Energy Auditors
Energy auditors examine buildings, heating and cooling systems, and industrial processes to identify where energy is wasted and recommend improvements. They work for utility companies, government agencies, engineering firms, or as independent contractors, conducting on-site inspections and analyzing data to help reduce energy consumption and costs.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against energy auditors and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
An energy auditor might spend Monday morning inspecting a commercial building's HVAC system and insulation, taking measurements and photographs. Afternoons often involve office work analyzing utility bills and running energy modeling software. Later in the week, the auditor presents findings to a building manager with specific upgrade recommendations, then moves to the next site for another full-building assessment.
Who this work suits
Holland code CRI. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to work methodically through concrete problems and prefer hands-on technical work combined with analysis. You're comfortable with building systems and practical solutions, and you like seeing measurable results from your recommendations.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska | $80,560 | $102,410 | $121,250 | 270 |
| California | $76,160 | $101,290 | $128,530 | 13,420 |
| Connecticut | $79,140 | $98,670 | $115,100 | 1,430 |
| Washington | $77,480 | $96,140 | $105,300 | 3,090 |
| Minnesota | $78,030 | $88,670 | $100,890 | 1,390 |
| District of Columbia | $76,130 | $86,200 | $109,920 | 370 |
| Oregon | $72,300 | $84,510 | $102,760 | 1,780 |
| Massachusetts | $65,730 | $83,200 | $104,030 | 4,290 |
| New Jersey | $63,520 | $81,760 | $104,690 | 5,950 |
| Colorado | $65,740 | $79,950 | $98,280 | 3,700 |
| New York | $61,920 | $79,460 | $103,960 | 11,160 |
| Hawaii | $66,720 | $79,320 | $94,570 | 710 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Energy Auditor (CEA) — Association of Energy Engineers
- Certified Residential Energy Auditor — ESCO Group
- Energy Auditor — Building Performance Institute
- Energy Risk Professional (ERP) — Global Association of Risk Professionals
- Commercial Energy Plans Examiner (CEPE) — International Code Council
- Certified Home Energy Rater — Residential Energy Services Network
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against energy auditors and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 47-4011.01 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.