Chartered status is “clear advantage”
11 Jun 2014
Energy workers with professional recognition have improved job prospects, a new survey suggests.
Those with chartered status receive higher salaries, improved job security and increased work-life balance, according to the latest Hays Energy “Salary and Benefits Guide”, which surveyed more than 1,000 energy professionals.
“One of the strengths of the energy industry is the variety of highly specialist and highly technical roles,” said Sarah Beacock, skills and capability director at the Energy Institute (EI).
”In particular, engineers remain in high demand within the sector.”
This survey shows a clear advantage for EI members and those with chartered status
EI skills director Sarah Beacock
“This survey shows a clear advantage for EI members and those with chartered status in terms of salary, job security and work-life balance,” Beacock added.
The survey also suggests that those with qualifications and specialist skills, such as project managers and specialist engineers, saw their salary rise in line with the cost of living in 2013.
One in ten were awarded a rise of between 6-10%, whereas a further 10% enjoyed an increase of more than 10%.
However, evidence also suggests that a gender pay gap within the sector remains an issue, with 12% of women earning between £61,000 and £80,000 compared with 16% of men.
According to the survey, these figures reflect the lack of women in specialist and senior roles within industry.
Meanwhile, Hays Energy director Greg Lettington suggested that as the current workforce reaches retirement age the pressure will be on for employers to address this skills gap.
Lettington said: “While many employers are taking action to upskill their existing workforce, more must be done to encourage new entrants to the industry, particularly women who are under-represented in energy.”
