The energy transition is underway, and the hydrogen industry is one of the key elements of this change. With the ambition of becoming a world leader in this field, France plans to create almost 100,000 jobs by 2030. This development is taking place against a backdrop of labor shortages in the industrial sector, offering an unprecedented opportunity for job seekers. So, how can you prepare for this impending boom? (See also : Jobs Olympic Games Paris 2024 and Paris Destination Canada Job Forum)
The hydrogen sector in France
Hydrogen energy is booming, with massive public investment in the development of ten "gigafactories" dedicated to this technology in France. From 3,500 jobs in 2021, the sector is set to grow to 5,800 by 2022. The aim? Train 100,000 people by 2030 to meet growing demand in more than 80 different professions, from engineers to risk management specialists, sales representatives and business developers.
Table of the three recruitment phases
Phase | Years | Profiles wanted | Qualification level | Percentage of recruitment |
---|---|---|---|---|
Innovation and Development | 2023-2025 | Engineers, Business developers | Bac+5 | 80% |
Start-up and Commissioning | 2026-2028 | Technicians | Varies | 40% |
Stabilization | 2028-2030 | Technicians | Varies | 80% |
Start-up phase (2026-2028) The need for technicians will gradually increase, especially in mobility-related fields. Technicians will account for around 40% of new hires.
Stabilization phase (2028-2030) : Here, the focus will be on the technician profiles needed for plant operation and maintenance, accounting for around 80% of new hires.
How do you prepare for these job opportunities?
For those interested, it's important to position yourself now. Here are some tips and strategies for entering the industry:
- Skills assessment Identify your current skills and consider retraining if necessary.
- Specialized training Identify available training courses specialized in the hydrogen sector. According to the Def'hy study, 216 training courses already exist, although they suffer from a lack of visibility.
- Networking Join us at events and forums on energy transition and sustainable development. It's a great opportunity to meet industry professionals.
- Information watch Keep up with the latest news on investments and innovations in the hydrogen sector, to anticipate skills needs.
- Case studies Deepen your knowledge by studying successful projects in the field, both in France and abroad.
- Targeted applications Apply for internships or junior positions with companies already active in the hydrogen sector.
- Update CV and Cover Letter : Highlight your skills and training in hydrogen or renewable energies.
France bets on hydrogen with ten "gigafactories
French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne recently announced massive public funding for ten industrial projects in the field of hydrogen technologies. These announcements are the result of a long-term commitment by France to be a world leader in the production of decarbonated hydrogen, an initiative that could play an important role in the ecological transition.
Plan details
- Investment amount : France will invest 2.1 billion euros in these ten projects, which will be backed by a further 3.2 billion euros in private investment.
- Companies concerned: Selected companies include Plastic Omnium, Elogen and McPhy.
- Target regions : The plants will be spread over seven French regions, from Belfort to Béziers, via Venette and Vendôme.
- Production objectives : The plan aims to produce 10.5 gigawatts of carbon-free hydrogen by 2030.
Implications for employment and the economy
- Job creation : A total of 5,200 direct jobs are expected to be created.
- Technological diversification : The funding will support a variety of technologies, from research and development to production.
My view of the sector's potential
The hydrogen sector represents a tremendous opportunity, not only for individuals, but for the country as a whole. It's a chance to get involved in forward-looking technologies, to contribute to the ecological transition, and to take part in an ambitious national project. However, the success of this venture depends to a large extent on the ability to train enough qualified people. Efforts must therefore be redoubled to make training more visible and accessible.
While an ambitious initiative, France's hydrogen plan is not without controversy. Environmental issues remain at the forefront, particularly concerning the source of electricity that will be used to produce this decarbonized hydrogen. What's more, while funding is significant, the success of these projects will also depend on implementation and the ability of these companies to meet production schedules and targets.