Clean Energy and Green Building Careers

Transcription

Clean Energy and
Green Building Careers
in Silicon Valley
December 2008
© 2008
NOVA Workforce Board
Clean Energy and
Green Building Careers
in Silicon Valley
December 2008
Researched/Written by
Jim Cassio
www.cassio.com
Published by
NOVA Workforce Board
www.novaworks.org
Contents
Introduction
Career Profiles
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Alternative Fuel Vehicle Salespersons
Alternative Fuel Vehicle Service Technicians
Architects (sustainable design)
Building Materials Specialists/Sales Reps (green/sustainable building materials)
Buyers and Purchasing Agents/Managers
Carpenters (green building)
Civil Engineers
Construction Managers
Construction Supervisors, First-Line
Cost Estimators
Customer Service Representatives
Drafters and CAD Technicians
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technicians
Electrical Engineers
Electricians
Energy Engineers
Engineering Managers
HVAC Service Technicians and Installers
HVAC Salespersons
Landscape Architects (sustainable design)
Machinists
Maintenance and Repair Workers, General
Materials Engineers
Mechanical Engineering Technicians
Mechanical Engineers
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
Roofers
Sales Engineers, Including Solar/Renewable Energy and HVAC Systems
Solar Energy Systems Designers/Engineers
Solar Energy Systems Installation Supervisors/Project Managers
Solar Energy Systems Installers/Technicians
Solar Energy Systems Sales Representatives
Solar Energy Systems Service Technicians
Sustainability Coordinators
Team Assemblers
Urban and Regional Planners, Including Land Use Planners t
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Appendix
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What is a Green Job?
Local Community Colleges
Local Universities & Postsecondary Education/Training Institutions
Alternative Fuel Vehicle Related Businesses (in the Bay Area)
Building Performance Contractors (in the Bay Area)
Clean Tech Companies in Silicon Valley
ESCO Providers (affiliated with the National Association of Energy Service COmpanies)
Green Building Professionals (certified by Build It Green)
Suppliers and Retailers of Sustainable Building Materials (in the Bay Area)
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSA) Profiles by Occupation
Introduction
Introduction
This career resource guide is an e-book designed to help individuals explore and research the various types
of green careers that are available in the Silicon Valley area within the fields of clean energy and green
building. Why clean energy and green building? Because these industries offer plentiful employment
opportunities in the present and will offer many more in the future. Also because green careers are
increasingly attractive to people of all ages who want their daily work to have a positive impact on the
environment.
This guide begins with a brief overview of the industries and their job prospects. Most of the content is a
series of career profiles—each one representing one occupation, or, in a few cases, more than one (closely
related) occupation. These are occupations that can lead to green jobs and green careers. It is important to
realize, however, that occupations are rarely all green; in reality, an occupation can lead to both green jobs
and non-green jobs—depending on the nature and purpose of the specific job and/or employer. (See “What
is a Green Job?” in the appendix for more information.)
Our principle data sources for the career profiles include the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor
Statistics and Occupational Information Network (O*NET) and the California Employment Development
Department’s Labor Market Information Division. Some career profiles have more information than
others—depending on what data was available and that we thought was reliable. Links have been included
throughout the career profiles so that you can link directly to the data source (if you desire additional
information). Descriptions of new and emerging occupations are also included.
This career resource guide was compiled and edited by Jim Cassio, a career information professional with
more than twenty years experience in workforce research. Jim is the author of publications including the
Green Careers Resource Guide (e-book) and Green Careers: Choosing Work for a Sustainable Future (New
Society Publishers). Please direct all technical questions regarding this report to Jim. You can find his
current contact information by visiting his website at: www.cassio.com.
Overview
Clean Energy includes industries associated with generating electricity from renewable sources such as
solar, wind, biomass, fuel cells, geothermal, hydrogen, and hydro/marine. This includes electric utilities
(public and private), energy companies, research & development entities, manufacturers, and wholesalers
(including installers). For our purposes, clean energy also includes industries related to alternative fuels and
alternative fuel vehicles. Some clean energy industries provide local jobs and some don’t. This resource
guide focuses on industries and careers where local jobs currently exist.
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Clean Energy and Green Building Careers in Silicon Valley
Green Building includes industries associated with sustainable design and green building. This includes
architectural firms and construction companies that design, build, retrofit or repair homes and buildings that
are energy and water efficient, environment-friendly, and healthy places for people to live or work. For our
purposes, green building also includes industries involved in green or sustainable building materials, sustainable
landscape architecture, and planning, operation and maintenance activities associated with green building(s).
Job Outlook
150 Million Jobs in the U.S. in 2006
8,000,000
RE&EE jobs
(5%)
182 Million Jobs in the U.S. in 2030
40,000,000
RE&EE jobs
(22%)
Sources: RE&EE job projections from Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency: Economic Drivers for the 21st Century—a study
commissioned by the American Solar Energy Society (ASES); Population projections to 2030 by the U.S. Census Bureau
2
Occupational Profiles
Alternative Fuel Vehicle Salespersons
Occupation Description
Vehicle Salespersons: Sell new and used motor vehicles for automobile dealerships. They account for 3540 percent of the employment in an automobile dealership. Their success in selling vehicles and services
determines the success of the dealer. Vehicle salespersons are usually the first to greet customers and
determine their interests through a series of questions. They explain and demonstrate vehicles’ features in
the showroom and on the road. They work closely with their supervisors to negotiate the final terms and
price of the sale. Vehicle salespersons must be tactful, well groomed, and able to express themselves: their
success depends on winning the respect and trust of prospective customers.
www.bls.gov/oco/cg/cgs025.htm.
Common job titles:
Salesperson, Sales Consultant, Sales Representative
Education and Training Requirements
In today’s competitive job market, nearly all automobile dealerships require at least a high school diploma.
Salespersons need strong communication and customer service skills to deal with the public, and most
receive extensive on-the-job training. In larger dealerships, beginners receive several days of classroom
training to learn about vehicle features, methods for approaching prospective customers, negotiation
techniques, and ways to close sales. Some manufacturers furnish training manuals and other informational
materials to salespersons. Managers continually guide and train sales workers, both on the job and at
periodic sales meetings. A college degree may be helpful for advancement.
Formal education attained by most recent hires:
38% High school or less | 36% Some college | 25% Bachelor’s degree or higher
Wage Information
The median nationwide salary for vehicle salespersons is about $37,500 per year, plus commission earnings.
Some vehicle salespersons earn up to $100,000 per year or more. Those who sell more expensive vehicles
generally have higher earnings. Separate wage data for those who specialize in alternative fuel vehicles is
not available.
www.bls.gov/oes/
3
Employment Trends
The total number of U.S. vehicles sales is projected to decline over (at least) the next two years, creating
keen competition for available jobs. However, sales of energy efficient and alternative fuel vehicles are
expected to increase as in proportion to the total vehicles to be sold. In the future, dealers will seek more
highly educated salespersons, and those who have a college degree and previous sales experience will have
the best job opportunities. The need to replace workers who retire or leave the occupation will result in
many additional job openings.
Possible local
employers
Major employing industries
(Santa Clara County)
Automobile Dealers
319
www.labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov/ (see Data Library)
Also, see appendix for a list of Alternative Fuel Vehicle Related Businesses (in the Bay Area).
Local Education, Training and Skill Development Programs
This occupation is generally learned through on-the-job training.
Career Ladders
Successful vehicle salespersons can advance to become sales supervisors, sales managers, operations
managers, and general managers. Advancement often takes the form of moving to a more prestigious and
profitable dealership.
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Alternative Fuel Vehicle Service Technicians
O*NET Occupation Title and Description
Automotive Master Mechanics: Repair automobiles, trucks, buses, and other vehicles. Master mechanics
repair virtually any part on the vehicle or specialize in the transmission system.
http://online.onetcenter.org/link/summary/49-3023.01
Common job titles:
Automotive Technician, Automotive Service Technician, Shop Foreman, Certified ASE Master Automotive
Technician, Master Automotive Technician, ASE Master Mechanic
Automotive technology is rapidly increasing in sophistication, and most training authorities strongly
recommend that people seeking work in automotive service complete a formal training program in a
postsecondary vocational school or community college. However, some service technicians still learn
the trade solely by assisting and learning from experienced workers. Acquiring National Institute for
Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification is important for those seeking work in urban areas.
The National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium (NAFTC) is a national leader in providing training on
alternative fuel vehicle topics such as biodiesel, ethanol, hybrids, hydrogen, fuel cells, natural gas (CNG
cylinder inspection, LNG, and light and heavy-duty vehicles), battery-powered electric vehicles, and
propane. They also offer courses on transient emissions testing. Some of these topics may also be addressed
by local community college programs.
www.bls.gov/oco/ocos181.htm
Wage Information
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$19,200
$21,300
$22,100
$25,300
$27,700
$31,200
$34,200
$38,000
$47,200
$45,600
$51,700
$59,900
$57,700
$63,800
$66,400
www.bls.gov/oes/
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Employment Trends
In addition to openings from growth, many job openings will be created by the need to replace a growing
number of retiring technicians. Job opportunities in this occupation are expected to be very good for
those who complete postsecondary automotive training programs and who earn ASE certification. Some
employers report difficulty in finding workers with the right skills. People with good diagnostic and
problem-solving abilities, and training in basic electronics and computer courses are expected to have the
best opportunities.
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
2006
2016
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
772,700
883,100
+14%
26,540
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
80,000
3,840
96,600
4,400
+21%
+15%
3,800
158
www.bls.gov/emp/
(% of total employment for the occupation in California)
Automobile Dealers (32.3%)
Automotive Repair and Maintenance (30.5%)
Gasoline Stations (2.2%)
Automotive Equipment Rental and Leasing (1.2%)
Employment Services (0.9%)
Motor Vehicle/Part Merchant Wholesalers (0.9%)
Management of Companies and Enterprises (0.3%)
Support Activities, Road Transportation (0.2%)
Couriers (0.2%)
Waste Management and Remediation Service(0.2%)
Colleges and Universities (0.2%)
Utility System Construction (0.1%)
Elementary and Secondary Schools (0.1%)
Power Generation and Supply (0.1%)
Electronic Markets and Agents/Brokers (0.1%)
Possible local
employers
319
1,673
314
187
380
115
15
115
6
112
53
101
675
16
163
Also, see appendix for a list of Alternative Fuel Vehicle Related Businesses (in the Bay Area).
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Automotive Training Center
3500 Thomas Rd
Santa Clara, CA 95054
(408) 844-9058
Certificate Program
California Automotive Apprenticeship
www.autoapprenticeship.com
3777 Stevens Creek Blvd., Ste. 320
(408) 244-4816
Apprenticeship Program (4 years)
Evergreen Valley College
www.evc.edu
3095 Yerba Buena Road
San Jose, CA 95135
(408) 274-7900
Associate’s Degree - Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician Program
City College of San Francisco - Advanced Transportation Technology and Energy
Initiative
www.ccsf.edu/Departments/Automotive_Technology/
1400 Evans St.
San Francisco, CA 94124
(415) 550-4409
CCSF plans to offer classes in Hybrid Auto Technician Maintenance and Repair beginning in the
fall semester of 2009. CCSF also offers occasional classes and workshops on alternative fuels.
Other Resources
National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification
www.asecert.org
101 Blue Seal Drive, S.E, Suite 101
Leesburg, VA 20175
(703) 669-6600
ASE Certification
National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium (NAFTC)
www.naftc.wvu.edu
1100 Frederick Lane
Morgantown, WV 26508
(304) 293-7882
Classes, workshops, certification
The College Board (www.collegeboard.com) lists four colleges (nationwide) that currently offer degree
programs in Alternative Fuel Vehicle Technology:
College of the Desert
www.collegeofthedesert.edu
43-500 Monterey Avenue
Palm Desert, CA 92260
(760) 346-8041
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Long Beach City College
www.lbcc.edu
4901 East Carson Street
Long Beach, CA 90808
(562) 938-4111
Morton College
www.morton.edu
3801 South Central Avenue
Cicero, IL 60804-4398
(708) 656-8000
Pulaski Technical College
www.pulaskitech.edu
3000 West Scenic Drive
North Little Rock, AR 72118-3347
(501) 812-2200
Career Ladders
Automotive service technicians usually start as trainees, helpers, or lubrication workers, and gradually
acquire and practice their skills by working with experienced mechanics and technicians. In many cases,
on-the-job training may be a part of a formal education program. With a few months’ experience, beginners
perform many routine service tasks and make simple repairs. While some graduates of postsecondary
training programs are often able to earn promotion to the journey level after only a few months on the job,
it typically takes 2-5 years of experience to become a fully qualified service technician, who is expected
to quickly perform the more difficult types of routine service and repairs. An additional 1-2 years of
experience familiarizes technicians with all types of repairs. Complex specialties, such as transmission
repair, require another year or two of training and experience. In contrast, brake specialists may learn
their jobs in considerably less time because they do not need complete knowledge of automotive repair.
Employers increasingly send experienced automotive service technicians to manufacturer training centers
to learn to repair new models or to receive special training in the repair of components. By becoming
skilled in multiple auto repair services, technicians can increase their value to their employer and their pay.
Experienced technicians who have administrative ability sometimes advance to shop supervisor or service
manager. Some may open their own repair shops. Technicians who work well with customers may become
automotive repair service estimators.
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Star Profile
Introducing DAVE WOLFE
What is your job title?
I’m a Master Mechanic.
What kind of work do you do?
I specialize in collision repair.
What attracted you to this type of work?
I like cars. I always liked figuring out how things worked. It intrigued me to take stuff apart, look
at it, and then put it back together. As far as I remember, I’ve always been like that. When I
started getting stuff of my own, like bicycles and that sort of thing, it was like I was free to take
them apart and put them together because they were mine. Must be part of my nature. I liked to
mow the lawn because it had a motor on it.
What kind of things do you do at work?
I take broken things apart, put them back together, and fix them. As I’m putting them together, I
diagnose and analyze why things are broken.
How would you better prepare yourself if you were starting over in your career?
Go to school and take automotive and related courses, like machine shop, welding, electronics.
Go to a trade school that’s specific to the trade. And I’d recommend learning something about
economics so you’ll know what’s worth repairing and what’s not.
What keeps you motivated at work?
All my years of experience, I have the tools and the skills, and I still like doing it. This job
lets you feel the rewards of your accomplishments and you’re actually a part of the end product.
Not to mention I don’t ever have to pay a mechanic to fix my car.
What qualities make for an exceptional Auto Mechanic?
Creativity. You must be able to visualize the end product and how you’re going to get to that
point. You have to be organized, patient, and you have to like to be outdoors without many
creature comforts.
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Architects (sustainable design)
Architects: Plan and design structures, such as private residences, office buildings, theaters, factories, and
other structural property.
Common job titles:
Architect, Project Architect, Project Manager, Principal Architect, Design Architect
There are three steps in becoming an architect. First is the attainment of a professional degree (usually a
Bachelor’s degree) in architecture. Second is work experience through an internship, and third is licensure
through the passing of the Architect Registration Exam. In most states, the degree in architecture must
be from one of the 114 schools of architecture that have degree programs accredited by the National
Architectural Accrediting Board. Prior to becoming licensed, architecture school graduates generally work
in the field under the supervision of a licensed architect.
It is recommended that green/sustainable design architects become LEED Accredited Professionals (LEED
AP certification) through the US Green Building Council (www.USGBC.org).
Wage Information
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$40,200
$48,800
$48,400
$52,000
$59,700
$58,200
$67,600
$75,500
$78,300
$88,400
$95,700
$100,200
$113,000
$119,000
$120,300
www.bls.gov/oes/
Employment Trends
Besides employment growth, many job openings will arise from the need to replace architects who are
nearing retirement. Prospects will also be favorable for architects with knowledge of “green” design. Green
design, also known as sustainable design, emphasizes energy efficiency, renewable resources such as energy
and water, waste reduction, and environmentally friendly design, specifications, and materials. Rising
energy costs and increased concern about the environment has led to many new buildings being built green.
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Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
2006
2016
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
131,900
155,300
+18%
4,830
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
16,700
530
19,200
600
+15%
+13.2%
400
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www.bls.gov/emp/
Architectural and Engineering Services (67%)
Management of Companies and Enterprises 2%
Nonresidential Building Construction (1.4%)
Residential Building Construction (1.2%)
Management & Technical Consulting Svc (1.1%)
Activities Related to Real Estate (1%)
General Medical and Surgical Hospitals (1%)
Possible local
employers
1,187
15
1,000
568
1,229
310
57
Academy of Art University - Architecture Program
www.academyart.edu/architecture-school/
79 New Montgomery Street
San Francisco, CA 94105-3410
(415) 618-3597
Master of Architecture
California College of the Arts - School of Architecture
www.cca.edu
1111 Eighth Street
(415) 703-9516
Bachelor of Architecture
San Francisco Institute of Architecture - Distance Learning Programs
Programs not currently accredited
www.sfia.net
PO Box 2590
Alameda, CA 94501
(510) 523-5174
Bachelor of Architecture
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University of California, Berkeley - Department of Architecture
http://arch.ced.berkeley.edu/
232 Wurster Hall #1800
Berkeley, CA 94720-1800
(510) 642-4942
Community Colleges
Some community colleges have classes and even two-year Associate degree programs that can
apply toward a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture. Check with your local community colleges for
more information about their course offerings and the issue of credit transferability.
Other Resources
LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) Certification
Green Building Certification Institute
www.gbci.org
1800 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Suite 300
Washington, DC 20036
(800) 795-1746
Career Ladders
Most architects start out as junior architects, gaining experience on–the–job, taking on increasing
responsibilities, and eventually managing entire projects. Some begin their careers as CAD operators/
drafters before getting their Bachelor’s degree in architecture. In larger architectural firms, architects may
advance to supervisory or management positions. Some architects become partners in established firms,
while others start their own practices. Some architects go into real estate development, civil engineering, or
construction management. Some go into teaching.
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Star Profile
Introducing PAUL ALMOND
How did you get into this career field? What was your education
and experience?
I’ve always loved to draw and design things. I knew I wanted to
be an architect early on, so I went to architecture school at the
University of Minnesota, worked at various architectural firms
during my schooling, and then moved to California for the weather and apparent design interest.
What is your current job title and how would you describe the work you do in a typical day? What
are your most common tasks?
I own my own architectural firm with my wife, who is also an architect. We provide a mixture
of residential and commercial design work, but primarily modern residential design work for
highly tailored homes that include green architecture. Hence, the name of our company: Sage
Architecture. When we decided to open up a firm and do residential work, we felt morally
obligated to take advantage of the technologies and techniques available to build better houses.
Our work is limited to a very small percentage of the residential design market – it is very much
a niche market dedicated to those who really value architecture and design. Every one of our
projects is shaped to accommodate site conditions. The basic elements of green architectural
work includes technology, material, and passive solar design. Technology includes things like
solar panels and geothermal heat source pumps. Materials includes things like bamboo flooring
and NO VOC paints. The third element, which we think is most important, is passive solar
design. It’s particularly important in places where we can take advantage of the environment to
allow the building to heat and cool itself. Most commonly, our daily work consists of sketching
raw design ideas, drafting details, coordinating with contractors on construction issues, and
meeting with clients to discuss their projects.
If you could give advice to a young person who wants to work in this career field someday, what
would you tell them? How can they best groom themselves for this field?
Talk to architects before you even start college. During college you should work in the offices of
architectural firms of varying sizes to experience the enormous variation in experiences. Your
personal interest and proficiency can lead you to a technical (CAD) experience, a business
experience, or an artistic experience. Different firms focus on different areas, and within firms,
employees are stratified into the many different tasks of architecture as the field continues to
become more specialized – for better or for worse. But in our profession, the college education is
really critical due to the licensing process required for architects.
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What kind of career advancement opportunities can one expect in this field? What kind of salary
range would reflect that career path (from entry level to the more advanced position)?
Again, enormous variation depending on your interest. Advancement can be very quick,
depending on interest, talent and opportunity. A good talent for pure design, along with
presentation and social skills, allows you to present design work to clients which can become
extremely important. It’s like being the lead singer in a band – it gets attention. From there,
starting your own architectural firm can be daunting, but depending on the type of firm, can
actually be quite easy to run. You need to deal well with long days and surround yourself with
the best people, including consultants. Salaries are low in the beginning, but advancement can
be quick. Owning your own firm can mean the sky is the limit, depending on your skills, priorities
and interests.
In your opinion, what are some of the best schools, degrees and certificates for jobs in this career field?
Architecture is an artistic profession. I have enormous respect for the big–name schools, but
my experience is that you are more likely to be hired based on your personal design portfolio,
experience, and social skills. Of course, better schools are likely to help you develop a superior
portfolio, but they can’t do it for you. In the end, it comes down to you, and you alone.
How does someone without previous experience in this career field land a job? What are the best
strategies for job–hunting in this field?
A lot of internships. In fact, there’s something called the Intern Development Program (IDP) that
a lot of states have now adopted. You work at various firms and you document the specific tasks
that you’re doing. And you have to fulfill a certain quota for different types of tasks, whether it’s
writing specifications, meeting with clients, doing design work, site work – all the various aspects
of what an architect does.
Are there any professional associations that you would recommend joining? Is there an
association specifically for green architects?
The AIA, or American Institute of Architects, is the professional organization for us. There are
categories within the AIA, like COTE, as in Committee on the Environment, that support green
architecture. You can join as an associate AIA member without being a licensed architect.
What emerging or high growth careers do you see developing now and into the future for this
career field? What new technologies will have the greatest impact on this field?
CAD certainly has had the biggest effect over the last 20 years within architecture. Integrating
construction drawings, bidding, and construction process documentation is becoming more and
more popular for large projects. Pure design work remains, in my opinion, in the low tech world
of the pad and pencil. And that highlights the variability of our profession – spanning aspects
from the purely technical to the purely artistic. As far as the field of green architecture, there’s
solar. But I wouldn’t call that a new technology, although they’re making improvements all the
time. To me the new stuff is more the materials.
14
Building Materials Specialists/Sales Reps/Salespersons
(green/sustainable building materials)
Green building products/materials specialists and/or sales reps are the individuals who sell green or
sustainable building products/materials in a wholesale or retail environment. Some may be more customerservice oriented (rather than direct sales), but the common objective is to provide the necessary product
information and promotion that leads to product sales.
Green home improvement products and sustainable building materials are wide-ranging and include
everything from paint and cement to flooring and appliances. It includes nontoxic products, products
made from salvaged or recycled materials, resource or energy efficient products or materials, products or
materials with a long life cycle, and environmentally conscious products or materials (that conserve natural
resources).
Note: This career profile does not include those who sell renewable energy or HVAC products. (See Solar
Energy Systems Sales Reps or HVAC Salespersons)
Common job titles:
Green Building Professional/Specialist, Sales Person, Sales Rep, Customer Service Rep, Customer Advisor,
Eco Home Improvement Specialist, Sustainable Building Materials Specialist
The most important requirement at this time seems to be experience and knowledge, although there is much
on-the-job training involved in order to learn about specific products, many of which are new. However,
at least one retail store in the Bay Area that specializes in green/sustainable building materials appears to
employ mostly college graduates who are also certified Green Building Professionals. In any case, smaller
retail stores are more likely to hire generalists who bring with them some relevant knowledge and skills, but
can also be taught on-the-job. Larger stores are more likely to hire people who have specialty knowledge
such as: kitchen and bath design, flooring, countertops and cabinetry, clay products, paints, and carpentry.
Some stores may hire general sales/customer service people who assist the area specialists. Sales reps for
manufacturers and distributors generally need to be product specialists – which generally requires related
experience in one or more specific fields (e.g., paints). For a specialist, whether in wholesale or retail, being
certified as a Green Building Professional is a big plus. So, depending on the employer and the job that’s
being filled, the educational standards may be high, or they may be willing to train inexperienced workers
who (they believe) have the right values and aptitudes.
15
Wage Information
For Sales Representatives (not specific to green building materials)
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$26,500
$28,500
$35,000
$36,100
$38,700
$44,600
$50,800
$54,200
$64,500
$73,700
$77,600
$87,200
$103,900
$108,600
$133,000
For Retail Salespersons (not specific to green building materials)
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$14,800
$16,200
$16,500
$16,700
$17,700
$18,300
$20,200
$20,900
$21,900
$27,300
$27,900
$28,400
$39,200
$39,300
$40,000
www.bls.gov/oes/
Employment Trends
Job growth in this field is tied to the growth of the green building environment. And, as long as our public
policies push for greater energy efficiency and more sustainable design, green building will continue to
grow. Also, as the cost of green building becomes more and more affordable, builders and buyers alike are
beginning to realize the short and long term benefits of energy efficiency.
Possible local
employers
Building Material and Supplies Dealers
Furniture & Furnishings Merchant Whsle
Hardware & Plumbing Merchant Wholesalers
Home Furnishings Stores
Lumber and Supply Merchant Wholesalers
524
106
144
335
111
Note that most of the above employers do not specialize in green home improvement products and
sustainable building materials.
Also, see appendix for a list of Suppliers and Retailers of Sustainable Building Materials (in the Bay Area).
16
BuildItGreen
BuildItGreen is a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote healthy, energy and
resource-efficient buildings in California. They offer Certified Green Building Professional
(CGBP) training, a literature and building materials library, and online directories of green
products and green service providers.
www.builditgreen.org
1434 University Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94702
(510) 845-0472
Career Ladders
There is such a wide variety of green building product manufacturers, suppliers and retailers that it
is impossible to suggest a typical career path. In retail, individuals are sometimes hired as part-time
salespeople and eventually get moved into a full-time position. As they gain experience and knowledge,
they may become specialists or lead workers/supervisors. Supervisors may become assistant managers,
assistant managers may become managers, etc. Or, in a larger retail setting, the advancement may be
within a department. Retailers may also hire cashiers, stock clerks, material handlers and delivery drivers.
Individuals in these positions may move up or laterally into sales. Depending on the business, customer
service positions may be lower or higher in the organization’s hierarchy than sales. Outside of retail, it
depends on the business and the industry, as well as the experience and knowledge of the new employee.
There are often entry-level positions that involve physical labor, and these positions can often lead to a
better paying position as a sales rep. Sales reps who work for manufacturers and suppliers may advance in
their careers by way of higher earnings or more lucrative sales territories. A sales rep can be promoted to
various levels of management, from district to regional to national (sales managers). Career advancement
may also lead to self-employment for some who figure out a way to fill a niche.
17
Star Profile
Introducing JOSH DANIELS
How did you get into the green building materials career field?
What was your education and experience, including any green–
related training or certification?
I was in the wine business for seven years before this,
working for the family business in sales and marketing. We
represented about 32 wineries, and had about 70 employees. The problem was, I like wine, but
I didn’t have a passion for it, and it didn’t fit into my value set very well. And as the company
started getting more and more corporate, I decided to get out. In 2003, I went back to school at
the New College of San Francisco. It started as an activism school back in the late ‘60s, initially
one of those “fight the power” types, but it became more solution–oriented in the 80s. I ended
up getting an education centered on problem–solving and finding alternatives. I studied ecology,
culture, and the whole dwelling process in general, so when I moved to Sacramento and we
wanted to remodel the house, I tried to do so in a more environmentally friendly and health–
conscious way. As we were looking at the products and services available, I came to thinking,
“There must be a better way to do this.” And it just clicked – that was my next step. It took me
about a year to do all the research and financing, and then I opened my business.
I am the owner of a retail store selling environmentally friendly and home healthy building
materials. I do everything from cleaning bathrooms and stocking materials, to managing
employees and dealing with customers and vendors and choosing products. I’d say my primary
task is working directly with customers; we’re a retail business, so we’re all about sales. Second
would probably be marketing – making sure people know who we are, where we are, and what
we do. And then managing products and making sure everything gets ordered and followed
through on in a timely manner.
First and foremost, you really have to be interested in and passionate about working in the green
industry. It has to matter to you. I’m not a salesman – I hate being a salesman – but I don’t have
to act like one because I’m passionate about the products I carry and that just comes through.
The second thing is, get the right education. Understand what you’re doing and why you’re doing
it, and what the principles are behind green services and products. I think the key is to be able to
appreciate the larger social context of what you’re doing – how it affects the economy, how it affects
the environment, how it affects human health, and how it affects the larger society in general.
18
At this point that’s dependent on growing the business. That could be by increasing the size
of my business itself, increasing the size of my market, but mainly furthering the education
of the public so that more people are using products that are sustainable and healthier in the
home. I want to increase the employment in the area, and grow my business to a size where
I’m comfortable, so I can show that you can make money and still maintain a high values and
standards. But I don’t think people can, or should, expect a business to grow forever. It’s an
unsustainable concept. The important thing is sustaining a business, while continuing to grow
the concepts of green building and sustainability and a healthy society.
In your opinion, what are some of the best schools, degrees and certificates for jobs in this career
field, including green–specific training?
I know of two green MBA programs specifically: one is at Presidio School of Management in San
Francisco and the other is at Dominican University in Marin. Those are both really good MBA
programs because they take into account the larger context of business in society. In Northern
California, there’s also Build It Green, which has several certification processes. And of course,
there’s LEED certification from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). At least for me, that’s
going to become more and more important for employees to have as they start getting into
LEED for home building in the upcoming years.
That passion has to come through. So if somebody isn’t really living a green life style, if they’re
not convincing in that they believe in it and that they understand the concepts, then they’re just
not going to succeed. Or if they’ve got lots of perfume and make–up on, it’s an instant sign that
they don’t get it. But more than anything, they need to have passion. After that, they need to
have good people skills and good organizational skills.
Are there any professional associations that you would recommend joining?
Definitely the USGBC – that’s key. The retail stores have been trying for the last two years to
start some sort of a green building retailers association. But we’re all starting new businesses
right now and we don’t have the time or money.
What emerging careers do you see developing now and into the future for this career field? What
new technologies will have the greatest impact on this field?
There’s a lot of room for growth and development and innovation and ingenuity in green building
and design. Energy is what’s driving green technology: reductions in energy usage and finding
new sustainable forms of energy. But key is the reduction of energy usage and how we improve
our processes: shipping, extracting, manufacturing, etc. Water efficiency is probably as important
to energy efficiency as it is to water conservation because of the amount of energy that goes into
maintaining waterways and water systems. So there is a lot going on with water and energy efficiency.
19
Buyers and Purchasing Agents/Managers
There are three different O*NET occupations that combine to describe this career field:
Wholesale and Retail Buyers: Buy merchandise or commodities, other than farm products, for resale
to consumers at the wholesale or retail level, including both durable and nondurable goods. Analyze past
buying trends, sales records, price, and quality of merchandise to determine value and yield. Select, order,
and authorize payment for merchandise according to contractual agreements. May conduct meetings with
sales personnel and introduce new products.
Purchasing Agents: Purchase machinery, equipment, tools, parts, supplies, or services necessary for the
operation of an establishment. Purchase raw or semi-finished materials for manufacturing.
Purchasing Managers: Plan, direct, or coordinate the activities of buyers, purchasing officers, and related
workers involved in purchasing materials, products, and services.
Common job titles:
Buyer, Trader, Product Manager, Purchasing Manager/Agent, Procurement Specialist, Supply Chain Manager
Educational requirements vary with the size of the organization. Large stores and distributors prefer
applicants who have completed a Bachelor’s degree program with a business emphasis. Many
manufacturing firms put an even greater emphasis on formal training, preferring applicants with a
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in engineering, business, economics, or one of the applied sciences. A
Master’s degree is often essential for advancement to a top-level purchasing manager job. Regardless of
academic preparation, new employees must learn the specifics of their employer’s business. Training periods
vary in length, with most lasting 1-5 years. In wholesale and retail establishments, most trainees begin by
selling merchandise, supervising sales workers, checking invoices on material received, and keeping track
of stock. As they progress, trainees are given increased buying-related responsibilities. In manufacturing,
new purchasing employees often are enrolled in company training programs and spend a considerable
amount of time learning about their firm’s operations and purchasing practices. They work with experienced
purchasers to learn about commodities, prices, suppliers, and markets. In addition, they may be assigned
to the production planning department to learn about the material requirements system and the inventory
system the company uses to keep production and replenishment functions working smoothly.
20
Wholesale/Retail Buyers: 28% High school or less | 36% Some college | 36% Bachelor’s degree or higher
Purchasing Agents:
Purchasing Managers:
Wage Information
For Wholesale and Retail Buyers
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$27,800
$29,500
$32,700
$35,400
$37,100
$41,000
$47,000
$48,600
$57,500
$63,700
$64,900
$79,800
$86,700
$85,300
$101,300
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$32,600
$35,300
$42,600
$40,500
$44,200
$53,100
$52,500
$57,000
$66,700
$69,200
$73,500
$82,000
$86,900
$91,600
$98,200
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$48,500
$51,000
$64,300
$64,100
$69,300
$88,200
$85,400
$90,800
$106,900
$111,200
$116,300
$131,800
$138,600
$142,100
$145,600+
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
For Purchasing Agents
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
For Purchasing Managers
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
www.bls.gov/oes/
Employment Trends
No change is expected in overall employment of purchasing managers, buyers, and purchasing agents during
the 2006-16 decade. There are a number of reasons for this: software has eliminated much of the paperwork
involved in ordering and procuring supplies; the number of purchases being made electronically through
the Internet and electronic data interchange (EDI) continues to increase; consolidation of purchasing/buying
departments as a result of mergers, acquisitions and centralization. Persons who have a Bachelor’s degree
in business should have the best chance of obtaining a buyer position in wholesale or retail trade, or within
government. A Bachelor’s degree, combined with industry experience and knowledge of a technical field,
will be an advantage for those interested in working for a manufacturing or industrial company. Larger
organizations often require a Master’s degree in business for top-level purchasing positions.
21
For Wholesale and Retail Buyers
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
2006
2016
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
156,5600
$156,400
0%
3,510
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
19,100
1,110
21,800
1,220
+14%
+9.9%
800
40
2006
2016
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
287,400
287,800
0%
6,180
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
32,500
3,810
36,500
3,890
+12%
+2.1%
1,200
103
2006
2016
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
772,700
883,100
+14%
26,540
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
80,000
3,840
96,600
4,400
+21%
+15%
3,800
158
For Purchasing Agents
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
For Purchasing Managers
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
www.bls.gov/emp/
22
Possible local
employers
Advertising and Related Services
Aerospace Product & Parts Manufacturing
Apparel/Piece Goods Merchant Wholesalers
Architectural and Engineering Services
Automobile Dealers
Commercial Goods Merchant Wholesalers
Communications Equipment Manufacturing
Computer Systems Design and Rel Services
Computers and Peripheral Equipment
Electric Goods Merchant Wholesalers
Electrical Equipment and Appliances
Electronic Instrument Manufacturing
Electronic Markets and Agents/Brokers
General Medical and Surgical Hospitals
Grocery Product Merchant Wholesalers
Grocery Stores
Machinery & Supply Merchant Wholesalers
Management & Technical Consulting Svc
Management of Companies and Enterprises
Misc Durable Goods Merchant Wholesalers
Misc Nondurable Goods Merchant Whsle
Motor Vehicle/Part Merchant Wholesalers
Office Supply, Stationery & Gift Stores
Other General Purpose Machinery Mfg
Pharmaceutical & Medicine Manufacturing
Residential Building Construction
Scientific Research and Development Svc
Semiconductor and Electronic Components
509
5
30
1,187
319
524
423
42
1,142
74
853
65
93
163
57
196
602
144
394
529
15
600
122
115
394
60
16
568
311
602
Note that, nationwide, about ten percent of purchasing agents and about five percent of purchasing
managers work for the federal government.
23
A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Business or a related field is available from many colleges and
universities. See appendix for a list of universities in the Bay Area.
Career Ladders
Qualified persons may begin as trainees, purchasing clerks, expediters, junior buyers, or assistant buyers.
An experienced buyer may become an assistant purchasing manager in charge of a group of purchasing
professionals before advancing to purchasing manager, supply manager, or director of materials
management. At the top levels, duties may overlap with other management functions, such as production,
planning, logistics, and marketing. Others may go to work in sales for a manufacturer or wholesaler. A
Master’s degree is essential for advancement to many top-level purchasing manager jobs.
24
Carpenters (green building)
Construction Carpenters: Construct, erect, install, and repair structures and fixtures of wood, plywood,
and wallboard, using carpenter's hand tools and power tools.
Common job titles:
Carpenter, Journeyman Carpenter, Lead Carpenter, Master Carpenter, Green Building Carpenter
High school, adult education or community college classes in English, algebra, geometry, physics,
mechanical drawing, blueprint reading, and general shop classes help prepare students for the further
training they will need in construction and carpentry work. In addition to the classes or a vocational training
program, there are a number of different ways to obtain the necessary on-the-job training. Some get a job
as a carpenter’s helper, assisting more experienced workers. Some employers offer formal apprenticeships.
Apprenticeship programs combine on-the-job training with some classroom instruction and usually last 3-4
years. To specialize in green carpentry requires working for a green building contractor who applies green
building practices and uses green building materials. Taking classes in green building and sustainable design
is also important.
It is recommended that green building carpenters become LEED Accredited Professionals (LEED APs)
through certification with the US Green Building Council (www.USGBC.org).
Wage Information
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$23,400
$28,200
$33,800
$29,100
$37,200
$43,800
$37,700
$49,400
$53,700
$50,800
$61,400
$64,600
$65,900
$73,600
$76,400
www.bls.gov/oes/
25
Employment Trends
Nationwide, employment of carpenters is expected to increase by 10 percent during the 2006-16 decade,
about as fast as the average for all occupations. Job opportunities should be best for those with the most
training and skills. Job growth and replacement needs for those who leave the occupation create a large
number of openings each year. Many people with limited skills work as carpenters but eventually leave the
occupation because they dislike the work or cannot find steady employment. Carpenters with all-around
skills will have better opportunities for steady work than carpenters who can perform only a few relatively
simple, routine tasks. Carpenters can experience periods of unemployment because of the short-term nature
of many construction projects, winter slowdowns in construction activity in many geographic areas, and
the cyclical nature of the construction industry - which is sensitive to the fluctuations of the economy. Job
opportunities for carpenters also vary by geographic area, as construction activity parallels the movement of
people and businesses and reflects differences in local economic conditions.
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
2006
2016
1,462,100
1,612,100
+10%
34,780
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
195,500
6,700
236,800
7,840
+21%
+17.0%
7,300
223
www.bls.gov/emp/
Building Foundation/Exterior Contractors (20.0%)
Building Finishing Contractors (8.3%)
Other Specialty Trade Contractors (1.0%)
Highway, Street, and Bridge Construction (0.8%)
Household and Institutional Furniture (0.7%)
Other Wood Product Manufacturing (0.6%)
General Medical and Surgical Hospitals (0.4%)
Services to Buildings and Dwellings (0.3%)
Other Heavy Construction (0.3%)
Motion Picture and Video Industries (0.3%)
Possible local
employers
568
468
1,008
380
536
93
137
33
57
1,284
135
101
15
163
675
26
Carpenters Local 405 - Apprenticeship Program
www.carpenters405.org
2102 Almaden Rd, Suite 115
San Jose, CA 95125
(408) 269-7316
Also, see appendix for a list of community colleges with programs in green construction and/or building science.
Other Resources
www.gbci.org
(800) 795-1746
Career Ladders
Carpenters usually begin their careers as helpers or apprentices. After 3-4 years as an apprentice, a carpenter
is usually considered to be a journeyman carpenter. However, it usually takes a few more years before a
carpenter is fully experienced in all aspects of carpentry work, including green building. Carpenters have
more opportunities than most other construction trades workers to become supervisors and managers
because they are exposed to the entire construction process. For those who would like to advance, it is
increasingly important to be able to communicate in both English and Spanish in order to relay instructions
and safety precautions to workers; Spanish-speaking workers make up a large part of the construction
workforce in many areas. Some carpenters become licensed contractors, although that doesn’t always mean
becoming self-employed – at least not on a full-time basis. Some will work as contractors on a part-time
basis when work opportunities present themselves, while others work as full-time contractors, or even
build up their own construction or development firms with an army of employees. Oftentimes, however,
construction projects are done by a network of subcontractors, and carpenters may find that they can work
on a more regular basis if they have a contractor’s license. Supervisors and contractors alike need good
communication skills to deal with clients and subcontractors. They should be able to identify and estimate
the quantity of materials needed to complete a job and accurately estimate how long a job will take to
complete and what it will cost.
27
Star Profile
Introducing NEIL THOMSON
How did you get into the green building career field? What was
your education and experience, including any green–related
training or certification?
I went to school at Humboldt State University, which is a
pretty environmentally focused school. I lived at the Campus
Center for Appropriate Technology. There’s a pretty strong focus on green living there, and so
that was a great start. I’ve always been interested in the building and construction fields, and I
have worked in those fields for a number of years since college. And I would say the jobs were
of varying levels of green – depending on the people I worked for. And then I met Scott Blunk of
GreenBuilt Construction. The focus of his company is green building. When I started with them,
maybe only 10% of our clients came to us because they were interested in green building. But
over the past couple of years, there’s been more and more interest. And now it’s gone the whole
other direction where I would say that 90% to 95% of the people that come to us are interested
in green building.
I’m the project manager and my job is to go around and manage the different projects that our
company is working on and focusing on quality control. If there are areas that we can address
and make them more green, then that’s the kind of thing that I focus on. And also just having
the knowledge of the green products and building materials, and being able to help them make
the right decisions in the field. Most decisions have been made before hand. For instance, we
might find that the job we’re working on has inadequate insulation and a poorly functioning
duct. And so we recommended fixing those little things and now the client has a much more
energy efficient home, and a much more comfortable kitchen. If we hadn’t fixed those things, the
kitchen would still look the same, but it wouldn’t have changed the comfort level unless we had
done the things behind the wall. So it’s important to have someone in the field that knows those
things and can address them as they come up. So I work with both the clients, as well as the
subcontractors, in making sure they’re doing their job as green as possible.
Well, there’s certainly a lot of training available and that’s valuable, but getting directly involved
in the construction field is best. If you wanted to get into green construction and there wasn’t a
green construction company in your area, or one who would hire you, get a job with a regular
construction company and then – eventually – you can talk people into going green. There’s a lot
of advantages to it, so in today’s climate, it’s not too hard to talk people into going green.
28
The salary range is probably $30,000 to $ 60,000 per year, depending on what level you get
to and how long you’ve been in this field. A vice president of operations for a large company
could be $100,000 to $150,000 per year. But like any construction field, you start off as a
helper or apprentice. Once you’re a journey–level worker with several years of experience,
you can become a lead worker or foreman. Then superintendent, project manager, and other
management positions – depending on the size of company. Or get a license and become the
contractor.
Here in Northern California, Sonoma State University has a green building program. But if you’re
more interested in the design side of things, the San Francisco Institute of Architecture has an
environmental architecture program. Outside of Northern California, Boston Architectural College
has a sustainability track that’s supposed to be very good. As far as training in the green building
industry, there are a lot of training opportunities. For example, public utilities like PG&E offer
classes related to energy efficiency, such as appropriate insulation, home performance testing,
and those kinds of things. And there’s also different green building associations that offer classes
and trainings. There’s also solar energy classes and training programs. And solar is definitely a
part of green building, but green building is not just solar – despite what some people think. So
we try and do everything we can for our clients before we even consider solar because you get a
lot more bang for your buck.
Any contractors who are at these trainings are going to be more interested in people who are
already at those trainings. And a lot of contractors are going to these kinds of trainings. Also get
involved with your local chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council.
Testing tools are going to have one of the biggest effects in the energy efficiency field. Infrared
cameras, blower doors, duct blasters, CO2 monitors – as those get used more and more, we’re
able to better find out how homes and buildings are performing. So I think those tools will create
new jobs.
29
Civil Engineers
Civil Engineers: Perform engineering duties in planning, designing, and overseeing construction and
maintenance of building structures, and facilities, such as roads, railroads, airports, bridges, harbors, channels,
dams, irrigation projects, pipelines, power plants, water and sewage systems, and waste disposal units.
Common job titles:
Civil Engineer, Project Engineer, Structural Engineer, Water Resources Engineer, Construction Engineer,
Design Engineer, Architectural Engineer, Traffic Engineer, Transportation Engineer, Geotechnical Engineer,
City Engineer
A Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a related field is the minimum education requirement. However,
a graduate degree is usually necessary for college and university teaching positions and for many jobs in
research and development. Those who provide engineering services to the public must obtain a Professional
Engineer (PE) license which requires a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited engineering program, 4 years
of relevant work experience, and passing a state exam.
It is recommended that civil engineers who will work on green construction projects become LEED Accredited
Professionals (LEED APs) through certification with the US Green Building Council (www.USGBC.org).
Wage Information
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$46,400
$52,800
$57,100
$56,900
$65,000
$69,200
$71,700
$77,900
$85,300
$90,100
$95,600
$108,400
$109,100
$115,300
$136,200
www.bls.gov/oes/
30
Employment Trends
Civil engineers are expected to experience 18 percent employment growth during the 2006-2016 projections
decade, faster than the average for all occupations. Spurred by general population growth and the related
need to improve the nation’s infrastructure, more civil engineers will be needed to design and construct or
expand transportation, water supply, and pollution control systems and buildings and building complexes.
They also will be needed to repair or replace existing roads, bridges, and other public structures. Because
construction industries and architectural, engineering and related services employ many civil engineers,
employment opportunities will vary by geographic area and may decrease during economic slowdowns,
when construction is often curtailed.
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
2006
2016
256,300
302,400
+18%
11,360
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
39,900
2,490
46,100
2,780
+16%
+11.6%
1,300
69
www.bls.gov/emp/
Architectural and Engineering Services (51.5%)
Building Equipment Contractors (0.3%)
Scientific Research and Development Svc (0.3%)
Electronic Instrument Manufacturing (0.2%)
Activities Related to Real Estate (0.2%)
Possible local
employers
1,187
1,000
1,229
15
380
568
93
101
468
1,075
53
311
93
135
310
Note that, nationwide, about twelve percent of civil engineers work for local governments, and another
twelve percent work for state governments.
31
A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Civil Engineering or a related field is available from many colleges and
universities, including:
San Jose State University
www.sjsu.edu
1 Washington Sq
San Jose, CA
(408) 924-1000
Santa Clara University
www.scu.edu
500 El Camino Real
Santa Clara, CA
(408) 554-4000
Stanford University
www.stanford.edu
450 Serra Mall
Stanford, CA 94305
(650) 723-2300
See appendix for a list of other colleges and universities.
Career Ladders
Entry-level engineers usually begin their careers as junior engineers, working under the supervision of
experienced engineers. As they gain experience and knowledge, they generally advance to positions of
greater responsibility. For engineers, advancement can lead to senior engineer, project manager, research
& development manager, and vice president for engineering. Some become consultants or start their own
engineering firms. Those with a graduate degree can also become college and university professors.
32
Construction Managers
Construction Managers: Plan, direct, coordinate, or budget, usually through subordinate supervisory
personnel, activities concerned with the construction and maintenance of structures, facilities, and systems.
Participate in the conceptual development of a construction project and oversee its organization, scheduling,
and implementation.
Common job titles:
Project Manager, Construction Manager, Construction Superintendent, Job Superintendent, Project
Superintendent
Extensive and related work experience is the typical requirement. However, a Bachelor’s degree in
construction science, construction management, building science, or civil engineering is becoming
increasingly important for this occupation. Persons interested in becoming a construction manager also need
related work experience within the construction industry. Ability to use a project management software
program is important.
It is recommended that green construction managers become LEED Accredited Professionals (LEED APs)
through certification with the US Green Building Council (www.USGBC.org).
Wage Information
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$44,600
$63,200
$69,200
$58,000
$76,600
$81,100
$76,200
$95,200
$99,900
$102,200
$120,200
$121,000
$142,200
$145,600+
$145,300
www.bls.gov/oes/
33
Employment Trends
Employment of construction managers is projected to increase by 16 percent during the 2006-16 decade,
faster than the average for all occupations. More construction managers will be needed as the level of
construction activity continues to grow. The increasing complexity of construction projects will also
boost demand for specialized management-level personnel within the construction industry. Sophisticated
technology and the proliferation of laws setting standards for buildings and construction materials, worker
safety, energy efficiency, environmental protection, and the potential for adverse litigation have further
complicated the construction process. Advances in building materials and construction methods; the need
to replace portions of the Nation’s infrastructure; and the growing number of multipurpose buildings and
energy-efficient structures will further add to the demand for construction managers.
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
2006
2016
487,100
563,600
+16%
15,200
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
35,400
2,620
41,100
3,080
+16%
+17.6%
1,200
93
www.bls.gov/emp/
Land Subdivision (2.5%)
Lessors of Real Estate (0.5%)
Offices of Real Estate Agents & Brokers (0.4%)
Possible local
employers
1,000
568
1,075
1,187
1,008
178
468
536
101
1,229
93
15
310
1,201
2,045
34
There are four universities in California that offer Bachelor’s degree programs in construction science and/
or management accredited by the American Council for Construction Education (ACCE):
Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo - Department of Construction Management
www.construction.calpoly.edu
College of Architecture & Environmental Design
San Luis Obispo, CA 93407
(805) 756-1323
California State University, Chico - Department of Construction Management
http://cm.csuchico.edu
College of Engineering, Computer Science,& Construction Management
Chico, CA 95929-0305
(530) 898-5216
California State University, Fresno - Construction Management Program
www.csufresno.edu/engineering/departments_programs/civil_geomatic_const/programs/const_
mgmt/index.shtml
College of Engineering
2320 E. San Ramon Ave., MS/EE94
Fresno, CA 93740-0094
(559) 278-6056
California State University, Sacramento - Construction Management Department
www.csus.edu/cm/
Department of Civil Engineering
Sacramento, CA 95819
(916) 278-6616
In addition, there are many other colleges and universities (including community colleges) that offer
certificate and degree programs in building science and/or construction management.
BuildItGreen
Berkeley, CA 94702
(510) 845-0472
Career Ladders
Construction managers usually advance to construction management positions after many years of
experience as construction trades workers, supervisors, or licensed contractors. Advancement opportunities
for construction managers vary depending upon an individual’s performance and the size and type of
company for which they work. Within large firms, construction managers may eventually become top-level
managers or executives. Possession of a Bachelor’s degree may be necessary for such promotions. A few
may start their own companies specializing in construction management services.
35
Star Profile
Introducing SCOTT BLUNK
and experience?
I graduated as a mechanical engineer from Purdue University,
served 3 years in the Peace Corps, and then got an MBA.
But I got into green building by accident. I started GreenBuilt Construction because I was tired
of the drudgery of the PhD program I was enrolled in. I had read a lot on the real estate industry
over the previous decade just out of my own interest, so I started buying and selling homes and
fixing them myself. I got annoyed at real estate agents, so I became a real estate broker myself.
As I got busier, I began hiring people to help flip the homes and I realized I was building a useful
skill set. So I got my contractors license. Just my way of life makes me a green real estate agent
or a green construction manager or whatever I’m doing. When I used to work at Ford Motor
Company, I was a green engineer, but only in the fact that the way I impacted the environment
was in the forefront of my mind at all times. So in starting my construction company, I always
have my environmental “glasses” on. And so it was to be – by my nature – a green company. As
green became popular, it gave me a niche to fit.
I am President of GreenBuilt Construction. My work involves all aspects of leadership in a small
company: hiring, finance, marketing, sales.
Live it. Always be learning. Follow your interests and learn about them. Live your life according
to your principles. Get involved in your interests, such as clubs, social groups, etc., and
someday, probably not as soon as you’d like, you’ll be in the profession you desire.
Being self–employed, how do you look at career advancement? Does it generally take the form of
growing/expanding your business, or is self–employment part of a career track that may lead to
something else down the road?
I haven’t been an employee for someone else since 1997. I cannot work for others. My future
is expanding my own business. The only other option for me would be a position at another
company with almost total autonomy. The great thing about growing and expanding my own
business is that there are so many possibilities for growth that I can move in so many directions.
I can choose to start up a new arm of my business that interests me just because I see an
opportunity to learn, make money, or better position the company. I think this will keep me
stimulated for quite some time.
36
Can you suggest a salary range that someone could expect if they were to pursue work in your
career field?
My employee’s salaries range from $30,000 to $60,000 per year. This is much less than any
of them deserve, but they see the possibilities they have here in terms of their own careers,
potential income, and impact on the environment. We are a great group of individuals that have
fun together, work hard together, and push each other to learn and grow even more green.
In your opinion, what are some of the best schools, degrees and certificates for jobs in this career field?
The better the reputation of the school, the better the chances of the job applicant. I see the
candidate, but it is also the overall reputation of the school that makes a difference. Not the
school’s green or environmental reputation, as there really aren’t any schools out there with a
reputation in this new field. I would highly value candidates with a math/science background for
the majority of the positions in my company. Of course, getting your LEED AP certification helps,
as it shows dedication and desire to work in the green building industry. There are also local
organizations, like Build It Green in our area, that have training and certification opportunities
that would also show a serious interest in the industry.
How much experience is necessary before a person should venture into self–employment in your
field? What positions should that experience be in?
As little as possible – it is scary out here. I would have never done this had I known how difficult
it would be. If you find the opportunity, just do it. Don’t think about it or research how to do it.
Of course you need to know something about your field, but don’t get caught up in being an
expert first. If you’ve worked for years in the industry you start your company in, then you will
most likely just do things the same way everyone else in your industry does them. With less
experience, you come with a more open mind about how to do things. This has been both a
benefit and a hindrance to my own success. However, as I’ve said, if I knew the difficulty I would
have prior to starting the company, I wouldn’t have done it. And I love what I am doing now.
Your local chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and, for the new people in the
field, a group inside the USGBC called the Emerging Green Builders.
All electrical generation fields will see huge growth. The creation of an alternative to the internal
combustion engine will see a flurry of activity. There will also be tremendous growth in the
conversion / upgrade of existing buildings to green standards. Particularly, energy efficiency in
the existing built environment has the largest potential for both job growth and reduction in green
house gasses.
37
Construction Supervisors, First-line
First-Line Supervisors/Managers of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers: Directly supervise
and coordinate activities of construction or extraction workers.
All construction trades workers have supervisors – unless they are self-employed as contractors. This
occupation includes supervisory jobs for all the construction trades, including:
•
•
•
•
•
Boilermakers
•
Brickmasons, blockmasons & stonemasons •
Carpenters
•
Carpet, floor & tile installers & finishers
•
Cement masons, concrete finishers,
•
segmental pavers & terrazzo workers
• Construction equipment operators
•
• Drywall installers, ceiling tile installers
•
& tapers
•
www.bls.gov/oco/oco1009.htm
•
Common job titles:
Electricians
Glaziers
Insulation workers
Painters and paperhangers
Pipelayers, plumbers, pipefitters
& steamfitters
Plasterers and stucco masons
Roofers
Sheet metal workers
Structural & reinforcing iron & metal
workers
Supervisor, Foreman, Project Superintendent, Project Manager
Extensive experience and good supervisory qualities are the only requirements for construction supervisors.
However, they must first meet the qualificaions necessary for their trade area. Although construction trades
are generally learned through apprenticeship training, taking certain classes and gaining relevant experience
in high school and through postsecondary training and community college programs is a good idea. It can
not only help one get accepted into an apprenticeship program, but it can greatly accelerate the progress
one makes as an apprentice. In some cases, it can shorten the length of the apprenticeship program. In
some cases, being bilingual (English and Spanish) is necessary to advance from a construction trade to a
supervisory role. To specialize in green construction requires working for a green building contractor who
applies green building practices and uses green building materials. Taking classes in green building and
sustainable design is also important.
It is recommended that construction supervisors interested in green/sustainable building become LEED
Accredited Professionals (LEED APs) through certification with the US Green Building Council
(www.USGBC.org).
38
Wage Information
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$34,900
$44,500
$52,400
$43,400
$54,600
$64,000
$56,000
$67,300
$79,600
$72,000
$83,200
$100,700
$90,200
$100,100
$120,900
www.bls.gov/oes/
Employment Trends
Although local employment of construction managers is projected to increase by 17.6 percent during
the 2004-14 decade (faster than the average for all occupations), the local projection for construction
supervisors are a modest 4.3 percent through 2014.
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
2006
2016
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
771,800
841,800
+9%
17,780
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
76,600
3,940
90,300
4,110
+18%
+4.3%
2,700
72
www.bls.gov/emp/
Land Subdivision (1.9%)
Support Activities for Mining (0.9%)
Waste Management and Remediation Service (0.8%)
39
Possible local
employers
568
1,075
1,000
468
1,008
536
101
93
178
14
112
135
15
57
1,187
There are several community colleges that offer certificate and degree programs in building science and/or
construction management. See appendix for a list of colleges and other training providers in the Bay Area.
BuildItGreen
Berkeley, CA 94702
(510) 845-0472
Other Resources:
www.gbci.org
(800) 795-1746
Career Ladders
Construction supervisors begin their careers by learning one of the many construction trades. This usually
requires completing an apprenticeship program that lasts anywhere from 2-5 years. Once at the journeylevel, they can expect to work at least 3-4 more years before they have enough experience to supervise
others. Carpenters have more opportunities than most other construction trades workers to become
supervisors and managers because they are exposed to the entire construction process. For those who would
like to advance, it is increasingly important to be able to communicate in both English and Spanish in order
to relay instructions and safety precautions to workers; Spanish-speaking workers make up a large part of
the construction workforce in many areas. Some construction supervisors go on to become construction
managers or licensed contractors. Supervisors, managers and contractors alike need good communication
skills to deal with clients and subcontractors. They should be able to identify and estimate the quantity of
materials needed to complete a job and accurately estimate how long a job will take to complete and what
it will cost. Advancement opportunities for construction managers vary depending upon an individual’s
performance and the size and type of company for which they work. Within large firms, managers may
eventually become top-level managers or executives.
40
Cost Estimators
Cost Estimators: Prepare cost estimates for product manufacturing, construction projects, or services to aid
management in bidding on or determining price of product or service. May specialize according to particular
service performed or type of product manufactured.
About six out of ten cost estimators work in the construction industry.
Note: While cost estimating work is needed in many industries and by many organizations, the work is often
one of many hats worn by managers—rather than that of a dedicated cost estimator. For example, in nearly
all but the large construction companies, cost estimating tends to be done by construction managers or by
the owner/contractor.
Common job titles:
Estimator, Cost Estimator, Construction Estimator, Project Estimator, Cost Analyst, Sales Engineer
Education and training requirements for cost estimators vary by industry. In the construction industry,
employers increasingly prefer individuals with a degree in building science, construction management, or
construction science, all of which usually include courses in cost estimating. Most construction estimators
also have extensive experience in a construction trade occupation. Applicants with a thorough knowledge
of construction materials, costs, and procedures in areas ranging from heavy construction to electrical work,
plumbing systems, or masonry work have a competitive edge. In manufacturing industries, employers prefer
to hire individuals with a degree in engineering, physical science, operations research, mathematics, or
statistics, or in accounting, finance, business, economics, or a related field. In most industries, experience in
quantitative techniques is important. Many colleges and universities include cost estimating as part of their
Bachelor’s and Associate’s degree curriculums in civil engineering, industrial engineering, and building
science or construction management.
Wage Information
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$32,500
$34,700
$43,600
$41,600
$46,000
$53,000
$54,900
$61,300
$69,800
$72,000
$79,900
$84,600
$91,400
$98,800
$104,500
www.bls.gov/oes/
41
Employment Trends
Employment is expected to grow by 19 percent between 2006 and 2016, which is faster than the average
for all occupations. Because there are no formal Bachelor’s degree programs in cost estimating, some
employers have difficulty recruiting qualified cost estimators, resulting in very good employment
opportunities for qualified job seekers. Job prospects in construction should be best for those who have a
degree in building science or construction management, plus practical experience in the various phases of
construction or in a specialty craft area. For cost estimating jobs in manufacturing, those with degrees in
mathematics, statistics, engineering, accounting, business administration, or economics should have the
best job prospects. In addition to job openings arising from employment growth, many additional openings
should result annually from the need to replace workers who retire or leave the occupation for other reasons.
Employment of construction cost estimators, like that of many other construction workers, is sensitive to
the fluctuations of the economy. Workers in these trades may experience periods of unemployment when the
overall level of construction falls.
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
2006
2016
221,100
262,000
+19%
8,620
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
22,500
1,300
28,500
1,610
+27%
+23.8%
1,100
60
www.bls.gov/emp/
Possible local
employers
1,075
1,673
1,008
468
568
536
1,000
319
376
93
77
101
1,187
1,229
1,284
Automotive Repair and Maintenance (11.9%)
Automobile Dealers (3.8%)
Printing and Related Support Activities (2.4%)
Architectural and Structural Metals (1.9%)
Services to Buildings and Dwellings (1.3%)
42
For construction cost estimators:
There are four universities in California that offer Bachelor’s degree programs in construction science and/
or management accredited by the American Council for Construction Education (ACCE):
Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo - Department of Construction Management
www.construction.calpoly.edu
College of Architecture & Environmental Design
(805) 756-1323
California State University, Chico - Department of Construction Management
http://cm.csuchico.edu
College of Engineering, Computer Science,& Construction Management
Chico, CA 95929-0305
(530) 898-5216
California State University, Fresno - Construction Management Program
www.csufresno.edu/engineering/departments_programs/civil_geomatic_const/programs/const_
mgmt/index.shtml
College of Engineering
2320 E. San Ramon Ave., MS/EE94
Fresno, CA 93740-0094
(559) 278-6056
California State University, Sacramento - Construction Management Department
www.csus.edu/cm/
Department of Civil Engineering
Sacramento, CA 95819
(916) 278-6616
In addition, there are many other colleges and universities (including community colleges) that offer
certificate and degree programs in building science and/or construction management. See appendix for a list
of community colleges and universities in the Bay Area.
BuildItGreen
Berkeley, CA 94702
(510) 845-0472
For other (non-construction) cost estimators:
Many college degree and certificate programs offer classes in cost estimating as part of an overall
curriculum. This includes community colleges as well as universities. See appendix for a list of community
colleges and universities in the Bay Area.
43
Career Ladders
Estimator-in-training is the usual starting position for the occupation. For most cost estimators, advancement
takes the form of higher pay and prestige. In larger firms, advancement to chief estimator may be possible.
Others move into management positions, such as project manager for a construction firm or manager of
the industrial engineering department for a manufacturer. Some may go into business for themselves as
consultants, providing estimating services to government agencies and other clients.
44
Customer Service Representatives
Customer Service Representatives: Interact with customers to provide information in response to inquiries
about products and services and to handle and resolve complaints.
ttp://online.onetcenter.org/link/summary/43-4051.00
Customer service representatives are found in a variety of industries, with about one in four working in
finance and insurance. About 14 percent are employed in the administrative and support services sector,
which includes call centers and temporary employment agencies. About one in ten are employed in
retail. Other industries with significant numbers of customer service representatives include information,
manufacturing, wholesale trade, and utilities.
Common job titles:
Customer Service Representative (CSR), Client Services Representative, Customer Service Specialist,
Member Services Representative, Account Manager, Account Service Representative, Call Center
Representative
Most customer service representative jobs require only a high school diploma. However, because employers
are demanding a higher skilled workforce, many of these jobs now require an Associate’s degree or even
a Bachelor’s degree. Because of a constant need to update skills and knowledge, most customer service
representatives continue to receive instruction and training throughout their career. This is particularly true
of workers in industries in which products are continually changing.
Wage Information
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$18,500
$21,300
$26,000
$22,900
$26,300
$31,900
$29,000
$32,700
$41,000
$37,100
$41,700
$51,800
$47,200
$52,000
$64,900
www.bls.gov/oes/
45
Employment Trends
Employment of customer service representatives is expected to increase 25 percent from 2006 to 2016,
which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This occupation will have one of the largest
numbers of new jobs arise, about 545,000 over the 2006-16 projection period. Beyond job growth from
expansion of the industries in which customer service representatives are employed, a need for additional
customer service representatives is likely to result from heightened reliance on these workers. Customer
service is very important to the success of any organization that deals with customers, and strong customer
service can build sales, visibility, and loyalty as companies try to distinguish themselves from competitors.
In many industries, gaining a competitive edge and retaining customers will be increasingly important
over the next decade. This is particularly true in industries such as financial services, communications,
and utilities, which already employ numerous customer service representatives. As the trend towards
consolidation in industries continues, centralized call centers will provide an effective method for delivering
a high level of customer service.
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
2006
2016
2,202,300
2,747,400
+25%
115,840
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
199,300
10,270
252,000
12,080
+26%
+17.6%
8,200
334
www.bls.gov/emp/
Possible local
employers
133
1,146
380
15
478
911
238
1,229
72
57
163
295
1,142
423
84
Insurance Carriers (5.5%)
Insurance Agencies, Brokerages & Support (4.7%)
Depository Credit Intermediation (3.8%)
Nondepository Credit Intermediation (3.3%)
Wireless Telecommunications Carriers (3.2%)
Office Administrative Services (1.9%)
Business Support Services (1.6%)
Computer Systems Design and Rel Services (1.6%)
Commercial Goods Merchant Wholesalers (1.5%)
Electronic Shopping & Mail-Order Houses (1.4%)
46
Although training is provided on-the-job, any previous training in business or administrative support
services would be helpful.
Career Ladders
Many customer service jobs are entry–level positions, which make them good points–of–entry into
a company or industry. As skills and experience are gained, advancement may lead to supervisory or
management positions, or a transfer to a different type of job - depending on the industry and employer.
47
Drafters and CAD Technicians
Within green building and sustainable design, there are two different O*NET occupations that combine to
describe this career field:
Architectural Drafters: Prepare detailed drawings of architectural designs and plans for buildings and
structures according to specifications provided by architect.
Civil Drafters: Prepare drawings and topographical and relief maps used in civil engineering projects, such
as highways, bridges, pipelines, flood control projects, and water and sewerage control systems.
Within manufacturing, there are three different O*NET occupations that combine to describe this career
field:
Mechanical Drafters: Prepare detailed working diagrams of machinery and mechanical devices, including
dimensions, fastening methods, and other engineering information.
Electrical Drafters: Develop specifications and instructions for installation of voltage transformers,
overhead or underground cables, and related electrical equipment used to conduct electrical energy from
transmission lines or high-voltage distribution lines to consumers.
Electronic Drafters: Draw wiring diagrams, circuit board assembly diagrams, schematics, and layout
drawings used for manufacture, installation, and repair of electronic equipment.
Common job titles:
Drafter, CAD (Computer-Aided Design) Technician/Operator, Architectural Drafter, Civil Drafter,
Mechanical Drafter, Electrical Drafter, Electronic Drafter
Employers prefer applicants who have completed postsecondary training in drafting, which is offered by
community colleges, technical institutes, and some 4-year colleges and universities. Employers prefer
applicants with well-developed drafting and mechanical drawing skills; knowledge of drafting standards,
mathematics, science, engineering technology; and a solid background in CAD software.
48
Wage Information
For Architectural and Civil Drafters
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$27,700
$30,400
$36,300
$34,500
$39,600
$47,100
$43,300
$50,100
$60,200
$53,900
$61,000
$100,100
$65,100
$73,800
$145,600+
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$28,500
$31,300
$42,900
$35,300
$38,400
$49,900
$44,700
$50,100
$60,200
$56,400
$61,400
$77,800
$68,100
$74,700
$91,700
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$30,500
$32,700
$40,300
$38,400
$40,200
$48,500
$49,300
$51,000
$62,900
$63,000
$66,500
$80,600
$77,500
$82,800
$96,800
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
For Mechanical Drafters
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
For Electrical and Electronic Drafters
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
www.bls.gov/oes/
Employment Trends
Employment of drafters is expected to grow by 6 percent between 2006 and 2016, which is slower than the
average for all occupations. Industrial growth and increasingly complex design problems associated with
new products and manufacturing processes will increase the demand for drafting services. Furthermore,
drafters are beginning to break out of the traditional drafting role and do work traditionally performed by
engineers and architects, also increasing demand. However, many drafters tend to be concentrated in slowgrowing or declining manufacturing industries. In addition, CAD software is a powerful and is expected
to limit the demand for lesser skilled drafters. Although growth is expected to be greatest for mechanical,
architectural, and civil drafters, demand for particular drafting specialties varies throughout the country
because employment usually is contingent on the needs of local industry. Most job openings are expected to
arise from the need to replace workers who retire or leave the occupation.
For Architectural and Civil Drafters
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
2006
2016
115,500
122,500
+6%
4,000
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
14,700
750
15,100
760
+3%
+1.3%
500
22
49
For Mechanical Drafters
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
2006
2016
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
78,300
82,400
+5%
2,650
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
4,600
460
5,000
480
+9%
+4.4%
200
15
2006
2016
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
34,800
36,300
+4%
1,140
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
4,900
620
5,800
630
+18%
+1.6%
200
18
For Electrical and Electronic Drafters
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
www.bls.gov/emp/
Management & Technical Consulting Svc
Building Equipment Contractors
Building Finishing Contractors
Nonresidential Building Construction
Residential Building Construction
Other Specialty Trade Contractors
Machine Shops and Threaded Products
Building Foundation/Exterior Contractors
Employment Services
Investigation and Security Services
Land Subdivision
Utility System Construction
Possible local
employers
1,229
1,187
1,142
1,075
1,008
1,000
602
568
536
526
468
380
361
311
178
101
93
50
Major employing industries (cont’d)
Highway, Street, and Bridge Construction
Architectural and Structural Metals
Commercial & Service Industry Machinery
Other Fabricated Metal Product Mfg
Metalworking Machinery Manufacturing
Motor Vehicle Parts Manufacturing
Power Generation and Supply
Industrial Machinery Manufacturing
Possible local
employers (cont’d)
93
77
74
65
60
43
42
33
28
18
16
15
11
Drafting programs are available at many community colleges, as well as at other postsecondary educational
institutions and training providers. See appendix. Although the training differs somewhat among the drafting
specialties, the basics, such as mathematics, are similar. In an electronics drafting program, for example,
students learn how to depict electronic components and circuits in drawings. In architectural drafting, they
learn the technical specifications of buildings.
Career Ladders
Entry-level or junior drafters usually do routine work under close supervision. As they gain experience
and knowledge, they progress to more difficult work with less supervision. At the intermediate level,
they generally need to exercise more judgment and perform calculations when preparing and modifying
drawings. Drafters may eventually advance to positions such as senior drafter, designer, or supervisor.
Many employers pay for continuing education, and, with appropriate college degrees, drafters may go on to
become engineers or architects.
51
Star Profile
Introducing DEXTER JOHNSON
What are some of the jobs you’ve had?
I have worked as an Architectural Drafter, Auto Computer
Aided Design (CAD) Operator, and an Architectural Assistant.
We do commercial and residential remodels using CAD. We basically take someone’s
conceptual ideas and turn them into working drawings that something can be constructed
from. My typical day consists of working with a computer to create drawings based on design
specifications, and talking to clients about their particular projects.
I remember, when I was about 7 years old, my mom and dad would take my brother and me in
the car to go look at Christmas lights. I remember going to certain neighborhoods where they
had custom homes and I liked the way the houses looked. I said to my mom that I wanted to
build those houses when I grew up. She told me that if that is what I wanted to do, that I should
go after it. And I did.
What knowledge, skills, and abilities are important in this kind of work?
You need to be good at math, be computer literate, and even more so you need to be familiar
with the functions of the computer - especially when using CAD software. You need to pay close
attention to detail. The tiniest mistake can cost thousands of dollars because of the ramifications
it can have in design and construction. You also need to be reliable, determined, and consistent.
What is the best preparation for someone who wants to go into this occupation?
If you are still at the high school level, you should take some drafting classes. Make sure this
is something you want to do. You need to be really sharp in math, so work hard at the different
math classes. You could also try a tech or vocational school. This will give you some good
hands-on training. Summer internships are also a good place to get your feet wet. You will see a
lot of the different activities, running blue prints, working on the computer. It will give you a good
idea of what is required to be successful in this occupation.
I like to keep busy and work with my hands. I am not necessarily a people person, in that I don’t
need a lot of interaction with people. This job allows me to concentrate on the project at hand.
The most important thing about what keeps me in this job is that I look at it as more of a hobby
rather than a job. I just love doing this. This has been my dream since I was seven years old,
and I’m doing it.
What qualities make for an exceptional Drafter?
You need to be very accurate, consistent, and proficient.
52
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technicians
There are two different O*NET occupations that combine to describe this career field:
Electrical Engineering Technicians: Apply electrical theory and related knowledge to test and modify
developmental or operational electrical machinery and electrical control equipment and circuitry in
industrial or commercial plants and laboratories. Usually work under direction of engineering staff.
Electronics Engineering Technicians: Lay out, build, test, troubleshoot, repair, and modify developmental
and production electronic components, parts, equipment, and systems, such as computer equipment, missile
control instrumentation, electron tubes, test equipment, and machine tool numerical controls, applying
principles and theories of electronics, electrical circuitry, engineering mathematics, electronic and electrical
testing, and physics. Usually work under direction of engineering staff.
Common job titles:
Electrical Engineering Technician, Electronics Engineering Technician, Engineering Technician, Electrical
Design Technician, Electrical Technician, Electronics Technician, Engineering Lab Technician
Although it may be possible to qualify for certain engineering technician jobs without formal training, most
employers prefer to hire someone with at least a 2-year Associate’s degree in engineering technology. Job
seekers with college courses in science, engineering, and mathematics may qualify for some positions, but
may need additional specialized training and experience. Students should take as many science and math
courses as possible to prepare for this occupation. Although employers usually do not require engineering
technicians to be certified, such certification may provide jobseekers a competitive advantage. The National
Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies has established voluntary certification programs for
several engineering technology specialties. Certification is available at various levels, each level combining
a written examination in a specialty with a certain amount of job-related experience, a supervisory
evaluation, and a recommendation.
53
Wage Information
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$31,300
$33,800
$31,700
$40,600
$43,700
$43,300
$52,100
$56,200
$55,800
$62,400
$70,000
$70,600
$75,900
$85,400
$83,600
www.bls.gov/oes/
Employment Trends
Overall employment of engineering technicians is expected to grow 7 percent between 2006 and 2016,
about as fast as the average for all occupations. Competitive pressures will force companies to improve and
update manufacturing facilities and product designs, resulting in more jobs for engineering technicians.
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
2006
2016
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
170,400
176,500
+4%
3,930
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
25,700
4,530
30,400
4,850
+18%
+7.1%
1,000
120
www.bls.gov/emp/
Semiconductor and Electronic Components (12.2%)
Communications Equipment Manufacturing (4.3%)
Computers and Peripheral Equipment (4.1%)
Electric Goods Merchant Wholesalers (2.5%)
Electrical Equipment and Appliances (1.6%)
Aerospace Product & Parts Manufacturing (1.5%)
Medical Equipment and Supplies Mfg (1.0%)
54
Possible local
employers
931
602
380
1,187
42
74
311
1,142
853
57
238
65
5
423
287
Many publicly and privately operated schools provide technical training, but the type and quality of training
vary considerably. Therefore, prospective students should carefully select a program in line with their goals.
They should ascertain prospective employers’ preferences and ask schools to provide information about
the kinds of jobs obtained by program graduates, about instructional facilities and equipment, and about
faculty qualifications. Graduates of ABET-accredited programs usually are recognized as having achieved
an acceptable level of competence in the mathematics, science, and technical courses required for this
occupation. Private technical institutes offer intensive technical training through application and practice,
but they generally provide less theory and general education than do community colleges.
See appendix for a list of colleges and other training providers in the Bay Area.
Career Ladders
Engineering technicians usually begin by performing routine duties under the close supervision of an
experienced technician, technologist, engineer, or scientist. As they gain experience, they are given more
difficult assignments with only general supervision. Some engineering technicians eventually become
supervisors or develop a specialty. With additional education, some go on to become engineers.
55
Star Profile
Introducing DOMINIQUE CENTREZS
System Engineer Technician.
It varies. I do many things like security systems, lock safety systems, fixing TVs, data
communications, and computers.
My mother was a Computer Scientist. I looked into that field, but I really didn’t care for computer
science, so I looked into electrical engineering and that was something I enjoyed. My father was
an Engineer.
Sometimes I design, sometimes I troubleshoot. Other times, I just go over the process of what
needs to be done to maintain a system with a client. I have to remember and know all about
different types of electrical systems. Like a 7200 - that’s a light safety system. I have to know
what its capabilities are and what problems typically occur with it. If there’s a problem, I have to
be able to troubleshoot it and locate where we’re having a grid problem. I also have to know how
to install these systems.
I wouldn’t have spent a year and a half in the office. It’s too cluttered. You can’t get anything
done because there’s too much paperwork.
Because the electronics industry will continue to change, day in and day out. You don’t ever
work on the same system, and I never go to the same place. I always get to go to different
locations. There may be days when I’m at Cisco systems; there might be another day where I’m
at Intel or Microsoft. I don’t have to be confined to one office.
What qualities make for an exceptional Engineering Technician?
Being able to get along with the clients, knowing your equipment, and being able to repair
anything. You also need to love your job and have the ability to make decisions and think quickly
on your feet. A good Engineering Tech will also be constantly learning. Most of what you learn
in this field doesn’t come from reading books in a class. It comes from experiencing different
situations while you’re on the job.
56
Electrical Engineers
Electrical Engineers: Design, develop, test, or supervise the manufacturing and installation of electrical
equipment, components, or systems for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific use.
Although the terms electrical and electronics engineering often are used interchangeably in academia and
industry, electrical engineers have traditionally focused on the generation and supply of power, whereas
electronics engineers have worked on applications of electricity to control systems or signal processing.
Electrical engineers tend to specialize in areas such as power systems engineering or electrical equipment
manufacturing.
Common job titles:
Electrical Engineer, Electrical Design Engineer, Test Engineer, Controls Engineer
A Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering is the typical education requirement. However, a Master’s
degree is often necessary for advancement. Since this field is so broad, electrical engineers often earn a
Master’s degree in their area of specialty.
Wage Information
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$51,200
$57,200
$63,300
$62,900
$70,800
$79,600
$79,200
$89,200
$102,200
$98,500
$111,400
$126,200
$120,700
$134,000
$145,600+
www.bls.gov/oes/
57
Employment Trends
Electrical engineers are expected to have employment growth of 6 percent over the projections decade,
slower than the average for all occupations. Although strong demand for electrical devices—including
electric power generators, wireless phone transmitters, high-density batteries, and navigation systems—
should spur job growth, international competition and the use of engineering services performed in other
countries will somewhat limit employment growth. Electrical engineers working in firms providing
engineering expertise and design services to manufacturers should have the best job prospects.
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
2006
2016
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
153,400
163,000
+6%
4,520
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
21,200
5,430
24,700
5,780
+17%
+6.4%
800
161
www.bls.gov/emp/
Industrial Machinery Manufacturing (1.2%)
Other General Purpose Machinery Mfg (1.1%)
58
Possible local
employers
602
1,187
93
311
74
65
380
42
5
11
57
60
853
238
1,142
A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field is available from many colleges
and universities, including:
www.sjsu.edu
1 Washington Sq
San Jose, CA
(408) 924-1000
www.scu.edu
500 El Camino Real
Santa Clara, CA
(408) 554-4000
Stanford University
www.stanford.edu
450 Serra Mall
Stanford, CA 94305
(650) 723-2300
Career Ladders
Entry–level engineers usually begin their careers as junior engineers, working under the supervision of
engineering firms. Those with a graduate degree can also become college and university professors
59
Electricians
Electricians: Install, maintain, and repair electrical wiring, equipment, and fixtures. Ensure that work is in
accordance with relevant codes. May install or service street lights, intercom systems, or electrical control
systems.
Common job titles:
Electrician, Maintenance Electrician, Journeyman Electrician, Inside Wireman, Control Electrician,
Industrial Electrician
Most electricians learn their trade through formal or informal apprenticeship programs. These programs
combine paid on-the-job training with related classroom instruction and generally take 4-5 years to
complete. Because of the comprehensive training received, those who complete apprenticeship programs
qualify to do both maintenance and construction work.
Wage Information
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$27,300
$28,600
$42,200
$34,300
$37,100
$53,900
$44,800
$49,800
$68,200
$59,800
$67,100
$89,900
$76,000
$83,300
$102,700
www.bls.gov/oes/
Employment Trends
Employment of electricians should increase 7 percent between 2006 and 2016, about as fast as the average for
all occupations. As the population and economy grow, more electricians will be needed to install and maintain
electrical devices and wiring in homes, factories, offices, and other structures. An increase in power plant
construction over the next ten years will require many additional electricians. New technologies also are expected
to continue to spur demand for these workers. For example, buildings increasingly need wiring to accommodate
computers and telecommunications equipment. Robots and other automated manufacturing systems in factories
also will require the installation and maintenance of more complex wiring systems. As the economy rehabilitates
and retrofits older structures, which usually require electrical improvements to meet modern codes, it will create
additional jobs. In addition to jobs created by the increased demand for electrical work, many openings are
expected over the next decade as a large number of electricians retire. This will create very good job opportunities.
60
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
2006
2016
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
705,000
757,400
+7%
23,390
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
63,100
4,300
75,700
4,570
+20%
+6.3%
2,500
138
www.bls.gov/emp/
Nonmetallic Mineral Product Mfg (0.4%)
Power Generation and Supply (0.2%)
Plastics Product Manufacturing (0.2%)
Fruit, Vegetable, & Specialty Foods Mfg (0.2%)
Possible local
employers
1,075
1,000
568
380
101
53
62
675
57
536
16
52
8
33
311
Santa Clara County Electrical Joint Apprenticeship Training Center (JATC)
www.ejatc332.org
908 Bern Court
San Jose, CA 95112
408-453-1022
Electrician apprenticeship program includes photovoltaic (PV) training. They also offer PV upgrade training
for journeymen electricians/wiremen.
61
Career Ladders
Experienced electricians can advance to jobs as supervisors or lead electricians. In construction, they
also may become project managers or construction superintendents. Those with sufficient capital and
management skills can start their own contracting business. Supervisors, project managers and contractors
alike should be able to identify and estimate costs and prices and the time and materials needed to complete
a job. Some electricians also become electrical inspectors. For those who seek to advance, it is increasingly
important to be able to communicate in both English and Spanish in order to relay instructions and safety
precautions to workers with limited understanding of English; Spanish-speaking workers make up a large
part of the construction workforce in many areas. Spanish-speaking workers who want to advance in this
occupation need very good English skills to understand electrician classes and installation instructions,
which are usually written in English and are highly technical.
62
Star Profile
Introducing CAL MASON
Journeyman Electrician.
It’s considered commercial or light industrial work. I’m involved in the wiring of industrial
andcommercial buildings.
I’ve always been intrigued with making things work, whether it’s a machine or to light something.
Electricians do most of that type of work, so it’s always been a passion of mine.
The tasks I perform are primarily done with the hands. I bend conduits, provide conduit support,
pull the wiring, and connect various equipment, including lighting, panel boards, transformers,
and that sort of thing. We do a lot of remodeling work, or what’s considered “new construction.”
To prepare yourself, I feel that you need a strong background in math. Early on, I probably
could have pursued that a little more. For the most part, my preparation took place in my
apprenticeship courses that I enrolled in. They stress technique, but not math.
As most of us would say, it’s that we do something different every day. I’m constantly learning
things as technology changes and it’s very exciting. Just the feeling of being able to accomplish
projects from start to finish has been a reward to me, and that keeps me coming back.
What qualities make for an exceptional Electrician?
I think a good Electrician first and foremost takes pride in his or her work. Even the most menial
of tasks will be done well by a good Electrician. In our trade, everything is done for a purpose
and it needs to be done right.
You’ve got to be agile too, and good with your hands. I’ve seen a lot of guys come through the
program that are not the best mechanics, but with their skills, they’ve been able to overcome
that. Always take pride in your job and work hard. And obviously, as a tradesman, you’ve got to
be able to work with the other trades. You need to be able to converse and interact, to give or
take with the other tradesmen, to be very thorough, very careful, and to double check everything.
And you should never be afraid to ask. Even I could run across a problem I’ve never seen, and
I’ve been doing this for 15 years now. We’re constantly in training.
63
Energy Engineers
Energy Engineers: Most jobs involve energy efficiency and facility management work where the work
involves performing energy assessments/audits, developing energy conservation measures, performing
energy simulation modeling, performing supply side and demand side energy consulting, and conducting
technology feasibility studies for a variety of commercial, residential, and governmental clients/applications.
Energy engineer is also a job title used for engineers who research, generate or manage energy, including
renewable energy. However, this work is also addressed by other occupations, including electrical,
mechanical, civil, chemical, and materials engineers.
Common job titles:
Energy Engineer, Energy Efficiency Engineer, Energy Management Engineer, Energy Manager (Engineer),
CEM (Certified Energy Manager) Engineer
A Bachelor’s degree in a related engineering field is the typical education requirement, with a Master’s
degree in Energy Engineering being a good idea for career advancement. Because most engineering schools
do not have programs in energy engineering, the undergraduate academic backgrounds of energy engineers
reflect a variety of engineering fields, including electrical, mechanical, civil, and materials engineering.
Regardless of their academic background, however, energy engineers need to be well-skilled with HVAC
equipment and systems and prepared to conduct energy audits of buildings and industrial facilities. In
addition, many jobs for energy engineers require that they be CEM Certified. The CEM (Certified Energy
Manager) credential has become widely accepted and used as a measure of professional accomplishment
within the energy management field. It has gained industry-wide use as the standard for qualifying energy
professionals both in the United States and abroad and is recognized by the U.S. Department of Energy,
the Office of Federal Energy Management Programs (FEMP), and the U.S. Agency for International
Development.
www.aeecenter.org/certification/CEMpage.htm
According to a 2007 survey by the Association for Energy Engineers (www.aeecenter.org), about nine out of
ten of their members report having at least a Bachelor’s degree. Almost 40% report having a graduate degree.
64
Wage Information
The Association for Energy Engineers survey indicates that salaries for energy engineers typically range
from $60,000 to $120,000 per year, with many receiving annual bonuses that average about $8,500. The
average annual salary is about $87,000. About one in ten earn $150,000 per year or more.
www.aeecenter.org/survey/2007AEEMemberSurvey.pdf
Employment Trends
Most energy engineering jobs are either with engineering or energy services firms, or with large employers
that range from traditional manufacturers to 21st Century information companies like Google. So the growth
of this occupation is closely tied to the growth of the industries that provide and create the new jobs. As an
industry, “architectural, engineering, and related services” is projected to grow much faster than average
through 2016.
Possible local
employers
Medical Equipment and Supplies Mfg
Other Fabricated Metal Product Mfg
Motor Vehicle Parts Manufacturing
Aerospace Product & Parts Manufacturing
Turbine and Power Transmission Equipment
1,187
1,142
931
602
311
287
74
65
60
42
33
18
15
5
3
65
A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in engineering is available from many colleges and universities, including:
www.sjsu.edu
1 Washington Sq
San Jose, CA
(408) 924-1000
www.scu.edu
500 El Camino Real
Santa Clara, CA
(408) 554-4000
Stanford University
www.stanford.edu
450 Serra Mall
Stanford, CA 94305
(650) 723-2300
Career Ladders
Energy engineers usually begin their careers as energy analysts, energy auditors or junior engineers,
working under the supervision of experienced engineers. As they gain experience and knowledge, they
generally advance to positions of greater responsibility. For engineers, advancement can lead to senior
engineer, project manager, research & development manager, and vice president for engineering. Some
become consultants or start their own engineering firms. Those with a graduate degree can also become
college and university professors.
66
Engineering Managers
Engineering Managers: Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as architecture and engineering
or research and development in these fields.
http://online.onetcenter.org/link/summary/ 11-9041.00
Engineering managers may supervise people who design and develop machinery, products, systems,
and processes. They might also direct and coordinate production, operations, quality assurance, testing,
or maintenance in industrial plants. Many are plant engineers, who direct and coordinate the design,
installation, operation, and maintenance of equipment and machinery in industrial plants. Others manage
research and development teams that produce new products and processes or improve existing ones.
Common job titles:
Engineering Manager, Project Engineer, Project Engineering Manager, Project Manager, Director of
Engineering, Chief Engineer, Civil Engineering Manager, Principal Engineer
Engineering managers generally begin their careers as engineers, after completing a Bachelor’s degree in
their engineering discipline. Many engineers gain business management skills by completing a Master’s
degree in Engineering Management (MEM) or a Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA).
Employers often pay for such training.
Wage Information
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$70,600
$79,600
$96,100
$88,300
$98,600
$119,400
$111,000
$123,700
$145,600+
$136,700
$145,600+
$145,600+
$145,600+
$145,600+
$145,600+
www.bls.gov/oes/
67
Employment Trends
Employment of engineering managers is expected to grow 8 percent over the 2006-16 decade, about as
fast as the average for all occupations. Projected employment growth should be in line with growth of the
engineers they supervise and the industries in which they work. Because many employers find it more
efficient to contract engineering work to specialty firms, there should be strong demand for engineering
managers in the scientific research and development services industry and in the architectural, engineering,
and related services industry.
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
2006
2016
187,100
200,700
+7%
5,150
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
32,900
8,000
38,500
8,840
+17%
+10.5%
1,200
246
www.bls.gov/emp/
Electronics and Appliance Stores (1.0%)
Commercial & Service Industry Machinery (0.7%)
68
Possible local
employers
1,187
602
93
1,142
311
5
74
15
42
1,229
287
11
65
1,457
43
A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in one of the various engineering disciplines is available from many
colleges and universities, including:
www.sjsu.edu
1 Washington Sq
San Jose, CA
(408) 924-1000
www.scu.edu
500 El Camino Real
Santa Clara, CA
(408) 554-4000
Stanford University
www.stanford.edu
450 Serra Mall
Stanford, CA 94305
(650) 723-2300
Career Ladders
Engineering managers begin their careers as engineers. As they gain experience and knowledge, they
advance to progressively higher leadership positions within their field, including senior engineer, project
manager, and general manager. Some may become managers in non-technical areas, such as marketing,
human resources, or sales.
69
Star Profile
Introducing SEAN REGAN
I have been a Drafter, a Design Engineer, a Senior Design
Engineer, and a Project Engineer.
We are a manufacturing company, so we translate our customer specifications into the product.
Basically, we translate what they need into a modification of our product, or we design something
new for them if the product we already have cannot be modified to meet their needs. I have a group
of people who work for me, including two CAD Operators, some CAD Operator-Designers, and some
Engineers that help me accomplish the job. We review the customer spec or customer contracts,
and we communicate with the customer if something is not clear or if there are discrepancies
between one spec and another spec. We carry this whole review, approval, and re-approval process
over a number of days, or even weeks. When it is finalized, we start our design process. Basically,
that is the process of making all documents necessary to manufacture the product.
I had some interest in mechanical engineering from my early days. As for working in a
manufacturing company as opposed to doing consulting work, I think that has just been a matter
of opportunity.
What knowledge, skills and abilities are important in this kind of work?
You need a degree in engineering, and having prior experience in a manufacturing environment
is going to be helpful. You have to be capable of making quick decisions and have a strong
background in engineering.
You need a college education and some prior experience working in manufacturing. This will
help you in the management position with how to make a decision or recommendation on how to
solve the daily problems.
I have been with this company already for 15 years, so there is stability and familiarity. I also enjoy the
field that I’m in, and the industry that we serve is one of the fastest growing, so the prospects are good.
What qualities make for an exceptional Engineering Manager?
You have to be a leader, but more importantly, you need to be a person that can create teamwork.
There are many different departments that have to work together to create a successful product,
and you have to be able to coordinate and facilitate it. You have to be a quick thinker.
What’s next in your career path?
Retirement from this industry. Then I may possibly look for a part time job in another field.
70
HVAC Service Technicians & Installers
HVAC: Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning
HVACR: Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration
Heating and Air Conditioning Mechanics and Installers: Install, service, and repair heating and air
conditioning systems in residences and commercial establishments.
Heating and air-conditioning systems control the temperature, humidity, and the total air quality in
residential, commercial, industrial, and other buildings. Refrigeration systems make it possible to store and
transport food, medicine, and other perishable items. HVAC and HVACR technicians install, maintain, and
repair such systems.
Common job titles:
Service Technician, HVAC Technician, HVACR Technician, Mechanic, Installer
Because of the increasing sophistication of heating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration systems, employers
prefer to hire those who have completed technical school training or a formal apprenticeship. Some,
however, still learn the trade informally on the job. High school courses in shop math, mechanical drawing,
applied physics and chemistry, electronics, blueprint reading, and computer applications provide a good
background for those interested in this occupation. Some knowledge of plumbing or electrical work is also
helpful. A basic understanding of electronics is becoming more important because of the increasing use of
electronics in equipment controls.
Wage Information
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$24,200
$27,100
$33,000
$29,900
$34,000
$47,000
$38,400
$45,400
$63,600
$49,900
$57,200
$75,400
$61,400
$67,600
$84,400
www.bls.gov/oes/
71
Employment Trends
Nationwide, with average job growth projected and numerous expected retirements, HVAC service
technicians and installers should have excellent employment opportunities.
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
2006
2016
291,900
317,400
+9%
7,670
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
17,500
630
22,200
680
+27%
+7.9%
700
16
www.bls.gov/emp/
Commercial Machinery Repair/Maintenance (6.6%)
Hardware & Plumbing Merchant Wholesalers (4.5%)
Building Material and Supplies Dealers (0.6%)
Facilities Support Services (0.6%)
Junior Colleges (0.5%)
Home Furnishings Stores (0.3%)
Accommodation (0.2%)
Beverage & Tobacco Product Manufacturing (0.2%)
72
Possible local
employers
1,075
66
144
675
310
53
524
14
57
1,187
4
335
317
45
311
Pipe Trades Training Center (of Santa Clara and San Benito Counties)
www.pipetradestraining.org
780 Commercial Street
San Jose, CA 95112
(408) 453-6330
Career Ladders
HVAC technicians often specialize in either installation or maintenance and repair, although their training
generally covers both areas. They may also specialize in doing heating work, or air-conditioning work,
or refrigeration work. Some specialize in one type of equipment, such as hydronics (water-based heating
systems), solar panels, or commercial refrigeration. Advancement usually takes the form of higher wages.
Some technicians, however, may advance to positions such as supervisor or service manager. Others may
move into sales and marketing. Still others may become building superintendents, cost estimators, system
test and balance specialists, or, with the necessary certification, teachers. Those with sufficient money and
managerial skill can open their own HVAC contracting business.
73
Star Profile
Introducing ED ATKINS
I taught air conditioning and heating.
Our company specializes in residential work. A Technician
introduces himself to 8-12 homes per day with different types of problems to solve. Technicians
have laptop computers to store libraries of information, so they don’t have to carry books. They
also use computer mapping programs to find the locations of their jobs. They typically have laptop
computers, cell phones, and possibly fax machines. It’s very high tech today.
I wanted to be self-employed. The feeling of doing a good job, fixing the problem, and having the
customer be happy and pleased with my work. It is rewarding to our employees when they take
pride in their work and they can communicate that to the consumer.
You have to have the education. We encourage all of our Technicians to become “NATE Certified”
(North American Technician Excellence Certification Program). That can be on the install-side
of the business or on the service-side of the business. This is something that has been around
for a long time and some companies don’t adhere to it, but we do. We send people to “Carrier
Schools” where we spend a lot of money on the employee for higher training. Right now, the
Federal Government is mandating new freon gas technologies just as fast as they can make
them. It is changing from 8-12 wires to 4 wires with self-communication and wireless systems. If
you make one little mistake, you can cause more damage than you’re worth. We don’t have the
same type of vocational education that other trades have. The union doesn’t have it and the nonunion sector doesn’t have it. So we supplement the training by sending Technicians to schools to
learn about the exact equipment that we install. We also send them to PG&E schools to become
certified in the utility programs and to teach them things that they don’t learn in the other schools.
We tell high school students that if they have mathematical aptitude and are fairly coordinated,
they can come to work as a Helper in the company. However, they need to get a two-year degree
from a school that offers HVAC or air-conditioning and refrigeration training to be an HVAC
Technician or a Heating and Air Conditioning Mechanic.
The satisfaction of doing the best job possible and the good pay keeps me doing this work.
What qualities make for an exceptional HVAC Technician?
Good communication skills in addition to the technical skills.
Continued certification and training. Possibly a management or supervisory position. There are
a lot great opportunities for advancement in this field.
74
HVAC Salespersons
HVAC: Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning
HVACR: Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration
Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Technical and Scientific Products: Sell goods
for wholesalers or manufacturers where technical or scientific knowledge is required in such areas as
biology, engineering, chemistry, and electronics, normally obtained from at least 2 years of post-secondary
education.
HVAC salespersons sell heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration equipment, systems,
and service agreements. They may work in either inside sales or outside “field” sales positions. Inside
salespersons spend their time in an office (and) on the phone, taking orders and resolving problems or
complaints about the equipment. Outside salespersons spend much of their time traveling, visiting with
current clients and prospective buyers.
Common job titles:
HVAC Salesperson, HVAC Sales Representative, Salesperson/Estimator, Inside Sales Representative
There is no formal education requirement for HVAC salespersons. However, having a Bachelor’s degree or
HVAC certification can be highly desirable. This is because technological advances result in new and more
complex products. HVAC salespersons who have no degree or formal training are often workers who had
expensive sales experience. Regardless of educational background, factors such as personality, the ability
to sell, and familiarity with brands are essential to being a successful HVAC salesperson. Some employers
prefer to hire current or former HVAC service technicians to work in sales. Within the industry, it is
debatable whether it is best to hire a service tech and teach them to sell, or hire a salesperson and teach them
about the equipment.
Wage Information
For Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Technical and Scientific Products:
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$35,100
$41,300
$51,100
$47,900
$54,400
$64,400
$68,300
$74,700
$93,100
$95,700
$102,300
$123,600
$128,500
$136,100
$145,600+
www.bls.gov/oes/
75
Employment Trends
Employment of HVAC salespersons should mirror the growth of its largest industry - plumbing, heating, and
air-conditioning contractors – which is projected to grow about 13 percent over the 2006-16 decade (about
average). In addition to job growth, many job openings will also result from the need to replace workers
who retire or leave the occupation.
Employment Projections Data for: Sales Representatives, Technical and Scientific
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
2006
2016
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
410,900
461,900
+12%
14,160
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
47,600
7,840
55,900
9,160
+17%
+16.8%
2,100
305
www.bls.gov/emp/
Possible local
employers
1,075
524
144
Career Ladders
Advancement usually takes the form of an assignment to better accounts or territories where commission
earnings are higher. Some begin their careers as HVAC service technicians. Those with good sales records
and leadership ability may advance to management positions such as district or regional manager, sales
managers, or vice president of sales.
76
Landscape Architects (sustainable design)
Landscape Architects: Plan and design land areas for such projects as parks and other recreational
facilities, airports, highways, hospitals, schools, land subdivisions, and commercial, industrial, and
residential sites.
Some landscape architects work on a variety of projects. Others specialize in a particular area, such as street
and highway beautification, waterfront improvement projects, parks and playgrounds, or shopping centers.
Still others work in regional planning and resource management; feasibility, environmental impact, and cost
studies; or site construction. Increasingly, landscape architects work in environmental remediation, such as
preservation and restoration of wetlands or abatement of stormwater run-off in new developments. Historic
landscape preservation and restoration is another area where landscape architects increasingly play a role.
Common job titles:
Landscape Architect, Landscape Designer, Project Manager
A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in landscape architecture is usually necessary for entry into the profession.
There are two undergraduate professional degrees: a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (BLA) and a
Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture (BSLA). These usually require 4-5 years of study in design,
construction techniques, art, history, natural and social sciences. There are generally two types of graduate
degree programs. For those who hold an undergraduate degree in a field other than landscape architecture
and intend to become landscape architects, the Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA) typically takes
three years of full-time study. Those who hold undergraduate degrees in landscape architecture can earn
their MLA in two years. There are about 60 colleges and universities nationwide with programs in landscape
architecture that are accredited by the Landscape Architecture Accreditation Board of the American Society
of Landscape Architects.
Wage Information
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$36,300
$41,600
$44,800
$44,800
$47,000
$54,000
$57,600
$64,800
$60,100
$75,400
$78,400
$88,300
$94,700
$96,900
$101,600
www.bls.gov/oes/
77
Employment Trends
Employment of landscape architects is expected to increase by 16 percent during the 2006-16 decade, which
is faster than the average for all occupations. Employment will grow because the expertise of landscape
architects will be sought after in the planning and development of new construction to meet the needs of a
growing population. With land costs rising and the public desiring more beautiful spaces, the importance
of good site planning and landscape design is growing. New construction will spur demand for landscape
architects to help plan sites that meet with environmental regulations and zoning laws and integrate new
structures with the natural environment in the least disruptive way. For example, landscape architects will
be needed to manage stormwater run-off to avoid pollution of waterways and conserve water resources.
Landscape architects also will be increasingly involved in preserving and restoring wetlands and other
environmentally sensitive sites.
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
2006
2016
27,800
32,400
+16%
980
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
4,300
130
5,000
130
+16%
0.0%
100
2
www.bls.gov/emp/
Possible local
employers
1,187
Also, see appendix under Green Building Professionals (certified by Build It Green) for a list of Landscape
Architects in the Bay Area.
78
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo - BLA Program
http://landarch.calpoly.edu/larc/
Landscape Architecture Department
College of Architecture and Environmental Design
California Polytechnic State University
(805) 756-1319
University of California, Berkeley - MLA Program
www-laep.ced.berkeley.edu/laep/index.html
Department of Landscape Architecture
College of Environmental Design
University of California at Berkeley
202 Wurster Hall
Berkeley, CA 94720-2000
(510) 642-2965
University of California, Davis - BSLA Program
http://lda.ucdavis.edu
Landscape Architecture Program
Department of Environmental Design
College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
University of California at Davis
One Shields Ave, 142 Walker Hall
Davis, CA 95616-8585
(530) 752-3907
Community Colleges
Some community colleges have classes and even two-year Associate degree programs that can apply
toward a Bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture. Check with your local community colleges for
more information about their course offerings and the issue of credit transferability.
Career Ladders
A landscape architect may begin their career as a drafter/CAD technician or intern, which means they
would need to know AutoCAD, Photoshop, Excel, Word, and some type of 3D drawing tool. Then, from
a technician, one could advance to a position as a landscape designer. Then a landscape architect. Then a
project manager or lead architect. Many landscape architects are self-employed, so that’s always a possibility.
79
Star Profile
Introducing GREG MELTON
and experience, including any green–related training or
certification?
It really started back when I was a kid. My grandpa had an
orchard and I got into horticulture and farming. And then my
dad had always doodled in architecture and designed his own house. So he enlightened me on
drawing and stuff. So I kind of had a horticulture background and a drawing background in going
to college. I thought I wanted to be an engineer, but I didn’t really enjoy physics and calculus.
So I headed down the horticulture path and went to Chico State. But about halfway through the
program, I realized I was interested in the plant material and design, but not really interested
in the greenhouse stuff. I took a class called recreation design and I kind of found my home
there. My drawing skills kind of opened some doors. And with those doors opening and having a
horticulture background, the professor said, “You know you’re a perfect candidate for landscape
architecture. You need to go to UC Davis and complete your degree there.” But I was real close
to completing my horticulture degree at Chico State, so I completed that first. Then the next year
I went to UC Davis and enrolled in their landscape architecture school.
I am a principle in a 14 person landscape architecture firm. I have a partner and I’m the senior
planner in the office. I’m also the senior landscape architect. In a typical day I would get to
the office – having done my to–do list the night before. So I get into the office and see what I
finished working on the day before. It may include designing one new design on a park project
that we have. I usually try to leave about an hour for that. Secondly I look at all the design
projects. I review what my staff has created and let them have their own design on that. The
park projects, though, are my bread and butter, so I spend a lot of time designing those. Then
my third thing would be getting all my invoices out. Maybe halfway through the park job I’d have
a drop–in visitor who would either represent a new project, or be a client from an old project that
needs something. So we go down to the conference room for that. While I’m down there, I might
have one or two employees or project managers catch me with questions. And that could extend
to bringing in a couple other designers in on the conversation. Or bring in the specialty people if
we’re talking irrigation or whatever. The next thing you know, it’s lunch time. Or, if not quite lunch
time, I usually try to work out right before lunch. But that usually happens twice a week – if I’m
lucky. By the way, the athletic club is a perk for us because we designed the place. So we got
free memberships. You have those kinds of trade things throughout life as a landscape architect.
After lunch, I’d get back to work and maybe have a discussion with my business partner on a
human resource issue. Maybe I just received an email from an employee who needs an extra
vacation. Or maybe an employee is not handling his or her workload appropriately. And so we
could talk human resources for probably an hour. Then I’d get back to that park project and turn
off my phone and lock the door and get a little work done. You pretty much have to shut it down
and turn off the phone and just say “Ok, I am unavailable.” And so you wrap up the day finishing
that work and answering the key emails that you get throughout the day.
80
Step number one is to create that conviction for creating incredible spaces for people to live in.
That’s what drives me. I don’t want to leave a project until I’ve done my best to create a great
space. Step number two is drawing skills, which are very important. The computer is huge, but
for me, my mind doesn’t come out onto a computer very well. My mind comes through my hands
on paper, so the drawing skills are critical. And then at an early stage, you need to make yourself
somewhat of a specialist of some sort so you can become valuable to somebody. And that value
can place you in an early job. Specialties might include becoming an irrigation specialist, a plant
specialist, a restoration specialist, or a technical person really skilled in computer graphics.
You might get started as a technician, which means you’d need to know your computer. You’d
need to know AutoCAD, Photoshop, Excel, Word, and preferably SketchUp – a 3D drawing tool.
Those are the main programs that are used. Then from a technician, you’d grow yourself into a
landscape designer. So you move up from drafting what other people give you to doing some of
your own designs. And then you begin to manage some projects with the project manager over
your shoulder, and then at some point you become the project manager on a small commercial
project. Then you might eventually become a full–time project manager which means you’re
meeting with the client, you’re designing the project, and now you’re making all the phone calls
and making sure everything is getting done and getting billed. So your responsibility level grows
and grows. When you’re a top level project manager, you have full contact with the client and
you write the contract and the principle is really taken out of the deal. And the less I work on
your project, the more money you’re going to make. With our firm, a technician usually starts
somewhere between $12 and $15 per hour. Then we have a six month review, and an annual
review after that. So as each year goes by, if you are relieving the project managers of their
duties, then you get more money. A typical increase would be a dollar a year, or fifty cents –
depending how you perform. My project managers can make up to about $25 per hour. After
that, we generally take care of them with bonuses. That’s because, when times get slow, like in
today’s market, I want to be able to have my payroll low and the bonuses can be null and void
because there’s no extra money in the pot. I think starting salaries in the San Francisco Bay
Area are more like $20 per hour and can work up to something like a $75,000 – $80,000 annual
salary.
My knowledge of schools is probably limited to the west coast. Cal Poly San Luis Obispo does
a wonderful job. I went to UC Davis and I like their program. Also, the University of Arizona
has a great program. Then there’s Harvard and all the other ones that I don’t really have any
experience with.
81
Machinists
Machinists: Set up and operate a variety of machine tools to produce precision parts and instruments.
Includes precision instrument makers who fabricate, modify, or repair mechanical instruments. May also
fabricate and modify parts to make or repair machine tools or maintain industrial machines, applying
knowledge of mechanics, shop mathematics, metal properties, layout, and machining procedures.
Many modern machine tools are computer numerically controlled (CNC). These machines follow a
computer program, control the cutting tool speed, change dull tools, and perform all of the necessary cuts to
create a part. Machinists often work with computer control programmers to determine how the automated
equipment will cut a part. The machinist determines the cutting path, speed of the cut and the feed rate, and
the programmer converts path, speed, and feed information into a set of instructions for the CNC machine
tool. Because most machinists train in CNC programming, some write basic programs themselves and often
modify programs in response to problems encountered during test runs. Modifications, called offsets, not
only fix problems, but they also improve efficiency by reducing manufacturing time and tool wear. After the
production process is designed, computer control operators implement it by performing relatively simple
and repetitive operations.
Common job titles:
Machinist, Tool Room Machinist, Machine Operator, Machine Repair Person, Tool and Die Machinist, SetUp Machinist
Machinists train in apprenticeship programs, vocational schools, community or technical colleges, or
informally on the job. Many entrants previously have worked as machine setters, operators, or tenders.
Apprenticeship programs consist of paid shop training and related classroom instruction lasting up to 4
years. In shop training, apprentices work almost full time and are supervised by an experienced machinist
while learning to operate various machine tools. Classroom instruction includes math, physics, materials
science, blueprint reading, mechanical drawing, and quality and safety practices.
82
Wage Information
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$21,700
$21,400
$26,400
$27,600
$27,700
$32,200
$35,200
$36,600
$42,100
$4,100
$47,600
$54,300
$53,700
$58,600
$64,300
www.bls.gov/oes/
Employment Trends
Employment of machinists is projected to decline slowly by 3 percent over the 2006-16 decade because
of rising productivity among these workers and strong foreign competition in the manufacture of goods.
Machinists will become more efficient as a result of the expanded use of and improvements in technologies
such as CNC machine tools, autoloaders, and high-speed machining. This allows fewer machinists to
accomplish the same amount of work. Despite the projected decline in employment, job opportunities for
machinists should continue to be good as employers value the wide-ranging skills of these workers.
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
2006
2016
% Change
(growth rate)
396,500
384,100
–3%
6,130
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
34,200
2,620
37,300
2,780
+9%
+6.1%
1,100
57
www.bls.gov/emp/
83
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
Machine Shops and Threaded Products (27.2%)
Metalworking Machinery Manufacturing (4.3%)
Other Fabricated Metal Product Mfg (2.7%)
Motor Vehicle Parts Manufacturing (2.7%)
Turbine and Power Transmission Equipment (2.6%)
Possible local
employers
526
5
28
93
380
60
33
18
3
602
62
52
11
66
77
Santa Clara & San Benito Counties Machinist Joint Apprenticeship and Training
Committee
2102 Almaden Road, Suite 105
San Jose, CA 95125
(408) 723-4900
Several community colleges offer programs in machine technology and/or CNC machining. See
appendix for a list of colleges and other training providers in the Bay Area.
Career Ladders
Machinists can advance in several ways. Experienced machinists may become CNC programmers, tool and
die makers, or mold makers, or be promoted to supervisory or administrative positions in their firms. A few
open their own machine shops.
84
Star Profile
Introducing MARK DAVIS
I have been a Production Control Assistant as well as a
Journeyman Machinist.
I take the ingots that the growing room creates, and that have been sliced and cored, and
then I make the finished product that goes to the customer. I read the blueprints provided by
the customers and I program the CNC (Computer Numeric Control) machine to cut and drill
the silicon to the specs ordered. Basically, I am creating a part that will fit into the customer’s
machines.
My family has a business in the aerospace industry, and I got some exposure to machining there
when I was younger. I enjoyed the work and the challenge.
What knowledge, skills and abilities are important in this kind of work?
You need to have a good understanding of mathematical principles. You need to be able to read
blueprints and make setups for production runs. You need to be precise in operating the CNC
machitne; you need to have some knowledge of AutoCAD, since that is the program we use for
the CNC machine. You need to have a knowledge of the materials you are going to be working
with, as there are different techniques needed to cut different products. And you need to have
good problem solving skills.
Most companies require a high school diploma and some college. You should definitely take
some AutoCAD courses.
The challenge of being able to make the perfect finished product. Every customer has a different
product that they order, and so every day there is some variety in what I do. And the money is
pretty good.
What qualities make for an exceptional Machinist?
You have to take pride in your work and enjoy the challenge of designing special tools that the
customers need. You have to pay close attention to detail, and be a problem solver.
I would like to move into design and engineering.
85
Maintenance and Repair Workers, General
Maintenance and Repair Workers, General: Perform work involving the skills of two or more
maintenance or craft occupations to keep machines, mechanical equipment, or the structure of an
establishment in repair. Duties may involve pipe fitting; boiler making; insulating; welding; machining;
carpentry; repairing electrical or mechanical equipment; installing, aligning, and balancing new equipment;
and repairing buildings, floors, or stairs.
Employees in small establishments, where they are often the only maintenance worker, make all repairs,
except for very large or difficult jobs. In larger establishments, maintenance workers are usually more
specialized. New buildings sometimes have computer-controlled systems that allow maintenance workers to
make adjustments in building settings and monitor for problems from a central location. For example, they
can remotely control light sensors that turn off lights automatically after a set amount of time or identify a
broken ventilation fan that needs to be replaced.
Common job titles:
Building/Maintenance Technician, Building/Maintenance Mechanic, Building Maintenance Repairer
Many general maintenance and repair workers learn their skills informally on the job as helpers to other
repairers, or as helpers to carpenters, electricians, or other construction workers. Helpers begin by doing
simple jobs, such as fixing leaky faucets and replacing light bulbs, and progress to more difficult tasks, such
as overhauling machinery or building walls.
Wage Information
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$19,600
$20,900
$25,500
$24,900
$26,700
$33,100
$32,600
$35,700
$43,200
$42,300
$47,100
$57,100
$51,900
$58,700
$70,100
www.bls.gov/oes/
86
Employment Trends
Employment of general maintenance and repair workers is expected to grow 10 percent during the 2006-16
decade, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Employment is related to the number of buildings
— for example, office and apartment buildings, stores, schools, hospitals, hotels, and factories — and the
amount of equipment needing maintenance and repair. Job opportunities should be excellent for those
with experience in maintenance or related fields. General maintenance and repair is a large occupation that
generates many job openings due to growth and the need to replace those who leave the occupation.
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
2006
2016
1,391,000
1,530,900
+10%
17,420
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
132,000
7,290
155,900
7,850
+18%
+7.7%
4,900
74
www.bls.gov/emp/
Lessors of Real Estate (8.8%)
Accommodation (6.3%)
Offices of Real Estate Agents & Brokers (3.2%)
Other Amusement & Recreation Industries (2.2%)
Beverage & Tobacco Product Manufacturing (1.2%)
Professional and Similar Organizations (1.1%)
Fruit, Vegetable, & Specialty Foods Mfg (1.0%)
Religious Organizations (0.9%)
Possible local
employers
1,201
310
317
675
2,045
380
410
53
45
15
315
602
8
52
985
Note that, nationwide, about seven percent of general maintenance and repair workers work for local
government.
87
While jobs for this occupation usually require previous experience in building maintenance work or in two
or more of the construction trades professions, many community colleges and other training providers offer
relevant programs in building science or construction management, electrical, plumbing, etc. See appendix
for a list of colleges and other training providers in the Bay Area.
Career Ladders
Advancement for general maintenance and repair workers in small establishments is limited. In large
organizations, one may advance to maintenance supervisor or, with the necessary training and experience,
become a craftworker such as an electrician, HVAC technician, or plumber.
88
Star Profile
Introducing CONRAD ROSSBACK
I began in this field by working as a self-employed Gardener,
then took a job with the County as a Grounds Maintenance
Worker. After several years, I moved into my current position
as a Maintenance Repairer.
I do general maintenance repair. This can include moving new or surplus furniture, working on
air conditioning units or heaters, troubleshooting, cleaning sewers, or doing maintenance work
on sinks and toilets. I do soldering, welding, change light bulbs, repair ballasts, insulation, and
carpentry. Each day I am given a work order that helps me establish my work day and then I go
from job to job to complete the necessary repairs.
I like construction type work and the physical work involved in maintenance repair. I also like
being outside and moving around from place to place.
You need to be mechanically inclined to do this type of work. You also need good people skills
and the ability to get along with others. Being a team player is another skill that is important,
since much of your job requires working with other people.
You need the overall skill of being able to do most anything, since maintenance requires a
broad knowledge of many different types of things. You also need a general knowledge of basic
mechanical functions. Specializing, for example, in HVAC repair can be beneficial.
I enjoy manual labor and working out in the field. Sitting behind a desk wouldn’t appeal to me.
I also enjoy the mechanics and doing the actual repair work on the facilities. And I enjoy the
people that I meet on the different jobs.
What qualities make for an exceptional Maintenance Repairer?
I think having good people skills, having a good attitude, and the ability to get the work done
makes for an exceptional Maintenance Repairer.
89
Materials Engineers
Materials Engineers: Evaluate materials and develop machinery and processes to manufacture materials for use
in products that must meet specialized design and performance specifications. Develop new uses for known
materials. Includes those working with composite materials or specializing in one type of material, such as
graphite, metal and metal alloys, ceramics and glass, plastics and polymers, and naturally occurring materials.
Most materials engineers specialize in a particular material. For example, metallurgical engineers specialize
in metals such as steel, and ceramic engineers develop ceramic materials and the procestses for making them
into useful products such as glassware or fiber optic communication lines.
Common job titles:
Materials Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer, Materials Research Engineer, Metallurgist, Process Engineer
A Bachelor’s degree in materials engineering or science is the typical education/training requirement.
However, a Master’s degree is often necessary for advancement and is helpful for developing a specialty
area, such as metallurgical or ceramic engineering.
Wage Information
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$47,100
$54,600
$62,200
$60,100
$68,000
$76,100
$77,200
$82,700
$91,900
$96,000
$98,600
$105,500
$116,300
$119,200
$127,800
www.bls.gov/oes/
Employment Trends
Materials engineers are expected to have employment growth of 4 percent over the projections decade,
slower than the average for all occupations. Although employment is expected to decline in many of the
manufacturing industries in which materials engineers are concentrated, growth should be strong for
materials engineers working on nanomaterials and biomaterials. As manufacturing firms contract for
their materials engineering needs, employment growth is also expected in the professional, scientific, and
technical services industries.
90
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
2006
2016
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
21,600
22,500
+4%
590
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
2,400
670
2,900
760
+21%
+13.4%
100
25
www.bls.gov/emp/
`Computers and Peripheral Equipment (1.7%)
Other Miscellaneous Manufacturing (1.7%)
Alumina and Aluminum Production (1.6%)
Audio and Video Equipment Manufacturing (0.9%)
Possible local
employers
93
602
5
42
311
1,187
287
74
271
1
15
7
A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Materials Engineering or Science is available from these local
universities:
www.sjsu.edu
1 Washington Sq
San Jose, CA
(408) 924-1000
Stanford University
www.stanford.edu
450 Serra Mall
Stanford, CA 94305
(650) 723-2300
91
Career Ladders
engineering firms. Those with a graduate degree can also become college and university professors
92
Mechanical Engineering Technicians
Mechanical Engineering Technicians: Apply theory and principles of mechanical engineering to modify,
develop, and test machinery and equipment under direction of engineering staff or physical scientists.
Mechanical engineering technicians help engineers design, develop, test, and manufacture industrial
machinery, consumer products, and other equipment. They may assist in product tests by, for example,
setting up instrumentation for auto crash tests. They may make sketches and rough layouts, record and
analyze data, make calculations and estimates, and report on their findings. When planning production,
mechanical engineering technicians prepare layouts and drawings of the assembly process and of parts to be
manufactured. They estimate labor costs, equipment life, and plant space. Some test and inspect machines
and equipment or work with engineers to eliminate production problems.
Common job titles:
Mechanical Engineering Technician, Engineering Technician, Mechanical Designer, Engineering Technical
Analyst, Mechanical Technician
Although it may be possible to qualify for certain engineering technician jobs without formal training, most
employers prefer to hire someone with at least a 2-year Associate’s degree in Engineering Technology.
People with college courses in science, engineering, and mathematics may qualify for some positions, but
may need additional specialized training and experience. Prospective engineering technicians should take as
many high school science and math courses as possible to prepare for programs in engineering technology
after high school.
Wage Information
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$31,000
$32,500
$40,200
$37,900
$39,600
$49,100
$47,300
$50,500
$59,900
$59,100
$65,400
$71,800
$72,100
$78,600
$81,600
www.bls.gov/oes/
93
Employment Trends
Mechanical engineering technicians are expected to have 6 percent employment growth between 2006 and
2016, more slowly than the average for all occupations. As mechanical products and components become
increasingly complex, demand for improvements in these products should drive employment growth of
mechanical engineering technicians. However, growth is expected to be limited by foreign competition in
both design services and manufacturing.
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
2006
2016
47,800
50,800
+6%
1,240
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
5,600
860
6,400
910
+14%
+5.8%
200
22
www.bls.gov/emp/
Commercial & Service Industry Machinery (1.4%)
Audio and Video Equipment Manufacturing (0.7%)
Metalworking Machinery Manufacturing (0.2%)
Possible local
employers
1,187
311
93
42
5
602
65
60
43
7
33
15
423
1,142
28
See appendix for a list of community colleges in the Bay Area.
94
Career Ladders
Mechanical engineering technicians usually begin by performing routine duties under the close supervision
of an experienced technician, technologist, or engineer. As they gain experience, they are given more
difficult assignments with only general supervision. Some may eventually become supervisors. With a
Bachelor’s degree in engineering, technicians can go onto become engineers.
95
Mechanical Engineers
Mechanical Engineers: Perform engineering duties in planning and designing tools, engines, machines,
and other mechanically functioning equipment. Oversee installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of
such equipment as centralized heat, gas, water, and steam systems.
Mechanical engineers work on power-producing machines such as electric generators, internal combustion
engines, and steam and gas turbines. They also work on power-using machines such as refrigeration and
air-conditioning equipment, machine tools, material handling systems, elevators and escalators, industrial
production equipment, and robots used in manufacturing. They also design tools that other engineers need
for their work. In addition, mechanical engineers work in manufacturing and maintenance, as well as in
technical sales.
Common job titles:
Mechanical Engineer, Equipment Engineer, Product Engineer
A Bachelor’s degree is the typical education requirement. However, a graduate degree is usually necessary
for advancement and for college/university faculty positions.
Wage Information
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$46,600
$49,600
$61,600
$57,400
$64,400
$75,500
$72,300
$81,900
$97,200
$90,700
$101,500
$121,100
$108,700
$123,100
$141,900
www.bls.gov/oes/
Employment Trends
Mechanical engineers are projected to have 4 percent employment growth over the 2006-2016 projections
decade, slower than the average for all occupations. This is because total employment in manufacturing
industries—in which employment of mechanical engineers is concentrated—is expected to decline. Some
new job opportunities will be created due to emerging technologies in biotechnology, materials science, and
nanotechnology. Additional opportunities outside of mechanical engineering will exist because the skills acquired
through earning a degree in mechanical engineering often can be applied in other engineering specialties.
96
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
2006
2016
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
225,800
235,200
+4%
5,830
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
23,200
3,340
26,500
3,610
+14%
+8.1%
1,000
99
www.bls.gov/emp/
Turbine and Power Transmission Equipment (3.2%)
Possible local
employers
1,187
93
311
5
602
287
3
60
74
33
1,142
65
42
15
18
A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering is available from many colleges and
universities, including:
www.sjsu.edu
1 Washington Sq
San Jose, CA
(408) 924-1000
www.scu.edu
500 El Camino Real
Santa Clara, CA
(408) 554-4000
97
Stanford University
www.stanford.edu
450 Serra Mall
Stanford, CA 94305
(650) 723-2300
Career Ladders
Mechanical engineers usually begin their careers as junior engineers, working under the supervision of
engineering firms. Those with a graduate degree can become college and university professors.
98
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
There are two different O*NET occupations that combine to describe this career field:
Plumbers: Assemble, install, and repair pipes, fittings, and fixtures of heating, water, and drainage systems,
according to specifications and plumbing codes.
Pipe Fitters and Steamfitters: Lay out, assemble, install, and maintain pipe systems, pipe supports, and
related hydraulic and pneumatic equipment for steam, hot water, heating, cooling, lubricating, sprinkling,
and industrial production and processing systems.
Plumbers install and repair the water, waste disposal, drainage, and gas systems in homes and commercial
and industrial buildings. Plumbers also install plumbing fixtures—bathtubs, showers, sinks, and toilets—and
appliances such as dishwashers and water heaters. Pipefitters install and repair both high-pressure and lowpressure pipe systems used in manufacturing, in the generation of electricity, and in the heating and cooling
of buildings. They also install automatic controls that are increasingly being used to regulate these systems.
Some pipefitters specialize in only one type of system. Steamfitters install pipe systems that move liquids or
gases under high pressure.
Common job titles:
Plumber, Journeyman Plumber, Residential Plumber, Commercial Plumber, Pipefitter, Journeyman
Pipefitter, Steamfitter
Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters generally begin as apprentices, learning through a combination of onthe-job training and some classroom instruction. Apprenticeship programs — both union and nonunion —
usually take 4-5 years to complete. There are also programs available through community colleges and other
career and technical schools that help prepare a person for one of these occupations, although they don’t
necessarily eliminate the need for apprenticeship training.
Wage Information
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$26,600
$26,900
$33,600
$33,500
$34,600
$45,800
$44,100
$46,600
$68,300
$59,300
$61,800
$88,900
$75,100
$79,400
$101,500
www.bls.gov/oes/
99
Employment Trends
Employment of plumbers, pipefitters and steamfitters is expected to grow 10 percent between 2006
and 2016, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Demand for plumbers will stem from new
construction and building renovation. In addition, repair and maintenance of existing residential systems
will keep plumbers employed. Demand for pipefitters and steamfitters will be driven by maintenance and
construction of places with extensive pipe systems, including powerplants, water and wastewater treatment
plants, office buildings, and factories. Job opportunities are expected to be very good, as demand for skilled
plumbers, pipefitters and steamfitters is expected to outpace the supply of trained workers. In addition, many
people currently working in these trades are expected to retire over the next 10 years, which will create
additional job openings.
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
2006
2016
502,200
555,400
+11%
15,680
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
54,800
3,330
67,500
3,650
+23%
+9.6%
2,500
101
www.bls.gov/emp/
Water, Sewage and Other Systems (0.2%)
Hardware & Plumbing Merchant Wholesalers (0.1%)
100
Possible local
employers
1,075
101
568
1,000
380
53
536
66
135
675
57
1,187
28
5
144
www.pipetradescareer.org
San Jose, CA 95112
(408) 453-6330
Also, see appendix for a list of colleges and other training providers in the Bay Area.
Career Ladders
Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters begin their careers as helpers or apprentices. After several years
as journey-level workers, those with supervisory skills may advance to foreman or project manager
positions. Others, especially plumbers, go into business for themselves as plumbing contractors. Some
eventually become owners of businesses employing many workers and may spend most of their time as
managers rather than as plumbers. Others move into closely related areas such as construction management
or building inspection. For those who would like to advance, it is increasingly important to be able to
communicate in both English and Spanish in order to relay instructions and safety precautions to workers
with limited understanding of English; Spanish-speaking workers make up a large part of the construction
workforce in many areas. Supervisors and contractors need good communication skills to deal with clients
and subcontractors.
101
Star Profile
Introducing MARK ZUNIE
I am a Plumber.
I install water and waste systems so that people can wash dishes, take a bath, take a shower,
etc. I design the layout as well.
My friend told me about a plumbing position at a prison that was being built. Within the first day, I
was drilling holes in concrete, cutting pieces of metal and bolting them to the floors. I enjoyed the
quick learning process and the hands-on orientation of the job.
I install heaters, water lines, and gas lines. I install the entire plumbing system in a new building.
I have a lot of tools that I have either bought or had to make myself.
I would have studied more math. This job requires the constant measuring of many different
things; you have to figure out what size pipes you need, how strong the water pressure will
be, and where outlets and faucets will be installed. Sometimes you even have to know some
trigonometry, because if you don’t, you’ll end up cutting something incorrectly, or damaging
something else.
I would say the variety of it. The job constantly changes, from renovations like putting in hot tubs
and heaters, to working on a high-rise using iron materials, or getting rain water from the roof or
waste from the sewage lines. It’s very hard to get bored in this line of work.
What qualities make for an exceptional Plumber?
Doing things right the first time. You can always do a quick job on something that no one will
see, but it will catch up to you later. Problem solving skills are very good to have, too. You have
to be very inventive sometimes, to assess something and know how to get the job done without
wasting time or materials.
102
Roofers
Roofers: Cover roofs of structures with shingles, slate, asphalt, aluminum, wood, and related materials. May
spray roofs, sidings, and walls with material to bind, seal, insulate, or soundproof sections of structures.
Roofers are sometimes expected to install solar shingles or solar panels that also function as part of the roof.
Depending on the technology, this may require some additional training for roofers. Some predict that, in the
future, a significant amount of the photovoltaic solar installations will be done by roofers.
Common job titles:
Roofer, Roofing Technician, Metal Roofing Mechanic, Sheet Metal Roofer, Industrial Roofer, Residential
Roofer
Most roofers learn their skills informally by working as helpers or apprentices. Roofing apprenticeship
programs generally take 3 years to complete. Trainees generally start by carrying equipment and material
and erecting scaffolds and hoists. Within 2 or 3 months, they are taught to measure, cut, and fit roofing
materials. Later they learn to lay asphalt or fiberglass shingles. Because some roofing materials are used
infrequently, it can take several years to get experience working on all types of roofing.
Wage Information
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$21,300
$25,600
$36,800
$26,300
$32,600
$43,200
$33,200
$43,800
$50,300
$44,400
$51,300
$62,400
$56,700
$61,100
$76,300
www.bls.gov/oes/
Employment Trends
Employment of roofers is expected to grow 14 percent between 2006 and 2016, which is faster than the
average for all occupations. Roofs deteriorate faster than most other parts of buildings, and they need to be
repaired or replaced more often. So as the number of buildings continues to increase, demand for roofers is
expected to grow. In addition to repair work, the need to install roofs on new buildings is also expected to
add to the demand for roofers. Most job openings, however, will arise from turnover, because the work is
hot, strenuous, and dirty, causing many people to switch to jobs in other construction trades.
103
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
2006
2016
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
156,300
178,700
+14%
5,810
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
23,400
1,560
28,800
1,700
+23%
+9.0%
1,100
50
www.bls.gov/emp/
Possible local
employers
468
380
1,000
Roofers Local 95 - Apprenticeship Training Program
www.roofer95.com
293 Brokaw Rd.
(408) 987-0440
Career Ladders
Roofers may advance to become supervisors or estimators for a roofing contractor, or become contractors
themselves.
104
Sales Engineers,
including Solar/Renewable Energy and HVAC Systems
Sales Engineers: Sell business goods or services, the selling of which requires a technical background
equivalent to a baccalaureate degree in engineering.
Sales engineers sell and consult on technologically and scientifically advanced products, including solar and
wind energy systems. They must possess extensive knowledge of their products, including their components
and processes. Sales engineers then use their technical skills to demonstrate to potential customers how and
why the products or services they are selling would suit the customer better than competitors’ products. Or,
if there is not a directly competitive product, they must demonstrate the usefulness of the product and how
much money it will save or generate for the customer.
Common job titles:
Sales Engineer, Product Sales Engineer, Manufacturers’ Sales Rep/Agent
A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering is generally required to become a sales engineer. However, some
individuals with sales experience combined with significant technical expertise sometimes hold the title of
sales engineer as well. While sales engineers need selling skills, they tend to use selling techniques that are
different from those used by most other sales reps. Their approach is typically one of a consultant in which
they focus on the customer’s problem and how it can be solved with their product.
Wage Information
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$48,300
$56,400
$65,400
$61,700
$71,300
$80,000
$80,300
$92,800
$101,900
$104,200
$119,400
$128,200
$131,800
$145,600+
$145,600+
www.bls.gov/oes/
105
Employment Trends
Employment of sales engineers is expected to grow by 9 percent between 2006 and 2016, which is about
as fast as the average for all occupations. Projected employment growth stems from the increasing variety
and technical nature of goods and services to be sold. Competitive pressures and advancing technology
will force companies to improve and update product designs more frequently and to optimize their
manufacturing and sales processes, and thus require the services of a sales engineer.
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
2006
2016
75,800
82,300
+9%
2,560
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
12,400
6,820
15,700
7,430
+27%
+8.9%
700
233
www.bls.gov/emp/
Machinery & Supply Merchant Wholesalers (3.4%)
Electronics and Appliance Stores (1.8%)
Telecommunications Resellers (1.8%)
Wired Telecommunications Carriers (1.5%)
Possible local
employers
1,142
163
1,229
602
74
93
423
853
394
1,187
311
1,457
1
42
51
Solar contractors are classified in these sectors:
Possible local
employers
Plumbing Goods Merchant Wholesalers
1,075
51
106
A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in engineering is available from many colleges and universities, including:
www.sjsu.edu
1 Washington Sq
San Jose, CA
(408) 924-1000
www.scu.edu
500 El Camino Real
Santa Clara, CA
(408) 554-4000
Stanford University
www.stanford.edu
450 Serra Mall
Stanford, CA 94305
(650) 723-2300
Career Ladders
Many sales engineers first work as engineers. For some, engineering experience is necessary to obtain the
technical background needed to sell their employers’ products or services effectively. Others move into the
occupation because it offers better earnings and/or advancement potential than engineering, or because they
are looking for a new challenge. Promotion may include a higher commission rate, larger sales territory, or
elevation to a management position - such as marketing manager. Advancement may also take the form of
self-employment, although relatively few sales engineers are self-employed.
107
Solar Energy Systems Designers/Engineers
Occupation Title and Description
Solar energy systems designers/engineers are responsible for generating solar energy system (photovoltaic
and/or solar thermal) designs and supporting documentation. This includes developing plans for building
permit applications and construction, selection and specification of components, and design of systems and
mechanical and electrical points of connection.
Common job titles:
Solar Engineers, Solar Energy Engineers, Solar Energy Systems Engineers/Designers, Solar Systems
Designers, Photovoltaic Engineers, Solar Thermal Engineers
A Bachelor’s degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering is the typical education requirement, although
some designers do not have a professional engineering background. For example, their background may be
in electrical or mechanical drafting, or engineering technology, or heating, ventilation and air conditioning
(HVAC). A professional engineering background, however, is what the majority of employers are looking
for. Most employers also want at least 3 years of solar related experience in one or both of the solar
technology fields: photovoltaic and solar thermal. As with other engineering professions, a Master’s degree
is often necessary for advancement.
Wage Information
Annual wage range for the San Francisco Bay Region: $50,000 to $83,200
Source: 2008 survey by the California Community Colleges’ Centers of Excellence
www.coeccc.net
Employment Trends
This occupation is expected to experience significant growth in the immediate future. In the San Francisco
Bay Region, employment in this occupation is projected to increase 44 percent over the next 12 months;
statewide, the occupation is projected to increase by more than 40 percent. In addition to increased demand,
more than 80 percent of employers report that they have difficulty finding qualified applicants.
www.coeccc.net
108
Possible local
employers
1,075
51
A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering is available from many colleges
and universities. See appendix for a list of colleges in the Bay Area.
Career Ladders
firms. Those with a graduate degree can also become college and university professors
109
Solar Energy Systems Installation
Supervisors/Project Managers
Solar energy systems installation supervisors/project managers train and supervise the installation
workers and provide project management for the solar energy systems installations. May also be responsible
for maintenance and repair services, especially in smaller companies.
Common job titles:
Foreman, Project Manager, Installation Supervisor/Manager, Crew Supervisor
Extensive experience in the installation of solar energy systems and good supervisory and project
management skills are generally the only requirements for this occupation. Certification through the North
American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is recommended.
www.nabcep.org
Wage Information
www.coeccc.net
Employment Trends
Bay Region, employment in this occupation is projected to increase 36.5 percent over the next 12 months;
statewide, the occupation is projected to increase by more than 47.6 percent. In addition to increased
demand, about 75 percent of employers report that they have difficulty finding qualified applicants.
www.coeccc.net
Possible local
employers
1,075
51
110
See appendix for a list of community colleges and other training providers in the Bay Area who offer classes
or certificate training programs in solar energy or solar systems installation.
www.ejatc332.org
908 Bern Court
San Jose, CA 95112
408-453-1022
Other Resources:
These three organizations offer an extensive list of classes, workshops and other programs in solar and other
renewable energy technologies, including alternative fuels and alternative fuel vehicles.
Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) Energy Training Center
www.pge.com/mybusiness/edusafety/training/stockton/
1129 Enterprise Street
Stockton, CA 95204
(800) 244-9912
Note: Classes and seminars offered in San Francisco and Stockton.
Solar Living Institute
www.solarliving.org
13771 S. Hwy. 101
PO Box 836
Hopland, CA 95449
(707) 744-2017
Note: the Solar Living Institute is located in Mendocino County, but offers some classes in the
San Francisco Bay Area.
Solar Energy International (SEI)
www.solarenergy.org
PO Box 715
76 S. 2nd St
Carbondale, CO 81623
(970) 963-8855
Career Ladders
Solar energy systems installation managers/project foremen begin their careers as installers or helpers. Some
transfer from other construction trade occupations. Once fully trained as an installer, they can expect to
work at least 3-4 more years before they have enough experience to supervise and train others. Supervisors
need good communication skills to deal with clients. They should be able to identify and estimate the
quantity of materials needed to complete a job and accurately estimate how long a job will take to complete.
Advancement opportunities vary depending upon an individual’s performance and the size and type of
company for which they work. Within larger firms, promotion to management may be possible.
111
Star Profile
Introducing TONY ORTIZ
certification?
I got out of high school with a GED and I had one uncle who
owned a solar company and another uncle who owned a
roofing company. So those were my choices. I went for solar and learned everything on the job.
I’ve also taken all kinds of different classes for solar.
I’m the installation manager for Aztec Solar. In a typical day, I meet the crew in the morning and
go over the job. I make sure they have all the parts they need, that they understand that system
and how it’s going to be plumbed, and answer any questions. From there, I go back to the office,
answer phone calls, and then I go check on jobs. Sometimes I go out in the field and do service
calls for customers. I also work directly with our customers when, after the salesman sells the
job, I go out to the customer’s site to be sure that what the salesman sold will fit, and that it
works for that customer.
Take any vocational classes that have to do with hydraulics, plumbing, and soldering with
copper. Make sure you’re not afraid of heights, because you have to be able to work on roofs.
Learning county building codes would also help them get started. Like most construction jobs,
you can come into the field right after high school. So college isn’t really necessary unless you
eventually want to go into management. But you’ll get on–the–job training. And, if necessary,
push management to get you into training classes – which they usually do in the fall and winter
months. All our vendors have classes, so you can get all the training you need.
We always joke that we’re the Jack–of–all–trades of all the trade occupations. You have to know
carpentry, electrical, and plumbing. But you start out as a helper, which might pay $13 – $15
per hour. Then you can become a crew leader, which might pay $16 – $20 per hour. Then you
can become a service technician, which might pay $18 – $20 per hour. From there you could
become a service manager or move into sales.
They’ve got various NABCEP certifications for people in this field. That was one of the things I did.
112
Go out at the peak time when the solar companies are doing their hiring – which is in early
spring. Go straight to the company, walk–in, fill out an application, and then pester them until
they give you an interview. We and other companies use newspaper ads. Not many companies
like ours do online job ads.
No.
Not new technologies, but we’re hoping for tax incentives and rebates that will help push the
growth of this industry.
113
Solar Energy Systems Installers/Technicians
Solar energy systems installers/technicians are responsible for the installation of solar energy systems.
This includes mounting solar panels on roofs or other structures, and installing storage tanks, pumps,
valves, pipes, and ducts. They set up and adjust electrical or electronic controls, and sometimes do routine
maintenance. In new construction, they follow blueprints to connect piping, ducting, controls and wiring.
Installers/technicians usually learn and specialize in one of the two solar technologies:
Photovoltaic (PV) installers/technicians install PV systems that generate solar electricity used to heat and
cool entire homes and buildings.
Solar thermal installers/technicians install solar-thermal systems designed to collect, store, and circulate
solar-heated water (or other medium) for residential, commercial or industrial uses, including hot water,
heat, and—sometimes—electricity.
Common job titles:
Installers, Technicians, Crew Members/Workers
Although a few installers/technicians learn their trade entirely through on-the-job training, most installers
are highly skilled trades workers who are part carpenter, part roofer, part electrician, part HVAC technician,
and – for solar thermal - part plumber. High school, adult education or community college classes in
English, algebra, geometry, physics, mechanical drawing, blueprint reading, and general shop classes
help prepare students for the further training they will need in construction and solar installation work. In
addition to the classes, there are a number of different ways to obtain the necessary training. Some are able
to get hired as a helper or installer trainee, and they learn the trade through on-the-job training combined
with some classroom training, seminars, and manufacturer-sponsored training. Some get most of their
training through classes or a certificate program at a community college. In fact, a 2008 survey indicated
that about half of the employers would be interested in hiring graduates of an Associate’s (2-year) degree
program (if such a program existed), so that may also be an option in the near future. In addition, the
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) union offers a solar training certificate program.
Quality classes and workshops are also offered by the Solar Living Institute in Hopland, California, and
Solar Energy International (SEI) in Carbondale, Colorado. Regardless of the method of training, certification
through the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is recommended.
www.nabcep.org
114
Wage Information
Annual wage range for the San Francisco Bay Region:
PV installers/technicians: $31,200 to $52,000
Solar thermal installers/technicians: $31,200 to $60,000
www.coeccc.net
Employment Trends
Bay Region, employment for PV installers/technicians is projected to increase 55.8 percent over the next
12 months; employment for solar thermal installers/technicians is projected to increase 45.7 percent over
the next 12 months. In addition to increased demand, about 75 percent of employers report that they have
difficulty finding qualified applicants for their installer/technician positions.
www.coeccc.net
Possible local
employers
1,075
51
www.ejatc332.org
908 Bern Court
San Jose, CA 95112
408-453-1022
115
Other Resources:
These three organizations offer an extensive list of classes, workshops and other programs in solar and other
renewable energy technologies, including alternative fuels and alternative fuel vehicles.
Stockton, CA 95204
(800) 244-9912
www.solarliving.org
13771 S. Hwy. 101
PO Box 836
Hopland, CA 95449
(707) 744-2017
www.solarenergy.org
PO Box 715
76 S. 2nd St
(970) 963-8855
Career Ladders
Solar energy systems installers/technicians usually begin their careers as installers or helpers. Some transfer
from other construction trade occupations. Once fully trained as a solar installer, they can expect to work
at least 3-4 more years before they have enough experience to supervise and train others. Advancement
opportunities for supervisors vary depending upon an individual’s performance and the size and type of
company for which they work. Within larger firms, promotion to management may be possible.
116
Solar Energy Systems Sales Representatives
Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Technical and Scientific Products: Sell goods
for wholesalers or manufacturers where technical or scientific knowledge is required in such areas as
biology, engineering, chemistry, and electronics, normally obtained from at least 2 years of post-secondary
education.
Solar energy systems sales reps estimate costs and sell photovoltaic (PV) or solar thermal energy systems to
residential and/or commercial customers. (Which of the two solar technologies depends on their employer’s
history.) They may work in either inside sales or outside “field” sales positions. Inside salespersons spend
their time in an office (and) on the phone, generating lists of prospective customers, taking orders and
resolving problems with current customers. Outside sales reps spend much of their time traveling, visiting
with current clients and prospective buyers.
Common job titles:
Sales Rep, Salesperson, Inside Salesperson, Outside Sales Rep/Salesperson
There is no formal education requirement for solar energy systems sales reps. However, having a Bachelor’s
degree or some type of solar energy technical certification can be highly desirable. Those who have no
degree or formal training are often workers who had expensive sales experience. Regardless of educational
background, factors such as personality, the ability to sell, and familiarity with equipment are essential to
being a successful solar energy systems sales rep. Some employers prefer to hire current or former installers/
technicians to work in sales. Within the industry, it is debatable whether it is best to hire a technician and
teach them to sell, or hire a salesperson and teach them about the equipment.
Wage Information
www.coeccc.net
117
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$35,100
$41,300
$51,100
$47,900
$54,400
$64,400
$68,300
$74,700
$93,100
$95,700
$102,300
$123,600
$128,500
$136,100
$145,600+
www.bls.gov/oes/
Employment Trends
Bay Region, employment in this occupation is projected to increase 50.5 percent over the next 12 months;
statewide, the occupation is projected to increase by 55.4 percent. In addition to increased demand, about 75
percent of employers report that they have difficulty finding qualified applicants.
www.coeccc.net
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
2006
2016
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
410,900
461,900
+12%
14,160
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
47,600
7,840
55,900
9,160
+17%
+16.8%
2,100
305
www.bls.gov/emp/
Possible local
employers
Research and Development in Biotechnology
Heating Equipment, ex. Warm Air Furnaces
1,075
524
278
144
8
118
Career Ladders
Advancement usually takes the form of an assignment to better accounts or territories where commission
earnings are higher. Some begin their careers as installers or technicians. Those with good sales records
and leadership ability may advance to management positions such as district or regional manager, sales
managers, or vice president of sales.
119
Star Profile
Introducing CHRIS MASYS
certification?
I entered this career field three years ago, which doesn’t
sound like that long, but at that point the industry was
basically just emerging. My education was a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Technology from
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. I worked as a manufacturing engineer immediately after college, then
began to work in sales in another industry, and then I went to work for REC Solar. The company
was started by two Cal Poly alumni back when I was still going to school there, so there are
some strong alumni affiliations. At least that’s what probably opened the door for me. At that
point, the amount of available green related training was pretty slim pickings. But what worked
for me was having a technical background along with the sales skills. I was employee number 29
and, just to illustrate the difference between then and now, today we’re pushing 300 employees.
So a huge amount of growth, along with a very defined training process that didn’t exist back
then.
My job title is Northern California Sales Manager. I’ve been aggressively pursuing my upward
career mobility whenever possible. I started out as a residential solar consultant in the home
territory of San Luis Obispo, California for REC. Then I moved up to Sacramento and started
up our operations literally as the first and only person on the ground for close to six months.
I helped build that operation to a fully functioning level with a total of about 30 employees.
So setting all that up probably greased the wheels for further career advancement and,
subsequently, I took over the management of the entire Northern California region. Now, my
career path is not necessarily what I would espouse for everyone. I can’t remember the last
time I had a 40 hour work week. For me, it’s more like an 80 hour work week is a short one.
But I’m not complaining. I love what I do and I’ve been very successful at doing it. But it does
represent just one potential track, and I think if people were to just look at my experience, it
would scare them off. Because not all jobs in renewable energy are like mine. But this industry
is in its infancy and we’ve had such rapid growth. Even at this point, we’ve only reached the tip
of the iceberg. So for people who are very motivated to progress rapidly in their career and grow
a business, there’s very much that opportunity available. In my present position, I don’t often
deal directly with customers. I do have a total of 10 sales reps that report directly to me, as well
as five marketing staff. And then I have cross–departmental relationships with the other parts of
our company. Probably my number one responsibility is making sure that revenue expectations
are being met and will be met. And in as pro–active a manner as possible, making sure that
we’re applying the correct marketing methodology to bring in the types of leads that we need.
Another strategic function of mine is to keep tabs on what’s going on in the industry regarding
our competitors. I’d say my third function is public speaking engagements. And a fourth one is
human resources, because we’re growing so quickly that job titles and responsibilities are being
invented on a daily basis. So recruiting, interviewing, hiring, and training – I have aspects of that
in my daily work as well.
120
For the reputable organizations, I don’t think it’s possible for someone to start out in solar sales
without previous sales experience. I get resumes from people who call themselves sales people,
but they’re basically just account reps or customer service people. They’re just taking care of
people, and that’s a lot different than closing a sale on a technical product in someone’s home.
What I’m generally looking for in my sales staff are people with a business or engineering
background, but with sales experience in a B to C (business to consumer) capacity rather than
B to B (business to business) capacity. And if they have any sort of additional environmental
credentials in terms of their own hobbies, volunteer work or education, that would definitely
make someone stand out because it shows that they’re taking steps on their own.
What kind of career advancement opportunities can one expect in this field?
I would say that other (non–sales) positions lend themselves better to the entry level than
sales. For example, a solar installer tends to be a blue collar and construction related career.
We generally look for folks that have some electrical and mechanical expertise. A senior
level installer would have quite a bit of construction experience as well as solar installation
experience. The foremen/supervisors of our crews are all journeymen electricians. So it’s
generally the third or fourth crew member who is building their experience and could be
considered an entry level role. I wouldn’t say that it’s an insurmountable barrier, but when you
start out in a blue collar capacity, it can be difficult to jump over to the white collar side. Some
sales reps specialize in residential solar, as it tends to be a simpler sale, although not always
an easier sale. The commercial solar side is generally dealing with a more sophisticated client.
There are typically multiple levels within an organization, and so one has to be able to speak
to anyone in the organization, up to and including the CEO and the CFO. As far as career
advancement goes, sales reps who get promoted generally go vertically into management.
Others continue to develop and hone their sales skills and take on increasingly greater numbers
of clients, or higher profile clients and higher stakes systems. But if someone finds that sales is
not for them, they might end up going to a marketing position or going into inside sales.
I would suggest majoring in an engineering field at any highly regarded four year university.
121
Take classes specific to solar, such as those given by the Solar Living Institute; or pursue some
level of certification. Also, folks that have volunteered with local organizations such as Habitat
for Humanity can gain valuable experience. Environmental credentials are good, but folks often
fall for the trap of thinking that’s all it takes. And in my opinion, most environmental studies
curriculums are actually quite light in terms of their technical content and their business content.
If I were applying for a job, I would use the internet. But I would remind myself that personal
networking is crucially important. Find local trade events. A good way to start is find the places
where solar companies are selling. Go to a home show and talk to everyone. Get to know some
of the people by asking about their backgrounds. Be active in local organizations, such as the
California Chapter of the Solar Energy Industries Association. Environmental groups such as
the Sierra Club would sort of be secondary to that. I’m really looking for people focused on solar
energy. There are a lot of ways that you can make a favorable environmental impact. It could be
in the energy area. It could be geothermal. It could be wind. It could be working with businesses
on their sustainability measures. It could be a reduction of pollutions from industrial applications.
There are just a million different things. So, someone’s who’s just purely environmentally
motivated doesn’t necessarily speak to me, because they’re not nearly as focused as we are.
The one professional association that would make sense would be NABCEP, or the North
American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners.
In a ten year timeframe, new cell technologies will bring down the price point and perhaps
increase efficiency. In the meantime, we need well educated folks that can communicate very
well and that have sales skills to be able to get in front of people. Up until the point that going
solar is simply about placing an order, there should remain a strong need for sales reps. And, as
our businesses grow, we’ll need more marketing people, more accounting people, more payroll
people, more of everything.
122
Solar Energy Systems Service Technicians
Solar energy service technicians diagnose and repair solar energy equipment and systems. Not to
be confused with solar technicians who do installation work, the service technician is a highly skilled
equipment mechanic who usually specializes in one of the two solar technologies: photovoltaic (PV)
systems and solar-thermal systems.
Photovoltaic (PV) systems generate solar electricity used to heat and cool entire homes and buildings.
Solar-thermal systems are designed to collect, store, and circulate solar-heated water (or other medium) for
residential, commercial or industrial uses, including hot water, heat, and - sometimes - electricity.
Common job titles:
Solar Energy Service Technician, Service Technician, Service Manager, Equipment Service Technician/
Manager
There are no specific education/training requirements, although solar energy service technicians need to
be trained and experienced in all phases of solar installation work, and they need to be solar equipment
repair experts. Some type of certification to prove one’s expertise would be helpful, if not essential. In some
companies, the service technician position is at a management level (service manager), so the person who
fills that job needs to have supervisory skills and experience, as well as be a highly skilled solar equipment
repair technician. In smaller companies, the service technician may double as the lead installation technician
or the installation supervisor.
Wage Information
There is no salary information for this specific occupation. However, depending on the employer, initial
research indicates that this position can pay toward the high end of the range for solar energy systems
installers/technicians, or at the high end of the range for installation supervisors. If the service technician is
the service manager, the position could pay even more. That would suggest a range of approximately $50,000
to $80,000 – based on the wage range for those occupations as surveyed in the San Francisco Bay Region.
www.coeccc.net
Employment Trends
Data is not available for this specific occupation. However, this occupation is likely to experience similar
growth as the other solar energy occupations.
123
Possible local
employers
1,075
51
www.ejatc332.org
908 Bern Court
San Jose, CA 95112
408-453-1022
Other Resources:
Both of these nonprofit organizations offer an extensive list of classes, workshops and other programs in
solar and other renewable energy technologies, including alternative fuels and alternative fuel vehicles.
www.solarliving.org
13771 S. Hwy. 101
PO Box 836
Hopland, CA 95449
(707) 744-2017
www.solarenergy.org
PO Box 715
76 S. 2nd St
(970) 963-8855
Career Ladders
Solar energy service technicians begin their careers as installers or helpers. Some transfer from other
construction trade occupations. Once fully trained as an installer, they can expect to work at least 3-4 more
years before they have enough experience to become a service technician. Some become supervisors first.
Advancement opportunities for service technicians vary depending upon an individual’s performance and the
size and type of company for which they work. Within larger firms, promotion to lead service technician or
service manager may be possible.
124
Sustainability Coordinators
Sustainability coordinators is a new occupation that can be found in virtually all industries, although not
yet in most organizations. Depending on the organization, the occupation may be considered a management
position or not. The primary function of a sustainability coordinator or officer is to help an organization
become more sustainable and more environmentally responsible. However, jobs in this career field can
range from being a consultant or advisor to upper management, to being a coordinator of an organization’s
waste disposal and recycling program. Many sustainability coordinators have evolving job descriptions.
Sometimes sustainability coordinator or officer is an additional job hat worn by an existing employee or
manager. Sustainability coordinators, especially those in the higher education sector, generally have a
major responsibility for educating people about sustainability issues and best-practices. Sometimes they
coordinate sustainable or green related events. Sometimes they coordinate specific projects or programs,
such as recycling or energy savings initiatives. Sometimes they participate in the planning and design of
green buildings and facilities, or in the greening of a company’s fleet of vehicles, trucks or equipment.
For a non-green business that wants to become more sustainable, sometimes the first step is to hire a
sustainability professional to do an evaluation and make recommendations. Evaluations usually include
conducting or coordinating energy audits of buildings and doing cost-benefit analyses. In the public sector,
some sustainability coordinators are focused on green business and economic development, or on green
construction planning, or on transportation planning. Others are focused on policy development.
Common job titles:
Sustainability Coordinator, Sustainability Officer, Chief Sustainability Officer, Sustainability Manager,
Environmental Coordinator/Manager
The majority of job openings for sustainability coordinator require a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree. In
higher education, a Master’s degree is typically required. However, because this is a new occupation
with a wide range of job responsibilities, a program of study has not yet been established. Some major in
environmental studies, environmental science or a related field, and some major in green business – such
as a “Green MBA” program. (An MBA is a Master’s degree in Business Administration, while a Green
MBA has sustainability integrated throughout the curriculum.) There are also jobs in which the focus is on
the applicant’s knowledge and experience rather than on a specific college degree. No doubt there are some
sustainability coordinators who are self-taught and never attended college. Others have a college degree, but
in a completely unrelated field.
125
Wage Information
No occupational data or statistics exist (yet) for this occupation, so any wage information should be flagged
as such. However, by assessing current job postings (online), it would appear that jobs for sustainability
coordinators typically range from $30,000 to $80,000 per year, with a few earning substantially more.
One limited survey found an average annual salary of $51,000. Another older survey of sustainability
coordinators in the higher education sector (only) found an average annual salary of $44,200 for those with
0-5 years of experience, and $58,800 for those with 6–10 years of experience.
www.aashe.org
See appendix for a list of colleges in the Bay Area.
Career Ladders
It’s too early in the evolution of this occupation to see a typical career path. However, generically speaking,
“coordinators” – whether they are considered managers or not – are usually people in a lead position. And
so advancement for coordinators usually means moving to a management position, or to a higher level
management position. Some will take on increased responsibilities without being promoted, while others
will move onto jobs with other organizations that offer greater opportunities. Some private firms have
recently begun creating an executive position called a chief sustainability officer (CSO). This would be the
position to aspire to for sustainability coordinators who want to advance to upper management.
126
Star Profile
Introducing STEVE ATTINGER
certification?
I have a very unique MBA (Master’s degree in Business
Administration) focused specifically in sustainable
management. At the time, it was one of only a few schools in the country that took the traditional
MBA curriculum and integrated into the curriculum itself the principals of sustainability across all
of the different disciplines. Prior to that, my education was in communications and information.
Also, I grew up in a family that was very environmentally and socially conscious, so the whole
concept of sustainability is something that has always run through my veins. But about six years
ago, I went through a period of deep introspection and made a significant career transition from
more of a mainstream marketing, product management and high tech focus to sustainability.
Once I discovered that sustainability was the intersection between business, environment and
society, that’s when I knew I’d found my home. My first professional sustainability experience
was a consulting engagement with a Swedish organization called The Natural Step, who
had an office in San Francisco. Then I enrolled in the MBA program at the Presidio School of
Management and continued to work professionally while going through that program. Also, just
recently I went through Build It Green’s Certified Green Building Professional (CGBP) training.
My job is environmental sustainability coordinator for the City of Mountain View, California. When
the city council funded this position, they weren’t quite ready to make this a permanent position.
So, although my position has been extended, it is still considered a limited term position. By its
definition, sustainability covers everything from soup to nuts. The biggest piece of my job has
been coordinating our citizen-based Environmental Sustainability Task Force. This is a group of
68 citizens who live or work in Mountain View and have volunteered a significant amount of their
time to develop a series of recommendations for the city council on how to make Mountain View
more sustainable and how to address California’s AB32 legislation which is aimed at reducing
greenhouse gas emissions. In addition to my task force work, I’m also leading an internal
green team of 20 employees – which represents one person from virtually all city departments.
Whereas the task force is focusing on community-wide sustainability issues and solutions,
this green team is focused on those issues and solutions from a city facilities and operations
perspective. One of the first things I did this year was to develop a quantitative methodology
by which the city council can evaluate different kinds of potential sustainability projects from
a cost-benefit perspective. For example, would the city gain more by increasing their fleet of
vehicles by a certain percentage of hybrids, or by installing more energy efficient lighting in city
buildings? When we run the numbers for a potential project, it shows the cost to reduce CO2.
I’ve also been doing research to put forth a new green building policy to the city council. I’m
also responsible for finding grants that the city can apply for to pay for some of these projects or
to help pay for my position. Another thing that I’ve worked on is an environmentally preferable
purchasing policy that will go before the city council next month. And one last thing that I do in
this job is to work on our city greenhouse gas inventory.
Outside of the academics, there are going to be a number of different professional associations
in a geographic area that are generally free and that you can get connected into that would
127
enable you to network with all of the movers and shakers in that area, including sustainability
professionals. Get to know the people and do informational interviews with them. The other
option is volunteering or interning with nonprofit organizations. Help put on environmental events
and get engaged.
In the public sector, the career path could mean starting out as a recycling coordinator. Then
move up to something like a solid waste manager. Then perhaps make a lateral move into
a sustainability type of role. Another option, if you have the experience, is to come in as
sustainability coordinator – like I did. In the nonprofit sector, depending on your experience,
you could begin as an intern or as a coordinator of some kind. Then work and gain experience
and begin to move up in that nonprofit world. There are enormous opportunities for someone
interested in sustainability in the nonprofit field. In the private sector, it’s a little more difficult.
One option is to come in and work in a position in a company’s environmental health & safety
(EHS) field. Even medium sized companies are going to have EHS people, and that’s where you
can learn about environmental compliance, worker safety and those kinds of things. Then you
can move up in EHS and perhaps make a lateral move to a sustainability position. You could
also move up from a recycling position which – depending on the company – might be part of
the facilities management department. Or, with more experience, you can get hired directly by
some companies as an environmental manager, director or sustainability officer. These positions
are still few and far between, but the number of those kinds of dedicated positions in the private
sector has increased significantly in the last two years.
If a person is really serious about wanting to get a business focused education that has the
elements of sustainability completely integrated into it, I would recommend that you look at
schools like the Presidio School of Management in San Francisco or the Bainbridge Graduate
Institute in Washington State. If you want to go to a more recognized school, I would encourage
you to look at: University of California, Berkeley; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill;
University of Michigan; and Yale University. Also, Beyond Grey Pinstripes is a survey and
ranking of business schools. You can use it to look at how much each of the schools have
incorporated sustainability into their curriculum. But keep in mind that a newer school like the
Presidio School of Management may not even show up in that ranked system.
Use all the above, including networking and personal contact through volunteering, interning,
and through your involvement with professional associations. In today’s day and age, you would
want to make use of online job boards. Use sustainability and environmental as your keywords.
Use mainstream sites like HotJobs and Monster, but also use job boards that are specific to this
field. There are a few recruiters who are focusing on sustainability positions. Even some of the
more traditional job recruitment firms are beginning to see sustainability jobs coming through.
Net Impact is one of the foremost professional associations for people in my field, and they even
have student groups at colleges all across the country. The annual Net Impact conference is a
fantastic way to learn and network. You’re meeting all the people that you need to be meeting.
They also put on all kinds of local events where they have interesting guest speakers and
networking opportunities.
128
Team Assemblers
Team Assemblers: Work as part of a team having responsibility for assembling an entire product or
component of a product. Team assemblers can perform all tasks conducted by the team in the assembly
process and rotate through all or most of them rather than being assigned to a specific task on a permanent
basis. May participate in making management decisions affecting the work. Includes team leaders who work
as part of the team.
Manufacturing techniques are evolving away from traditional assembly line systems toward “lean”
manufacturing systems, which are causing the nature of assemblers’ work to change. Lean manufacturing
uses teams of workers to produce entire products or components. Team assemblers may still work on an
assembly line, but they rotate through different tasks, rather than specializing in a single task. The team may
also decide how the work is assigned and how different tasks are performed. The worker flexibility helps
companies cover for absent workers, improves productivity, and increases companies’ ability to respond to
changes in demand by shifting labor from one product line to another.
Common job titles:
Assembler, Assembly Operator, Assembly Line Worker, Production Line Worker, Assembly Inspector,
Assembly Technician
Most applicants for team assembler positions need only a high school diploma or GED. However, some
employers may require specialized training or an Associate’s degree for the most skilled assembly jobs. For
example, jobs with electrical, electronic, and aircraft and motor vehicle products manufacturers typically
require some education and experience beyond a high school level education. Other positions may require
only brief on-the-job training, sometimes including employer-sponsored classroom instruction.
Wage Information
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$16,500
$16,600
$19,500
$19,600
$18,700
$22,600
$24,600
$23,100
$27,800
$31,300
$29,200
$33,600
$39,400
$37,000
$42,300
www.bls.gov/oes/
129
Employment Trends
Employment of team assemblers is expected to decline slowly by 4 percent between 2006 and 2016. Within
the manufacturing sector, employment of assemblers and fabricators will be determined largely by the
growth or decline in the production of certain manufactured goods. In general, despite projected growth in
the output of manufactured goods, employment overall is expected to decline as the whole sector becomes
more automated and is able to produce more with fewer workers. However, some individual industries are
projected to have more jobs than others.
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
2006
2016
1,274,300
1,275,100
0%
26,550
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
97,100
5,140
109,100
5,350
+12%
+4.1%
3,700
128
www.bls.gov/emp/
Other Miscellaneous Manufacturing (5.4%)
Household and Institutional Furniture (1.9%)
Possible local
employers
380
287
602
271
65
18
77
52
93
33
423
137
62
60
5
130
This occupation is generally learned through on-the-job training.
Career Ladders
As assemblers and fabricators become more experienced, they may progress to jobs that require greater
skill and may be given more responsibility. Experienced assemblers may become product repairers if they
have learned the many assembly operations and understand the construction of a product. These workers fix
assembled pieces that operators or inspectors have identified as defective. Assemblers also can advance to
quality control jobs or be promoted to supervisor. Experienced assemblers and fabricators also may become
members of research and development teams, working with engineers and other project designers to design,
develop, and build prototypes, and test new product models. In some companies, assemblers can become
trainees for one of the skilled trades, such as machinist. Those with a background in math, science, and
computers may advance to become programmers or operators of more highly automated production equipment.
131
Urban & Regional Planners, including Land Use Planners
Urban and Regional Planners: Develop comprehensive plans and programs for use of land and physical
facilities of local jurisdictions, such as towns, cities, counties, and metropolitan areas.
Most planners focus on one or more areas of specialization, such as community development and
redevelopment, land-use or code enforcement, transportation planning, environmental and natural resources
planning, urban design, and economic planning and development. While planners specialize, they are also
required to keep the bigger picture in mind, and do what’s best for the community as a whole.
Common job titles:
Planner, Urban Planner, Community Development Planner, Land Use Planner, Transportation Planner, City
Planner, Housing Analyst
A Bachelor’s degree in urban planning or a related field is the minimum education requirement for
entry level jobs as planners; many (if not most) jobs require a Master’s degree. However, a Bachelor’s
degree from an accredited planning program, coupled with a Master’s degree in architecture, landscape
architecture, or civil engineering, is excellent preparation as well. In 2007, 66 colleges and universities
offered an accredited Master’s degree program in planning. Fifteen offered an accredited Bachelor’s degree
program in planning.
Virtually all (92%) have a Bachelor’s degree, and many of those have a Master’s degree.
Wage Information
Percentile:
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
10th
25th
50th (median)
75th
90th
$36,900
$42,100
$61,100
$45,800
$53,800
$72,900
$58,000
$66,500
$83,800
$73,100
$82,600
$99,700
$88,600
$100,300
$117,100
www.bls.gov/oes/
132
Employment Trends
Employment of urban and regional planners is expected to grow 15 percent from 2006 to 2016, faster
than the average for all occupations. Employment growth will be driven by the need for state and local
governments to provide public services such as regulation of commercial development, the environment,
transportation, housing, and land use and development for an expanding population. Nongovernmental
initiatives dealing with historic preservation and redevelopment will also create employment growth.
Although most new jobs for planners will be in local government, the fastest job growth will occur in the
private sector, primarily in the professional, scientific, and technical services industries.
Employment
U.S.
California
San Jose MSA
2006
2016
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
33,800
38,700
+15%
1,490
2004
2014
% Change
(growth rate)
Avg. Annual Job
Openings
4,700
150
5,500
160
+17%
+6.7%
200
5
www.bls.gov/emp/
possible local
Major eMploying industries
(% of total employment for the occupation in california)
eMployers
(Santa clara county)
1,187
15
Note that, nationwide, about 68 percent of urban and regional planners work for local governments, and
another 9 percent work for state governments.
Accredited Bachelor’s or Master’s degree programs in Urban Planning are available from these universities:
www.sjsu.edu
1 Washington Sq
San Jose, CA
(408) 924-1000
University of California, Berkeley
College of Environmental Design
Department of City and Regional Planning
www.dcrp.ced.berkeley.edu
228 Wurster Hall MC1850
Berkeley, CA 94720
(510) 642-3111
133
Association of Collegiate Schools of Planning (ACSP)
www.acsp.org
Also, Stanford University offers a program in Urban Studies:
Stanford University
www.stanford.edu
450 Serra Mall
Stanford, CA 94305
(650) 723-2300
Career Ladders
Some planners begin their careers as city/county planning aides or technicians, working under the
supervision of experienced planners. As they gain experience and knowledge, they can advance into city
or county planner positions. Planners may advance to assignments requiring a high degree of independent
judgment, such as designing the physical layout of a large development or recommending policy and budget
options. Public sector planners are sometimes promoted to community planning or community development
director where they spend much of their time meeting with officials, speaking to civic groups, and
supervising staff. Further advancement usually takes the form of a new job with a larger jurisdiction with
generally more complex problems.
134
Star Profile
Introducing LILIA SCOTT
certification?
I studied literature and art in college. I thought I would go into
publishing or journalism, but I had no idea how to go about
that. Then I met a man and we fell in love. He was finishing his degree in landscape architecture,
and when he finished he won a fellowship to travel around the world and study design
approaches to water in an attempt to address the urban runoff issue. I tagged along. I’d traveled
before, but not to this extent. We went all over Southeast Asia, the Indian subcontinent, the
Middle East and Europe. We rode planes, trains, donkey carts, rickshaws, auto–rickshaws and
bicycles, and we walked. When we came back from the trip, I got a job at an insurance company
doing administration and writing. It was a part–time job, so I took calculus and business classes
at night. My boyfriend’s former roommate was also a landscape architect and he dated a woman
who was a planner. I met her and her friends, and I was impressed with how smart they were.
My first thought was, I wish I was that smart. My second thought was, maybe I am. So I quit
my insurance job to find an admin job in planning to see if the work interested me. I let a temp
agency assign me to work as an administrative assistant for the regional rideshare program. I
revamped their systems, built a new database for their marketing department, and improved
the tracking system. I guess they were impressed because, within a few months, the director
of planning agreed to hire me as his staff planner. It was a tremendous break, since normally
you have to have a relevant degree for a job like that. I completely loved that job. And then I
started getting bored with the limits of our perspective. For example, I wanted to take land use
into consideration when looking at the region’s transportation problems. But that was outside our
realm. So I applied to graduate school at UC Berkeley and they admitted me. I wanted to do land
use planning, but I kept getting pushed one way or another back to transportation. The reality
remains that there is more interesting work in transportation, so that’s where I’ve stayed.
are your most common tasks, including those that make yours a green job?
My current job title is senior transportation planner. Since grad school, I have worked in
transportation, but not always in planning. I’ve done a lot of transportation demand management
work as well. Common tasks would include: research, such as reading and synthesizing reports;
talking to people; surfing the net for relevant information; writing memos, reports, and emails;
public speaking; meeting facilitation; determining how to frame an idea for the right response;
and project management – paying attention to schedules and budgets, checking in with people
about their schedule and budget, organizing people, paper, ideas, motivations.
Get trained and volunteer because all the planners I know volunteer all the time. You will need
the Master’s degree. Be well–rounded. Pay attention.
135
Opportunities for advancement are endless. I guess the best you can do is run a planning
department for a big city, region, state or country. But you could also get out of the field a
little and climb even more. You could run a successful planning non–profit organization or
consulting firm. Salaries vary substantially based on your location, focus, and sector – non–profit
organization, consulting firm, or public agency. You can definitely be comfortable, but probably
not get rich. My best guess on salary ranges is: $30,000 – $60,000 per year at the entry level;
$50,000 – $100,000 per year at the mid level; and $80,000 – $150,000 per year at the upper
level.
field?
Planetizen has a ranking. I think UC Berkeley is best. MIT is also supposed to be good,
but it doesn’t have a transportation concentration. As with all things, see which professors/
researchers/professionals you admire and ask them.
You get a Master’s degree in planning. With administrative or marketing skills and only a
Bachelor’s degree, you may be able to get a job working with planners. I would shoot for non–
profits or private consulting firms for the best exposure. You can get a planning job without the
Master’s degree, but you’ll probably have to get the Master’s eventually. I’ve had the most luck
networking as opposed to responding to job listings.
Join advocacy groups relevant to your interests. Attend the public meetings to watch the
proceedings and speak your mind. There are a lot of professional associations – I’m not a
member of any of them, though.
I wouldn’t use the words “high growth.” I would use words like “steady” or “solid” or “recession–
proof” – at least regarding transportation. Urban design is probably more volatile, and the
salaries are lower, but you get to design things. Most people become planners because they
are practical and they care about people and the planet, not because they want to “emerge”
or “grow.” We leave that to the politicians. People who succeed in planning generally do so
because they are convincing and have natural social skills, but you can wonk out and be a techy
too, if that compels you.
136
APPENDIx
What is a Green Job?
Before we try to define green jobs, it might be good to highlight the principal values that help to define
being green. However, this is not a checklist. There is no absolute list of green values or agreement on how
to define them. But, together, the following values reflect an approach to life – including home, family,
community and work – that centers on an awareness of our impact on the planet and its people:
• Environmental protection/
preservation
• Fair trade
• Eco–friendly design
• Clean technology
• Sustainable development
• Peace and justice
• Renewable energy
• Social conscience
• Holistic health
• Organic/natural products
Green jobs are jobs that are focused on sustainability and/or environmental protection and
preservation. A green job can be defined either by the nature and purpose of the job, or by the nature
and purpose of the employer. Green jobs include jobs at all levels of education, skill and experience.
“Sustainability” is a method of harvesting or using a resource so that the resource is not depleted or
permanently damaged (Merriam–Webster).
“Sustainable agriculture” refers to the ability of a farm to produce food indefinitely – without causing
irreversible damage to ecosystem health.
A “sustainable business” (or organization) generally means that they are committed to:
• Conserving energy
• Reducing waste
• Using renewable energy sources
• Recycling
• Preventing pollution
• Conserving water
An “occupation” is a way of categorizing similar jobs. For example, the occupation of journalist
encompasses a variety of journalist jobs, including those that specialize in subjects ranging from politics to
entertainment. Some journalists specialize in environmental issues. Thus the occupation of journalist can
lead to green jobs and non-green jobs.
“Green collar jobs” can be defined in two very different ways. One definition holds that green collar jobs are
manual-labor type jobs that are (a) green and (b) don’t require a college education. The other definition is
more inclusive and makes no distinction between green jobs and green collar jobs.
137
Local Community Colleges
Community Colleges in Santa Clara County
DeAnza College (Foothill-DeAnza Community College District)
www.deanza.edu
21250 Stevens Creek Boulevard
Cupertino, CA 95014-5797
(408) 864-5678
Relevant Programs:
• Automotive Technology
• Drafting Technology
• Energy Systems Technology
• Environmental Technology
• Machining and Machine Tools
• Manufacturing and Industrial Technology
• Mechanical Drafting
• Also, Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems Installation course
Evergreen Valley College (San Jose-Evergreen Community College District)
www.evc.edu
3095 Yerba Buena Road
San Jose, CA 95135-1598
(408) 274-7900
Relevant Programs:
• Electrical: Electronic and Electro-Mechanical Drafting
• Engineering Technology: General
Foothill College - Main Campus (Foothill-DeAnza Community College District)
www.foothill.edu
12345 El Monte Road
Los Altos Hills, CA 94022
(650) 949-7777
Relevant Programs:
• Construction Crafts Technology
• Electrical
• Other Engineering and Industrial Technologies
• Plumbing, Pipefitting, and Steamfitting
• Sheet Metal and Structural Metal
Foothill College - Middlefield Campus (Foothill-DeAnza Community College District)
www.foothill.edu/mid/
4000 Middlefield Road
Palo Alto, CA 94303
(650) 949-6950
Gavilan College (Gavilan Community College District)
www.gavilan.edu
5055 Santa Teresa Blvd
Gilroy, CA 95020-9599
(408) 847-1400
Relevant Programs:
• Physical Science & Engineering
138
Appendix
Mission College (West Valley-Mission Community College District)
www.missioncollege.org
3000 Mission College Boulevard
Santa Clara, CA 95054-1897
(408) 988-2200
Relevant Programs:
San Jose City College (San Jose-Evergreen Community College District)
www.sjcc.edu
2100 Moorpark Avenue
San Jose, CA 95128-2799
(408) 298-2181
Relevant Programs:
• Civil and Construction Management Technology
• Construction Crafts Technology
• Electronics and Electric Technology
• Environmental Control Technology (HVAC)
• Industrial Electronics
• Industrial Systems Technology and Maintenance
• Also, new courses in Green Construction and Introduction to Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Installation
Technology
West Valley College (West Valley-Mission Community College District)
www.westvalley.edu
14000 Fruitvale Avenue
Saratoga, CA 95070-5699
(408) 867-2200
Relevant Programs:
• Architecture and Architectural Technology
• Sales and Salesmanship
• Also, certificate program for Heavy Wind Generation Technician and customized training in
compressed natural gas
Community Colleges in Alameda County
Ohlone College (Ohlone Community College District)
www.ohlone.edu
43600 Mission Boulevard
Fremont, CA 94539-0911
(510) 659-6000
Relevant Programs:
• Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems Installation Certificate planned for Spring 2009 (17 Units)
• Solar Thermal Installation course planned for Spring 2009
139
Chabot College (Chabot-Las Positas Community College District)
www.chabotcollege.edu
25555 Hesperian Blvd/PO Box 5001
Hayward, CA 94545-5001
(510) 723-6600
Relevant Programs:
• Carpentry
• Construction Inspection
• Electrical
• Management Development and Supervision
• Painting, Decorating and Flooring
• Roofing
• Sheet Metal and Structural Metal
• Also, Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems Installation course (primarily for commercial installations)
Las Positas College (Chabot-Las Positas Community College District)
www.laspositascollege.edu
3033 Collier Canyon Road
Livermore, CA 94550-7650
(925) 424-1000
Relevant Programs:
• Industrial and Occupational Safety and Health
• Landscape Design and Maintenance
Community Colleges in San Francisco County
City College of San Francisco
www.ccsf.edu
50 Phelan Avenue
(415)239-3000
Relevant Programs:
• Automotive Technology – Hybrid Auto Technology
• Other Architecture and Environmental Design
• Also, workshops on Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems Installation and Alternative fuels
140
Appendix
Community Colleges in San Mateo County
Canada College (San Mateo County Community College District)
www.canadacollege.edu
4200 Farm Hill Boulevard
Redwood City, CA 94061-1099
(650) 306-3100
College of San Mateo (San Mateo County Community College District)
www.collegeofsanmateo.edu
1700 West Hillsdale Boulevard
San Mateo, CA 94402-3784
(650) 574-6161
Relevant Programs:
• Construction Inspection
• Electrical
• Engineering Technology
• Sales and Salesmanship
• Also, new courses in alternative and renewable energy
Skyline College (San Mateo County Community College District)
www.skylinecollege.edu
3300 College Drive
San Bruno, CA 94066
(650) 738-4100
Relevant Programs:
• Electro-Mechanical Technology
• Also, new courses in Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems
Community Colleges in Santa Cruz County
Cabrillo College (Cabrillo Community College District)
www.cabrillo.edu
6500 Soquel Drive
Aptos, CA 95003-3119
(831) 479-6100
Relevant Programs:
• Civil Drafting
• Also, new courses in Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems Design and Installation, Solar Thermal Design
and Installation, Sustainable Buildings, Home Performance and the Environment, and Fundamentals
of Renewable Energy Systems.
141
Local Universities &
Postsecondary Education/Training Institutions
Unless otherwise noted (with an asterisk), the educational institutions and training providers listed in this section are
on California’s Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL) - established in compliance with the Workforce Investment Act
(WIA) of 1998. Not included are a few ETPL training providers who either appear to be inactive, out of business, or
who offer only ESL, test prep, real estate, or religion classes. http://etpl.edd.ca.gov/wiaetplind.htm
The “big three” universities:
www.sjsu.edu
1 Washington Sq
San Jose, CA
(408) 924-1000
www.scu.edu
500 El Camino Real
Santa Clara, CA
(408) 554-4000
Stanford University
www.stanford.edu
450 Serra Mall
Stanford, CA 94305
(650) 723-2300
Other universities & postsecondary education/training institutions:
Listed alphabetically
American Business College International - San Jose
www.americanbci.com
650 North King Road
San Jose, CA 95133
408-258-0800
American School of Piano Tuning
www.piano-tuning.com
17070 John Telfer Dr.
Morgan Hill, CA 95037
408-779-4878
Amfasoft Corporation
www.amfasoft.com
39510 Paseo Padre Pkwy Ste 370
Fremont, CA 94538
510-793-8355
Area Truck Driving School - Santa Clara
www.atdsus.com
P. O. Box 6376
408-283-9027
Association of Certified Professional Wedding Consultants
www.acpwc.com
7791 Prestwick Circle
San Jose, CA 95135
408-528-9000
142
Appendix
Au Lac Institute
www.aulacinstitute.com
2268 Quimby Road, Suite E
San Jose, CA 95122
408-239-5520
Automotive Joint Apprenticeship of North California
www.autoapprenticeship.com
3777 Stevens Creek Blvd., Ste. 320
408-244-4816
Automotive Training Schools - San Jose
www.automotivetrainingschools.com
1762 Little Orchard Street
San Jose, CA 95125
916-928-1331
Art Institute of California – Sunnyvale*
www.artinstitutes.edu/Sunnyvale/
1120 Kifer Road
Sunnyvale, CA 94086
(408) 962-6400
Business Systems Architects
www.isosys.com
100 N. Winchester Blvd, Suite 101
408-346-0153
California College of Communications
www.calcc.edu
762 Sunset Glen Drive #2
San Jose, CA 95123
408-629-8442
Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County
2625 Zanker Road Ste 200
San Jose, CA 95134
408-325-5170
Center for Manufacturing Education
www.cfme.com
1639 Daphne Drive
San Jose, CA 95129
408-398-8280
Center for Training and Careers (CTC/WorkNET)
www.ctcsj.org
1600 Las Plumas Avenue
San Jose, CA 95133
408-251-3165
Cogswell Polytechnical College
www.cogswell.edu
1175 Bordeaux Drive
Sunnyvale, CA 94089
(408) 541-0100
143
Computer Training Consultants
www.comptraining.com
1245 S Winchester Blvd., Suite 108
San Jose, CA 95128
408-380-0600
Computerific!
www.computerific.com
777 Lava Way
San Jose, CA 95133
408-251-3646
Contractors State License Services - San Jose
www.contractorslicensingschools.com
3410 Stevens Creek Blvd. Ste. 105
San Jose, CA 95117
408-247-1242
Crossbow Communications
www.crossbowcom.com
1245 South Winchester Blvd #210
San Jose, CA 95128
408-392-0016
DBTech Consultants
www.dbtech1.com
345 Leland Ave
Palo Alto, CA 94306
650-327-2369
DeVry University - San Jose*
www.devry.edu
2160 Lundy Ave., Ste. 250
San Jose, CA 95131
(408) 571-3760
East Side Adult Education
http://aenet.esuhsd.org
Independence Adult Center:
625 Educational Park Dr.
San Jose, CA 95133
408-928-9300
Overfelt Adult Center:
1901 Cunningham Ave.
San Jose, CA 95122
408-254-8100
Everest College – San Jose (formerly Bryman College-North)
www.everest.edu/campus/san_jose
1245 S. Winchester Blvd. #102
San Jose, CA 95128
408-246-4171
ExecuTrain - Santa Clara
www.bayareaexecutrain.com
2005 De La Cruz Blvd., Suite 200
408-844-8700
144
Appendix
Field Ironworkers Training Center
www.ironworkers378.org
3130 Bayshore Road
Benicia, CA 94510
707-746-7666
Fremont Union High School District – Adult and Community Education
www.ace.fuhsd.org
591 W. Fremont Ave.
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
408-522-2700
Galileo Travel School (formerly Go Western Travel School)
www.gowesterntravelschool.com
1700 South Winchester Blvd., Ste #102
Campbell, CA 95008
408-558-7000
Golden Gate University-San Jose
www.ggu.edu
50 Airport Pkwy Ste 150
San Jose, CA
408-573-7300
Heald Business College
www.heald.edu
341 Great Mall Parkway
Milpitas, CA 95035
408-934-4900
Influencing with Integrity
www.influence-integrity.com
235 Alma Street
Palo Alto, CA 94301
650-322-2799
Institute for Business and Technology (IBT)
www.ibttech.com
2400 Walsh Avenue
800-548-8545
Institute for Business Performance
www.ibptraining.com
600 S. Bascom Avenue, Ste. A
San Jose, CA 95128
408-283-3600
Institute for Career Development
www.goodwillsv.org
1080 N.Seventh Street
San Jose, CA 95112
408-998-5774
Institute of Transpersonal Psychology
www.itp.edu
1069 E. Meadow Circle
Palo Alto, CA 94303
650-493-4430
145
International Nutrition Consultants, Inc.
www.inc-inc.com
1308 Greenwich Ct.
San Jose, CA 95125
408-879-9141
International Technological University
www.itu.edu
1650 Warburton Avenue
408-556-9010
John F. Kennedy University - Campbell Campus*
www.jfku.edu
1 West Campbell Avenue, Building A
Campbell, CA 95008
800-696-5358
Just for Your Health College of Massage
www.just4yourhealth.com
2075 Lincoln Avenue, Suite E
San Jose, CA 95125
408-723-2570
Lincoln Law School of San Jose
www.lincolnlawsj.edu
1 N. First Street
San Jose, CA 95113
408-977-7227
Maria Montessori Teacher Training Center
www.oneworldmontessori.org
5331 Dent Ave.
San Jose, CA 95118
408-723-5140
Marinello Schools of Beauty (formerly California Cosmetology College)
www.marinello.com
955 Monroe Street
408-247-2200
Massage Therapy Center
www.massagetherapypaloalto.com
368 S. California Avenue
Palo Alto, CA 94306
650-328-9482
Metropolitan Educational District (includes various training site locations)
www.metroed.net
760 Hillsdale Avenue
San Jose, CA 95136
408-723-6400
Micky’s Computer Services
1520 The Alameda Ste 1310
San Jose, CA 95126
408-289-9733
146
Appendix
Milpitas Adult Education
www.musd.org
1331 E. Calaveras Blvd, #400
Milpitas, CA 95035
408-945-2392
Morgan Hill Community Adult School
www.adultedreg.com/morganhill/
17940 Monterey Road
Morgan Hill, CA 95037
408- 201-6520
Mountain View-Los Altos (MVLA) Adult Education
www.mvlaae.net
333 Moffett Boulevard
Mountain View, CA 94043
650-940-1333
N Square Corporation
www.nsquare.com
2118 Walsh Avenue, Suite 230
408-654-0500
National Bartenders School - Mountain View
www.nationalbartending.com
1398 El Camino Real
800-227-8363
National Hispanic University
www.nhu.edu
14271 Story Road
San Jose, CA 95127
408-254-6900
National University
www.nu.edu
3031 Tisch Way, 100 Plaza East
San Jose, CA 95128
408-236-1100
Northern California Plasterers JATC
www.opcmialocal300.org
2102 Almaden Rd. #120
San Jose, CA 95125
408-264-4430
Occupational Training Institute
www.oti.fhda.edu
21250 Stevens Creek Blvd.
Cupertino, CA 95014
408-864-8457
Optimal Performance Institute
www.opi.edu
1030 E. El Camino Real, Suite 322
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
866-796-6716
147
Pacific Graduate School of Psychology
www.pgsp.edu
405 Broadway
Redwood City, CA 94063
800-818-6136
Stockton, CA 95204
(800) 244-9912
Palmer College of Chiropractic, West Campus
www.palmer.edu
90 East Tasman Drive
San Jose, CA 95134
408-944-6000
www.pipetradestraining.org
San Jose, CA 95112
408-453-6330
Apprenticeship programs for plumbers, pipefitters/steamfitters, and HVAC service technicians
Portnov Computer School
www.portnov.com
1580 West El Camino Real # 12
650-961-2044
Quick Learning School
www.quicklearningschool.com
123 East Gish Road
San Jose, CA 95112
800-829-8293
Roofers Local 95 - Apprenticeship Training Program
www.roofer95.com
293 Brokaw Rd.
(408) 987-0440
San Jose Barber College
www.sanjosebarbercollege.com
1686 Monterey Hwy
San Jose, CA 95112
408-298-7596
San Jose Computer Academy
www.sanjosecomputeracademy.com
3033 Moorpark Ave Ste 22
San Jose, CA 95128
408-553-9915
San Jose State University Professional Development Center
http://pd.sjsu.edu
21265 Stevens Creek Blvd., Ste 205
Cupertino, CA 95014
408-257-3000
148
Appendix
San Jose Trucking School
www.sanjosetruckingschool.com
880 S. Bascom Ave.
San Jose,CA. 95128
408-298-3755
Santa Clara Adult Education
www.scae.org
1840 Benton Street
408-423-3500
www.ejatc332.org
908 Bern Court
San Jose, CA 95112
408-453-1022
Santa Clara Sheet Metal Training Center
www.smw104.org
2350 Lundy Place
San Jose, CA 95131
408-263-1712
SGI Worldwide
www.sgi.com
1200 Crittenden Lane
650-960-1980
Shin Shin Computer Training Center
www.sshin.com
820 E El Camino Real #I
650-965-3780
Silicon Drafting Institute
www.silicondrafting.com
3130 De La Cruz Blvd, #200
408-828-2323
Silicon Valley Technical Institute
www.svtii.com
1762 Technology Drive, Suite 227
San Jose, CA 95110
408-573-0100
Silicon Valley University
www.svuca.edu
2160 Lundy Avenue Suite 110
San Jose, CA 95131
408-435-8989
Software Technology Group (STG)
www.stgonline.com
3211 Scott Boulevard, Suite 103
408-970-9100
Sound and Communication Apprenticeship
www.calapprenticeship.org/Sound%20&%20Communication.htm
908 Bern Court, Suite 100
San Jose, CA 95112
408-453-3101
149
Stanford Center for Professional Development
http://scpd.stanford.edu
496 Lomita Mall, Durand Building, 3rd Floor
Stanford, CA 94305
650-725-3016
Sunnyvale-Cupertino Adult and Community Education
www.ace.fuhsd.org
591 West Fremont Avenue
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
408-522-2700
Target Masters Gun Range
www.thegunplace.com
122 Minnis Circle
Milpitas, CA 95035
408-263-7468
Techskills – San Jose Campus
www.techskills.com
3031 Tisch Way, Suite 1
San Jose, CA 95128
408-983-0310
Tomorrow Montessori School
www.tomorrowmontessori.com
2466 Almaden Rd
San Jose CA, 95125
408-979-1164
Trinh College
www.trinhcollege.com
1939 Monterey Road, Suite 2
San Jose, CA 95112
408-999-0446
University of California, Santa Cruz Extension in Silicon Valley
www.ucsc-extension.edu
10420 Bubb Road
Cupertino, CA 95014
408-861-3700
University of Phoenix
www.phoenix.edu
3590 N. First Street
San Jose, CA 95134
800-640-0622
Western Career College – San Jose Campus (formerly Silicon Valley College)
www.westerncollege.edu
6201 San Ignacio Ave.
San Jose, CA 95119
408-360-0840
WestMed College - San Jose Campus
www.westmedcollege.edu
5300 Stevens Creek Blvd., #200
San Jose, CA 95129
408-977-0723
150
Appendix
Alternative Fuel Vehicle Related Businesses (Bay Area)
Whether hybrid vehicles are part of the alternative fuel vehicle family depends on your definition of alternative fuel
vehicles. Some experts view hybrids (which combine a gasoline-powered engine with an on-board rechargeable
electric motor) as a separate class of vehicles. In any case, for the sake of brevity, this list does not include
mainstream auto makers and dealers that also make/sell/service hybrid vehicles. As of late 2008, there are 15
different hybrid models available from mainstream automakers led by Toyota and Honda (with another five models
expected in early 2009). Despite tough economic times and a shrinking US vehicle market, the demand for hybrids
is expected to continue outpacing the overall market.
3Prong Power, Inc.
www.3prongpower.com
1500 San Pablo Ave.
Berkeley, CA 94702
510-868-4133
PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) development and service
BAE Systems
www.baesystems.com
1205 Coleman Ave
408-289-0111
The world’s third largest defense contractor - converts military vehicles to Hybrid
Better Place
www.betterplace.com
1070 Arastradero Road, Suite 220
Palo Alto, CA 94304
650-845-2800
Provides charging station networks and battery swap stations for electric vehicles
California Cars Initiative (CalCars)
www.calcars.org
PO Box 61045
Palo Alto, CA 94306
Nonprofit organization focusing on public policy and technology development in promoting
100+MPG plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs)
Electro Automotive
www.electroauto.com
PO Box 1113
Felton, CA 95018
831-429-1989
Electric car conversions
Green Gears
www.greengears.net
1090 26th Street (Pat’s Garage)
415-860-3510
PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) conversions
Green Rides, Inc.
www.greenrides.com
86 Railway Ave.
Campbell, CA 95008
408-871-0500
Resource for consumers interested in green transportation
151
Green Vehicles Inc.
www.greenvehicles.com
648 N. King Road
San Jose, CA 95133
408-839-4616
EV developer, manufacturer and supplier
Green Vehicles of Mill Valley
www.greenvehicles.com
433 Miller Avenue
Mill Valley, CA 94941
415-755-8541
GreenEmotor Inc. (GEM)
www.greenemotor.com
3527 Ryder Street
408-739-9466
Electric scooters
Luscious Garage
www.lusciousgarage.com
459 Clementina St.
415-875-9030
PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) conversions and service
OEMtek Inc.
www.oemtek.com
1830 McCandless Drive
Milpitas, CA 95035
PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) conversions
Peoples Fuel Cooperative
www.peoplesfuel.org
4035 Judah Street, #402
415-250-9114
Developer/distributor of sustainably produced biodiesel fuel
Plug-In Supply Inc.
www.plug-insupply.com
PO Box 751344
Petaluma, CA 94975
707-849-2422
PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) conversion components
Tesla Motors
www.teslamotors.com
1050 Bing Street
San Carlos, CA 94070
650-413-4000
High-performance, electric sports car developer and manufacturer
Th!nk North America
www.think.no
2750 Sand Hill Rd
Menlo Park, CA 94025
650-561-0243
Norwegian-based electric car manufacturer
152
Appendix
Wrightspeed Inc.
www.wrightspeed.com
1400 Rollins Road, Suite B
Burlingame, CA 94010
650-787-8729
Electric vehicle developer
Zero Motorcycles, Inc.
www.zeromotorcycles.com
1 Victor Square
Scotts Valley, CA 95066
888-786-9376
Electric motorcycles
153
Building Performance Contractors (Bay Area)
The list below was provided by the California Building Performance Contractors Association. www.cbpca.org
See also the Directory of Certified Green Building Professionals from Build It Green under the HVAC/Building
Performance category. www.builditgreen.org/building-professional-directory
Block Energy Design
www.blockenergygreen.com
150 Felker St. # H
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
831-454-9956
Clayton Nelson & Assoc
www.claytonnelson.com
654 N. Santa Cruz Ave, Suite C-259
Los Gatos, CA 95030
408-559-7429
Emerson Environmental
www.emersonenvironmental.com
160 Plymouth Ave
San Carlos, CA 94070
650-281-9805
EcoEdge Consulting
www.ecoedgetech.com
1012 Camino Ricardo
San Jose, CA 95125
408-947-1004
Sustainable Homes Solutions
www.sustainablehomesolutions.com
706 Freeman Ct
831-462-6236
Sandium
www.sandium.com
440 N Wolfe Rd
Sunnyvale, CA 94085
408-894-9072
Green Building Specialist LLC
www.greenbuildingspecialist.com
101 First Street, PMB 804
Los Altos, CA 94022
650-380-3953
Van Meter Construction
www.vanmeterconstruction.com
9045 Soquel Dr, # 3
Aptos, CA 95003
831-689-9135
154
Appendix
Clean Tech Companies (Silicon Valley)
As of late 2008, Joint Venture: Silicon Valley Network had identified over 120 Clean Tech employers in the Silicon
Valley area.
Clean tech spans many industries, but generally includes the following segments:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Energy Generation (wind, solar, hydro/marine, biofuels, geothermal)
Energy Storage (fuel cells, advanced batteries, hybrid systems)
Energy Infrastructure (management, transmission)
Energy Efficiency (lighting, buildings, glass)
Transportation (vehicles, logistics, structures, fuels)
Water & Wastewater (water treatment, water conservation, wastewater treatment)
Air & Environment (cleanup/safety, emissions control, monitoring/compliance, trading & offsets)
Materials (nano, bio, chemical)
Manufacturing/Industrial (advanced packaging, monitoring & control, smart production)
Agriculture (natural pesticides, land management, aquaculture)
Recycling & Waste (recycling, waste treatment)
The list of Clean Tech Employers in Silicon Valley is updated periodically and is available online
as a downloadable Excel spreadsheet:
www.jointventure.org/programs-initiatives/climateprotection/documents/CleanTech_Companies_
in_Silicon_Valley_11_08.xls.
Another resource for identifying clean tech companies in the Silicon Valley area is the
Environmental Business Cluster website. EBC is a nonprofit clean energy and environmental
technology commercialization center located in San Jose:
www.environmentalcluster.org.
155
ESCO Providers (Energy Service Companies) that
provide services on the West Coast
Source: National Association of Energy Service Companies www.naesco.org
AECOM Energy
www.dmjmharris.com
Based in New York, NY
AECOM Energy is the Energy Services division of the AECOM Technology Corporation. With the
strength and resources of a $4.7 billion company with over 41,000 employees, AECOM Energy
is able to provide a wide range of solutions to our clients, including energy savings performance
contracting, strategic energy planning, sustainability consulting and management services. Our
projects range from energy efficiency to renewable energy to cogeneration, and we are ranked
as one of the top design firms the markets that we serve, including higher education, healthcare,
government buildings, correctional and industrial. With hundreds of U.S. offices located in 40
states, and projects in over 100 countries, we offer our clients a unique blend of global reach,
local knowledge, innovation and technical excellence in delivering solutions that enhance and
sustain the world’s built, natural and social environments. AECOM is a NAESCO-accredited
Energy Service Company.
AMERESCO
www.ameresco.com
Based in Framingham, MA
Ameresco, Inc. is an independent energy solutions company delivering long-term customer
value through innovative systems, strategies and technologies. Ameresco works with its
customers on both sides of the meter to reduce operating expenses, upgrade and maintain their
facilities, stabilize energy costs, improve occupancy comfort levels, increase energy reliability
and enhance the environment. Ameresco has over 170 employees across North America with
experience developing over $1 billion of energy projects. You can learn more about us at www.
ameresco.com.
Burns & McDonnell
www.burnsmcd.com/energyservices
Based in Kansas City, MO
Burns & McDonnell provides comprehensive energy services engineering, construction,
infrastructure, environmental, architecture and consulting services from nearly 3,000
professionals in 20 offices throughout the world. Our in-house, integrated, guaranteed energy
savings focus, provides cost efficient solutions to Industrial, Process, Municipal, Higher
Education, State and Federal Government sectors.
Chevron Energy Solutions
www.chevronenergy.com
Based in Overland Park, KS
Chevron Energy Solutions (Chevron ES) is the energy services unit of Chevron, a $220 billion
global energy enterprise employing more than 62,000 energy professionals in 180 countries.
Chevron ES brings together professional talent, shared values, and a strong commitment to
developing energy and facility solutions for its institutional and business customers across the
U.S. Fully accredited by NAESCO, Chevron ES is a vendor-independent company providing
comprehensive solutions that include performance contracting, energy auditing, design
engineering, project and construction management, training, project financing, commissioning,
web-based monitoring, and measurement and verification, as well as design-build consulting
and professional services. Chevron ES has expertise in traditional energy-saving technologies
and direct experience with renewable technologies such as fuel cells, wind and photovoltaics.
Contact the experts at Chevron ES today and start putting energy savings to work for you.
156
Appendix
Custom Energy Services, L.L.C.
www.customenergy.com
Based in Overland Park, KS
Custom Energy offers design, construction, management, and financing of a full range of
comprehensive Energy Conservation Measures. Each measure is carefully selected to maximize
operating cost reduction while enhancing building occupant comfort and safety. Delivering
superior value and providing heroic customer service truly define our desire to become "Your
Energy Partner For The Future"TM.
Direct Energy
www.directenergy.com
Based in Irving, TX
EPS Capital Corp.
(no URL identified)
Based in Doylestown, PA
Honeywell International Inc.
www.honeywell.com/sites/honeywell
Based in Danvers, MA
Johnson Controls Inc
www.johnsoncontrols.com
Based in Milwaukee, WI
A global leader in building efficiency solutions, providing innovative products and services that
optimize energy use and improve comfort and security. The smart environments we create for
customers are efficient, safe and sustainable. That makes the occupants more productive and
more comfortable. And that’s good for business ... and for life.
NORESCO
www.noresco.com
Based in Westborough, MA
NORESCO is one of the nation's leading energy service companies providing comprehensive
and proven energy-efficiency solutions, infrastructure development and operations strategies
to a wide range of customers across the nation. NORESCO has installed over $1.5 billion of
proven energy solutions in more than 20,000 facilities in diverse markets across the nation.
The company has also developed, designed and constructed 13 central energy plants with an
aggregate $360 million in capital cost. They presently manage approximately $400 million in
central power plant assets, providing operating and maintenance services for 14 plants with
combined output of more than 270 MW.
Onsite Energy Corporation
www.onsitenergy.com
Based in Carlsbad, CA
Pepco Energy Services, Inc.
www.pepcoenergy.com
Based in Arlington, VA
157
Siemens Building Technologies
www.sbt.siemens.com/bau/solutions/performance
Based in Buffalo Grove, IL
As a leading provider of energy and environmental solutions, building controls, fire safety and
security systems solutions, Siemens Building Technologies, Inc., makes buildings comfortable,
safe, secure and less costly to operate. With U.S. headquarters in Buffalo Grove, Ill., Siemens
Building Technologies employs 7,400 people and provides a full range of services and solutions
from more than 100 locations coast-to-coast. Worldwide, the company has 28,000 employees
and operates from more than 500 locations in 51 countries. In addition to traditional performance
contracting solutions, SBT is your partner for enterprise-wide strategic energy programs – we
help you integrate and optimize your facilities’ energy supply and performance benefits. We help
you proactively manage the risks and guarantee the performance benefits and financial results.
Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. is part of Siemens AG, a $112 billion global engineering and
electronics powerhouse and one of the largest energy infrastructure companies in the world.
Synergy Companies
(no URL identified)
Based in Orem, UT
TAC Energy Solutions
www.tac.com/energysolutions
Based in St. Louis, MO
At TAC, we provide turnkey solutions to reduce the energy and operational inefficiencies of your
building systems. We fulfill the critical role of first uncovering the real causes of facility issues.
Clients’ needs come first and accountability on all levels is simply a way of doing business.
Enduring performance provides more than just peace of mind. By focusing intently on diagnosis
and education, TAC ensures that the projects developed minimize owners’ risk while delivering
relevant business value. We deliver solutions. We Deliver Enduring Performance.
EnergySolve Companies
www.energysolve.com
Based in Somerset, NJ
Trane
www.trane.com
Based in St. Paul, MN
Trane is a worldwide manufacturer and supplier of central air conditioning systems, equipment,
controls, and parts as well as maintenance and contracting services for commercial, industrial
and institutional buildings and a premier brand for residential air conditioning. Trane is a division
of American Standard, a global manufacturer with market leading positions in three businesses:
air conditioning systems and service, plumbing products and vehicle control systems, including
electronic braking and air suspension systems. The company employs approximately 61,000
people and has manufacturing operations in 27 countries. American Standard is included in the
Standard & Poor's MidCap 400 Index.
UCONS, L.L.C.
www.ucons.com
Based in Kirkland, WA
158
Appendix
Green Building Professionals
Build It Green maintains a large online directory of Green Building Professionals that have
successfully completed the Certified Green Building Professional training program. The vast
majority are located in the San Francisco Bay Area:
www.builditgreen.org/building-professional-directory
The categories include:
• Architects/Designers
• Attorneys
• Carpenters/Woodworkers
• Consultants (Green Building)
• Cabinetmakers
• Design/Build Contractors
• Developers/Production Builders
• Electricians
• Energy & Green Consulting
• Engineers
• Excavation Contractors
• General Contractors
• HVAC/Building Performance
• Interior Designers
• Janitorial Maintenance Services
• Landscape Architects
• Landscape Contractors
• Lenders
• Non-Profits
• Plumbing Contractors
• Public Agencies
• Real Estate Professionals
• Solar Contractors
• Solar Developers
• Specialty Trades
• Suppliers
159
Suppliers and Retailers of Green Home Improvement
Products and Sustainable Building Materials (Bay Area)
The following list was compiled from a variety of sources and is presented for job search and
career exploration purposes. As we have no way of knowing to what degree these organizations
are committed to sustainability or green building, please do not interpret this list as a
recommendation of any organization on the list, or any product of an organization on the list.
1 Earth Forest Products (reclaimed and FSC-certified wood)
www.1efp.com
PO Box 788
Santa Rosa, CA 95402
(510) 504-5991
Advantage Building Supplies
www.abuildingsupplies.com
855 Folsom St., Suite 142
(415) 341-0900
Andersen Windows & Doors
www.andersenwindows.com
525 Eldridge Avenue
Novato, CA 94947
(415) 613-5955
Beronio Lumber Company (lumber and building materials)
www.beronio.com
2525 Marin Street
(415) 641-3248
Bob Murnane Carpets (floor coverings)
www.bobmurnanecarpets.com
206 West 6th Street
(707) 543-8099
Brisbane Recycling Co (landscape materials)
5 Beatty Road
Brisbane, CA 94005
(415) 468-8822
Bruce Bauer Lumber & Supply (lumber and building materials)
www.brucebauer.com
134 San Antonio Circle
(650) 948-1089
Burgess Lumber (lumber and building materials)
www.burgesslumber.com
3610 Copperhill Lane
(707) 542-5091
160
Appendix
Calera Corporation (cement)
www.calera.biz
100A Albright Way
Los Gatos, CA 95032
(408) 370-1111
CEMEX (baserock, aggregates)
www.cemex.com
775 Seaport Blvd
(650) 369-9189
Central Concrete Supply Co
www.centralconcrete.com
755 Stockton Avenue
San Jose, CA 95126
(916) 806-9414
Central Valley Builders Supply
www.CVBSupply.com
1100 Vintage Avenue
St. Helena, CA 94574
(707) 286-1485
Ceramic Tile Design (green building materials)
www.ceramictiledesign.net
846 W. Francisco Boulevard
San Rafael, CA 94901
(415) 485-5180
Collier Building Specialties (distributor of building materials and products)
www.colliersf.com
1485 Bayshore Blvd. #153
(415) 467-9235
Collier Warehouse (windows, doors, storefront, skylights and solariums)
www.colliergroup.com
90 Dorman Avenue
(415) 920-9720
Collins & Aikman/Tandus (creates recycled content carpet)
750 Battery Street
(415) 986-3564
Concrete Interiors (interior concrete products)
www.concreteinteriors.com
189-A Arthur Rd
Martinez, CA 94553
(925) 228-5744
concreteworks studio (concrete products)
www.concreteworks.com
1137 57th Ave.
Oakland, CA 94621
(510) 534-7141
161
Creative Roofing
www.creativeroofing.com
5213 El Mercado Pkwy.
(707) 588-9889
Delta Scrap and Salvage (demolition contractor, construction materials)
www.deltascrap.com
1371 Main Street
Oakley, CA 94561
(800) 305-PIPE
Dotto Glass (windows, doors and skylights)
www.dottoglass.com
74 Mitchell Blvd.
(415) 479-1479
EarthSource Forest Products (sustainable wood products)
Formerly Plywood and Lumber Sales
www.earthsourcewood.com
1618 28th Street
Oakland, CA 94608
510-547-7257
Eco Design Resources (green building materials)
See display at Green Building Exchange
www.ecodesignresources.com
1014 Cedar St.
(831) 421-0588
Eco Wave LLC (sustainable surfaces/flooring and LED lighting systems)
www.ecowavellc.com
San Jose, CA 95124
(408) 266-7500
EcoHome Improvement (retail home improvement/building materials)
www.ecohomeimprovement.com
2619 San Pablo Ave
Berkeley, CA 94702
(510) 644-3500
EcoTimber (flooring)
www.ecotimber.com
5215 Central Avenue
Richmond, CA 94804
(510) 809-8200
Fairfax Lumber & Hardware
www.fairfaxlumber.com
109 Broadway
Fairfax, CA 94930
(415) 453-4410
Friedman’s Contractor Sales (lumber and building materials)
www.friedmanshome.com
203 Manzanita Lane
Napa, CA 94558
(707) 888-6247
162
Appendix
Friedman’s Home Improvement (lumber and building materials)
Location is Santa Rosa, Sonoma, and Ukiah
www.friedmanshome.com
4055 Santa Rosa Avenue
(707) 588-7662
Glass Paradigm (glass)
www.glassparadigm.com
140 S. Whisman Road
(650) 390-9500
Graniterock (aggregates, concrete, stone, building materials)
www.graniterock.com
1505 S De Anza Blvd.
Cupertino, CA 95014
(408) 996-4500
Green Building Exchange (showcase for suppliers)
www.greenbuildingexchange.com
1 Chestnut Avenue
South San Francisco, CA 94080
(650) 588-1113
Green Fusion Design Center (retail home improvement/building materials)
www.greenfusiondesigncenter.com
14 Greenfield Avenue
San Anselmo, CA 94960
(415) 454-0174
Green Waste Recycle Yard (mulch and recycled wood products)
A division of Arboricultural Specialties, Inc.
www.greenwasterecycleyard.com
2550 Garden Tract Road
Richmond, CA 94801
(510) 527-8733
Guadalupe Landfill (baserock, aggregates)
15999 Guadalupe Mines Road
San Jose, CA 95120
(408) 268-1670
Healdsburg Lumber Company (lumber and building materials)
www.healdsburglumber.com
359 Hudson Street
Healdsburg, CA 95448
(707) 431-9663
Integrity Block (a new kind of concrete block made with up to 50% pre-recycled content)
www.integrityblock.com
4966 El Camino Real, Suite 223
Los Altos, CA 94022
(650) 641-3104
Interior Floor Design (flooring)
formerly Marin Floor Company
www.interiorfloordesign.net
600 Irwin Street, Suite B
(415) 453-3310
163
Kitchen & Bath Design Center of Fairfield
730 Texas Street
Fairfield, CA 94533
(707) 422-7682
LED Green Power (LGP) (lighting cartridge design, manufacturing, distribution)
www.ledgreenpower.com
2400 Chanticleer Avenue, Suite H
(831) 464-7344
Lyngso Garden Materials (landscape materials)
www.lyngsogarden.com
19 Seaport Boulevard
(650) 364-1730
Mead Clark Lumber Company (lumber and building materials)
www.meadclark.com
Hearn Avenue & Dowd Drive
PO Box 529
(707) 576-3333
Mediterranean Colors (eco stucco products)
www.medcolors.com
10 Liberty Ship Way, Suite 202
Sausalito, CA 94965
(415) 331-3886
modwalls® (tile market)
Formerly Mosaic Tile Market
www.modwalls.com
54 Old El Pueblo Road, Suite C
Scotts Valley, CA 95066
(831) 439-9734
NanaWall Systems (provider of opening glass walls)
www.nanawall.com
707 Redwood Highway
Mill Valley, CA 94941
(415) 383-3148
Ohmega Salvage (period architectural salvage and vintage hardware)
www.ohmegasalvage.com
2407 San Pablo Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94702
(510) 204-0767
PlaceMakers (salvage and deconstruction services)
www.placemakersinc.com
(650) 303-7530
Plan-It Hardware (retail home improvement/building materials)
www.planithardware.com
10 Piper Lane
Fairfax, CA 94930
(650) 703-9881
164
Appendix
Randazzo Enterprises (salvage and yard waste)
www.randazzoenterprises.com
13550 Blackie Road
Castroville, CA 95012
(800) 633-9039
Reclaim (retail home improvement/building materials)
www.reclaimhome.com
855 Santa Cruz Ave
(650) 329-9480
Redwood Debris Box Service - Garden Materials Division
www.rdsredwood.com
3615 Haven
(650) 595-2310
Reusable Lumber Company (reusable lumber and wood products)
www.reusablelumber.com
P.O. Box 620327
Woodside, CA 94062/ office
(650) 529-9122
The ReUse People - a nonprofit organization (salvage and deconstruction services)
www.thereusepeople.org
9235 San Leandro Blvd
Oakland, CA 94603
(888) 588-9490
Serious Materials (drywall, windows & doors)
www.seriousmaterials.com
1250 Elko Drive
Sunnyvale, CA 94089
(800) 797-8159
SilverWalker (custom cabinetry)
www.silverwalker.com
P.O. Box 70667
Richmond, CA 94807
(510) 215-1266
Skyside Studios (furniture, cabinetry and paperstone solid surface material)
www.skysidestudios.com
20C Pimentel Ct., Ste. 8
Novato, CA 94949
(415) 883-9455
Timbron International (non-structural wood-alternative products)
www.timbron.com
1945 Berkeley Way #102
Berkeley, CA 94704
(510) 333-1815
Truitt and White (retail home improvement/building materials)
www.truittandwhite.com
642 Hearst Street
Berkeley, CA 94710
(510) 841-0511
165
US HydroTech Environmental Solutions (services and products for managing water
discharge)
www.ushydrotech.com
1007 W College Ave, #461
(707) 793-4800
Vetrazzo (countertops, tabletops and vanities made from recycled glass)
www.vetrazzo.com
Ford Point, Suite 1400
1414 Harbour Way South
Richmond, CA 94804
(510) 234-5550
Whole House Building Supply & Salvage (salvage and deconstruction services)
www.driftwoodsalvage.com
1955 Pulgas Avenue
East Palo Alto, CA 94303
(650) 328-8731
166
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
KSA Profile: Architectural Drafters
Knowledge:
Design
Building & Construction
Mathematics
Computers & Electronics
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision
technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models. (86)
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses,
buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads. (77)
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications. (69)
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and
software, including applications and programming. (67)
Skills:
Active Listening
Coordination
Active Learning
Complex Problem Solving
Mathematics
Reading Comprehension
Critical Thinking
Operations Analysis
Instructing
Speaking
Time Management
Monitoring
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being
made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times. (86)
Adjusting actions in relation to others’ actions. (82)
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving
and decision-making. (79)
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options
and implement solutions. (77)
Using mathematics to solve problems. (76)
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents. (76)
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions,
conclusions or approaches to problems. (75)
Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design. (71)
Teaching others how to do something. (70)
Talking to others to convey information effectively. (70)
Managing one’s own time and the time of others. (70)
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make
improvements or take corrective action. (68)
Abilities:
Visualization
Deductive Reasoning
Information Ordering
Near Vision
Inductive Reasoning
The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are
moved or rearranged. (81)
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense. (78)
The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or
set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations). (72)
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer). (72)
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding
a relationship among seemingly unrelated events). (69)
167
KSA Profile: Architects
Knowledge:
Design
Engineering & Technology
English Language
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes
applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of
various goods and services. (72)
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and
spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar. (67)
Skills:
Active Listening
Critical Thinking
Time Management
Management of
Personnel Resources
Coordination
Writing
Speaking
Operations Analysis
Active Learning
Judgment & Decision Making
Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for
the job. (80)
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience. (75)
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
(68)
Abilities:
Oral Comprehension
Oral Expression
Near Vision
Problem Sensitivity
Speech Clarity
Written Expression
Deductive Reasoning
Speech Recognition
Visualization
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and
sentences. (81)
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand. (81)
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving
the problem, only recognizing there is a problem. (75)
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you. (72)
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand. (72)
The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person. (69)
168
KSA Profile: Automotive Service Technicians
Knowledge:
Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance. (85)
Skills:
Troubleshooting
Repairing
Equipment Selection
Active Learning
Critical Thinking
Installation
Active Listening
Equipment Maintenance
Learning Strategies
Speaking
Time Management
Coordination
Instructing
Writing
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it. (98)
Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools. (95)
Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job. (94)
Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications. (87)
Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of
maintenance is needed. (76)
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation
when learning or teaching new things. (76)
Abilities:
Problem Sensitivity
Deductive Reasoning
Inductive Reasoning
Arm-Hand Steadiness
Near Vision
Flexibility of Closure
Manual Dexterity
Control Precision
Finger Dexterity
Hearing Sensitivity
Oral Comprehension
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm
and hand in one position. (75)
The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in
other distracting material. (72)
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to
grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects. (72)
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact
positions. (69)
The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp,
manipulate, or assemble very small objects. (69)
The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness. (69)
sentences. (69)
169
KSA Profile: Buyers & Purchasing Agents
(Wholesale/Retail Buyers)
Knowledge:
Sales & Marketing
Customer & Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services.
This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales
control systems. (72)
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This
includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of
customer satisfaction. (69)
Skills:
Active Listening
Speaking
Critical Thinking
Time Management
Service Orientation
Mathematics
Instructing
(69)
Actively looking for ways to help people. (69)
Abilities:
Oral Expression
Oral Comprehension
Speech Clarity
Written Comprehension
Inductive Reasoning
sentences. (75)
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing. (72)
170
(Purchasing Agents)
Knowledge:
Mathematics
Skills:
Speaking
Active Listening
Critical Thinking
(72)
Abilities:
Oral Expression
Oral Comprehension
Inductive Reasoning
Deductive Reasoning
Problem Sensitivity
Speech Clarity
Speech Recognition
sentences. (81)
171
(Purchasing Managers)
Knowledge:
English Language
Administration & Management
Production & Processing
Mathematics
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource
allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and
coordination of people and resources. (76)
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for
maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods. (73)
Skills:
Active Listening
Critical Thinking
Active Learning
Management of
Material Resources
Negotiation
Mathematics
(74)
Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do
certain work. (71)
Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences. (70)
Abilities:
Oral Comprehension
Oral Expression
Speech Clarity
Speech Recognition
Problem Sensitivity
Written Expression
Deductive Reasoning
Inductive Reasoning
Near Vision
sentences. (81)
172
KSA Profile: Carpenters
Knowledge:
Mathematics
Skills:
Mathematics
Time Management
Active Listening
Critical Thinking
Active Learning
Management of
Material Resources
Quality Control Analysis
Installation
Management of
Financial Resources
Management of
Personnel Resources
Speaking
Service Orientation
Equipment Selection
Monitoring
Instructing
Coordination
Repairing
(81)
Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do
certain work. (78)
Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or
performance. (78)
Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these
expenditures. (77)
Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
(75)
Abilities:
Arm-Hand Steadiness
Multilimb Coordination
Trunk Strength
Near Vision
The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one
arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the
whole body is in motion. (75)
The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly
or continuously over time without ‘giving out’ or fatiguing. (75)
173
KSA Profile: Carpenters (cont'd)
Manual Dexterity
Problem Sensitivity
Visualization
KSA Profile: Civil Drafters
Knowledge:
Design
Mathematics
English Language
Skills:
None rate 67 or higher
Abilities:
Near Vision
174
KSA Profile: Civil Engineers
Knowledge:
Design
Mathematics
English Language
Physics
Transportation
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to
understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and
sub- atomic structures and processes. (73)
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road,
including the relative costs and benefits. (68)
Skills:
Critical Thinking
Active Listening
Coordination
Speaking
(69)
Abilities:
Oral Comprehension
Oral Expression
Deductive Reasoning
Problem Sensitivity
Written Expression
Near Vision
Visualization
Inductive Reasoning
Speech Clarity
sentences. (78)
175
KSA Profile: Construction Managers
Knowledge:
Design
English Language
Skills:
Critical Thinking
Active Listening
Monitoring
Speaking
Time Management
Coordination
Management of
Personnel Resources
Writing
Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
(72)
(69)
Abilities:
Oral Comprehension
Oral Expression
Written Expression
Inductive Reasoning
Problem Sensitivity
Deductive Reasoning
Near Vision
Speech Clarity
sentences. (78)
176
KSA Profile: Cost Estimators
Knowledge:
Mathematics
Skills:
Critical Thinking
Active Listening
Writing
Mathematics
Speaking
Abilities:
Oral Comprehension
Written Expression
Mathematical Reasoning
Near Vision
Oral Expression
Deductive Reasoning
Number Facility
sentences. (78)
The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem. (72)
The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly. (69)
177
KSA Profile: Customer Service Representatives
Knowledge:
Skills:
Active Listening
Monitoring
Speaking
Time Management
Service Orientation
Active Learning
Abilities:
Oral Comprehension
Oral Expression
Deductive Reasoning
Problem Sensitivity
Speech Clarity
Speech Recognition
Inductive Reasoning
Near Vision
sentences. (91)
178
KSA Profile: Electrical Drafters
Knowledge:
Design
Skills:
Time Management
Active Listening
Active Learning
Critical Thinking
Mathematics
Coordination
(68)
Abilities:
Oral Expression
Oral Comprehension
Near Vision
Written Expression
sentences. (75)
179
KSA Profile: Electrical Engineering Technicians
Knowledge:
English Language
Skills:
Troubleshooting
Mathematics
Critical Thinking
Active Learning
Active Listening
Equipment Selection
Learning Strategies
Repairing
Monitoring
Speaking
Abilities:
Near Vision
Problem Sensitivity
180
KSA Profile: Electrical Engineers
Knowledge:
Mathematics
English Language
Design
Physics
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to
understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and
sub- atomic structures and processes. (70)
Skills:
Active Listening
Troubleshooting
Critical Thinking
Technology Design
Active Learning
Systems Analysis
Time Management
Coordination
Equipment Selection
Learning Strategies
Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs. (78)
Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the
environment will affect outcomes. (74)
(72)
Abilities:
Deductive Reasoning
Near Vision
Problem Sensitivity
181
KSA Profile: Electricians
Knowledge:
Mechanical
Mathematics
Design
Skills:
Abilities:
Arm-Hand Steadiness
Oral Comprehension
Finger Dexterity
Problem Sensitivity
sentences. (72)
182
KSA Profile: Electronic Drafters
Knowledge:
Design
Mathematics
Skills:
Active Listening
Critical Thinking
Operations Analysis
Equipment Selection
Speaking
Coordination
Learning Strategies
Abilities:
Near Vision
KSA Profile: Electronics Engineering Technicians
Knowledge:
Skills:
Abilities:
183
KSA Profile: Engineering Managers
Knowledge:
Design
English Language
Mathematics
Skills:
Critical Thinking
Active Listening
Speaking
Monitoring
Negotiation
Social Perceptiveness
Writing
(75)
Being aware of others’ reactions and understanding why they react as they do. (69)
Abilities:
Oral Comprehension
Near Vision
Speech Clarity
sentences. (75)
The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not
their quality, correctness, or creativity). (69)
Speech Recognition
Oral Expression
Problem Sensitivity
Deductive Reasoning
Fluency of Ideas
Inductive Reasoning
184
KSA Profile: First-Line Supervisors/Managers of
Construction Trades & Extraction Workers
Knowledge:
Mathematics
Skills:
Time Management
Coordination
Instructing
Speaking
Active Listening
Critical Thinking
Equipment Selection
Mathematics
Monitoring
(73)
Abilities:
Oral Comprehension
Oral Expression
Problem Sensitivity
sentences. (78)
185
KSA Profile: Heating & Air Conditioning Mechanics
& Installers
Knowledge:
Mechanical
Skills:
Troubleshooting
Repairing
Active Listening
Critical Thinking
Installation
Active Learning
Coordination
Time Management
Learning Strategies
Speaking
Abilities:
Extent Flexibility
Finger Dexterity
Manual Dexterity
Problem Sensitivity
Arm-Hand Steadiness
Inductive Reasoning
Trunk Strength
The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs. (75)
186
KSA Profile: Landscape Architect
Knowledge:
Design
Skills:
Time Management
Coordination
Active Listening
Active Learning
Critical Thinking
Writing
(69)
Abilities:
Oral Comprehension
Oral Expression
Originality
Written Expression
Fluency of Ideas
Visualization
Deductive Reasoning
Inductive Reasoning
Problem Sensitivity
Speech Clarity
Category Flexibility
Near Vision
Speech Recognition
sentences. (78)
The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop
creative ways to solve a problem. (78)
the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different
ways. (69)
187
KSA Profile: Machinists
Knowledge:
Mechanical
Mathematics
Skills:
Abilities:
Control Precision
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact
positions. (69)
KSA Profile: Maintenance & Repair Workers, General
Knowledge:
Mechanical
Public Safety & Security
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local,
state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
(67)
Skills:
Repairing
Troubleshooting
Active Listening
Installation
Equipment Selection
Abilities:
Problem Sensitivity
Manual Dexterity
188
KSA Profile: Materials Engineers
Knowledge:
Chemistry
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the
chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and
their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods. (76)
Skills:
Active Listening
Science
Critical Thinking
Writing
Active Learning
Troubleshooting
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems. (82)
Abilities:
Oral Expression
Problem Sensitivity
Deductive Reasoning
Inductive Reasoning
Oral Comprehension
Written Expression
sentences. (72)
189
KSA Profile: Mechanical Drafters
Knowledge:
Design
Mathematics
English Language
Skills:
Mathematics
Active Listening
Instructing
Critical Thinking
Technology Design
Equipment Selection
Speaking
made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Abilities:
Near Vision
Oral Expression
Visualization
Oral Comprehension
Problem Sensitivity
Written Expression
Deductive Reasoning
Inductive Reasoning
Speech Clarity
Speech Recognition
sentences. (81)
190
KSA Profile: Mechanical Engineering Technicians
Knowledge:
Mechanical
Skills:
Active Listening
Coordination
Mathematics
Time Management
Active Learning
Troubleshooting
Equipment Selection
Writing
(74)
Abilities:
Deductive Reasoning
Near Vision
Oral Comprehension
Problem Sensitivity
Inductive Reasoning
sentences. (72)
191
KSA Profile: Mechanical Engineers
Knowledge:
Mechanical
Design
Mathematics
various goods and services.(88)
Skills:
Mathematics
Critical Thinking
Science
Active Listening
Time Management
Writing
Speaking
Operations Analysis
Coordination
Active Learning
Monitoring
(80)
Abilities:
Oral Comprehension
Problem Sensitivity
Deductive Reasoning
Inductive Reasoning
Near Vision
Oral Expression
sentences. (78)
192
KSA Profile: Pipe Fitters & Steamfitters
Knowledge:
Mechanical
Design
English Language
Public Safety & Security
Mathematics
Economics & Accounting
Education & Training
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local,
state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
(72)
Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking
and the analysis and reporting of financial data. (70)
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction
for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects. (67)
Skills:
Installation
Critical Thinking
Instructing
Active Learning
Equipment Selection
Active Listening
Coordination
Repairing
Time Management
Troubleshooting
(71)
Abilities:
Near Vision
Problem Sensitivity
193
KSA Profile: Plumbers
Knowledge:
Building and Construction
Mechanical
Mathematics
Skills:
Abilities:
Arm-Hand Steadiness
Near Vision
194
KSA Profile: Roofers
Knowledge:
Skills:
Installation
Coordination
Speaking
Instructing
Active Listening
Active Learning
Critical Thinking
Mathematic
Monitoring
Repairing
(67)
Abilities:
Gross Body Equilibrium
Arm-Hand Steadiness
Trunk Strength
The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position. (75)
195
KSA Profile: Sales Engineers
Knowledge:
Sales & Marketing
Skills:
Active Listening
Operations Analysis
Persuasion
Writing
Critical Thinking
Monitoring
Negotiation
Coordination
Active Learning
Technology Design
Mathematic
Speaking
Science
Learning Strategies
Time Management
Equipment Selection
Instructing
Service Orientation
Systems Analysis
Systems Evaluation
Persuading others to change their minds or behavior. (92)
(88)
Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the
environment will affect outcomes. (69)
Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or
correct performance, relative to the goals of the system. (68)
Abilities:
Oral Expression
196
KSA Profile: Sales Engineers (cont'd)
Oral Comprehension
Speech Recognition
Speech Clarity
Deductive Reasoning
Inductive Reasoning
Problem Sensitivity
Fluency of Ideas
Written Expression
sentences. (78)
197
KSA Profile: Sales Representatives,
Wholesale & Manufacturing,
Technical & Scientific Products
Knowledge:
Sales & Marketing
Skills:
Speaking
Persuasion
Active Listening
Time Management
Negotiation
Service Orientation
Critical Thinking
Active Learning
Persuading others to change their minds or behavior. (86)
Abilities:
Oral Expression
Oral Comprehension
Speech Clarity
Speech Recognition
sentences. (85)
198
KSA Profile: Urban & Regional Planners
Knowledge:
Design
English Language
Law & Government
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive
orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process. (70)
Skills:
Writing
Active Listening
Critical Thinking
Speaking
Time Management
Service Orientation
Coordination
Active Learning
(78)
Abilities:
Deductive Reasoning
Oral Comprehension
Inductive Reasoning
Oral Expression
Written Expression
Problem Sensitivity
Speech Clarity
Category Flexibility
Near Vision
sentences. (81)
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different
ways. (69)
199

Clean Energy and Green Building Careers

Transcription

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