The Solar Industries 18% Gender Pay Gap
RO, a recruitment consultancy specializing in connecting renewables professionals with employers, has released its latest US Solar Salary Guide revealing a gender pay gap of up to 18% exists in favor of men at entry level roles.
The data sourced from survey responses reveal findings that may come as a concern for the industry, particularly for junior staff; Respondents with under two years of experience face a pay gap of 18% between male and female employees in favor of males.
Courtney Howard, Diversity Equity and Inclusion Lead at RO, shared further findings:
"Like many other industrial sectors, the US Renewables industry has a fairly poor history of gender and racial diversity. The same can still be said in today's market, for instance, our research has revealed that 69% of female respondents do not know or do not receive enhanced maternity leave. The current market is not operating in a way that attracts all candidates from a range of backgrounds. Addressing benefits that impact employees' lives outside of their work not only improves retention rates but acts as an attractive proposition for new employees, encouraging diversity and the overall amount of people working in the industry."
RO states that the "2022 Solar Energy Salary Guide" aims to make the industry more transparent and help business owners by offering insight into gender pay gaps, average compensation, and market saturation.
Emrah Baykal, CEO, RO, said:
"By using real-time data and collaboration across different businesses, we are breaking down barriers and evolving positively. We recognize external pressures such as the COVID-19 pandemic have made hiring and retaining staff challenging, yet it is still vitally important to pay attention to the issues that impact us all. Equality for professionals with the same job title and conducting the same job role should be present in today's market."
In addition to presenting an analysis of the current landscape of the US Solar Energy employment sector, the report also covers key benefits professionals expect to receive. This includes flexible working, change in base salary, development opportunities, company mission, and vision and healthcare.
Find the latest insight on salaries, benefits, trends, and the Solar Energy job market by downloading the full guide from RO's website.
