Sustainability Jobs

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Why Sustainability Jobs Are Shaping the Future of Work

Sustainability careers are at the centre of global transformation. As companies accelerate decarbonisation efforts and align with international climate goals, the need for sustainability professionals continues to rise across all sectors. From strategy and reporting to energy and supply chain, organisations require skilled talent to drive long-term impact and regulatory compliance.

The global shift to net zero, combined with new reporting requirements and growing stakeholder pressure, has made sustainability roles essential—not optional.

Sustainability Job Market Insights

In the UK alone, over 250,000 sustainability professionals will be needed by 2030. Globally, roles in sustainable development, energy efficiency, climate risk, and corporate responsibility are growing at double-digit rates year-on-year. Whether you’re focused on emissions reduction, ESG reporting, or sustainable innovation, the opportunities are expanding—fast.

What Are Sustainability Jobs?

Sustainability jobs support organisations in reducing environmental impact, meeting carbon reduction targets, improving transparency, and embedding sustainability into business operations. These roles span industries including energy, infrastructure, consulting, finance, real estate, and tech. They are responsible for building and implementing strategies to reduce emissions, manage environmental risk, and meet evolving regulatory and investor expectations. Responsibilities may include: Designing net-zero roadmaps, Leading stakeholder engagement and materiality assessments, Conducting lifecycle analysis and Scope 1–3 emissions reporting, Managing sustainability frameworks and certifications, Driving sustainable innovation in product design or operations and Collaborating across departments to embed sustainability into procurement, finance, HR, and more. 

Typical sustainability roles include: Sustainability Manager, Climate Strategy Lead, Carbon Analyst, Circular Economy Consultant, Head of Net Zero, Sustainable Supply Chain Advisor, Energy Transition Consultant.

Professionals in these roles work on decarbonisation strategies, climate disclosures, energy efficiency projects, and compliance with frameworks such as CSRD, SFDR, GRI, and TCFD. They interpret environmental data, drive sustainable procurement, and lead internal transformation initiatives. These roles require a mix of technical knowledge, regulatory awareness, and the ability to influence change across an organisation.

Key skills to succeed in sustainability jobs include:

  • Carbon accounting and emissions reporting (Scope 1–3)
  • Data analysis and ESG metrics interpretation
  • Regulatory knowledge (CSRD, EU Taxonomy, TCFD, etc.)
  • Lifecycle assessment (LCA) and materiality analysis
  • Stakeholder engagement and cross-functional communication
  • Supply chain sustainability and ethical sourcing
  • Project management and strategic planning
  • Adaptability and the ability to work across departments

Sustainability Jobs Salary Guide by Region

United Kingdom

Salary Range: £50,000 – £140,000

Common Roles:Sustainability Manager, Climate Risk Analyst, ESG Reporting Lead, Head of Net Zero

Growth Areas: CSRD compliance and sustainability reporting,Net zero transition planning,Circular economy consulting,Sustainable real estate and infrastructure

United States

Salary Range: $70,000 – $170,000

Common Roles: Director of Sustainability, Sustainable Finance Analyst, Climate Strategy Consultant, ESG Data Specialist

Growth Areas: SEC climate disclosures and risk governance,Impact investing and green bonds,Supply chain emissions (Scope 3),Corporate sustainability leadership in tech and finance

Europe

Salary Range: €50,000 – €135,000

Common Roles: Carbon Accounting Specialist, EU Taxonomy Advisor, Environmental Manager, Corporate Sustainability Analyst

Growth Areas: CSRD and double materiality assessments,EU Taxonomy alignment,Industrial decarbonisation,Nature-based solutions and biodiversity

Middle East

Salary Range: AED 250,000 – AED 600,000

Common Roles: Sustainability Advisor, Energy Transition Manager, ESG Programme Manager, Net Zero Lead

Growth Areas:Green building and sustainable construction,Energy efficiency in real estate and infrastructure,Public-private partnerships in net zero initiatives,National sustainability strategy implementation (e.g., UAE Net Zero 2050, Vision 2030 in KSA)

RegionSalary RangeCommon RolesGrowth Areas
United Kingdom£50,000 – £140,000Sustainability Manager, Climate Risk Analyst, ESG Reporting Lead, Head of Net ZeroCSRD compliance and sustainability reporting,Net zero transition planning,Circular economy consulting,Sustainable real estate and infrastructure
United States$70,000 – $170,000Director of Sustainability, Sustainable Finance Analyst, Climate Strategy Consultant, ESG Data SpecialistSEC climate disclosures and risk governance,Impact investing and green bonds,Supply chain emissions (Scope 3),Corporate sustainability leadership in tech and finance
Europe€50,000 – €135,000Carbon Accounting Specialist, EU Taxonomy Advisor, Environmental Manager, Corporate Sustainability AnalystCSRD and double materiality assessments,EU Taxonomy alignment,Industrial decarbonisation,Nature-based solutions and biodiversity
Middle EastAED 250,000 – AED 600,000Sustainability Advisor, Energy Transition Manager, ESG Programme Manager, Net Zero LeadGreen building and sustainable constructionEnergy efficiency in real estate and infrastructurePublic-private partnerships in net zero initiativesNational sustainability strategy implementation (e.g., UAE Net Zero 2050, Vision 2030 in KSA)

Success Stories:
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We specialise in placing top ESG and sustainability professionals with purpose-led organisations globally. With our deep sector expertise and personalised approach, we help you navigate the market, understand employer expectations, and secure roles aligned with your values and long-term goals.

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Who we are and What we do

We are an exclusive Sustainability and ESG Executive Search and Recruitment Agency, offering both permanent and temporary contracts recruitment solutions, across all sectors. We assist employers find their next great hire in ESG and Sustainability Integration/ Green Energy & CleanTech/ Responsible Investment, Sustainable Finance & Impact Investing.

The Paris Agreement at COP21 identified capacity building as a core challenge our governments, institutions, organisations and civil society need to overcome to build a sustainable world.
Companies need to build business strategies and develop activities to keep growing and create value for their shareholders without exhausting resources or harming future generations. Therefore, engaging in building a decarbonised and equitable economy is at the core of their mission and success in the long term. Their ability to build resilience of human and ecological systems will enable them to navigate this ever-evolving world.
As a recruitment agency, we truly believe, we have a substantial part to play in equipping those thriving businesses with the best candidates to conquer those challenges.
Our purpose is to support businesses in their sustainability journey by connecting them with the best talents in the ESG and Sustainability job market.
We focus to provide tailored solutions to our clients’ needs and enhance candidates’s experience in finding their ideal jobs.

Qualifications and Education: Building Expertise in the Field

In terms of qualifications, academic programs and certifications in sustainability and ESG management have gained prominence. Universities and professional organisations offer courses and certifications that equip individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in the field. Additionally, relevant degrees in environmental science, sustainability, business administration, and finance are highly valued by employers.
The ESG and sustainability job market is experiencing significant growth and offers diverse opportunities for professionals. Dedicated roles, as well as the integration of ESG knowledge into traditional job functions, highlight the increasing importance of sustainability in business strategies. Specialized skills, regulatory expertise, and industry knowledge are highly sought after.
​As companies strive to embed ESG practices into their operations, professionals with ESG expertise will continue to play a crucial role in driving positive change and shaping a sustainable future.

Diverse Opportunities: ESG and Sustainability Across Industries

The ESG and sustainability job market is not limited to specific industries. While sectors such as renewable energy, cleantech, and sustainable finance have a well-established presence, organisations across diverse industries are recognizing the need to prioritize ESG and sustainability practices. From manufacturing and retail to technology and healthcare, professionals with ESG expertise are sought after to drive sustainability initiatives and help companies future-proof their operations.

Navigating the Regulatory Landscape: Compliance and Governance Expertise

The increasing regulatory focus on ESG factors has led to a rise in demand for professionals who can navigate the evolving compliance landscape. Knowledge of relevant regulations and frameworks, such as the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), is highly valued. This includes expertise in managing ESG risks, conducting audits and assessments, and implementing sustainable governance structures.

Specialised Skills and Knowledge: Key Areas in High Demand

The ESG and sustainability job market also offers opportunities for specialised skills and knowledge. Professionals with expertise in renewable energy, circular economy, sustainable supply chain management, impact investing, and environmental conservation are in high demand. Additionally, individuals with experience in sustainability reporting frameworks, such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) or Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), are sought after to ensure transparent and standardized reporting.

ESG Expertise in Traditional Job Roles: The Integration of Sustainability Principles

Another emerging trend is the growing importance of ESG expertise in traditional job roles. Professionals in finance, legal, marketing, operations, and human resources are increasingly expected to have a solid understanding of ESG principles and their implications for their respective fields. For example, financial analysts need to assess the financial risks and opportunities associated with ESG factors, while marketing professionals must effectively communicate a company’s sustainability initiatives to consumers.

Dedicated ESG and Sustainability Roles: A Shift Towards Holistic Approaches

One significant trend in the job market is the rise in dedicated ESG and sustainability roles. Previously, these responsibilities were often dispersed across different departments, such as corporate social responsibility, environmental management, or investor relations. However, as companies recognize the need for a holistic approach, they are creating specialised positions such as ESG managers, ESG analysts, and corporate sustainability officers. These roles focus on integrating ESG considerations into business strategies, measuring and reporting on sustainability performance, and engaging with stakeholders.

ESG and Sustainability Job Market Trends

The ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) and sustainability integration job market has experienced significant growth and transformation in recent years. As companies worldwide recognize the importance of incorporating ESG principles into their operations, the demand for professionals with expertise in this field has surged. This article will explore the evolving landscape of the ESG and sustainability job market, highlighting key trends and opportunities.
The integration of ESG and sustainability practices into business strategies has become a top priority for organisations across industries. This shift is driven by various factors, including the increasing awareness of climate change, social justice issues, and corporate governance standards. As a result, companies are actively seeking professionals who can navigate the complexities of ESG and sustainability and drive positive change within their organizations.
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