Bookkeeping, scheduling, filing, or completing paperwork are examples of your duties. You will essentially be the key to a running office and provide support for upper-level management.
2. Customer service
A customer service position is a fantastic opportunity to satisfy others if you are a people-pleaser. You will spend your days assisting utility customers with issues they may be experiencing. Your job will include setting up appointments for installations, repairs, or deactivations.
3. Auditing/accounting
More than just a bookkeeper may be required for more complex financial requirements. As an auditor or accountant, you will be analyzing numbers to ensure that customers are being billed appropriately and that profits are being made.
4. Engineers and engineering technicians
Engineers play a crucial role in these positions. As an architect, you will aid the production of innovations and cycles that can assist with further developing the utilities that your association handles. Engineers offer a wide range of services that are significant contributors to the efforts of the business, including faster distribution and improved cleaning.
5. Computer technicians
In the present PC run world, PC experts will be required. You can do a lot of different jobs, like keeping the systems running, making automation better, and making new computer systems to make utility processes better.
Hey, I am Sachin Ramdurg. I run and manage futuredecider.com website that helps students, graduates, and professionals, to find and decide on their future career with ultimate future career advices and future career guides. I have an overall 12+ years of career guidance experience in multiple domains which has helped multiple students, graduates, and professionals to find the best career path for their future.