In today’s energy industry, workers face a choice: pursue the stability of a permanent role or take on the flexibility and variety of contract work. Each path comes with its own set of perks and downsides, often reflecting what stage we are at in our career, our lifestyle needs and our personal goals.
To shed light on this decision, we asked two seasoned energy professionals, Emma and Raj, to share their experiences from opposite ends of the employment spectrum. Emma, a long-time permanent employee, and Raj, a contract work enthusiast, dive into the pros, cons, and unexpected twists each path offers in the fast-evolving energy landscape.
Emma’s POV: What it means to have a permanent position
“There’s something to be said for waking up every day knowing exactly where you’ll be working and who you’ll be working with.”
For Emma, a renewable energy project manager, who has built her career as a permanent employee for the last 4 years, stability is more than just a paycheck. In her view, a permanent role allows her to focus deeply on her work without worrying about constantly seeking the next contract or restlessly networking for the next gig.
“It’s like running a marathon with your team instead of sprinting alone. You build relationships, you have consistent projects and there’s a real sense of being part of something larger,” Emma explains.
Over the years, she’s benefited from health coverage, paid time off and company-led training programs. These perks have helped her stay competitive and advance in her field. Plus, she knows that her employer supports her by ensuring job security during market downturns and contributing to her retirement plans.
Emma sees permanence as a chance to become a true expert in her field, saying, “In renewable energy, projects can span years and being a part of the entire lifecycle is incredibly rewarding. I’ve been able to lead projects from inception to completion, which is harder to do when you’re switching companies every year or two.”
What’s her advice for anyone considering a permanent role? “It’s a great option if you’re looking for steady growth, a clear career path and the chance to dive deep into complex projects. It’s ideal for those who want a structured career in this industry”.
Pros:
- Stability & security: Monthly paycheck, benefits and retirement contributions.
- Career progression: A greater chance to grow and build long-lasting relations.
- Team cohesion: Opportunity to form lasting relationships.
Cons:
- Less flexibility: Strict work hours, sometimes limited project variety.
- Risk of complacency: Longer-term roles can reduce exposure to new opportunities.
Raj’s POV: What’s the deal with contracts
“With contract work, I get to pick the projects I want, and when I’m ready for a change, I can move on.”
Raj has thrived in the world of contract work as an offshore drilling engineer for nearly 9 years.
As an engineer working on oil and gas projects, he’s moved across continents and worked with diverse teams while building a vast network. For him, contract work is about the freedom to design his own career path.
“Working contracts means that every six months or year, I can re-evaluate what I want to work on next and where I want to be. That freedom is unbeatable,” Raj says. He enjoys taking on challenging, high-stakes projects without feeling bound to a single employer. This setup also allows him to manage higher rates, as companies often pay a premium for contract expertise.
The flexibility, however, comes with its trade-offs. “Benefits aren’t usually part of the package, so I’m responsible for my health insurance, retirement planning, and even time off.” While it’s great to choose when to work, he also knows that if he’s, for example, on vacation, he doesn’t get paid, so he needs to budget accordingly.
Despite these challenges, Raj finds contract work invigorating. “It’s fast-paced, engaging and I’m always learning something new. There’s a sense of freedom that suits my lifestyle. If you love change and variety, contract work can be incredibly rewarding.”
Pros:
- Higher earning potential: Contractors often make more per project.
- Flexibility & autonomy: Ability to take on projects based on interest and pick downtime.
- Skill diversification: Chance to work on varied projects with a plethora of companies.
Cons:
- Lack of job security: No guarantee of the next contract.
- Benefits & stability: No company-based health insurance or retirement benefits.
- Administrative overheads: Contractors often manage their own taxes and finances.
Weighing the perks and drawbacks
Job security vs. flexibility
Emma and Raj showcase a key difference between permanent and contract roles: job security versus flexibility.
Emma enjoys the stability of her job, saying, “I don’t worry about where I’ll be working in a few months”. In contrast, Raj finds security in his ability to pivot quickly between contracts, noting, “I keep my network ready and skills sharp”.
They agree that the demand for skilled professionals in the energy sector offers contractors a sense of stability, as “there’s always a project that needs you”, Raj explains.
Benefits & lifestyle
For many in energy, permanent roles come with perks like health insurance and paid time off, which Emma values for her family’s support. Raj takes a different route: “I build my benefits,” he laughs, managing his private health care and holiday schedule.
Emma believes a permanent role offers peace of mind for those who like structure, while Raj highlights that contract work suits those craving flexibility. “It’s a trade-off,” he says, “you give up benefits but gain freedom.”
Career growth & development
Both Emma and Raj find opportunities for growth in their roles. Emma appreciates formal training and mentoring in her permanent position, stating, “I’ve had mentors that expand my skills.” Raj thrives on the diverse experiences from contract work, sharing, “I learn by jumping into new projects. It keeps my skills fresh,” helping him stay on top of industry trends.
Is one path better than the other?
Overall, Emma and Raj agree that neither path is universally better than the other. The decision to go permanent or contract largely depends on personal and professional desires.
Emma suggests that those who prioritize stability, team-based work and structured career paths may find fulfillment in permanent roles. “There’s a place for specialists and career-long growth in this industry,” she says, adding that “with energy’s impact on our future, there’s no shortage of meaningful work.”
Raj sees contract work as perfect for those who crave independence and adventure. “It’s for people who thrive on change, want to build diverse experiences, and don’t mind the hustle. In the end, I think it comes down to personality and life goals,” he concludes.
The final verdict: charting your path forward
Whether you lean toward the stability of a permanent role like Emma or the freedom of contract work like Raj, both paths offer unique ways to succeed in the energy sector. If you’re just starting, consider testing each option to see what suits you best.
In conclusion, the energy industry is full of opportunities for both types of professionals and there’s no wrong way to make your mark.
Choosing your career path in energy may just be a choice between where you’ll find your next big impact, whether it’s in a long-term role shaping a single company’s future or on a series of transformative projects that take you across the world.
