Entry-Level Positions For Aspiring Energy Engineers
Jake, an energy engineer, recommends that undergraduate students seeking entry-level positions consider becoming an "energy analyst," a role often involving "collecting data, getting data ready for energy modeling of buildings, supporting with report writing," and client communication. He also suggests pursuing the LEED Green Associate accreditation, stating that it "opens up a lot of doors" and was personally beneficial to Jake's career progression.
Energy Analyst, Energy Modeling, LEED Certification, Sustainability, Data Analysis
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Jake Gehrung
Energy Engineering
Resilient Buildings Group
University of New Hampshire
N/A
Environmental & Related Sciences
Energy & Utilities
Consulting
Scholarship Recipient, Took Out Loans, Transfer Student
Video Highlights
1. Energy Analyst positions are common entry-level roles in the field, often supporting senior engineers. These roles frequently involve data collection, analysis, and report writing.
2. Experience in energy or buildings isn't always required for entry-level positions; a strong work ethic and interest in sustainability are often valued.
3. Obtaining a LEED Green Associate accreditation can significantly enhance job prospects in this field and demonstrate commitment to sustainability principles prior to even having a job.
Transcript
What entry-level positions are there in this field that an undergraduate college student might consider?
The big one is becoming an energy analyst. That's what I did. I actually had a little bit of a weird title; I think I was a high-performance buildings analyst. But it's usually "energy analyst" that's the key role when you're looking it up online or on LinkedIn.
You can have a variety of different experiences or backgrounds when entering that role. It doesn't require any specific experience with energy or buildings. Usually, it involves supporting people like me, energy engineers, collecting data, and getting it ready for energy modeling of buildings. It also includes supporting with report writing and communication with clients.
A big thing in this space is the LEED certification for buildings. It's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, a building certification that's big in the sustainability space.
I would highly recommend to anyone interested in this type of role that they consider getting their LEED Green Associate accreditation. It's a professional accreditation. I paid for it out of pocket and did it on my own before I even knew about the job I have now, just because I was interested in sustainability. That will set you up for doing work in the LEED space, which is a very broad area in green building and energy. It opens up a lot of doors for you to go down a variety of avenues, including the role that I have now as an energy engineer.