Five high-paying green jobs with low stress levels

In an article published by CNBC, in today's world, finding a career that offers both financial stability and low stress is a goal many people strive for. 

If people are considering a career change or looking to enter a field that offers both lucrative pay and a healthier work environment, people might want to explore these in-demand green jobs. From environmental engineers to solar energy systems engineers, these roles not only help protect the planet but also provide the opportunity for professional fulfillment with less stress.

Higher-paying jobs often come with a great deal of stress—think surgeons performing life-saving surgeries or corporate lawyers overseeing multimillion-dollar deals. However, not all high-paying jobs are high-stress. There are plenty of lucrative, low-stress roles available. 

The US Department of Labor’s Occupational Information Network (O*NET) ranks nearly 900 professions based on stress tolerance, considering factors such as the ability to handle criticism and manage high-pressure situations. Many of these low-stress, high-paying roles can be found in the sustainability sector. This may be due to the stability and long-term growth potential in these industries, according to Julia Pollak, chief economist at ZipRecruiter.

“Looking long-term, areas like sustainability and green technology are poised to see significant growth, driven by consumer shifts toward eco-friendly options, policy incentives for clean energy, and rapid technological advancements,” says Pollak. Several green jobs—such as solar photovoltaic installers and wind turbine technicians—have seen tremendous growth in recent years, with projections for continued expansion. 

Here are five in-demand green jobs that offer a median annual salary of more than $100,000 and a comparatively low stress level.

Remote Sensing Scientist or Technologist  These professionals collect and analyze data from satellites or aircraft to address challenges in areas like urban planning, homeland security, and natural resource management. Most roles require advanced education, such as a relevant master’s degree, Ph.D., or M.D., along with some practical experience.

Environmental Economist Environmental economists examine issues such as alternative fuel usage, soil conservation, and pollution. They write academic papers and assess the costs and benefits of environmental policies and regulations. A master's degree, Ph.D., or law degree is typically required for this role. 

Water Resource Specialist  Also known as water resource planners, these specialists develop and implement programs to enhance water conservation and ensure communities have access to clean, safe water. Most positions demand a bachelor’s degree, along with technical expertise in data analytics and proficiency with various software systems.

Solar Energy Systems Engineer  These engineers are responsible for designing, developing, and managing systems that convert solar energy into clean power. They work on optimizing solar panel placement for efficiency and linking them to the electrical grid or battery systems. A bachelor’s degree, knowledge of photovoltaic systems, and experience with design and simulation software are typically required for this role.

Environmental Engineer Environmental engineers apply math and science to devise solutions that protect both the environment and public health. They focus on projects like water quality improvement, waste management, and pollution control. A bachelor’s degree, familiarity with environmental regulations, and expertise in modeling and design software are key qualifications for this role.

By Naila Huseynova