Energy Engineers, Except Wind and Solar

Design, develop, or evaluate energy-related projects or programs to reduce energy costs or improve energy efficiency during the designing, building, or remodeling stages of construction. May specialize in electrical systems; heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems; green buildings; lighting; air quality; or energy procurement.

SOC: 17-2199.03

Common Job Titles

Energy Efficiency EngineerEnergy EngineerIndustrial Energy EngineerTest and Balance Engineer

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • KnowledgeAnalyze building energy performance data and utility consumption patterns using specialized software tools like eQUEST and EnergyPlus to identify efficiency improvement opportunities.
  • KnowledgeDesign energy-efficient HVAC, electrical, and lighting systems for new construction and remodeling projects, applying engineering principles and regulatory requirements.
  • KnowledgeEvaluate energy reduction programs and technology alternatives considering lifecycle costs, payback periods, and environmental impact to support decision-making.
  • KnowledgeDevelop comprehensive energy audit reports and improvement recommendations documenting technical findings, cost-benefit analyses, and implementation strategies for stakeholders.
  • KnowledgeCalculate energy savings estimates and return on investment using mathematical modeling and simulation tools to quantify project benefits.
  • MindsetAdvocate sustainable design practices and energy conservation measures when consulting with clients, architects, and construction teams throughout project lifecycles.
  • KnowledgeAssess building envelope performance and mechanical system efficiency through on-site inspections using blower doors, infrared cameras, and combustion analyzers.
  • KnowledgeInterpret building codes, energy standards, and green building certification requirements to ensure project compliance with LEED, ASHRAE, and local regulatory frameworks.
  • MindsetIntegrate client objectives with technical feasibility and sustainability goals when negotiating project scope and balancing cost constraints with performance targets.
  • KnowledgeApply thermodynamic principles and heat transfer calculations to optimize building system design and resolve complex energy performance challenges.
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Energy Engineers, Except Wind and Solar (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

150,750

Wage Distribution by Percentile

MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$62,840
10% of workers earn the following or more$183,510
Workers on average earn$121,720

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Engineering and Technology4.5/5
  • Mathematics4.0/5
  • Building and Construction3.9/5
  • Customer and Personal Service3.8/5
  • Mechanical3.8/5
Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

Autodesk AutoCADMicrosoft AccessMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft ProjectMicrosoft VisioMicrosoft WordPythonRThe MathWorks MATLAB

Technology Skills

360 Analytics eQUESTAIRMaster+Architectural Energy Corporation ENFORMA Building DiagnosticsArchitectural Energy Corporation VisualDOEAutodesk EcotectCarrier Hourly Analysis Program HAPChilled Water System Analysis Tool CWSATCombined Heat and Power Application Tool CHP

Tools & Equipment

Air current testersBlower doorsDataloggersDesktop computersDigital infrared thermometersDigital multimetersDraft gaugesHandheld digital thermometers