Energy Engineer
Energy Engineers specialize in the broad field of engineering that deals with energy. This includes: energy efficiency, energy services, facility management, plant engineering, environmental compliance, sustainable energy, and renewable energy technologies. Depending on their position, these engineers may be involved in the design and development of energy-related projects or programs. They also aim to reduce energy cost and improve energy efficiency in construction, electrical systems, and HVAC systems.
Also known as: Energy Efficiency Engineer, Industrial Energy Engineer, Test and Balance Engineer, Measurement and Verification Engineer, Energy Systems Engineer
Pay Scale
$102,110 in 2021 in WA
$100,640 in 2021 in U.S.
Education
Bachelor’s, Master’s, post-baccalaureate certificate
Projected Opportunities
230 through 2030 in WA
10,800 through 2031 in U.S.
Career Path
The career path to becoming an energy engineer begins with education progressing to an internship or job as a junior engineer. From there it branches to energy engineer or energy manager. Energy engineers can go on to become a chief engineer, senior operations manager, or building scientist.
Training & Requirements
Training
Engineers are required to have a bachelor’s degree, and though many schools do not have a specific energy engineering degree, a background in general engineering or any of the other disciplines is beneficial. The Association of Energy Engineers has a wide variety of certifications available to help further specialize your education and some employers even require a master’s degree with 3-5 years of work experience.
Required Skills
- Use of analytical or scientific software, Microsoft office, and computer aided design (CAD)
- Critical thinking to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions or approaches to problems
- Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology
Responsibilities
- Identify and recommend energy savings strategies to achieve more energy-efficient operation
- Conduct energy audits to evaluate energy use
- Monitor energy related design or constriction issues
- Inspect or monitor energy systems