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Energy Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

GPTech is a global energy and infrastructure consulting firm passionate about engineering and energizing a future for all. We are a close-knit team of highly qualified technical and development ...

Energy Engineer Discipline Lead

Arlington, VA · On-site +1

$140K - $175K/yr

Energy Engineering Discipline Lead CEG Solutions is hiring an Energy Engineering Discipline Lead to provide senior technical leadership for our energy engineering practice. This role will impact how ...

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Energy Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$53K

$97.2K

$137.8K

How much do energy engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for energy engineer in Virginia is $97,222.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,300.00 and $112,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an energy engineer do?

An energy engineer designs, develops, and implements systems to improve energy efficiency and reduce energy consumption in buildings, industrial processes, and power generation. They analyze energy use, perform audits, and may work with tools like energy modeling software, often requiring knowledge of renewable energy technologies and relevant certifications. Their work helps optimize energy systems for cost savings and environmental impact.

What Do Energy Engineers Do

As an energy engineer, you design sustainable projects and find ways to cut energy costs while increasing efficiency either as an employee of an organization or as a consultant. Your job duties include analyzing data on energy use, providing advice about green engineering methods, creating energy models, and designing plans for green building or remodeling projects. An engineering focus in specialties like air quality, energy procurement, electrical systems, green architecture, solar power, or heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems can contribute to the overall energy efficiency of your organization.

Can you make $500,000 as an electrical engineer?

Electrical engineers, including those working in energy engineering, typically earn salaries below $500,000 annually. High earnings are usually associated with senior roles, specialized expertise, management positions, or working in high-cost regions, and may also involve bonuses or profit sharing. Achieving a $500,000 salary generally requires extensive experience, advanced certifications, or leadership responsibilities.

Is 40 too late to be an engineer?

Energy engineering is a field that values experience and skills, and individuals can pursue this career at any age. Many engineers start or transition into the profession later in life, often bringing valuable perspectives and expertise; relevant certifications and continuous learning can support career development regardless of age.

What are some common challenges Energy Engineers face when implementing energy efficiency projects?

Energy Engineers often encounter challenges such as budget constraints, balancing energy savings with occupant comfort, and integrating new technologies into existing building systems. Collaboration with facility managers, contractors, and other engineers is essential to overcome these obstacles and ensure projects meet regulatory standards and client goals. Additionally, securing stakeholder buy-in and accurately measuring the impact of efficiency upgrades can require strong communication and data analysis skills.

What engineering jobs pay $500,000?

High-level engineering roles such as senior energy engineers, engineering managers, and specialized consultants can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. These positions often require expertise in project management, technical skills, and industry knowledge, and may include bonuses or profit-sharing components.

What is the difference between Energy Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectEnergy EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in engineering, certifications like LEED or Certified Energy ManagerBachelor's in mechanical engineering, Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesigning energy systems, analyzing energy consumption, working on sustainability projectsDesigning mechanical systems, HVAC, manufacturing equipment, and product development
Employer & Industry UsageUtilities, renewable energy firms, consulting companies, government agenciesManufacturing, aerospace, automotive, HVAC companies

Energy Engineers focus on optimizing energy use and sustainability, often working on renewable projects and energy efficiency. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, designing mechanical systems across various industries. Both roles require engineering degrees, but their daily tasks and industry focus differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Energy Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Energy Engineer, you need in-depth knowledge of energy systems, thermodynamics, and environmental regulations, typically supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with energy modeling software (such as RETScreen or EnergyPlus), building management systems, and professional certifications like Certified Energy Manager (CEM) are highly valuable. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills set top performers apart. These competencies are crucial for designing efficient energy solutions, ensuring regulatory compliance, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to achieve sustainability goals.
What are the most commonly searched types of Energy Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Energy Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Energy Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Energy Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Energy Engineer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,222 per year, or $46.7 per hour.

Energy Engineer II

GPTech

Arlington, VA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

GPTech is a global energy and infrastructure consulting firm passionate about engineering and energizing a future for all. We are a close-knit team of highly qualified technical and development professionals dedicated to making a lasting impact for realizing a sustainable future.
Working at the intersection of energy, infrastructure, and development, GPTech provides solutions to government agencies, quasi-government organizations, multilateral financial institutions, and utilities with sizable investments in energy and infrastructure. Providing comprehensive services from project inception to completion and post-completion, we deliver solutions to help clients save money, enhance operations, protect the environment, and achieve lasting impacts. We are a trusted partner for delivering solutions through ongoing engagement and continuous improvement.
With humble beginnings as a startup between two college friends, today, after 15 years in business, GPTech has successfully supported more than 100 projects for over 30 clients and 75 countries. We continue to lead the world in employing innovative energy and engineering solutions to manage Earth’s resources and to meet society’s needs. GPTech is a mission-driven technical consulting company that specializes in energy, infrastructure, and development. GPTech’s work is guided by its core mission, vision, and value. Visit greenpwrd.com for more information.
 
About the Position:
GPTech is seeking an Energy Engineer II to engage in a range of assignments supporting the use of sustainable energy technologies, including renewable energy, energy efficiency, and advanced grid systems, as well as operations, project management, business development, and administrative support to sustainable energy contracts. This includes work with federal as well as state and local clients.

This role is currently fully remote; however, a hybrid work arrangement may be required in the future, including occasional on-site support in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. U.S. citizenship is required, along with the ability to obtain and retain a security clearance and successfully pass a background investigation.
Responsibilities:

  • Lead or support technical analysis activities, including reviewing, modeling, and analyzing energy projects such as Energy Savings Performance Contracts (ESPC) and Utility Energy Service Contracts (UESC).
  • Conduct energy, environmental, and economic benefits analyses of sustainable energy technologies and projects.
  • Collect, analyze, and manage project and program data, including entering information into spreadsheets, databases, and analytical models.
  • Develop targeted technical and communications products, including white papers, fact sheets, research summaries, briefings, data analyses, and presentations to support investment decisions and recommendations.
  • Participate in client meetings and engagements related to assigned work scope.
  • Stay current on industry trends, emerging technologies, and evolving business practices in the energy and sustainability sectors.
  • Conduct facility inspections, including energy audits, to assess ongoing energy and sustainability projects and identify opportunities for energy efficiency, onsite generation, and energy storage.
  • Perform utility bill analysis to inform clients on rate impacts, as well as potential energy and cost savings.
  • Provide project management support, including coordination with GPTech Practice Area Leads and Finance & Administration teams to ensure compliance with corporate project and contract management requirements.
  • Support company growth and business development efforts by developing and improving communications materials, contributing to proposal development, and assisting with business capture strategies.

Minimum Qualifications
  • U.S. citizenship with the ability to successfully pass a background investigation
  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Engineering, Physical Sciences, or a related field
  • At least 5 years of progressively responsible experience in engineering, project management, or a related discipline involving energy, construction, acquisitions, and/or strategic decision-making
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Proficiency in software tools for research, analysis, reporting, communications, and collaboration
  • Certified Energy Manager (CEM) credential through the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE), or active progress toward certification

Preferred Qualifications
The ideal candidate will also demonstrate several of the following:
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license or Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification
  • Experience conducting facility energy audits in accordance with ASHRAE standards, with relevant certifications such as LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) or Certified Energy Auditor (AEE)
  • Field and/or office experience in renewable energy systems, including design, installation, operations, maintenance, inspection, and diagnostics
  • Experience developing projects under federal third-party energy financing mechanisms (e.g., ESPC, UESC, PPA)
  • Knowledge of federal agencies, facility energy policies, mandates, and energy management goals
  • Experience in organizational leadership, management, and technical services business development
  • Proficiency in a second language, particularly Spanish, French, or Portuguese
  • Experience providing technical, analytical, or business review support for energy projects or programs in developing countries

 

Thank you for applying and for your interest in GP Tech. Only qualified candidates selected for further screening will be contacted. Candidates will be evaluated continuously. All are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, as employment may be contingent upon a successful background check, security clearance, and/or customer approval.
The physical demands and work environment that are described in this position description are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
This position description is a summary of the essential functions and requirements of this position. This document is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all duties and requirements of the position; at any time, the employee’s manager may assign other duties as related, or as otherwise deemed appropriate and necessary, within the general scope of the role, without the need for additional compensation.
GPTech obeys all laws prohibits the discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, marital status, parental status, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.