Spain
Salary Guide 2024

GreenTech Hiring Trends in Spain

The focus on sustainability and GreenTech is becoming increasingly important across the globe.

But this is especially true in Spain – a country that’s long been a leader in renewable energy. We’ll explore some of the top GreenTech trends in Spain, their implications for hiring and talent, and what this means for the future.

Solar Power Dominance

Spain’s geographic location and climate make it an ideal hub for solar energy production. The country has been harnessing this potential to become a global leader in solar energy. Spain is home to some of the world’s largest solar power plants, and new projects are being commissioned each year.

The Spanish government has set ambitious targets for renewable energy, aiming to reach 100% renewable energy by 2050. To achieve this, a significant portion of energy will need to come from solar power. The government’s commitment to this goal is driving significant investment in solar technology and infrastructure, creating a strong growth trajectory for the sector.

Advances in photovoltaic technology and battery storage are making solar power more efficient and cost-effective. This is expected to further fuel the growth of the solar power industry in Spain. But what are the implications for hiring and talent?

Candidate-Driven Market: The rapid expansion of the solar power industry in Spain is creating a wealth of job opportunities. From engineers and technicians to project managers and sustainability consultants, there’s a high demand for professionals with expertise in solar energy. This surge in demand puts candidates in a favourable position. Employers must compete not only on salary but also on benefits, work culture, and opportunities for growth and development to attract the best talent.

Need for Specialist Skills: Solar technology is a rapidly evolving field. As technologies improve and new ones emerge, there’s a growing need for specialists who are up-to-date with the latest developments. Think of areas like photovoltaic technology, solar thermal energy, and battery storage solutions. Employers should invest in training and development initiatives to ensure their workforce has the skills needed to stay ahead. Additionally, companies should develop a culture of continuous learning and innovation to keep up with the dynamic nature of the industry.

Electric Vehicle Revolution

Spain is truly embracing the electric vehicle (EV) revolution, with Spaniards increasingly opting for this eco-friendly mode of transport. The Spanish government has been a key driver of this trend, implementing various incentives and subsidies to promote the use of EVs.

In recent years, Spain’s motor industry has been undergoing a significant transformation towards the production of battery-powered vehicles. This shift is supported by substantial public-private investment, with the Spanish government committing to an investment of 24 billion euros to promote the design and use of electric vehicles.

In 2023, nearly 157,800 battery electric vehicles were manufactured in Spain, marking a 24.2% increase compared to the previous year. The government has extended an aid program for the purchase of electric vehicles, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable transport. But what are the implications for hiring and talent?

Growing Demand for EV Expertise: The expansion of the EV market in Spain is creating a surge in demand for professionals with expertise in this field. From engineers and technicians to designers and project managers, companies need to offer competitive packages to attract and retain these specialists. We’re seeing impressive salaries for senior engineers, plus those in sales, finance, and operations. But it’s not all about attractive salaries – employers need to be offering benefits like flexible working options, opportunities for professional development and a commitment to sustainability.

Upskilling Opportunities: The shift towards EVs presents a great opportunity for upskilling current employees. Companies can gain a competitive edge by investing in training programs related to EV technology. This will not only enhance their workforce’s skills but also improve employee engagement and retention.

Adapting to Rapid Industry Changes: The EV sector is evolving at an unprecedented pace, with new technologies, regulations, and market dynamics constantly emerging. As such, companies need to be agile and adaptable in their hiring strategies. They should be prepared to recruit from a diverse range of backgrounds and industries and to consider candidates with transferable skills who can bring fresh perspectives. Additionally, they should also be open to new ways of working, like remote work or flexible contracts, which can help attract talent.

Building Strong Employer Branding: Given the growing interest in sustainability among job seekers, companies in the EV sector have a unique opportunity to leverage their commitment to green practices as a selling point. By building a strong employer brand that emphasises their environmental values and impact, companies can attract professionals who are not only skilled, but also passionate about driving the transition to sustainable transport.

Green Building Practices

Green building practices are gaining momentum in Spain as the country seeks to reduce its environmental footprint and transition towards a more sustainable future. This trend involves a comprehensive approach to construction that prioritises energy efficiency, the use of sustainable materials, and minimising environmental impact.

Spain’s commitment to green building is reflected in its adoption of globally recognised sustainability standards, such as the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. This certification system provides a framework for healthy, highly efficient, and cost-saving green buildings.

 But Spain has shown a particular interest in Net-Zero Buildings, which are designed to generate as much energy as they consume over the course of a year. This concept is becoming increasingly popular and is expected to shape the future of the construction industry in Spain. But what are the implications for hiring and talent?

Rise of Green Architects and Engineers: The growing popularity of green building practices has led to a surge in demand for architects and engineers who specialise in this field. These professionals play a crucial role in designing and constructing buildings that meet high standards of sustainability and energy efficiency. This trend offers opportunities for architects and engineers to differentiate themselves and advance their careers by acquiring specialised skills in green building practices.

Importance of Continued Learning: The field of green building is dynamic, with new technologies, materials, and standards continually emerging. Therefore, continuous learning is crucial for professionals in this sector. Employers should encourage this by providing learning opportunities and facilitating access to resources and training. This not only enhances the skills of their workforce but also ensures that the company stays at the forefront of the green building movement. 

The GreenTech sector in Spain is experiencing rapid growth and transformation. For companies to thrive in this new landscape, it’s important to be proactive in attracting, developing, and retaining talent with the right skills and knowledge.