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Energy Efficiency Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

PEG

Building Energy Inspector

Haymarket, VA · On-site

PEG, LLC is in its twenty-eighth year being a diverse energy efficiency, engineering, environmental and management consulting firm operating principally in the Eastern and Central United States. PEG ...

PEG, LLC

Building Energy Inspector

Haymarket, VA · On-site

PEG, LLC is in its twenty-eighth year being a diverse energy efficiency, engineering, environmental and management consulting firm operating principally in the Eastern and Central United States. PEG ...

PEG LLC

Building Energy Inspector

Haymarket, VA · On-site

$47K/yr

PEG, LLC is in its twenty-eighth year being a diverse energy efficiency, engineering, environmental and management consulting firm operating principally in the Eastern and Central United States. PEG ...

PEG LLC

Building Energy Inspector

Manassas, VA · On-site

$47K/yr

PEG, LLC is in its twenty-eighth year being a diverse energy efficiency, engineering, environmental and management consulting firm operating principally in the Eastern and Central United States. PEG ...

PEG

Building Energy Inspector

Manassas, VA

PEG, LLC is in its twenty-eighth year being a diverse energy efficiency, engineering, environmental and management consulting firm operating principally in the Eastern and Central United States. PEG ...

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All JobsEnergy Efficiency Engineer JobsEnergy Efficiency Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Energy Efficiency Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$18

$44

$53

How much do energy efficiency engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for energy efficiency engineer in Virginia is $44.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.85 and $49.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an energy efficiency engineer do?

As an energy efficiency engineer, your job is to provide technical expertise and help with the development of energy-saving plans for customers in industrial, commercial, and residential areas. The most important part of this is determining the best way to improve the efficiency of your client's energy systems. As part of this, you audit their use of electricity, calculate the most efficient way to power something, and use modeling software to see if solar panels make sense for a particular structure. Most clients want to see savings on their energy bills, so while helping them achieve those savings, you also recommend other ways to go green, such as installing Energy Star-compliant equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an energy efficiency engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Energy Efficiency Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or electrical engineering, energy systems, and building science, usually supported by a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with energy modeling software (such as eQUEST or EnergyPlus), building codes, and certifications like CEM (Certified Energy Manager) are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication with clients and project teams set top performers apart. These skills and qualifications are vital to accurately assess, design, and implement solutions that optimize energy use and achieve sustainability goals.

What are some common challenges energy efficiency engineers face when implementing new projects?

Energy Efficiency Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing client expectations with realistic energy savings, navigating regulatory requirements, and ensuring that upgrades or retrofits are compatible with existing systems. Additionally, they may face resistance to change from facility staff or budget constraints that limit the scope of recommended improvements. Successful engineers proactively communicate project benefits, work closely with cross-functional teams, and stay updated on the latest energy technologies to overcome these obstacles.

What is the difference between Energy Efficiency Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectEnergy Efficiency EngineerMechanical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in engineering, certifications like LEED or Certified Energy ManagerBachelor's or higher in mechanical engineering, PE license often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesigning energy-saving systems, analyzing energy consumption, consulting on efficiency projectsDesigning mechanical systems, manufacturing, maintenance, and product development
Industry UsageBuilding design, energy consulting firms, utility companiesManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, HVAC industries

Energy Efficiency Engineers focus on optimizing energy use and reducing consumption through specialized systems and strategies, often working closely with building and energy projects. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, designing and analyzing mechanical systems across various industries. While both roles require engineering credentials, their focus areas and work environments differ significantly.

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Energy Efficiency Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Energy Efficiency Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,476 per year, or $44.5 per hour.

09560 - Eng SB Insp Movable

Virginia Department of Transportation

Suffolk, VA • On-site

$77K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Virginia Department Of Transportation rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

596th of 848 rated public administrative organizations

Job description


Lead and coordinate visual and operational inspections of the electrical, mechanical or hydraulic components of movable bridges statewide. Provide technical guidance and support related to the construction, maintenance and rehabilitation projects for the electrical, control systems, or functional systems of movable bridges statewide. Provide technical advice, guidance and training regarding assigned engineering program areas. Prepare analyses, reports, and recommendations based on engineering determinations. Provide engineering support and consultation related to engineering program area. Effectively manage assigned projects to ensure timely and accurate completion. Communicate with internal VDOT staff, local government staff, consultants, citizens and FHWA regarding transportation projects and programs.
How you will contribute:
  • Analysis and Technical Reporting: Analyze and interpret engineering data and information. Prepare complete, clear and concise reports and recommendations.
  • Communication: Establish an effective line of communication between VDOT, contractors, government agencies and the public. Investigate issues and resolve complaints.
  • Engineering Process Management: Use established VDOT policies and procedures in the development and delivery of engineering projects. Engineering projects are completed in compliance with state and federal laws and regulations.
  • Inspection Reports: Prepare technical inspection reports, evaluate and assign component condition ratings and make recommendations for maintenance and rehabilitation. Determine and provide prioritization of recommended corrective action.
  • Inspection: Lead and coordinate routine visual and operational inspections of the electrical, mechanical, control systems or hydraulic components of movable bridges statewide. Evaluate damage of electrical or mechanical malfunctions affecting the operation of movable bridges statewide and provide assessments and recommendations.
  • Manage Assigned Activities: Plan, schedule and coordinate engineering program activities such that deliverables are met within the established scope and timeline.
  • Project Engineering: Assist in the management of projects and tasks including development of and managing the scope, schedule, budget, deliverables, change management, quality, and status reports. Complete multiple concurrent tasks and assignments, and report updates on their status.
  • Special Assignments: Manage special program initiatives and projects as assigned. Serve and represent VDOT or assigned program area on various committees and work groups.
  • Teamwork and Customer Service: Demonstrates customer service and work habits that reflect the VDOT Values, and coordinates the flow of information both orally and in writing.
  • Technical Guidance and Support: Provide technical guidance and support related to the construction, maintenance and rehabilitation projects for the functional systems of movable bridges statewide. Develop effective and economical recommendations to respond to electrical or mechanical problems or electrical or mechanical related maintenance injuries.

    • What will make you successful:
  • Ability to apply engineering principles and practices.
  • Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with diverse groups.
  • Ability to draw rational conclusions and develop solutions from analysis; make independent decisions; and manage multiple assignments.
  • Ability to enforce and demonstrate safety behaviors, as well as advocate and practice safety in everyday work activities.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
  • Ability to interpret technical data and prepare and maintain detailed reports.
  • Ability to interpret, explain and apply national consensus codes, Federal, State and local policies, codes, laws, and regulations applicable to movable bridges.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities with competing deadlines and limited resources.
  • Ability to negotiate outcomes and work with diverse customer groups.
  • Ability to perform systems troubleshooting and diagnose electrical or mechanical malfunctions.
  • Ability to physically perform field inspections, work at heights, over water, in confined spaces, in proximity to moving traffic and in inclement weather, and to use all required equipment.
  • Ability to provide detailed reports on review findings.
  • Ability to read and understand highway construction plans.
  • Knowledge engineering specifications and standards.
  • Knowledge of VDOT, state, and federal policies and procedures relating to transportation engineering.
  • Knowledge of operation and design of mechanical or electrical components for swing-span, vertical-lift and bascule type movable bridges.
  • Knowledge of operation and design of special machinery components unique to swing-span, vertical-lift, bascule type movable bridges.
  • Knowledge of project management procedures and principles.
  • Knowledge of the operation and design of hydraulic components on movable bridges, including valves, hydraulic cylinders, pumps, motors and actuators.
  • Skill in providing and promoting good customer service to internal and external customers.
  • Skill in reading and interpreting complex reports, plans and specifications for mechanical or electrical systems of movable bridges and preparing technical inspection reports and recommendations.
  • Skill in the use of computers and software applications to include MS Office, project management and engineering software programs.

    • Minimum Qualifications:
  • Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing to include preparing detailed technical reports for electrical, mechanical, or control systems of movable bridges.
  • Ability to inspect work in progress for compliance to plans, special provisions, specifications, schematics, applicable codes, standards and best practices.
  • Ability to physically perform field inspections, work at heights, over water, in confined spaces, and to use all required equipment.
  • Experience applying electrical or mechanical engineering principles used in the design, construction, maintenance and rehabilitation of movable bridges.
  • Experience performing visual and operational inspections of mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical components of swing-span, vertical-lift and bascule type movable bridges.
  • Experience reading and interpreting complex reports, plans, specifications or schematics for electrical, mechanical or control systems of movable bridges.
  • Experience with systems troubleshooting and diagnosing electrical or mechanical malfunctions of movable bridges.
  • Valid Driver's License.

    • Additional Considerations:
  • A combination of training, experience, or education in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, Mechanical Engineering Technology or related field desired.
  • Experience with the inspection and troubleshooting of electrical, mechanical or hydraulic components for movable bridges.

    • Click below to learn more about the Competency Model associated with this Position:
    Competency Model
    Physical Requirements
    Physical Requirements
    VDOT employees must abide by VDOTs Code of Ethics and the Commonwealths Standards of Conduct.
    VDOT Code of Ethics
    Standards of Conduct
    Qualifications
    Physical Requirements
    Physical Requirements
    About Us
    VDOT utilizes a market based pay program, which has been approved by DHRM. Therefore, advertised rates of pay may or may not align with the Commonwealth pay bands.
    In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their Certificate of Disability (COD) provided by a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor within the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their Certificate of Disability. If you need to get a Certificate of Disability, use this link: Career Pathways for Individuals with Disabilities, or call DARS at 800-552-5019, or DBVI at 800-622-2155.
    Each agency within the Commonwealth of Virginia is dedicated to recruiting, supporting, and maintaining a competent and diverse work force. Equal Opportunity Employer.
    Please be aware all VDOT positions require pre-employment screenings. These screenings may include the following:
    • Fingerprint based Criminal History Background Check
    • DMV Record Check
    • Work History Verification
    • References
    • Pre-employment physical
    • Drug screen

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