Renewable Energy Project Officer Career Profile

What the role involves

A Renewable Energy Project Officer helps keep clean energy projects moving by supporting coordination, approvals, reporting, stakeholder communication and project administration.

The role may include preparing documents, tracking project milestones, liaising with consultants or contractors, supporting environmental and planning processes, arranging meetings, updating risk registers and helping communicate with landholders, councils, communities or government agencies.

Typical employers

Roles in Australia may be found with:

• renewable energy developers
• solar, wind, battery and transmission companies
• engineering and environmental consultancies
• state and local government energy teams
• community energy organisations
• infrastructure and utilities businesses
• energy retailers or clean energy programs
• regional development and net zero transition initiatives

Key tasks

• supporting project planning, timelines and documentation
• assisting with environmental, planning or grid connection processes
• coordinating meetings, actions and project records
• liaising with consultants, contractors, councils or landholders
• helping prepare reports, briefing notes and funding documents
• tracking project risks, issues and milestones
• supporting community consultation and stakeholder engagement
• researching policy, grants, technology or site information
• helping with procurement, contracts or project administration

Skills and qualities

This role suits people with a mix of practical, technical and communication skills. Useful qualities include:

• strong organisation and project coordination skills
• interest in renewable energy, climate action and regional development
• clear written communication and record keeping
• ability to work with engineers, planners, consultants and communities
• confidence using spreadsheets, project tools and document systems
• attention to deadlines, permits and approval requirements
• problem-solving and willingness to learn technical concepts
• stakeholder engagement and customer-service skills

Qualifications and pathways

Entry pathways vary. Some roles suit graduates or people with project support experience, while others prefer energy, planning, environmental or engineering knowledge. Useful options may include:

• Diploma or degree in renewable energy, environmental management, project management, engineering, planning or sustainability
• short courses in clean energy, project coordination, stakeholder engagement or environmental approvals
• experience in energy, infrastructure, planning, sustainability, local government or community engagement
• training in GIS, data analysis, procurement, grants or contract administration may be useful

With experience, Project Officers may progress into Renewable Energy Project Coordinator, Development Manager, Environmental Approvals Specialist, Community Engagement Advisor, Project Manager or Sustainability Manager roles.

Salary and job outlook

Salaries vary widely depending on the employer, technology, region, project size and whether the role is administrative, technical, government-based or project-development focused. Check current job ads and labour-market sources before applying or negotiating pay.

Where jobs are usually found in Australia

Renewable energy project jobs are found across Australia, especially in states and regions with solar, wind, battery, transmission and energy-transition projects. Opportunities may be based in capital cities, regional hubs or project sites, with travel sometimes required.

Tips for getting started

• highlight any project coordination, administration, planning or stakeholder engagement experience
• learn the basics of solar, wind, batteries, transmission and the Australian energy transition
• build confidence with spreadsheets, project trackers and document control
• show that you understand environmental approvals and community engagement issues
• be open to regional projects and site visits
• include any experience with grants, procurement, GIS or reporting

Related environmental careers

• Renewable Energy Engineer
• Renewable Energy Project Manager
• Environmental Approvals / Compliance Consultant
• Environmental Planner
• Climate Change Adaptation Officer
• Sustainability Officer
• Community Engagement Officer
• ESG Analyst