The Governor’s Office of Climate Action and the Green Economy has released its 2025 Green Jobs Report, titled “Growing Green Jobs: The Opportunities for New Jersey’s Workforce,” celebrating Climate Week by focusing on the robust expansion of the state’s green economy and its implications for the workforce.
The report reveals significant growth, with New Jersey’s green workforce increasing by 12%, or 6,000 jobs, since 2021, fueled by over 100 new clean energy projects. Looking ahead, the state’s green workforce is projected to add more than 14,000 net jobs by 2035, as New Jersey continues to expand clean energy resources and adapt to evolving federal policies.
High-demand, high-wage occupations
The report identifies 12 priority occupations crucial for achieving New Jersey’s green economy goals, all of which boast wages higher than the national average. Electricians are expected to see the largest growth in new jobs, followed closely by Plumbers, HVAC Mechanics and Installers, and Solar Installers.
“As the growth of our green economy adds thousands of family-sustaining jobs in New Jersey, this report will help guide our continued commitment to meeting the demand for workforce development and coordination across our educational institutions, unions, and training providers,” Gov. Phil Murphy said.
Training programs are already in place for all top green occupations, particularly those requiring specialized skills. Notably, 10 out of the 12 priority occupations require only a high school diploma or equivalent, making them highly accessible career paths for many New Jerseyans. The report emphasizes the need for stronger coordination among green industry employers, educators, unions, training providers, and community groups to maximize these opportunities.
State leadership and strategic investments
New Jersey’s Department of Labor and Workforce Development (DOL) and the Economic Development Authority (EDA) are taking a proactive leadership role, expanding access to training and investing in critical programs.
Robert Asaro-Angelo, commissioner of the Department of Labor and Workforce Development, highlighted the state’s success in creating clear pathways to green employment. “Our goal is to continue ensuring every New Jerseyan has the opportunity to thrive in this emerging industry, transforming not just careers but entire communities as we transition to a more environmentally responsible future,” he said.
The EDA’s Apprenticeship Training Centers Construction Grant Program has made $9.7 million available to support the development of training centers for Registered Apprenticeship programs in the building and construction trades, with a specific focus on overburdened communities. Additionally, in April 2025, the EDA awarded over $4.3 million in Green Workforce Training Grants to develop new green economy career training programs.
Educating the next generation
Beyond adult workforce development, New Jersey is also investing in preparing younger generations. First Lady Tammy Murphy championed the state’s first-in-the-nation K-12 climate change education standards. “Equipping our students with the tools necessary to build a stronger and cleaner New Jersey is one of the most powerful and important things we can do for the future,” she stated.
The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)’s Youth Inclusion Initiative also celebrated its fifth year, providing young people with exposure to environmental careers through summer workforce development programs.
This comprehensive approach—from K-12 education and youth initiatives to adult workforce training and strategic state investments—positions New Jersey to lead the nation in building a robust and equitable green economy. The upcoming 2026-2028 Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) Strategic Funding Plan is expected to propose further investments to drive this growth, with an optimistic outlook for tens of thousands of new green jobs.
