Energy Conservation Technicians

Because energy conservation technicians are employed in many different settings, the environment in which they work varies widely. Energy conservation technicians employed in research and development, design, or product planning generally work in laboratories or engineering departments with normal daytime work schedules. Other technicians often travel to customer locations or work in their employer's plant.

Work in energy production and use requires around-the-clock shifts. In these two areas, technicians work either indoors or outdoors at the employer's site. Such assignments require little or no travel, but the work environments may be dirty, noisy, or affected by the weather. Appropriate work clothing must be worn in shop and factory settings, and safety awareness and safe working habits must be practiced at all times.

Energy conservation technicians who work in a plant usually interact with only a small group of people, but those who work for utility companies may have to communicate with the public while providing technical services to their customers. Energy research and development jobs involve laboratory activities requiring social interaction with engineers, scientists, and other technicians. In some cases, technicians may be considered public relations representatives, which may call for special attention to dress and overall appearance.

Job stress varies depending on the job. The pace is relaxed but businesslike in engineering, planning, and design departments and in research and development. However, in more hectic areas, technicians must respond to crisis situations involving unexpected breakdowns of equipment that must be corrected as soon as possible.