Building Energy Auditors
Building Energy Auditors study how homes, schools, and other buildings use electricity, gas, and water, then design plans to reduce waste and lower costs. They inspect heating and cooling systems, lighting, insulation, and windows, use tools like watt meters, data loggers, and light meters, and analyze energy bills and utility rate charts to understand patterns of use. They also lead decisions about which upgrades—such as better insulation, high-efficiency furnaces, or smart controls—should be done first to save the most energy and money.
Did you know?
Energy auditors in the US typically need professional certifications from organizations like BPI (Building Performance Institute) or RESNET to meet industry standards and client requirements.
At a glance
Typical average pay
$69,900 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top skill
Speaking
Things to consider
Growing Market Demand
The profession benefits from increasing federal and state energy efficiency mandates, utility rebate programs, and corporate sustainability initiatives driving consistent job growth.
Technical Expertise Development
Success requires mastering specialized equipment like blower doors and thermal cameras, plus staying current with evolving building codes and energy efficiency technologies.
Key responsibilities
Identify opportunities to improve the operation, maintenance, or energy efficiency of building or process systems.
Oversee installation of equipment such as water heater wraps, pipe insulation, weatherstripping, door sweeps, or low-flow showerheads to improve energy efficiency.
Collect and analyze field data related to energy usage.
Analyze energy bills, including utility rates or tariffs, to gather historical energy usage data.
Identify any health or safety issues related to planned weatherization projects.