Renewable Energy Jobs at National Renewable Energy Laboratory

NLR has a rich history of notable projects that showcase its commitment to renewable energy innovation. Among these is the Solar Energy Research Facility, which opened in 1993 and spans 53,000 square feet, serving as a hub for solar research (source: nrel.gov). The National Wind Technology Center, dedicated in 1994, has been instrumental in advancing wind turbine technology, while the Education Center, also established in 1994, focuses on public training and outreach. Recent projects include the Energy Systems Integration Facility (ESIF), which has supported clean energy technology incubation since 2013, and the ReCell Center, which is dedicated to lithium-ion battery recycling (source: nrel.gov). NLR's partnerships exceed 1,100 active collaborations with industry, universities, and government entities, highlighting its role as a leader in renewable energy research and development.

In recent years, NLR has undergone significant changes and achieved notable milestones. On December 1, 2025, the U.S. Department of Energy officially renamed NREL to the National Laboratory of the Rockies, reflecting its expanded mission to encompass broader energy systems beyond renewables (source: energy.gov). The laboratory has also made strides in battery recycling technologies and marine energy projects, marking its 10th anniversary of the ESIF in 2023. Additionally, NLR has expanded its Cambium data tool for corporate emissions modeling, further solidifying its commitment to sustainability and innovation (source: nrel.gov). These developments underscore NLR's ongoing dedication to advancing energy solutions that address both current and future challenges.

NLR offers a diverse range of employment opportunities, including research positions, postdoctoral roles, internships, and operations jobs across various departments such as photovoltaics, bioenergy, and energy systems integration. The laboratory employs nearly 4,000 staff members, representing over 70 countries, fostering a rich cultural diversity within its workforce (source: nrel.gov). Hiring occurs at multiple campuses, including Golden, Arvada, Fairbanks, and Washington, D.C., with a focus on innovation and community engagement. While specific benefits are not detailed, NLR, as a federally funded research and development center, is expected to offer federal-style perks, which are implied through its nonprofit operational structure (source: nrel.gov). The culture at NLR emphasizes resilience and adaptability, as evidenced by its history of navigating funding fluctuations while maintaining a commitment to workforce development and public engagement.

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