Top 5 of the most demanded sustainability jobs in the UK in 2024

As companies increasingly focus on integrating sustainability into their core strategies and ensuring compliance with evolving regulations, the role of the Sustainability Manager has become critical. This trend is expected to continue, as the position remains pivotal in guiding organizations’ sustainability initiatives, ensuring regulatory adherence, and meeting both internal and external ESG targets.

​Candidate Profile:

• Degree: A degree in environmental science, sustainability, or related fields. An MSc is often preferred.
• Hard Skills: Knowledge of environmental regulations, carbon accounting, sustainability reporting, Project management, knowledge of environmental policies, stakeholder engagement, data analysis, leadership..
• Soft Skills: Communication, problem-solving, and project management.

​Salary: £45,000 – £70,000 per year on average, depending on experience and company size.

Organizations beginning or accelerating their sustainability efforts often benefit from hiring Sustainability Consultants to guide them in minimizing their environmental impact and meeting sustainability objectives. As the demand for expert advice on eco-friendly practices grows, we expect a notable increase in the availability of these roles by 2025 and beyond, as more companies seek professional guidance to navigate their sustainability journey.

Renewable Energy Engineers are responsible for designing, implement, and maintain renewable energy systems like solar, wind, or hydroelectric projects, batteries and lately hydrogen ensuring energy efficiency and compliance with regulations.

Candidate Profile:

• Degree : A degree in renewable energy, environmental engineering, or related field.
• Hard Skills: Technical expertise in renewable energy technologies, project management, and knowledge of HSE standards.
• Soft Skills: Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and collaboration.

Salary: £45,000 – £70,000​ ​per year on average, depending on experience and company size.

Climate Change analyst are responsible for developing and managing climate change mitigation strategies, ensuring compliance with legislation and leading sustainability initiatives within organizations.

Candidate Profile:

• Degree: Master’s degree in sustainability, environmental management, or similar fields.
• Hard Skills: Climate data analysis, sustainability reporting, project management.
• Soft Skills: Leadership, strategic thinking, and communication.

Salary: £55,000 – £85,000 ​per year on average, depending on experience and company size.

They are in charge of analyzing and reporting on carbon emissions, helping organizations reduce their carbon footprint through data analysis.

​Candidate Profile: 

• Degree: Bachelor’s degree in environmental science or a numerically focused degree.
• Hard Skills: Data analysis, carbon accounting, and report writing.
• Soft Skills: Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and communication.

Salary: £40,000 – £55,000 ​per year on average, depending on experience and company size.

They provide insights and advice on environmental policies, help organizations navigate regulatory frameworks, and influence policy development.

Candidate Profile:

• Degree: Degree in environmental science, law, or public policy, with specialized knowledge of environmental regulations.
• Hard Skills: Policy analysis, legal frameworks, and regulatory compliance.
• Soft Skills: Negotiation, public speaking, and writing.

Salary: £50,000 – £70,000 per year on average, depending on experience and company size.