Energy conservation officer: job description

There has been and will continue to be an expansion in the number of job opportunities as a result of government and international environmental policies.

What does an energy conservation officer do? Typical employers | Qualifications and training | Key skills

Most energy conservation officers are employed by health trusts, utilities, charities, energy partnerships/agencies and within the housing or environmental health departments of local authorities.

Key responsibilities of the job include:

• visiting local businesses, landlords, home owners and tenants as appropriate
• providing energy efficiency advice and training
• promoting energy conservation schemes (such as energy efficiency housing grants)
• liaising with contractors, local organisations, council services and voluntary/community groups
• developing, implementing and monitoring energy consumption reduction policies and strategies
• producing specifications, estimates, drawings, feasibility studies, tender documents and work schedules
• analysing data and collating information
• maintaining accurate records
• writing plans and reports
• attending regional meetings and events
• preparing and distributing publicity materials
• undertaking energy audits and site inspections
• keeping up to date with changes in legislation and initiatives, including EU energy performance directives
• promoting energy conservation awareness via events such as presentations, workshops and conservation projects.

Opportunities are advertised via websites such as Environment Jobs and publications such as New Scientist (along with their online equivalents).

Qualifications and training required

To become an energy conservation officer it is usually necessary to possess an appropriate degree gained in a subject such as energy engineering, environmental health, environmental sciences/management, surveying or engineering. Relevant postgraduate qualification can be helpful, as can experience of initiating and managing projects and supervising others. Some positions require experience of working in energy management in a local authority, so this role isn’t always suitable for recent graduates.

Key skills for energy conservation officers

• Thorough understanding of the energy market, including renewable energy sources and legislation
• Communication skills, including the ability to explain technical information to people who don’t have technical knowledge
• Initiative
• Problem solving skills
• IT skills, often including competent use of MS Excel

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