It is difficult to estimate the number of jobs available in the public utilities sector. Because it depends on various factors such as the location, the size of the company, and the specific needs of the company at a given time.
However, this sector is a vital part of our society, as it provides the essential services that we rely on every day. These services include electricity, gas, water, and waste management. As such, the public utilities sector is a significant employer, offering a wide range of job opportunities.
What Are Public Utilities Jobs
Public utility jobs refer to jobs that involve providing essential services to the public, such as electricity, gas, water, and waste management. These jobs may be found in government agencies or in private companies that are regulated by government agencies.
Companies With Public Utility Jobs
Major companies that offer public utility jobs in the US include American Electric Power, Duke Energy, Southern Company, and Xcel Energy. These companies operate at a national or regional level and offer a variety of job opportunities, including positions in power generation, transmission, distribution, and customer service.
American Electric Power (AEP)
AEP is one of the largest electric utilities companies in the US, serving customers in 11 states. The company operates a diverse mix of generation resources, including coal, natural gas, nuclear, and renewable sources such as wind and solar. AEP offers job opportunities in a variety of fields, including power generation, transmission, distribution, and customer service.
According to data from Statista as of 2021, the electric power generation, transmission and distribution industry employed 172 thousand people in the United States. It is difficult to determine exactly how many people are employed by AEP specifically, as the company does not disclose its employee headcount. However, AEP is a large company and it is likely that it employs a significant number of people.
Duke Energy
Duke Energy is one of the largest energy holding companies in the US, serving customers in six states. The company operates a diverse mix of generation resources, including coal, natural gas, nuclear, and renewable sources such as hydroelectric and solar. Duke energy serves more than 8.2 Million customers who are served by 27,500 employees. It offers job opportunities in a variety of fields, including power generation, transmission, distribution, and customer service.
Southern Company
The company serves customers in four states and operates a diverse mix of generation resources. Including coal, natural gas, nuclear, and renewable sources such as hydroelectric and solar. Southern Company offers job opportunities in a variety of fields, including power generation, transmission, distribution, and customer service.
Xcel Energy
Is a leading provider of electricity and natural gas in the US, serving customers in eight states. The company operates a diverse mix of generation resources, including coal, natural gas, nuclear, and renewable sources such as wind and solar. Xcel Energy offers job opportunities in a variety of fields, including power generation, transmission, distribution, and customer service. It employs approximately 12,000 people across the US.
In addition to the major companies mentioned above, there are many other companies that offer public utility jobs in the US. These companies may be smaller in size and may operate at a regional or local level. They may also specialize in a particular service, such as water or waste management.
Common Jobs at Public Utility Companies
There are a wide variety of jobs available within public utility companies. Ranging from customer service and administrative roles to technical positions such as electricians and engineers. Other common roles within these companies include accountants, lawyers, and human resources professionals.
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there were approximately 539,510 jobs in the utilities sector as of May 2021. This includes jobs in both public and private utilities companies. The BLS projects that employment in this sector will grow by 3% between 2019 and 2029, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations.
The public utilities industry is a diverse sector that offers a wide range of job opportunities for individuals with a variety of skill sets. In addition to the jobs mentioned above, other common positions within public utility companies include:
1. Linemen
These workers are responsible for installing and maintaining power lines, transformers, and other electrical equipment. They may also be involved in emergency repairs and responding to power outages.
2. Meter readers
Meter readers often visit homes and businesses to read their utility meters and ensure that they are accurately billing their customers.
3. Water treatment plant operators
These workers are basically known for operating and maintaining equipment used in the treatment of water, including filters, pumps, and chemical feed systems.
4. Gas service technicians
These technicians are handy for installing, repairing, and maintaining natural gas pipelines and equipment.
5. Telecommunications technicians
These technicians are reliable for installing, repairing, and maintaining telecommunications equipment, such as telephone and internet lines.
6. Customer service representatives
Customer service representatives are an important part of the public utilities sector, as they are the primary point of contact for customers. They handle customer inquiries, complaints, and billing issues, and may also assist with account management and setting up new service.
7. Engineers
The men and women in overalls are responsible for designing and developing new systems and technologies. They may work in a variety of areas, including power generation, transmission, and distribution. Architecture and Engineering occupations alone in the utilities sector comprise of 49,140 employees.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the public utilities industry is a vital sector that provides essential services to communities across the United States. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in this field, there are many job opportunities available. Ranging from customer service and administrative roles to technical positions such as electricians and engineers.
However, working in the public utilities industry can also be physically demanding and may require working outside in all types of weather conditions. It is important to be aware of these challenges and to be prepared to work under potentially hazardous conditions. With the right training and education, you could find a rewarding and challenging career in this exciting industry.