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By Wendy Butterworth - Careers & Welfare Manager

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What is a Green Career?

A green career is an occupation which contributes to the preservation or restoration of our environment. The Government has set ambitious targets and aims to generate 2 million green jobs in the UK by 2030.

The green industry is a key sector to the local Greater Manchester economy. The Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) have a mission to be “carbon neutral” by 2038. This means changing the way we do things and moving from consuming fossil fuels to using renewable energy and technologies. The aim is to make Greater Manchester more energy efficient, promote the use of electric vehicles and protect the local environment.

In this blog, we’ll explore:

  • What types of jobs fall under the "green career" umbrella
  • Key green roles in demand across Greater Manchester
  • The skills and qualifications employers are looking for
  • How The Manchester College can help you prepare for a green career

Whether you're just starting out or looking to retrain, this guide will help you understand your options. It will help you take the next step toward a future focused, meaningful career with a TMC college course.

What is a green career?

A green career is any job that helps protect the environment or reduce our impact on the planet. It is a growing industry, and these roles focus on sustainability, energy efficiency, renewable energy, conservation, and reducing carbon emissions. But they’re not limited to nature-based or science-heavy fields.

Green careers span a wide range of industries, from construction and engineering to fashion, transport, business, and tech. For example, an electrical engineer can be working on electric vehicle infrastructure. Alternatively, a project manager can oversee eco-friendly building projects. Both part of the green workforce.

As the UK pushes toward net-zero emissions, demand is growing for skilled workers who can help make this transition possible. That means more opportunities in jobs that not only pay well, but also make a real difference.

Here are some of the careers which are in demand in Greater Manchester.

Electrical Engineer

They design, develop and maintain electrical systems and components to required specifications. In relation to the green industry, this could involve focusing on renewable energy initiatives, or improving transport infrastructure to make it low carbon. There is a focus on developing electrified public transport systems and electrified vehicles, which will impact on future opportunities. This is another highly in-demand role within Greater Manchester.

Electrical Engineer college course

The Manchester College offers a T Level in Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing, with a focus on Electrical and Electronic Engineering, perfect for students looking to break into the green economy.

This course is based at the Openshaw Campus and designed for 16-18 year-olds. It is a two-year, full-time course that combines hands-on learning with real industry experience. It’s an ideal first step toward a career in renewable energy, sustainable transport, or smart infrastructure. Explore our Electrical Engineer college course and enrol today.

Learn more: How Our Engineering Courses Prepare You for Cutting-Edge Careers

Project Manager

“Project managers plan and coordinate projects, from inception to delivery; managing resources, budget and people to achieve a desired outcome” - Prospects.ac.uk

You could find yourself working in different sectors, such as construction, transport, planning and development within a local authority to name a few. As the UK works towards its carbon neutral targets, big projects need to take into consideration environmental impact and so Project Managers play a key role in ensuring the project meets its environmental responsibilities whilst adhering to budgets and deadlines.

Retrofit

This requires skilled construction workers and surveyors to improve the energy efficiency of buildings. They must be knowledgeable in fitting a range of systems and technologies. This could be fitting double glazed windows, solar panelling, skylights, upgrading insulation and installing electrified heating.

Retrofit doesn’t specifically relate to commercial or public buildings, but also includes homes. Generally, workers enter this sector via traditional trade occupations, but it is advisable to consider the skills employers are looking for.

Construction college courses at TMC

The Manchester College offers a range of construction courses designed to build practical skills for the real world. From general construction and carpentry to building services and engineering, our courses provide hands-on training that prepares you for work. Whether you're just starting out or looking to specialise, there’s a course to suit your goals.

Learn more: How to Choose Which College Course You Should Take

Sustainability Consultant

This involves working with businesses and organisations to look at how they can become more sustainable. It requires you to understand their needs, the needs of the environment and to find solutions to their sustainability problems. You could work in a range of industries such as planning and development with a local authority, consulting on existing transport infrastructures and working on coastal or environmental projects.

Resources

There are plenty of helpful resources available to support your journey into a green career:

  • British Council: watch alumni videos, webinars, and case studies from professionals working in the green sector around the world.
  • National Careers Service: access detailed guides, job profiles, and resources from Green Careers Week to explore a wide range of roles.
  • STEM Learning: find information on science, technology, engineering, and maths-based green careers and how to get started.
  • My World of Work: discover how different subjects link to green jobs, explore career paths, and understand entry routes into the sector.

For local opportunities, the Greater Manchester Apprenticeship and Careers Service (GMACS) provides region-specific guidance. They've also created a Labour Market Information (LMI) card offering a snapshot of the green economy in Greater Manchester.

Prepare for green careers at TMC

You can contact the Careers & Welfare team to book an appointment where we will be able to work with you to develop a career plan. You’ll explore the range of opportunities and courses on offer that could lead into a career in the green economy. We offer a range of courses both vocational and technical. See our full range of courses and subject areas available.