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Whether your organisation is developing low-carbon technologies, leading decarbonisation strategy, or working at the intersection of climate and innovation, we understand the skills and experience needed to deliver real impact. Our global network and specialist consultants are focused on connecting you with talent that can help drive down emissions, manage climate risk and build a more sustainable future.
Net zero is no longer a distant ambition. It’s a business-critical challenge - and it starts with the right people.
What is a typical net zero role?
Net zero roles are incredibly diverse. They span corporate strategy, engineering, technology, policy and investment — reflecting the complex and interconnected nature of the challenge.
Common responsibilities include:
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Designing and implementing carbon reduction strategies
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Leading climate risk assessments and scenario planning
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Delivering clean energy infrastructure projects
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Scaling up renewable energy integration and optimisation
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Managing carbon accounting, offsets and reporting frameworks
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Supporting climate-aligned product innovation and supply chain transformation
In many cases, net zero work cuts across departments, requiring professionals who can collaborate across technical, operational and commercial teams.
Why is net zero hiring so important?
Reaching net zero requires coordinated, long-term action — and every organisation is on a different part of the journey. Having the right people in place makes the difference between ambition and action.
Net zero professionals help organisations:
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Measure and reduce their carbon footprint
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Comply with evolving regulations and stakeholder expectations
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Access sustainable finance and capital
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Invest in credible carbon removal and offset solutions
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Build trust through transparent, science-based targets
For many businesses, hiring in this space is about futureproofing — creating teams who can deliver not just compliance, but competitive advantage.
What kinds of roles do we recruit for?
We work across the full net zero value chain, from strategy to delivery. Roles we regularly recruit for include:
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Heads of Net Zero or Climate Strategy
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Carbon and GHG Accounting Specialists
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Clean Energy Engineers and Project Managers
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CCUS (Carbon Capture, Utilisation & Storage) Experts
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Energy Transition Advisors
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ESG and Climate Risk Consultants
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Software and Digital Energy Specialists
We also place interim and contract professionals to support high-impact short-term projects or transformations.
Where do we focus our net zero recruitment?
Our consultants bring deep knowledge in several technical and emerging areas, including:
Clean Energy Systems
We work with organisations pioneering renewables, novel nuclear, and long-duration energy storage. Whether it’s wind, solar, hydrogen or hybrid systems, we find engineers, analysts and project leads who can design and deliver scalable clean power solutions.
Grid Edge
We specialise in demand-side management and distributed energy. Our network includes talent with expertise in energy flexibility, grid integration, and community energy solutions, helping clients stay ahead of the decentralised energy revolution.
Carbon Solutions
From nature-based offsets to engineered removals, we recruit experts in carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS), as well as carbon markets and regulatory reporting. These professionals bring rigour, credibility and innovation to climate action.
Clean Mobility & EVs
Our work in sustainable transport includes placing EV infrastructure specialists, battery experts, and low-emissions vehicle engineers. We support clients in building teams that are rethinking mobility for a zero-carbon future.
Energy Software & Technology
We connect businesses with digital specialists in energy optimisation, smart grids and predictive analytics. Whether you need a software architect or a data scientist, we help you harness technology to support decarbonisation at scale.
What are employers looking for?
Organisations want professionals who can blend climate literacy with strategic and commercial acumen. They’re often looking for:
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Technical expertise in carbon, energy or climate risk
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The ability to engage internal and external stakeholders
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Familiarity with regulatory frameworks and reporting tools
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Systems thinking and a cross-sector view
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Passion, integrity and a commitment to impact
We use Acre’s competency framework - built on insight from thousands of sustainability professionals - to assess not only capability but behaviours and values, ensuring the right fit for your team.
What are some useful resources for environmental professionals to have?
If you’re interested in learning more about environmental careers, or if you’re looking for a career change and want to pursue a career in the environmental sector, have a read of our latest thought leadership here.
