COMMERCIAL. Career Pathways to Connecticut s ENERGY EFFICIENCY JOBS

Transcription

1 COMMERCIAL Career Pathways to Connecticut s ENERGY EFFICIENCY JOBS

2 Introduction to Career Pathways in Green Energy Industries The Connecticut Business and Industry Association s Education Foundation, in collaboration with the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL), has created a series of energy-sector career pathways materials to assist job seekers with career planning. These career pathways identify many of the current and emerging green energy occupations in Connecticut and outline the education and experience required for advancement in these industries. Career pathway data were compiled using various state and national resources, including O*NET, the Connecticut Department of Labor (DOL), and the U.S. DOL s Bureau of Labor Statistics; industry websites such as iseek.org and mesa.greenjobshiring.com; and major job boards, such as CareerBuilder, Monster, and Indeed. Connecticut educational partners, including the Center for a Sustainable Future and the Connecticut Community Colleges, also contributed relevant information. Job titles, descriptions, salaries, and educational levels were validated for Connecticut by a cross section of state energy sector employers through focus groups and individual interviews. These included employers representing solar and geothermal energy, energy services, biomass, and energy efficiency (residential and commercial). The pathways are organized into four broad sector categories: Alternative Energy, Renewable Energy, Residential Energy Efficiency, and Commercial Energy Efficiency. Alternative Energy (including biofuels and fuel cells) is energy that neither depletes natural resources nor results in negative environmental consequences. Renewable Energy generates electricity, heat, or fuel from renewable sources such as solar, wind, geothermal, hydropower, and landfill gas and municipal solid waste. Energy Efficiency uses technologies or practices to improve energy efficiency within residential or commercial buildings. Lists of related occupations were developed for three job types: Trades and Technical Careers, Audit and Assessment Careers, and Sales Careers. Within each job type, occupations were grouped according to the level of education or training required. This format shows job seekers how skills can transfer from one job type to another and illustrates the job progression within each job type. For example, an experienced salesperson can move from selling fuel cell components to selling solar panels (across job types) with additional specialized technical training, or he/she can move from an inside sales representative position to that of a regional sales manager (within the same job type), with additional education and experience. There is encouraging news for job seekers the employment outlook in green energy is promising! The following information points to industry growth within the sector and outlines some of the training and skill sets needed to meet those demands. (continued)

3 Energy efficiency will play a key role in creating jobs in the energy sector. Governor Malloy s new Comprehensive Energy Strategy for Connecticut calls for an expanded commitment to all cost-effective energy efficiency through programs that will reach all sectors and all buildings government, municipalities, universities, colleges, schools, hospitals, places of worship, commercial and industrial facilities, and homes, including houses, apartments, condos, and senior living centers with a special focus on small businesses and the low-income community. It also goes beyond a traditional focus on upgraded lighting and weatherstripping to deliver deeper efficiency gains in heating, air conditioning, ventilation, insulation, windows, furnaces, boilers, and refrigerators and other appliances, as well as process efficiencies in manufacturing. Connecticut s Renewable Portfolio Standard, which calls for a significant increase in the use of Class I renewables by 2020, will expand the need for renewable/alternative energy solutions. Innovative financing mechanisms through Connecticut s first-in-the-nation Green Bank (the Clean Energy Finance and Investment Authority ), standardized energy efficiency performance contracts, and zero (and low) emissions renewable energy credits are expected to induce private-sector investment in the industry and assist businesses with long-term planning. d salespeople will be needed in all energy sectors to support business growth. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential in energy-sector pathway jobs. OSHA 10 certification is required for many energy jobs. The level of education and experience required for many jobs is based on the scope and complexity of the job. (For example, energy audits for single-family residential dwellings can be conducted by individuals with a high school diploma and BPI certification, while commercial energy auditors typically need a minimum of a bachelor s degree and experience.) Most alternative/renewable and energy efficiency employers are small, lean business enterprises with fewer than 50 employees. Hiring for energy efficiency jobs tends to increase in the fall/winter, when the demand for services increases. We hope readers will find this document helpful as a career development planning tool as well as a way of encouraging individuals to pursue rewarding careers in the green energy sector. Career Pathways In Green Energy Industries is a project of the Connecticut Energy Workforce Development Consortium, made possible with support and funding from the Workforce Solutions Collaborative of Metro Hartford and the U.S. Department of Labor s State Energy Sector Partnership Grant awarded to the Connecticut Department of Labor.

4 Commercial Energy Efficiency Trades and Technical Job Progressions Entry Points Bachelor and Above Level or (Senior and above) Associate Level or (Mid to Senior) Certificate Level or (Entry to Mid) Transition Requirements -On-the-job training -Trade School Transition Points and Requirements Transition Requirements -Bachelors Degree -Industrial Certification -LEED Certification Transition Requirements -Trade School Certification -Apprenticeship -2-3 years related experience -Associate s degree in industrial technology Architect Project Manager PE Engineer Energy Engineer Program Administrator Master Tradesman (Contractor) Sustainability Director Senior Inspector Facility Engineer Utility Inspector Project Manager Electrician Retrofitting Field Supervisor HVAC Technician Insulation installer Inspector/Tester Technician Building Technician Electrician Pipefitter Crew Chief Plumber Building Improvement Small Business Operator Entry Level/High School Diploma Building maintenance worker Pre-apprentice plumber Pre-apprentice electrician FOUNDATIONAL SKILL SETS Basic Math and Science Skills Multi-tasking Equipment Usage Written Capabilities Highly Organized Equipment Monitoring Speaking Skills Physical Abilities Handling Moving Objects Operation Monitoring Attention to Detail Resource Management Teamwork Skills

5 Commercial Energy Efficiency Trades and Technical Job Progressions Entry Points Job Title Job Description Bachelor and Above Level or (Senior and Above) PE Engineer Architect Engineers design materials, structures and systems while considering the limitations imposed by practicality, safety and cost. They define problems, conduct and narrow research, analyze criteria, find and analyze solutions, and make decisions. Professional engineers (PE) apply engineering principles and data such as consultation investigation, evaluation, planning, design, or responsible supervision of construction, alteration, or operation, in connection with any public or private utilities, structures, projects, bridges, plants and buildings, machines, equipment, processes and works. Architects plan and design structures, such as office buildings, factories, and other structural property. They prepare reports that include materials, equipment, estimated costs, environmental impact, energy efficiency, and construction time. They discuss with clients the needs and budgets for buildings and create designs that meet safety and environmental regulations. Education &Training B.A. + experience, + PE certification B.A. + experience and on-the-job training Wages $81,000 - $85,000 average $93,000 average Sustainability Director Responsible for analyzing baseline building operations, and employee behaviors and assessing opportunities for improved sustainable behaviors. Understanding of business behaviors and practices that can be altered to be more sustainable,and that reduce energy consumption and waste which will also decrease business operating costs. B.S. degree in Sustainable Energy Studies, Business Economics, Natural Resource Management, or related field. $60,000 - $100,000

6 Energy Conservation Utility Rep. (Program Administrator) Responsible for developing, implementing and promoting commercial utility conservation programs. Provide educational materials that promote energy conservation practices and technical advice. Ability to communicate orally and written with electricity customers and an understanding of the basic principles of electricity. Ability to organize, schedule, and prioritize duties. Coursework in physical science and energy, conservation or construction trade. 5+ years experience in related field. $80,000 - $100,000 Master Tradesman (Contractor) Master Tradesmen have practical and theoretical knowledge of their trades and often have knowledge of more than one trade. They could read/interpret blueprints, technical manuals and other technical documentation, use multiple trade functions and tools, perform duties requiring well-rounded training and experience (normally through apprenticeships), inspect, repair and maintain equipment, develop technical documents including formal work processes and procedures, assist in scheduling, reporting and briefing customers and management. 10+ years experience, Electrician E1, HVAC S1, ST1, PV1, IGSHPA Cert., OSHA 30, apprenticeships, journeyman $105,000 average Senior Inspector Inspect, test, sort, sample, or weigh nonagricultural raw materials or processed, machined fabricated, or assembled parts or products for defects, wear, and deviations from specifications. May use precision measuring instruments and complex test equipment B.A. and/or 10 years experience (complex, large commercial projects) $53,000+ average Project Manager Manage and direct the implementation of energy efficiency and or energy-related projects (including design, budgeting, scheduling, pre-qualification, selection and management of contractors, and equipment vendors, structuring project-related contracts, maintaining close contact with the customer, coordination with government and utility programs, oversight of project measurement and production of customer deliverables on time and on budget. B.A years experience (preferably in sales) $82,000 average

7 Energy Engineer Identify energy savings opportunities and make recommendations to achieve more energy efficient operations, conduct jobsite observations, field inspections, or sub-metering to collect data for energy conservation analyses, monitor and analyze energy consumption. Provide consultation to clients or other engineers on topics such as climate control systems, energy modeling, data logging, energy management control systems, lighting or day lighting design, sustainable design, and energy auditing. B.S. chemical, electrical, architectural engineering, some experience in related field. $86,000 average Facility Engineer Effectively and efficiently operate and maintain all HVAC and MEP equipment, serve as a systems operator and perform and supervise maintenance work. High School Diploma or GED; Trade School or Apprenticeship, 2-3 years of related experience $73,000 average Project Manager (see Project Manager, Bachelor s level) A.S. degree + some experience n/a Associate Level or (Mid to Senior) Utility Inspector Utilities inspectors check on different systems and products to make sure everything has been built according to local, state or federal codes and regulations. They examine the machinery and facilities housing utilities and services, such as water, sewer, electricity and natural gases. Most inspectors participate in routine inspections. A.S. degree preferably in civil engineering years experience (more complex commercial systems) $40,000 - $70,000 range Electrician (see certificate level definition) A.S. + journeyman, more complex jobs $75,000+ average

8 Retrofitting Field Supervisor Retrofitting field supervisors directly supervise and coordinate the activities of construction and trades workers engaged in energy efficient upgrades. They supervise the work of HVAC technicians and other workers to ensure that each component functions as part of a greater system. A.S. + certifications, including asbestos site and lead supervisor cert. (refer to CT Dept. of Consumer Protection) $40,000 - $60,000 range Building Technician Responsible for maintaining general building systems including: HVAC, plumbing, building controls and hydraulics. Also should have skills in welding and understanding of health and safety codes. Apprenticeship or Trade School, journey level status $35,000 average Certificate Level or (Entry to Mid) Insulation Installer Inspector/ Tester Technician Responsible for pasting, wiring, taping or spraying insulation onto a variety of structures and surfaces to exclude or retrain heat Inspect, test, sort, sample, or weigh nonagricultural raw materials or processed, machined, fabricated, or assembled parts or products for defects, wear, and deviations from specifications. May use precision measuring instruments and complex test equipment. High School Diploma/GED, + certification high school diploma, certification and some experience. $40,000 average $45,000 average Crew Chief Crew chiefs (or lead supervisors) direct and lead workers, establish and adjust work methods to meet work schedules, interpret blueprints, job orders and company policies to workers, assign tasks to works and may assist workers, check tools and equipment to detect safety problems, analyze, plan, and establish work goals, schedules and assignments. in related field, knowledge of construction trades helpful $40,000 - $50,000 range

9 Electrician Install, maintain, and repair electrical wiring, equipment, and fixtures. Ensure that work is in accordance with relevant codes. May install or service lights, intercom systems, or electrical control systems. Tech school, apprenticeship, journeyman, previous work-related skills, knowledge or experience, certification. Refer to CT Dept. of Consumer Protection. $57,000 average ($75,000+ for more complex commercial jobs) Pipefitter Pipefitters install and maintain pipes that carry chemicals, acids and gases. They install and repair pipe systems as well as heating and cooling systems Pre-apprenticeship, journeyman $58,000 average Plumber Plumbers study blueprints, drawings, and building codes. They inspect structures to determine materials and layout, select pipe sizes and types and related materials, such as supports, according to needs. They lay out the job to fit piping into the structure of the building with the least amount of waste. They install and repair water, drainage, and gas pipes, water lines and plumbing fixtures. Pre-apprenticeship, journeyman $58,000 average ($75,000+ for more complex commercial jobs) Building Improvement Small Business Operator Responsible for operating a building improvement business. Business may focus on building materials and/or services, including: energy efficient windows/doors, insulation, and other energy conservation/efficiency products. Thorough understanding and current knowledge of building improvement techniques and practices with a focus on energy conservation and efficiency. Should be up to date on current building codes where applicable. 2-5 years experience in the field and product area experience. May need building operator certification (BOC). A.S. preferred. $60,000 $ 80,000

10 HVAC Technician Under general supervision, conducts preventive maintenance, repair, installation, and commissioning and general servicing of HVAC Control/Automation Systems (including detailed troubleshooting of systems). Responsible for high levels of customer satisfaction through direct, on site, customer interface. Properly completes required project and service documentation. Apprenticeship. Tech school and A.S. degree in related field, some work experience preferred. $56,000 average Pre-apprentice Plumber/ Pipefitter (see description for plumber/pipefitter, certificate level) Some technical high school preferred, on-thejob training $20,000 - $30,000 Entry Level/High School Diploma Pre-apprentice Electrician Building Maintenance Worker (see description for electrician in the certificate level) Responsible for maintaining physical structure of a building, replacing defective equipment and fixtures, painting and repairing woodwork, repairing plumbing, repairing plaster, laying bricks, building sheds and other outbuildings as necessary. Basic understanding of and ability to execute construction techniques and practices, plumbing, and electrical systems. Some technical high school preferred, on-thejob training High School Diploma/GED, entry level positions $20,000 - $30,000 $44,000 average

11 Commercial Energy Efficiency Audit and Assessment Job Progressions Entry Points Bachelor and Above Level or (Senior and Above ) Associate Level or (Mid to Senior) Transition Points and Requirements Transition Requirements -Bachelors Degree -Industrial Certification -BPI Certification Transition Requirements -Industry Certification -2-3 Years Related -Associates Degree in Technical Field Building Commissioning Tech Senior Energy Field Auditor Senior Contract Administrator Chief Sustainability Officer Building Commissioning Tech. Quality Assurance Inspection Specialist Energy Engineer Analyst (Level 2) Commercial Building Auditor (Analyst) Contract Administrator Project Manager Senior Energy Engineer Senior Project Manager Certificate Level or (Entry to Mid) Transition Requirements -On-the-Job Training -Industry Utility Bill Auditor Energy Engineer Analyst (Level 1) Inspector/Tester Technician Building Commissioning Technician Entry Level/High School Diploma Site Auditor Assistant Administrative Assistant FOUNDATIONAL SKILL SETS Basic Math and Science Skills Multi-tasking Equipment Usage Written Capabilities Highly Organized Equipment Monitoring Speaking Skills Physical Abilities Handling Moving Objects Operation Monitoring Attention to Detail Resource Management Team work skills

12 Commercial Energy Efficiency Audit and Assessment Job Progressions Entry Points Job Title Job Description Education/Training Wage Ranges Senior Contract Administrator (see definition for associate degree) B.A. plus several years business experience (more complex commercial systems) $85,000 Bachelor and Above Level or (Senior and Above) Building Commissioning Technician Senior Energy Engineer (Analyst 3) (see definition under certification category) Identify energy savings opportunities and make recommendations to achieve more energy efficient operations, conduct jobsite observations, field inspections, or submetering to collect data for energy conservation analyses, monitor and analyze energy consumption. Provide consultation to clients or other engineers on topics such as climate control systems, energy modeling, data logging, energy management control systems, lighting or day lighting design, sustainable design, and energy auditing. B.A. in Engineering, Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Energy Management or closely related field. Two to three years experience in energy conservation (more complex commercial systems). B.S. chemical, electrical, architectural engineering $60,000 + average $94,000 average Chief Sustainability Officer Responsible for analyzing baseline building operations, and employee behaviors and assessing opportunities for improved sustainable behaviors. Understanding of B.S. degree in Sustainable Energy Studies, Business Economics, Natural Resource Management, or related field. Master s level preferred. $60,000 - $100,000

13 business behaviors and practices that can be altered so that the business can be more sustainable reduce energy consumption and waste which will also decrease business operating costs. Senior Project Manager (see definition for Associate level) B.A. business management or related field plus some experience $82,000+ average Senior Energy Field Auditor Conducts energy audits of industrial areas, visually inspecting HVAC, lighting and all other equipment with energy demands. Provide a written report and analysis on energy consumption patterns and provide cost saving recommendation. Understanding of different building systems and the ability to assess and analyze current energy use and potential alternatives to reduce building energy needs. B.A. in Engineering, Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Energy Management or closely related field years experience. $ 70,000+ average Associate Level or (Mid to Senior) Energy Engineer Level 2 (Analyst) Quality Assurance Inspection Specialist Identify energy savings opportunities and make recommendations to achieve more energy efficient operations, conduct jobsite observations, field inspections, or submetering to collect data for energy conservation analyses, monitor and analyze energy consumption. Provide consultation to clients or other engineers on topics such as climate control systems, energy modeling, data logging, energy management control systems, lighting or day lighting design, sustainable design, and energy auditing Coordinate all quality assurance activities, review project plans and specifications and conduct field inspections. Schedule and conduct audits with participating customers and/or contractors, and assist with the development and implementation of quality A.S. Business Management or related technical field. May also require a Certified Energy Inspector Certification from ICC or other nationally recognized certification. Requires BPI certification and apprenticeship training in technical trades. HVAC experience preferred. May require up to 3 years relevant experience in utilities or energy efficiency. $55,000 - $80,000 $45,000 - $75,000

14 assurance and quality control programs, plans and procedures. Commercial Building Auditor (Analyst) Evaluates structures to assess their energy efficiency, makes recommendations to save money on energy, reduce waste. in building trades helpful. Can prioritize improvements and provide information on costs, contractors, weatherization service and government programs. A.S. in a closely related field. 2-3 years experience in energy conservation. May require BPI Building Analyst certification $45,000 $60,000 Project Manager Manage and direct the implementation of energy efficiency and/or energy-related projects (including design, budgeting, scheduling, pre-qualification, selection and management of contractors/subcontractors and equipment vendors, structuring projectrelated contracts, maintaining close contact with the customer. A.S years experience $82,000 average Contract Administrator Process agreements with construction general contractors and building management agencies to finalize large commercial energy efficiency assessment contracts. A.S. plus business experience preferred. $70,000 average Building Commissioning Technician (see definition under certificate level) A.S. Electrical, Electromechanical or Instrumentation Technology. (more complex commercial systems) $60,000 average Certificate Level or (Entry to Mid) Building Commissioning Technician Perform tests on a building's mechanical, electrical, and other equipment to ensure optimal and efficient operation. Building commissioning technicians assist in the building commissioning process to determine whether a building's systems are operating properly. Requires Quality Technician Certification. May require Green Awareness Certification or BPI Certification. $40,000 - $60,000

15 Inspector/ Tester Technician Inspect, test, sort, sample, or weigh nonagricultural raw materials or processed, machined, fabricated, or assembled parts or products for defects, wear, and deviations from specifications. May use precision measuring instruments and complex test equipment. high school diploma, certification and some experience. $45,000 average Energy Engineer Analyst (Level 1) (see definition under Associate s Degree) May require CEA + experience (simple commercial system projects) $71,000 average Utility Bill Auditor Investigate and find errors and potential savings in the utility bills of medium to large commercial clients. Quantify and request refund or /and forward correction of found erroneous utility billing charges. Create a reporting framework to provide management with information on transaction flow and status while providing accurate and timely reporting. Requires 2-5 years experience in utilities industry and BPI certification. May require some post-secondary education in accounting. $30,000 - $50,000 Entry Level/High School Diploma Site Auditor Assistant Helps the lead auditor provide professional energy efficiency audit and building analysis services that include: conducting safety tests, developing scopes of work including weatherization and HVAC measures to save energy and improve comfort, health and safety. Test buildings and conduct quality control inspections, post jobs to verify satisfactory work completion. Minimum of 1-3years experience in a discipline related to construction or building sciences; estimating or site auditing experience is preferred. May require HVAC or related certification. $25,000 - $40,000

16 Administrative Assistant Administrative Assistant will perform various office duties to ensure contracts, auditing staff and field technicians receive all relevant contract and client information. High School Diploma or equivalent required. Business experience preferred. $40,000 average

17 Entry Points Bachelor and Above Level or (Senior and Above) Associate Level or (Mid to Senior) Commercial Energy Efficiency Sales Job Progressions Transition Points and Requirements Transition Requirements -Bachelors Degree -On-the-Job Transition Requirements -2-3 Years Related -Associates Degree, Physical Sciences Energy, or Construction Trades Sales Manager (efficiency) Energy Efficiency Sales rep Utility Account Executive Energy Efficiency Planner Energy Conservation Utility Rep Sales Cost Recovery Advisor Certificate Level or (Entry to Mid) Transition Requirements -On-the-Job Training Sales Representative Entry Level/High School Diploma Office Clerk Administrative Assistant Customer service Representative FOUNDATIONAL SKILL SETS Interpersonal Skills Multi-tasking Writing Skills Active Listening Highly Organized Relationship Management Speaking Skills Time Management CRM Computer Proficiency Attention to Detail Customer Service Skills Team-Work Skills

18 Commercial Energy Efficiency Sales Job Progressions Entry Points Job Title Job Description Education/Training Wage Ranges Energy Efficiency Sales Representative Responsible for selling products that are energy efficient or help decrease energy consumption or services that aid in minimizing building energy consumption. B.S. in business, economics, marketing or communication or work experience in related field. $40,000- $80,000 Bachelor and Above Level or (Senior and Above) Sales Manager for Efficiency Products Utility Account Executive Responsible for selling energy management systems for commercial, public, and industrial applications. Responsible for assisting building owner/operator(s) with utility purchasing decisions. B.S. in business, economics, communications, marketing, or related field and 5-10 years of sales experience. B.A. in marketing, communications, business, economics or related field. 1-2 years sales experience. $53,000 $123,000 $50,000 - $80,000 Energy Efficiency Planner Facilitate strategic planning sessions with organizations to help them determine their energy efficiency goals and implement strategies to meet those goals. Analyze energy outputs such as carbon footprints and greenhouse gas emissions; economic costs and benefits associated with various energy efficiency options; and the energy needs of the organization in order to assist with organizational decision-making. B.A., related work experience preferred. $50,000- $80,000

19 Associate Level or (Mid to Senior) Energy Conservation Utility Representative Sales Cost Recovery Advisor Responsible for developing, implementing and promoting commercial utility conservation programs. Provide educational materials that promote energy conservation practices and technical advice. Reaches out to building owners, architects, real estate pros identifying opportunities (leads) for core projects. Builds a network of vendors and energy industry pros creating a local solutions network. Identifies savings and cost recovery opportunities, presents services to business/building owners. A.S. with coursework in physical science and energy, conservation or construction trade. 3-5 Years in Outside Sales $50,000 $70,000 $100,000- $120,000 Certificate Level or (Entry to Mid) Sales Representative Creates interest in products by scheduling and conducting site visits, tours, outside sales calls and by gaining requests for proposals. Generates referrals from existing client and vendor base. Achieves or exceeds established prospecting and revenue goals. Provides sales reports accurately and efficiently. High school diploma. Several years sales experience. May require some certification. $75,000 Entry Level/High School Diploma Administrative Assistant Performs administrative functions, including scheduling appointments, faxing/copying documents, ordering office supplies, reading/routing incoming mail, drafting/typing routine correspondence; designs and maintains office filing and organization systems. Administrative assistants perform routine clerical and organizational tasks. They organize files, draft messages, schedule appointments, and support other staff. High School Diploma $40,000 average

20 Office Clerk Customer Service Representative Perform duties too varied and diverse to be classified in any specific office clerical occupation, requiring knowledge of office systems and procedures. Interact with customers to provide information in response to inquiries about products and services and to handle and resolve complaints. High School Diploma or High School Diploma or $20,000 - $30,000 $31,000 average A project of the Connecticut Energy Workforce Development Consortium, made possible with support and funding from the Workforce Solutions Collaborative of Metro Hartford and the U.S. Department of Labor s Connecticut State Energy Sector Partnership Grant.