Four hot green building jobs

(Photo: George Peters/ iStockPhoto)

The following is a guest post by Ezra Drissman of GreenCareersGuide

One of the quickest ways into a green collar job is through the burgeoning field of green building. Green building jobs are great in part because many skill sets are needed. The field is expected to create 2 million new green jobs in the coming years. There are so many aspects to green building that it is wide open for many people.

Green building covers more than just building, it also covers sustainability. As the U.S. government requires buildings to be greener, look for LEED certification to be big. The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is a great resource to find more info about green building practices.

Check out these four jobs for starters:

1. Weatherization operations manager
Weatherization operations managers can make an average salary of $70,000 in California, although salaries can vary greatly from company to location, industry, experience and benefits. There are different degrees of this position, but they are focused on energy conservation and green living.

2. Roofing and skylight installer
Skylights have quickly grown in popularity since there has been a realization of how much energy and money savings can result, as well as better quality of life.

3. Insulation installer
Insulation installers are in demand. Many building and energy codes now specify minimum insulation levels. The Insulation Contractors Association of America provides lists of certified insulation contractors.

4. Urban planner
Urban planning is based on the designs of the Roman era. The current trend returns to the synergy of urban planning, landscape architecture and architecture disciplines. Another important urban planning role is urban renewal and inner city regeneration, through adaptation of urban planning methods for use in existing cities that are affected by long-term decay in their infrastructure.

In the years to come, these green careers and others will only grow in need. Start on your green career path as soon as you can.

Also by Ezra Drissman:

• Three steps to becoming your own boss (in a green field!)
• Five hot green jobs available today
• Network your Way to a green job in three easy steps

From Yahoo! Green: Finding the green job of your dreams

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