Energy Efficiency Evaluation Specialist

Working Schedule

Energy Efficiency Specialists work full-time, occasionally requiring overtime during project deadlines. Travel in the local area may be necessary for site evaluations and consultations.

Typical Duties

• Assess and optimize energy usage in various conditions and settings
• Perform energy audits. Use findings to suggest upgrades and retrofits

1. Calculate estimated energy savings if upgrading equipment and systems

• Analyze emissions and performance of gas-fired furnaces and boilers
• Conduct temperature testing and regulatory compliance
• Used software to create detailed construction drawing sets
• Work with peers and modeling/simulation programs to design solutions
• Build performance models for compliance with associated standards
• Facilitate system prototype submissions and experiments
• Ensure designs and product installations comply with efficiency 
  standards
• Conduct safety evaluations of systems integrated with existing infrastructure
• Assist during development activities to ensure actions are completed on schedule
• Collaborate with engineers, architects, and other professionals for project execution
• Automate equipment fault detection and energy analysis, when feasible
• Write energy savings reports. Compare projected savings against actuals

Additional Responsibilities

• Research best practices and technological advancements
• Benchmark cost and consumption for organizations
• Review subcontracted assessments and retro-commissioning projects to ensure quality
• Keep up on energy regulation changes
• Participate in local sustainability initiatives and seek partnerships
• Promote interest and investment in sustainable technologies 

Soft Skills

• Analytical
• Attention to detail
• Business acumen
• Collaboration
• Critical thinking
• Deductive and inductive reasoning
• Detail-oriented
• Independent
• Monitoring
• Motivated
• Objective
• Organized
• Patient
• Perceptive
• Problem-solving
• Reading comprehension
• Safety-oriented
• Strong communication skills

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in energy modeling and analysis tools such as EnergyPlus, RETScreen, or HOMER
• Knowledge of energy systems, efficiency techniques, and renewable technologies
• Experience with CAD and Building Information Modeling tools like Autodesk AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and Revit
• Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems
• Skills in data analysis, statistical tools, and programming languages such as C++, Python
• Proficiency in simulation and modeling software like ANSYS, MATLAB, or Simulink
• Understanding of energy policy, environmental regulations, and operations analysis
• Knowledge of fabrication and manufacturing processes
• Experience with project management software like Microsoft Project or Primavera
• Familiarity with development environment tools like LabVIEW and Verilog, and scientific software such as Powersim and MathWorks
• Strong foundation in STEM disciplines and mechanical aptitude
• Proficiency in operating system software, including Linux, Windows, and UNIX

• Construction and building services
• Engineering consultancies
• Environmental agencies and consulting firms
• Government agencies
• Manufacturing and industrial companies
• Public utilities companies
• Renewable energy firms
• Research institutions, including colleges

Energy Efficiency Specialists must constantly update their skills to keep pace with evolving technology and regulations, often working under tight deadlines. This commitment to lifelong learning is crucial but can mean extended work hours, especially when working on large-scale projects or urgent energy crises.

Work might take them to remote locations for extended periods, impacting their personal lives. They can sometimes encounter industry resistance or public skepticism, requiring them to be effective communicators. Energy Efficiency Specialists, after all, must be strong advocates for sustainable energy practices and policies!

The energy sector is evolving thanks to smart technology such as smart grids. Enhanced by the Internet of Things, smart grids are revolutionizing electricity distribution by adjusting to changing energy demands and supplies. Artificial intelligence is helping manage energy use by predicting future usage and optimizing the use of renewable energy.

This is crucial as renewable sources like solar and wind come into play more. Renewable energy offers environmental benefits and is helping communities meet energy needs while reducing dependency on traditional sources. Meanwhile, improvements in energy storage are making renewable energy sources more reliable, even during weather variations. 

Energy Efficiency Specialists were probably intrigued by STEM subjects in their younger years. They may have been drawn to mechanical or electrical projects. At the same time they were learning how things worked, they could have become more aware of environmental issues and the need to develop our sustainable energy resources!