Building Energy Modeler

Also called: Energy Analyst, Building Performance Analyst

Builds computer models of buildings to predict how much energy they'll use before they're built.

A day in the life

You create a virtual version of a new office tower, test different windows and HVAC systems, and show architects which design cuts energy use the most.

Pay over a career

Starting
$60k
Typical
$85k
High
$125k

Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.

Training

Bachelor's degree (4-year), about 4 years after high school. Bachelor's in mechanical or architectural engineering.

Ways in: 4-year college. Training cost: $15k – $60k.

Majors to look at: Architectural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Architecture.

Outlook

Growing much faster than average (about 9% over 10 years).

Will it last? Our AI estimate

High risk for 10 years. AI and automated modeling tools now produce building energy models quickly, shrinking this desk role.

Start now, in high school

Classes: AP Physics, Computer science, Drafting or CAD class.

Official data: O*NET occupation 17-2141.

More Energy Efficiency, EV Charging & Smart Buildings careers

Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.