Spotlights
Energy Efficiency Consultant, Sustainable Building Upgrade Expert, Retrofit Project Manager, Building Performance Analyst, Green Retrofit Specialist. Energy Conservation Advisor, Eco-friendly Renovation Consultant, Building Sustainability Coordinator, Renewable Energy Retrofit Specialist, Sustainable Infrastructure Developer
Energy efficiency is crucial for our planet’s sustainability—and retrofitting plays a pivotal role!
“Retrofitting” adds technology and features to existing buildings and systems to improve their energy use efficiency. It also enables compliance with modern standards without having to completely replace the whole building or system, which would be very costly.
Because residential, commercial, and industrial buildings account for so much energy consumption, Energy/Building Retrofit Specialists focus on these structures by adding better air sealing and insulation, improved heating and cooling systems, and energy-efficient appliances.
Their roles sometimes require collaboration with architects, engineers, and government agencies to ensure the retrofit job is done right!
- Contributing to energy conservation and sustainability
- Enhancing the health and safety of living and working environments
- Saving building owners from more expensive alternatives such as rebuilding
Lịch làm việc
Energy/Building Retrofit Specialists work full-time with occasional overtime to meet project deadlines. The job involves traveling to retrofit sites, which may sometimes be outside the local area. Workers must practice safety measures to avoid mishaps and injuries.
Nhiệm vụ tiêu biểu
- Inspect residential and commercial buildings to identify energy inefficiency issues
- Conduct comprehensive audits using tools like blower doors and infrared cameras for diagnostic testing
- Interpret data and compile findings into detailed efficiency reports
- Identify electrical, plumbing, roofing, and flashing installation needs
- Propose effective energy-saving solutions and retrofit measures
- Collaborate with engineers, architects, and policymakers, as needed
- Report preexisting conditions outside the work scope
- Gather necessary equipment, materials, and supplies before starting the work
- Safely handle materials and equipment according to specifications.
Follow safety protocols for rigging and ventilation. Wear protective gear, as required - Implement retrofit measures such as installing dense pack insulation, duct sealing, high-performing energy-efficient appliances, air sealing, moisture barriers, mechanical ventilation systems, etc.
- Install new windows and doors, ensuring proper insulation and fit
- Use protective barriers, such as drop cloths, to safeguard the area
- Identify and mitigate combustion appliance safety hazards
- Ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations; advise clients on how to comply, as needed
Trách nhiệm bổ sung
- Attend crew debriefings, safety meetings, and training sessions
- Address any deviations from the original work scope
- Clean up job sites; ensure proper disposal of waste materials
- Account for all tools used
- Perform maintenance and calibration of auditing equipment
- Engage in public education related to energy efficiency and sustainability
- Stay informed on evolving standards and technologies
Kỹ năng mềm
- Khả năng thích ứng
- Tư duy phân tích
- Chú ý đến chi tiết
- Giao tiếp rõ ràng
- Cam kết đảm bảo chất lượng
- Cost-conscious
- Tư duy phản biện
- Kỹ năng phục vụ khách hàng
- Định hướng chi tiết
- Độc lập
- Sức chịu đựng thể chất
- Giải quyết vấn đề
- Quan tâm đến an toàn
- Phán đoán đúng đắn
- Làm việc theo nhóm
- Visualization
Kỹ năng kỹ thuật
- Basic engineering principles
- Blueprints, technical plans, and drawings
- Building energy modeling software (in some cases)
- Computer-aided design (in some cases)
- Building science and energy systems
- Thoải mái khi làm việc ở độ cao trên cao
- Data analysis and report writing skills
- Energy auditing tools like blower doors and infrared cameras
- Energy regulations and building codes
- General math skills
- HVAC systems and building envelope components
- Thị lực bình thường (hoặc có thể điều chỉnh)
- Thể lực và sự khéo léo
- Safely working with raw materials
- Phối hợp tay mắt tốt
- Consulting firms
- Cơ quan chính phủ
- Research institutions
- Retrofit construction companies
- Sustainability non-profits
Energy/Building Retrofit Specialists often work outdoors, sometimes under challenging conditions. They must have a solid understanding of client needs, the building they are working on, and the precise materials being used or equipment being installed (such as solar paneling, heat pumps, and external wall insulation).
In addition, they must stay up-to-date on evolving technologies and standards related to retrofitting. Workers must identify all potential hazards and diligently practice safety protocols to avoid mishaps and injuries.
Buildings account for 40% of energy use plus a substantial amount of greenhouse gas emissions. Because of this, it’s vital to make efficiency improvements to achieve climate goals.
Retrofitting plays a huge role in making such improvements, as the demand for energy-efficient buildings continues to rise. There’s a growing trend to incorporate renewable and affordable energy sources like solar panels in buildings.
Meanwhile, advanced technologies like building automation systems, smart thermostats, and IoT sensors are helping to optimize energy use. Another trend is enhancing building envelopes with better insulation, high-performance windows, and doors.
Energy/Building Retrofit Specialists often had an early interest in sustainability and environmental issues. They likely enjoyed physical activities and being outside a lot, too, and may have assisted with construction-related projects. There’s some math and science involved in the job, so they were probably good at those subjects in high school.
- Energy/Building Retrofit Specialists may need either an associate's or bachelor’s degree, depending on the job they apply for
- Advanced roles may require a master’s or certification in a specialized area
- Common degree majors include environmental science, architecture, engineering, and construction management
- Các khóa học liên quan có thể bao gồm:
- Building Energy Modeling and Simulation
- Building Science and Sustainability
- Construction Management and Economics
- Energy Auditing and Retrofitting
- Đánh giá tác động môi trường
- Hệ thống thông tin địa lý
- Green Building Principles
- HVAC Technology
- Indoor Environmental Quality and Health
- Renewable Energy Systems
- Solar Energy Fundamentals and Applications
- Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer
- Internships with retrofitting companies or energy efficiency agencies can provide valuable hands-on experience
- Students can also apply to a Registered Apprenticeship Program to become an Energy Specialist Apprentice
- Professional certifications can help boost one’s credentials, too! Examples include:
- The National Renewable Energy Laboratory and the U.S. Department of Energy’s Weatherization Assistance Program Retrofit Installer Badges
- Building Performance Institute, Inc. certifications:
*Building Science Principles
*Healthy Housing Principles
*Site Supervisor Certificate
*Total Building Performance Certificate
- Other credentials to consider include Energy Audit that or, Quality Control Inspector, and Crew Leader job task analysis, OSHA 10 certification, Confined Spaces Certification, and Lead Safe Renovation and Repair Certification
- Note, many states require licensing for certain retrofit work, so check with your local building or energy department!
- Người lao động thường yêu cầu bằng lái xe hợp lệ để đi đến các địa điểm làm việc
- Look for accredited programs in fields like environmental science, energy efficiency, sustainability, engineering, or architecture
- Xem xét chi phí học phí, hỗ trợ tài chính và cơ hội học bổng
- Quyết định định dạng chương trình: trong khuôn viên trường, trực tuyến hoặc kết hợp. Lưu ý rằng một số môn học thực hành nhất định sẽ cần phải được học trực tiếp
- Đánh giá tỷ lệ vị trí việc làm sau khi tốt nghiệp
- Hỏi xem chương trình có kết nối với các nhà tuyển dụng địa phương không
- Sign up for classes in mathematics (algebra, geometry), environmental science, building trade vocational training, computer-aided design, and electrical courses
- Classes involving labor, tool usage, or physical fitness will help develop necessary physical aspects
- Often high school students can take community college classes simultaneously, helping expedite their path to getting a job right after graduation
- Develop your technical reading and IT skills through classes or by practicing at home
- Volunteer with local sustainability groups on eco-friendly projects, or for a local Habitat for Humanity project
- Participate in school science clubs or construction learning experiences
- Gain practical skills through internships or apprenticeships with retrofitting companies
- Engage in online forums like the Retrofit Professional Forum
- Xem lại mô tả bài đăng công việc để tìm hiểu trình độ và chuyên môn hiện tại mà nhà tuyển dụng đang tìm kiếm
- Pay attention to the keywords in job posts, and try to work those into your application materials
- Contact a local retrofit business. Ask if you can do an informational interview with a working specialist
- Watch videos like People Powered Retrofit’s “Why Get into Retrofit at Work?” and read online sites like Retrofit Magazine to stay informed about industry trends
- Join professional organizations like the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy to network and discover opportunities
- Keep track of academic and extracurricular achievements for resumes and college applications
While searching for jobs, keep in mind that in the field of energy building retrofit, there are numerous possible job titles. A few examples include: Energy Efficiency Consultant, Building Performance Analyst, Energy Auditor, Retrofit Project Manager, Energy Conservation Engineer, Building Systems Analyst, Environmental Retrofit Coordinator, HVAC Efficiency Specialist, Building Envelope Specialist, Energy Management Technician, Energy Solutions Architect, Renewable Energy Consultant, Building Retrofit Engineer, Energy Compliance Officer, and Building Sustainability Assessor.
- Check out job postings on platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, and industry-specific job boards
- Đọc kỹ quảng cáo việc làm để biết các yêu cầu và kinh nghiệm cụ thể mà nhà tuyển dụng đang tìm kiếm. Chỉ nộp đơn cho các công việc bạn đủ điều kiện
- Don’t forget your local Craigslist, or do a Google search for local retrofitting companies
- Apply for internships, Registered Apprenticeship Programs, or entry-level positions to gain relevant experience
- Search online for a suitable retrofit resume template
- Include keywords relevant to the industry in your resume, such as:
- Building Automation Systems
- Building Envelope Optimization
- Building Insulation Techniques
- Carbon Footprint Reduction
- Cost-Benefit Analysis
- Energy Auditing
- Energy Efficiency
- Energy Star Standards
- Green Building Practices
- Photovoltaic Systems
- Renewable Energy Solutions
- Retrofitting
- Hãy để mọi người trong mạng lưới của bạn biết bạn đang tìm kiếm cơ hội việc làm
- Hỏi các cựu giám sát viên và giáo sư đại học nếu họ sẽ phục vụ như một tài liệu tham khảo hoặc viết cho bạn một lá thư giới thiệu
- If you do an internship, talk to your supervisor about the potential for a full-time job
- Use your school’s career center for help with resume and interview preparation
- Ask your college program manager if they have ties with local employers or recruiters
- Prep for interviews by studying current trends and terminology
- Ăn mặc chuyên nghiệp khi phỏng vấn xin việc
- Thảo luận về các lựa chọn phát triển nghề nghiệp với người giám sát của bạn và lắng nghe lời khuyên của họ
- Take the initiative to learn new things and knock out some continuing education courses, a specialized certification, or a higher-level degree
- Professional development credentials include:
- Retrofit Installer Badges
- Building Performance Institute certs
- Energy Auditor
- Quality Control Inspector
- Crew Leader
- OSHA 30-hour card and Trainer card
- Confined Spaces Certification
- Lead Safe Renovation and Repair Certification
- Tình nguyện cho các dự án đầy thách thức để chứng minh khả năng thích ứng và tiềm năng lãnh đạo của bạn
- Keep up-to-date on advancements in retrofitting technologies
- Participate in professional organizations to grow your professional network and learn new ideas
- Mentor junior specialists or interns. Share your expertise, establish expectations, and set the bar high
- Luôn thực hành các quy trình an toàn tốt khi xử lý dụng cụ cầm tay và thiết bị được cấp nguồn, hoặc khi làm việc trong điều kiện nguy hiểm tiềm tàng
- Consider moving to an area where there are more old buildings that might require retrofitting, since these areas may have more work opportunities
- If necessary to advance your career, consider switching employers when the time is right
Các trang web
- Hội đồng Hoa Kỳ về một nền kinh tế tiết kiệm năng lượng
- Building Performance Institute
- Department of Energy – Building Technologies Office
- Liên minh đào tạo điện
- Energy.gov
- EnergySage
- Chuyên gia năng lượng học việc
- NGÔI SAO NĂNG LƯỢNG
- ETA quốc tế
- Green Building Certification Institute
- Hội đồng năng lượng tái tạo giữa các tiểu bang
- Phòng thí nghiệm năng lượng tái tạo quốc gia
- Hội đồng các nhà thực hành năng lượng được chứng nhận Bắc Mỹ
- People Powered Retrofit
- Retrofit Installer Badges
- Retrofit Magazine
- Retrofit Professional Forum
- Hiệp hội các ngành công nghiệp năng lượng mặt trời
- Năng lượng mặt trời quốc tế
- SolPowerPeople
- Cơ quan Thông tin Năng lượng Hoa Kỳ
- Hội đồng Công trình Xanh Hoa Kỳ
- Underwriters Labs
- Weatherization Assistance Program
Sách vở
- Deep Energy Retrofit―A Guide for Decision Makers, by Alexander Zhivov and Rüdiger Lohse
- EnerPHit: A Step by Step Guide to Low Energy Retrofit, by James Traynor
- Environmental and Economic Evaluations of Building Energy Retrofits, by Cynthia Hou and Joseph H K Lai
- Regenerative Retrofit: California's First Living Building, by Juliet Grable
There are many related jobs in the retrofit industry to consider. Check out the Green Buildings Career Map to learn more about them! Below are a few of the job titles.
Commercial & Institutional Construction & Retrofitting
- Building Performance Contractor
- Commercial Building Code Official
- Indoor Environmental Health Specialist
- Commercial Lighting Auditor
- Commercial Energy Auditor
- Insulation/Air Sealing Technician
- Energy Efficiency Technician
Residential & Multifamily Construction & Retrofitting
- Building / Home Performance Contractor
- Residential Building Code Official
- Multifamily Retrofit Project Manager
- Residential Quality Control Inspector
- Multifamily Energy Auditor
- Healthy Home Evaluator
- Building Performance Crew Leader
- Energy Efficiency Technician
- Building Performance Installer
For those retrofitting as a career but want to review additional options, check out the below list of career fields!
- Thợ mộc
- Climate Change Analyst
- Nhà khoa học bảo tồn
- Công nhân xây dựng
- Thợ điện
- Nhà khoa học môi trường
- Glazier
- Kỹ thuật viên chất thải nguy hại
- Cơ khí sưởi ấm, điều hòa không khí và điện lạnh
- Chuyên gia vệ sinh công nghiệp
- Thợ sắt
- Laboratory Technician
- Công nhân xây
- Chuyên gia An toàn và Sức khỏe Nghề nghiệp
- Thợ sửa ống nước, Pipefitter, Steamfitter
- Thợ lợp mái
- Chuyên gia tài nguyên nước
Nguồn cấp tin tức
Công việc nổi bật
Các khóa học và công cụ trực tuyến