Energy Auditor
An Energy Auditor is a professional who assesses energy consumption in residential and commercial properties to identify inefficiencies and potential cost savings. Their role involves inspecting systems such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), and electrical installations to evaluate how effectively they operate. Energy auditors provide detailed reports comparing actual energy use to optimal performance, identifying areas for improvement, and recommending upgrades or maintenance to enhance efficiency.
Typically working in office environments and on-site at various buildings, energy auditors interact with clients to understand their energy usage and provide tailored solutions. As part of the growing green jobs sector, they play a crucial role in promoting sustainability and conserving natural resources. The field attracts individuals with a background in science and a commitment to environmental issues. While education requirements can vary, a degree in engineering, environmental science, or a related field is often beneficial. Despite a slight decline in employment outlook, energy auditors can expect competitive salaries and diverse career opportunities.
Energy Auditor
Snapshot
Career Cluster(s): Architecture & Construction, Finance, Human Services, Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
Interests: Science, mathematics, environmental and conservation issues
Earnings (Yearly Median): $32.55 hourly, $67,700 annual
Employment & Outlook: Decline (-1% or lower)
Overview
Sphere of Work. Energy auditors inspect energy usage in residential and commercial properties. They determine the amount of electricity, heating, and cooling a property uses and chart the related costs. Based on the information gleaned in the audit, energy auditors run tests of each system to assess whether it is operating in the most efficient manner. They then work with property owners to isolate areas where energy is wasted and to eliminate future wasteful energy costs.
Work Environment. Energy auditors are based in office environments, where they meet with clients, analyze data, and write reports. Their offices are located in consulting firms, government agencies, utility companies, and environmental organizations. Outside the office, energy auditors work on-site at private residences, commercial offices, and larger buildings. There they inspect ventilation systems, wiring, furnaces, and other systems, which are typically located in basements, physical plants, or exterior locations. Energy auditors typically work structured schedules, conducting pre-scheduled audit appointments during standard business hours.
Occupation Interest. Energy auditors are part of a growing field of “green jobs” that focus on seeking ways to reduce energy expenditure without negatively impacting production or function. Their expertise not only helps individuals and businesses save money but also helps conserve natural resources. Those drawn to energy auditing usually have a science background and are passionate about the environment. There is a wide range of employment options available, and prospective energy auditors can easily transition to the field from related industries. Furthermore, the demand for energy auditors is high and salaries are competitive.
A Day in the Life—Duties and Responsibilities. Energy auditors meet with clients to review their energy and utility costs, learn the building’s history, understand the types of utilities that are involved, and record any additional information useful to conducting a comprehensive audit. They then inspect the building’s mechanical, electric, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to determine the current and optimal levels of energy consumption. Such inspections may include analyzing insulation, air vents, fans and blowers, and windows and doors.
Once energy auditors have reviewed all the systems in question, they collate the information and prepare their audit reports for the client. These reports include a comparison between the way systems should function and how they are actually performing. Audits also identify faulty systems, potential health hazards such as mold or asbestos, and other elements that can contribute to poor system performance. Once the information is compiled, energy auditors meet with clients to identify areas in which energy use is inefficient or unnecessarily expensive and offer advice on cost-cutting practices regarding energy usage. They recommend alternative technologies, such as new insulation, window retrofits, and new HVAC system installations. Energy auditors also use this information to project the cost savings involved with making such repairs.
Energy auditors may also maintain long-term relationships with clients. In this arena, they frequently communicate with clients, answering any questions about new energy systems and energy-efficient appliances and machines.
Work Environment
Immediate Physical Environment. Energy auditors work in office settings found in government agencies, environmental consultancies, corporations, and other industries. At a client’s building or home, auditors operate in boiler rooms, power plants, and similar areas. Some physical activity may be required, such as bending down for extended periods and performing heavy lifting. They are also at some risk for electrical shock from aging wires and for exposure to mold, asbestos, or other dangerous substances.
Human Environment. Energy auditors interact with a wide range of individuals, including business executives, government officials, engineers, environmental technicians, construction personnel, and manufacturing employees. Although they may call upon others to assist in editing audit reports, experienced energy auditors typically work alone. Depending on the organization, beginning energy auditors may assist their more experienced colleagues.
Technological Environment. Energy auditors work with many HVAC, electrical, and other technologies. These systems include circuit boards, furnaces, fans and blowers, and automated equipment such as hand dryers and motion-sensing lights. During audits, they use gas monitors, air current testers, draft gauges, leak-testing equipment, and pressure-measuring manometers, among other tools. They use databases, the Internet, photo-imaging, word processing, and analytical and scientific software.
Education, Training, and Advancement
High School/Secondary. High school students interested in energy auditing should study industrial arts, including electronic and mechanical systems. Trigonometry, geometry, algebra, basic accounting, physics, and computer science are also essential courses for the aspiring energy auditor. Finally, high school students should hone their communication skills through English classes.
Postsecondary. Energy auditor positions are relatively new and therefore do not have standardized postsecondary education requirements. Energy auditors typically have an associate’s degree in energy management or applied science or a bachelor’s degree in engineering, architecture, environmental science, or a related field. As the market for energy auditors is growing and becoming more competitive, a master’s degree in engineering or a related field is recommended.
Related Occupations
− Actuary
− Auditor
− Energy Conservation and Use Technician
− Heating & Cooling Technician
− Solar Energy System Installer
Bibliography
Biermeier, Deane. "Things to Know About Home Energy Audits." Forbes, 1 July 2024, www.forbes.com/home-improvement/home/ask-the-contractor-home-energy-audits/. Accessed 26 Aug. 2024.
"Energy Auditors." O*NET OnLine. National Center for O*NET Development, US Dept. of Labor, 2023, www.onetonline.org/link/summary/47-4011.01?redir=13-1199.01. Accessed 26 Aug. 2024.