Is Public Utilities a Good Career Path? [Guide]

Published July 10, 2023 · · Updated May 8, 2024 · 10 minutes · by Kamerpower ·

Is Public Utilities a Good Career Path? [Guide]

Is Public Utilities a Good Career Path? [Guide]. A career in public utilities can be a great option for those who want to make a difference in their community while also enjoying job security and stability. Public utilities are essential services that provide electricity, water, gas, and other basic necessities to the public. 

It is a good career path for those who are interested in working in a field that is constantly evolving and has a positive impact on society.

Is Public Utilities a Good Career Path?

Yes. Public utilities is a good career path. Pursuing a role in public utilities can be a good career path if you enjoy contributing to your community. There’s a range of different roles to consider in this industry, including both entry-level jobs with minimal requirements and those with skilled trade qualification requirements.

As the services provided by this industry are so important, there’s typically high job security and high demand for employees. These jobs help contribute to the well-being and production of the community, so people working in public utility roles typically experience high job satisfaction.

• What Companies Are In The Public Utilities Field [Top Public Utilities Companies]

Benefits of pursuing a role in this career path : Why Public Utilities a Good Career Path

1. Competitive salary and benefits

Another benefit of working in this industry is that there are many good-paying public utilities jobs and opportunities to grow in your career. You might also be able to earn a higher salary once you pursue post-secondary education or certifications. Many of these roles also offer competitive benefits to employees.

2. Job security

Public utilities are used by a large number of people every day, so it’s important they’re consistently available. This means that jobs in the public utility sector are typically in high demand and provide high levels of job security. This can help you feel confident in your role and help you feel a sense of dedication to your employer.

3. Job growth opportunities

There are many levels of jobs in the public utilities industry. If you’re eager to start your career without pursuing post-secondary education, there are a number of jobs available that provide on-the-job training and have minimal entry requirements. These opportunities also might provide you with the chance to progress in your career as you gain experience.

4. Easy to start a career

Another great thing about a career in public utilities is that entry-level jobs are easy to land. Even some of the higher-level jobs in the industry do not require any advanced degrees. In many cases, you can start working in public utilities with just a High School Diploma. It is a great career path for those who want to start working quickly and do not have the time and resources to collect degrees.

What Are the Disadvantages of a Career in Public Utilities?

While a career in public utilities can be rewarding, there are also some things to consider. One of the biggest challenges is the potential for job instability during economic downturns or changes in government policies.

Additionally, some positions may require working in hazardous conditions or dealing with difficult customers. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of a career in public utilities before making a decision.

How to Get a Job in Public Utilities

• Get knowledgeable about the market. Know the many categories of public utilities, the services they offer, and the difficulties they encounter.
• Look for potential jobs in the public utility sector. To find out what positions are available, either conducts a job search online or get in touch with your neighborhood public utility association.
• Attend appropriate workshops and training sessions. Attend training sessions and workshops provided by your local public utility association or other organizations active in this profession to stay current on the most recent trends in the business. This will assist you in developing new abilities and expanding your repertoire as a professional in public utilities.
• Organize your successful work into a portfolio. Work on actual projects involving public utilities to demonstrate your abilities. This will demonstrate to potential employers that you have the expertise required to work successfully in the public utilities industry.

How to Start a Career in Public Utilities?

Starting a career in public utilities typically requires a combination of education and experience. Many entry-level positions require a high school diploma or equivalent, while others may require a degree in a related field such as engineering or environmental science.

It’s also important to gain experience through internships or apprenticeships to gain hands-on experience in the field. Networking with professionals in the industry can also be helpful in finding job opportunities.

Is It Worth It to Work in Public Utilities?

Yes, it is. First and foremost, this is an area of employment that gives its employees security and trust in the future. It’s something to consider and research. Because the need for essential services is constant, someone must oversee them. You will always be working with people in this line of employment, providing them with the services they need for daily living. Also, pursuing this vocation can guarantee you government perks. This is so because the government frequently manages the businesses that provide these services.

Types of Jobs in Public Utilities

There are a variety of jobs available in public utilities, ranging from entry-level positions to management roles. Some of the most common jobs in public utilities are:

1. Wind turbine technician

These technicians work on turbines that generate power from the wind. The role often involves inspecting turbines and performing maintenance procedures, collecting data and reporting on findings. This role also may involve ensuring operating procedures, safety guidelines and quality guidelines are met.

2. Water engineer

Water engineers often create structures that are used by public utility facilities to provide water to the public. Their role may also involve ensuring high-quality standards of water cleanliness. These engineers help to maintain all safety and environmental guidelines and may work to liaise between companies and the public.

3. Radiation safety officer

Radiation safety officers work with nuclear substances and assist with their storage, handling and transportation. The main goal of this role is to ensure employee and community safety, as working with nuclear substances comes with a high risk. As part of their job, they may test fuel and equipment to ensure everything operates as intended.

4. Utility manager

These managers oversee the operations and employees at public utility facilities and ensure they provide the public with safe and plentiful resources. The role may also involve monitoring budgets and overseeing demand on systems. They may also work to inspect equipment and facilities and identify any aspects that need updating or repair.

5. Wastewater engineer

Wastewater engineers typically work in the wastewater management sector. Their role involves operating and maintaining equipment at facilities that clean and distribute water for public consumption. They may also oversee other engineers at water treatment plants.

6. Petroleum engineer

Petroleum engineers may provide various services in the public utility sector, including petroleum extraction, analysis and transportation. Their main role is to extract oil and gas from the Earth and work with others in the industry to maintain safety. They may work to create more effective extraction processes and treatment facilities.

7. Pipeline engineer

Pipeline engineers work to create and install pipeline infrastructure. These pipelines transport water, fuel or other materials. This role may involve setting and meeting budgets, overseeing the development of pipelines and pipeline installation and ensuring all team members follow applicable laws and regulations.

8. Water treatment plant operator

This role involves general maintenance of equipment and tools involved in all water treatment processes. These operators may be responsible for the operation of the plant and the associated equipment. The role also involves performing tests on treated water to ensure the chemical levels and cleanliness meet government standards.

9. Geologist

The role of a geologist, when employed in the public utility sector may involve mineral extraction for public consumption. The role may also involve consulting with businesses to provide insights about the natural effects of their processes.

10. Safety Criticality Engineer

This position, which pays the highest salary among public utility jobs, calls for expertise in handling nuclear fuel in a secure and efficient manner. For instance, Criticality Safety Engineers are in charge of performing research and examining nuclear fuel handling, transportation, and storage procedures. The average yearly wage for a safety criticality engineer is $90,673. 

11. Nuclear Engineer

Radiation engineers undertake experiments to determine the impact of radiation on nuclear energy byproducts. This is typically accomplished by running tests in an experimental setting that may be used to examine the issue and make suggestions for better layouts, components, and designs. An average nuclear engineer earns $89,276 a year. 

What Do Jobs in Public Utilities Pay in the US and UK?

Salaries for jobs in public utilities vary depending on the specific position and location. In the US, the average salary for an electrician in the public utilities industry is around $60,000 per year, while a customer service representative may earn around $35,000 per year.

In the UK, the average salary for a water treatment plant operator is around £25,000 per year, while a project manager may earn around £50,000 per year. It’s important to research the specific salary ranges for the job you’re interested in and the location you plan to work in.

Requirements for a Public Utilities Career Path

1. Good Physical Strength.

Most jobs in public utilities will require the candidate to have good physical strength. As we discussed, jobs in the industry are not like desk jobs with a sedentary lifestyle. Good observation skills and a keen eye for detail are some other skills one needs to excel in the industry. But the most important skill in many entry-level roles in public utilities has to be physical strength.

2. Job guarantees for bachelor’s degree holders.

Do you have a Bachelor’s Degree in a related field, getting a job in Public Utilities becomes a cakewalk. In fact, some of the highest-paying jobs in the industry require the candidate to have a Bachelor’s Degree at the very most. A Major in Engineering would be perfect for you to ensure a high-paying career in the industry.

3. Minimal Requirements for Entry-level Jobs.

Entry-level jobs in public utilities do not ask for advanced educational qualifications. Even a high school diploma should be enough for you to land a job as a Utility Operator. In fact, many sewerage technicians do not have a higher degree than their high school diploma. All you need to do is learn as quickly as possible on the job.

4. Certifications that will advance your career.

Although not all Public Utilities careers necessitate credentials, the following ones are important to be aware of: A few examples include Public Power Manager, Certified Utility Safety Professional (CUSP), and Public Utility Regulation and Economics (PURE).

Universities to study for Public Utilities in the US

1. Clemson University

The agriculture and business departments at Clemson University are well-known, but the school also boasts a strong engineering program that can be useful to students interested in studying public utilities. Students that select Clemson will have access to some of the top campus resources, including labs and tools that can aid in their academic pursuits.

2. University of Florida

PURC (Public Utilities Research Center) is a renowned academic institution devoted to research, teaching, and leadership development in infrastructure policy, as well as utility regulation and strategy.

3. Michigan State University

The Institute of Public Utilities (IPU) advocates for educated, effective, and efficient regulation of the network industries with high infrastructure requirements that deliver vital power, natural gas, water, and broadband services. 

4. Gateway Community College

Graduates from the Public Utilities Management program have a wide range of job choices in this quickly expanding industry. For those with a strong technical background as well as those with aptitude in business, marketing, accounting, information technology, data analysis, and office administration, the industry offers a variety of professional paths.