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Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy

Operated by the Alliance for Sustainable Energy, LLC

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Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Contract No. DE-AC36-08GO28308

Job Task Analysis

Building Operations 

Professional

February — December 2014

Cynthia D. Woodley

Professional Testing Incorporated

Orlando, Florida

NREL Technical Monitor: Charles Kurnik

Subcontractor Report

NREL/SR-7A40-62330

January 2015
NREL is a national laboratory of the U.S. Department of Energy

Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy

Operated by the Alliance for Sustainable Energy, LLC

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy

Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Contract No. DE-AC36-08GO28308

National Renewable Energy Laboratory

15013 Denver West Parkway

Golden, CO 80401

303-275-3000 • www.nrel.gov

Job Task Analysis

Building Operations 

Professional 

February — December 2014 

Cynthia D. Woodley

Professional Testing Incorporated

Orlando, Florida

NREL Technical Monitor: Charles Kurnik

Prepared under Task No. BE4C.3901

Subcontractor Report

NREL/SR-7A40-62330

January 2015
NOTICE

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trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise does not necessarily constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation, 

or favoring by the United States government or any agency thereof. The views and opinions of authors expressed 

herein do not necessarily state or reflect those of the United States government or any agency thereof.

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iii

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Executive Summary

This report describes the process for and results of a comprehensive job task analysis (JTA) of 

Building Operations Professionals. This study was performed by Professional Testing on behalf 

of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). The competency (domains, tasks, and 

associated knowledge) list, which defines the work performed by practitioners, was initially 

developed by a representative panel of practitioners during a meeting held February 10–12, 

2014, in Orlando, Florida. After the job tasks and associated knowledge and skills were 

identified, a validation survey was conducted of the finding of the JTA and the results of the 

validation study were reviewed by a representative panel of practitioners during a conference call 

held May 30, 2014. The committee finalized the JTA and examination blueprints for the 

Building Operations Professional credential scheme based on the survey results.
iv

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Acronyms

ACM Asbestos Containing Materials

BAS Building Automated Systems

CMMS Computerized Maintenance Management Software

DACUM Developing a Curriculum

DDC Direct Digital Controls

DOE U.S. Department of Energy

DOL U.S. Department of Labor

DOT U.S. Department of Transportation

EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

GHS Globally Harmonized System

HIPAA Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act

HOA Hand-Off-Auto

IPMVP International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocols

JTA Job Task Analysis

NIBS National Institute of Building Sciences

NREL National Renewable Energy Laboratory

O&M Operations and Maintenance

OEM Original Equipment Manufacturer

PACM Presumed Asbestos Containing Materials

PPE Personal Protective Equipment

SD Standard deviation

SDS Safety Data Sheets

SEM Standard error of the mean

SME Subject matter expert

SOP(s) Standard Operating procedure(s)

TDS Total Dissolved Solids

USGBC U.S. Green Building Council

VAT Vinyl Asbestos Tile

VOC Volatile Organic Compound
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Table of Contents

1 Introduction........................................................................................................................................... 1

2 Final Building Operations Professional DACUM Job/Task Analysis.............................................. 2

2.1 Building Operations Professional Job Description .......................................................................... 2

2.2 Job Task Analysis DACUM Chart for Building Operations Professional....................................... 2

3 Examination Blueprint ....................................................................................................................... 49

4 Job Task Analysis and Survey Validation ....................................................................................... 52

4.1 Survey Development...................................................................................................................... 52

4.2 Survey Dissemination .................................................................................................................... 53

5 Results................................................................................................................................................. 54

5.1 State of Primary Employment........................................................................................................ 54

5.2 Highest Level of Education ........................................................................................................... 55

5.3 Years of Energy Experience .......................................................................................................... 56

5.4 Years of Building Operations Experience ..................................................................................... 57

5.5 Work Sector................................................................................................................................... 58

6 Post-Survey Conference Call/Webinar............................................................................................. 60

6.1 Adequacy of Respondent Demographics....................................................................................... 60

6.2 Job Task Ratings............................................................................................................................ 60

6.3 Tasks or Knowledge Missing......................................................................................................... 65

7 Conclusions and Next Steps............................................................................................................. 66

Appendix A: Building Operations Professional Validation Study Survey .......................................... 67

Appendix B: Tasks or Knowledge Missing: List of Written Comments .............................................. 89
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List of Figures

Figure 1. Highest level of education ....................................................................................................... 56

Figure 2. Years of energy experience ..................................................................................................... 57

Figure 3. Years of experience specifically as a building operations professional ............................ 58

Figure 4. Sector in which respondent works ......................................................................................... 59

List of Tables

Table 1. Duties and Tasks of Building Operations Professional ........................................................... 2

Table 2. Areas of Specialized Knowledge Required of Building Operations Professional................. 3

Table 3. Areas of Building Systems Knowledge Required of Building Operations Professional ...... 6

Table 4. Areas of General Knowledge Required of Building Operations Professional ....................... 7

Table 5. Skills and Abilities Required of Building Operations Professional ........................................ 9

Table 6. Attitudes Required of Building Operations Professionals..................................................... 10

Table 7. Physical Conditions Required of Building Operations Professional.................................... 11

Table 8. Tools, Equipment, and Resources Required by Building Operations Professional ........... 12

Table 9. Chemical Analysis Kit Required by Building Operations Professional................................ 15

Table 10. Codes, Standards, Regulations, and Guidelines for Building Operations Professional .. 15

Table 11. Software Required for Building Operations Professional.................................................... 16

Table 12. Hand Tools Required for Building Operations Professional ............................................... 18

Table 13. PPE Required for Building Operations Professional............................................................ 18

Table 14. Specialized Tools Required for Building Operation Professionals..................................... 19

Table 15. Technology Tools Required for Building Operations Professional.................................... 19

Table 16. Duties, Tasks, Steps, Specialized Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources Required for Supervising Personnel............................................................................. 19

Table 17. Duties, Tasks, Steps, Specialized Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources Required for Conducting Planning Activities .............................................................. 21

Table 18. Duties, Tasks, Steps, Specialized Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources Required for Operating Buildings ................................................................................. 24

Table 19. Duties, Tasks, Steps, Specialized Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources for Optimizing the Facility.............................................................................................. 42

Table 20. Duties, Tasks, Steps, Specialized Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources Required for Contributing to Budgeting Activities...................................................... 47

Table 21. Final Proposed Examination Blueprint for Building Operations Professional .................. 49

Table 22. Summary of Respondent Holistic Ratings............................................................................. 51

Table 23. List of DACUM JTA Participants............................................................................................. 52

Table 24. State of Employment of Respondents ................................................................................... 54

Table 25. List of "Other" Write-In Comments......................................................................................... 55

Table 26. Highest Level of Education ..................................................................................................... 55

Table 27. Years of Energy Experience.................................................................................................... 56

Table 28. Years of Experience Specifically as a Building Operations Professional.......................... 57

Table 29. Sector in Which Respondent Works....................................................................................... 58

Table 30. Means, SDs, and SEM of Rating Scale Responses............................................................... 61

Table 31. Combined Frequency and Importance Scales ...................................................................... 63
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1 Introduction

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), in conjunction with the National Institute 

of Building Sciences (NIBS) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), led a study to identify 

the critical duties and tasks required of Building Operations Professionals. To facilitate the 

identification of the competencies, Professional Testing used the DACUM (Developing a 

Curriculum) process to conduct a Job/Task Analysis (JTA).

A panel of subject matter experts (SMEs) was selected by NIBS and convened by Professional 

Testing for a 3-day meeting held February 10–12, 2014, in Orlando, Florida. The competencies 

identified during the meeting were then validated via a survey. This report reflects the 

completion and results of the study, and is organized with section 2 containing the proposed final 

content outline, and the later sections containing the details of the JTA development process, 

including results of the validation survey.
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2 Final Building Operations Professional DACUM 

Job/Task Analysis

2.1 Building Operations Professional Job Description

The Building Operations Professional manages the maintenance and operation of building 

systems and installed equipment, and performs general maintenance to maintain the building’s 

operability, optimize building performance, and ensure the comfort, productivity and safety of 

the building occupants.

2.2 Job Task Analysis DACUM Chart for Building Operations 

Professional

A proposed content outline resulting from this Job/Task Analysis follows.

Table 1. Duties and Tasks of Building Operations Professional

Duties and Tasks Final 

Weight

Final 

Items

A Supervising Personnel 8% 10

1 Develop workload analyses 1% 1

2 Analyze staffing productivity 2% 3

3 Supervise building staff 4% 5

4 Secure outside service providers 1% 1

B Conduct Planning Activities 15% 18

1 Update procedures (SOPs, BOPs, operating plans, emergency plans, etc.) 3% 4

2 Develop equipment operations plans 2% 2

3 Develop planned maintenance schedules 3% 4

4 Contribute to construction standards and guidelines 2% 2

5 Contribute to capital renewal plans 3% 4

6 Conduct data management activities 2% 2

C Operating Buildings 50% 59

1 Perform workplace hazard assessments 2% 3

2 Participate in emergency drills 2% 3

3 Manage the PPE program 2% 3

4 Manage third party inspections 2% 2

5 Respond to building emergencies 2% 2

6 Manage building securities 2% 2

7 Coordinate/conduct occupant training 2% 2

8 Conduct risk management activities 2% 2

9 Manage responses to inclement weather conditions/issues 2% 3

10 Respond to tenant requests/issues 2% 2

11 Conduct equipment checks 2% 2

12 Conduct daily rounds 2% 2

13 Coordinate facility operations (normal) 2% 2
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Duties and Tasks Final 

Weight

Final 

Items

14 Coordinate facility operations (other than normal) 2% 2

15 Manage the work order process 2% 3

16 Investigate indoor environmental quality 2% 3

17 Conduct tenant relations activities 2% 2

18 Manage consumables 2% 2

19 Manage outside facility contractors/service providers 2% 3

20 Manage environmental requirements (permits, etc.) 2% 3

21 Implement an energy management program 3% 4

22 Maintain the facility and systems 3% 4

23 Conduct facility repair activities 2% 3

D Optimizing the Facility 20% 24

1 Conduct measurement and verification activities 3% 4

2 Analyze system performance 4% 5

3 Identify cost saving measures 3% 3

4 Respond to changing energy costs 3% 3

5 Optimize system performance 5% 6

6 Identify sustainability opportunities 2% 3

E Contributing to Budgeting Activities 7% 8

1 Contribute to long-term facility budget plan (5 years) 2% 2

2 Contribute to facility operations budget 3% 4

3 Contribute to capital improvement budget(s) 2% 2

Total 100% 120

Table 2. Areas of Specialized Knowledge Required of Building Operations Professional

Areas of Specialized Knowledge

Adjusting equipment based on readings Americans with Disabilities Act

Asset inventories Renewable energy systems

BAS or monitoring systems Baselines

Basic data architecture Basic financial terminology

Basic knowledge of contaminant limits Basic knowledge of insurance policies for 

equipment and operations

Basic knowledge of tariffs Basic statistical analyses

Basic utility bill analysis Benchmarking

Best practices for emergency drills Biohazards and hazardous chemicals

Break-even analysis Budget categories

Building certification programs Building operations and procedures

Building systems (see Table 3) (including 

interdependencies, interoperability, limitations, 

operating plans, operations, and performance 

expectations)

Business case development

Chain of custody Change-management techniques

Common or frequent deficiencies Communications methods (Skype, Webinar, etc.)

Communications plans Company labor policies

Comparing alternatives to satisfy demands Conditions under which a building should be 
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Areas of Specialized Knowledge

evacuated

Consumable logistics Consumable requirements

Consumable sourcing guidelines Contaminant containment protocols

Contingency plans/data recovery Contract knowledge

Contract requirements Contracts and service providers

Contributors to carbon or environmental footprint Control systems

Control theory Costs of systems or improvements

Criticality of various systems and equipment Customer requirements for business

Decontamination requirements Deferred issues (deferred maintenance)

Demand management strategies Distinguishing equivalency between equipment 

and/or systems

Emergency equipment operation Emergency procedures including first aid and CPR

Emerging technologies and tools Energy basics

Energy conservation opportunities Energy efficiency measures (EEM) and economics

Energy load profiles EPA regulations

Equipment operations and specifications Expected life of major building components

Facility knowledge Failure modes

Familiarity with learning styles Feasibility studies

Finances Financial penalties for going above peak demand 

threshold

First cost versus life cycle costs First response mitigation techniques (what type of 

fire extinguisher to use, etc.)

Fluid dynamics Foot-candles/lumens and lighting concepts

Funding limitations Funding sources

General knowledge of the authority having 

jurisdiction Hazard remediation/cleanup

Hazardous materials disposal Hazards in the area (earthquakes, etc.)

Hazards management Health effects of contaminants (including stay 

times)

Heat transfer HIPAA requirements

Historical data associated with facility Human resources

HVAC systems Impact of change on tenant/occupant space

Impact of facility operations on scheduling Impact of operational changes (occupancy 

changes) on performance expectations

Incident command systems (ICS) Inclement weather escalation plans

Inclement weather local logistics (shelter, food, 

transportation) Indicators of problems with equipment

Industry norms for manpower Infection control procedures

Inspection agencies Inspection procedures

Insurance requirements Integrated work management systems structure

Interim life safety measures (fire watch, alternate 

evacuation routes, etc.) Interpreting equipment test readings

Inventory control systems Job responsibilities

Key logic systems (master keys vs. other keys) Labor contract agreements

Levels of maintenance Levels of service for various spaces

Licensing requirements Life cycle assessments

Life cycle accounting practices Limitations of PPE

Load demand schedules Local water restrictions and requirements

Local weather issues Location of facility equipment

Lock-out/tag-outs Long term goals of the organization

Maintenance costs of existing systems Management requirements

Manual equipment operation Material availability

Measured variables to verify system performance Measurement equipment and techniques
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Areas of Specialized Knowledge

Medical evaluation policies and requirements Mitigator of carbon or environmental footprint

Monitoring systems and equipment Municipal requirement for disposal and recycle of 

consumables

National Incident Management Systems (NIMs) New technologies

Normal equipment operating parameters/limits Normal routine operation of the facility

Obtaining measurements Occupancy types and typical evacuation 

procedures for various occupancies

Operating baselines Operation equipment loads

Operational impact of inspections Operations within the facility

Options for extending the life of equipment and 

systems

Organizational security requirements (access 

requirements, levels of security, etc.)

Organizational structures Organization's budgeting process

Safety Codes and Standards (including OSHA) Other submetering systems

Outsourcing options Owner's long-term plan for the facility

Payment policies Peak demand loads

Performance improvement plans Permitting requirements

Permitting resources Personnel performance review processes

Plumbing systems Potential contaminants

Potential environmental, health and safety (EHS) 

hazards and risks PPE and proper usage and maintenance of PPE

Procurement policies and procedures Procurement regulations

Proper procedures for isolating and removing 

hazards Psychrometrics

Rate schedules for utilities Reclamation techniques

Recommended maintenance schedules Refrigerant recovery techniques

Regulated consumables Regulatory record requirements

Relationship between deficiencies and energy

efficiency Remediation activities for contaminants

Remediation procedures Remote monitoring systems and equipment

Remote system fluency (DDC, etc.) Reporting capabilities of work order systems

Reporting requirements for emergencies Resource planning personnel management

Resources required for typical tenant/occupant 

requests and issues RFP process

Root cause analysis techniques Safety codes and standards (including OSHA)

Safety concerns associated with equipment 

operations Safety practices

Scope of work Security equipment (lighting, cameras, etc.)

Security policies and procedures Sequence of equipment operations

Sequence of operations Service level agreements

Services to be outsourced Shelf life of consumables

SOPs related to equipment Specialized emergency equipment

State and local energy mandates Storage requirements for consumables

Sustainability options System documentation requirements

Technical equipment knowledge Technical knowledge

Tenant/occupant chain of command Tenant/occupant contracts

Tenant/occupant equipment and requirements Tenant/occupant hours of operation

Tenant/occupant needs and schedules Tenant/occupant operations and space uses

Tenant/occupant requirements Tenant/occupant tolerances in changes to systems

Testing and balancing procedures Thermodynamics

Trade and union requirements Trade knowledge for specific equipment and 

systems

Trade terminology and definitions Trend analysis

Typical characteristics of facilities and equipment Typical nonenergy costs
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Areas of Specialized Knowledge

Typical training topics Understanding of all staff functions carried out in 

the facility

Understanding of interlocked equipment Understanding of load shedding and its importance

Understanding of photometric charts Understanding of staffing models (vacation, sick 

leave, etc.)

Uninterruptable and critical systems Utility bill analysis

Utility rate structures and schedules Utility time of use

Vendors Ventilation requirements for consumables

Weather impact on the facility Weather related factors affecting equipment 

(temperatures, dew points, etc.)

When substitutions of equipment or systems are 

not allowed When to conduct IEQ tests

Whole building integration Work control procedures

Work order processes

Table 3. Areas of Building Systems Knowledge Required of Building Operations Professional

Areas of Building Systems Knowledge

Air compressor and distribution system

Air distribution system

Building automation system

Building control system

Building envelope

Chilled water system

Combined heat and power system

Communication systems

Condenser water system

Conveyance systems

Cooling generation equipment

District energy systems

Domestic hot water system

Electrical power system

Elevator/escalator systems

Emergency alert systems

Energy metering and monitoring system

Energy recovery system

Fresh air systems

Fuel storage and distribution systems (USTs, ASTs, etc.)

Heat generation equipment

HVAC control system

HVACR system

Irrigation equipment

Life safety systems

Lighting control system

Lighting system

Onsite energy generation system (CHP, PV, wind, thermal, generators, etc.)

Potable cold water system

Primary sewer/gray water systems

Process systems and controls

Pumps and pumping system

Renewable energy system

Specialty exhaust systems

Standpipe/sprinkler systems
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Areas of Building Systems Knowledge

Steam and hot water system

Steam distribution system

Thermal energy storage system

Uninterruptible power systems (UPSs)/building energy storage systems (BSS)

Variable drive system

Water distribution and control system

Table 4. Areas of General Knowledge Required of Building Operations Professional

Areas of General Knowledge

Calculations 

Perform simple math operations of division

Perform simple math operations of addition

Perform simple math operations of subtraction

Perform simple math operations of multiplication

Use a calculator

Compare numbers

Perform mathematical operations with decimals

Collect information to solve a problem

Perform math operations using single and multiple digit numbers

Make rough estimates

Transfer number sequences from a source into a column

Figure averages

Perform mathematical operations with fractions

Solve percent problems

Solve ratio problems

Perform math operations using signed (positive and negative) numbers

Change numbers from fractions into decimals and back

Change numbers from percentages into decimals and back

Measure angles

Solve problems with graphs

Multiply and factor algebraic expressions

Solve formula calculations with one unknown

Basic Measurement

Read measurements taken with common measuring tools

Measure temperature to within 1 degree Fahrenheit

Measure linear distances (length, width, etc.)

Calculate the perimeter and areas of common figures

Estimate and approximate measurements

Record measurements, using appropriate unit notations (feet, yards, etc.)

Measure area (square inches, square centimeters, etc.)

Measure volume (cubic inches, liters, etc.)

Use tools to measure quantities and solve problems involving measurements
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Areas of General Knowledge

Find the dimensions of an object from a scale drawing

Read, interpret, and use size-scale relationships

Read and use the scale of a drawing

Measure length to 1/4 of an inch

Measure length to 1/8 of an inch

Measure length to 1/16 of an inch

Measure weights using devices calibrated in ounces

Measure weights using devices calibrated in pounds

Find distances and directions on land maps

Make simple scale drawings

Convert measurements from one unit to another (English to Metric, etc.)

Measure length to 1/32 of an inch

Read and apply coefficient measurements indicated in a table or chart

Measure accurately to 0.01 inches

Measure board feet

Communications

Ask questions

Communicate using the vocabulary/terminology of a related trade

Follow verbal job instructions

Communicate with co-workers and/or business people verbally (face-to-face)

Listen

Read and follow directions found in equipment manuals and code books

Read and interpret directions found on labels, packages, or instruction sheets

Read drawings and specifications sheets

Communicate with co-workers and/or business people verbally (telephone, radio)

Evaluate options/alternatives

Read codes (building codes, electrical codes, standards, etc.)

Evaluate solutions

Read information from tables and graphs (bar, circle, etc.)

Explain procedures

Read and follow a map, chart, plan, etc.

Write words and numbers legibly

Communicate with co-workers and/or business people in writing (letters, memos)

Find information in catalogs

Find information in references (machinery handbook, tap/drill charts, etc.)

Read flowcharts

Research information

Read statistical data

Participate in brainstorming

Present to others
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Areas of General Knowledge

Summarize information

Write reports

Apply assertiveness

Compare names

Table 5. Skills and Abilities Required of Building Operations Professional

Skills and Abilities

Ability to analyze data Ability to apply data to protocols

Ability to communicate with non-English speaking 

individuals

Ability to communication with regulatory 

authorities/inspectors

Ability to compare costs of technologies Ability to compare data

Ability to compare products Ability to conduct a risk assessment

Ability to conduct economic analysis of alternatives Ability to convert units

Ability to cope with stressful situations Ability to diagnose equipment and system 

failures

Ability to distinguish between manual and 

automatic operations Ability to evaluate bid proposals

Ability to evaluate facility conditions Ability to follow written and sequenced directions

Ability to forecast situational resources Ability to identify alternate work practices

Ability to identify options for extending useful life of 

equipment and systems

Ability to integrate disparate systems and 

equipment

Ability to interpret contract documents Ability to interpret test readings

Ability to manipulate equipment controls Ability to operate digitizing equipment (scanners, 

etc.)

Ability to perform equipment checks and tests Ability to plan for future needs

Ability to prioritize Ability to read and interpret construction 

documents

Ability to read gauges Ability to read technical data

Ability to relate graphic information to real world 

situations Ability to remain calm in an emergency

Ability to think clearly in an emergency Ability to understand contract documents

Ability to utilize a systems or holistic approach to 

equipment checks Ability to work in abnormal conditions

Ability to write Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) Analytical skills

Basic and advanced math skills Benchmarking skills

Computer skills Customer service skills

Data interpretation and management skills Diagnostic skills

Estimating skills Evaluation skills

Interpersonal skills Interviewing skills

Inventory control skills Leadership skills

Listening skills Locksmith skills

Management skills Marketing skills

Measurement skills Meter calibration and verification skills

Negotiation skills Organizational skills

Physical attributes Planning skills

Presentation skills Problem solving skills

Procurement skills Project management skills

QC skills Reading ability

Recordkeeping skills Research skills

Safe Scheduling skills
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Skills and Abilities

Spreadsheet skills Strong control system skills

Systems thinking Teaching skills

Team management skills Teambuilding skills

Teamwork skills Technical aptitude

Technical reading ability Technical writing skills

Troubleshooting skills Verbal communication skills

Written communication skills

Table 6. Attitudes Required of Building Operations Professionals

Attitudes

Safety conscious

Adaptable/flexible

Analytic

Accurate/precise

Common sense

Cooperative

Critical thinker

Dependable

Ethical/ fair

Honest

Trustworthy

Integrity/tactful

Conscientious

Free of substance abuse

Customer-oriented

Detail-oriented/attention to detail

Manage stress/pressure

Organized

Professional

Work efficiently (resources)

Focused

Quality focused

Self-discipline

Team player

Punctual

Responsible/accountable

Work efficiently (time)

Confident

Good listener

Good time manager

Multi-tasker

Non-aggressive/patient
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Positive attitude

Self-control

Eager to learn new things

Goal-oriented

Industrious

Self-motivated

Mechanical aptitude

Table 7. Physical Conditions Required of Building Operations Professional

Physical Conditions

Position - How important is it that one can. . .

Stand part of the time

Stoop kneel or crouch

Stand at all (could the work be performed from a sitting position?)

Bend forward frequently

Sit part of the time

Work in a squatting position for more than five (5) minutes per hour

Stand all of the time

Lay on back

Mobility - How important is it that one can. . .

Climb ladders, stairs, poles, etc. using legs and/or arms

Walk

Crawl or creep

Lifting - How important is it that one can. . .

Carry objects of up to 25 lbs.

Lift 50 lbs. maximum

Lift objects from ground to waist level

Lift objects from waist to overhead level

Lift objects from ground to overhead level

Arm/Hand Use - How important is it that one can. . .

Reach with arms and hands in any direction

Feel size, shape and temperature or texture of objects with the hands

Hold or move objects using the fingers

Push objects with arms or hands

Pull objects with arms or hands

Hold or move objects using the hands but not the fingers

Work with hands and arms over head level

Senses - How important is it that one can. . .

Talk

Hear speech

Detect abnormal noises
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Physical Conditions

See clearly at 20 inches or less (with/without optical assistance)

Judge depth (the position and distance of objects) with the eyes

See and discriminate colors

See clearly at 20 feet or more (with/without optical assistance)

Working Conditions - How important is it that one can. . .

Work while wearing protective equipment (respirators, hoods, etc.)

Work inside

Work while standing on portable ladders

Work outside

Work while standing on scaffolding

Work in changing temperatures (in and out of buildings repeatedly)

Work at heights of 1 to 25 feet above ground or floor level

Work around or near high voltage power sources or equipment

Work in high temperatures (85 to 130 degrees F)

Work in low temperatures (0 to 45 degrees F)

Work in noisy places (85 DB or higher with ear protection)

Work while sitting or standing on high roofs, overhangs, or I-beams

Work in damp places (high humidity, some standing water)

Work in one place (no change of work location)

Handle hot or cold objects

Work in dry places (lacking any natural moisture or humidity)

Work in dust, oils, fumes, or smells

Work around or near magnetic equipment or materials

Work in confined spaces

Work on slippery surfaces

Work in stale air (with some oxygen depletion)

Work with or near fiberglass or asbestos materials

Work at heights of 26 to 75 feet above ground or floor level

Handle toxic materials

Work in sub-zero temperatures (0 and lower)

Table 8. Tools, Equipment, and Resources Required by Building Operations Professional

Tools, Equipment, and Resources

Access control systems Adequate consumable storage devices

Analysis data As-built drawings and documents

AV equipment Backlogs and deferred activities list

Balancing reports Basis of design 

Better Buildings Resources Better buildings website

Budgets Building data

Building plans and related documents Calculator
13

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Tools, Equipment, and Resources

Case studies Certifications

Certifications and licenses as required (EPA 

refrigerant handling certification - EPA rule 608, 

etc.)

Certified payroll rules

Chemical analysis kit (See Table 9) Codes, standards, regulations and guidelines 

(See Table10)

Commissioning reports Communication devices

Communications methods (Skype, Webinar, etc.) Computer, peripherals and pertinent software

(See Table 11)

Computerized maintenance management system 

(CMMS)

Construction documents (drawings and 

specifications)

Contingency services and resources Contracts

Corporate diversity procurement policies Corporate policies

Corporate social responsibility policies Dashboard and remote monitoring systems

Data loggers Data storage policies

Davis-Bacon Act (prevailing wages) DDC system

Department of Labor wage information Documentation tools (note recording, etc.)

DOT regulations (for shipping and transport) Emergency certifications (first aid, CPR, etc.)

Emergency plans Energy market data

Energy modeling software Energy Star

EPA and state regulations

Equipment and system information (historical 

information, parts list, maintenance information, 

etc.)

Equipment and system warranties Equipment energy consumption

Equipment lists Equipment manuals

Evacuation plans Existing system information

External agencies (fire department, police

department, etc.)

External resources for emergencies (Ammonia 

response team, confined space rescue team, etc.)

Facility information Facility management plan

Facility strategic plan Financial calculator

Fire extinguishers Fire hoses

Flammable storage cabinets Foot-candles/light meters

Hand tools (See Table 12) HIPAA

Historical staffing level data HR policies

HR Resources Inclement weather resources (deicer, chain saw, 

PPE, etc.)

Industry and association reference materials Industry expense references

Industry resources (BBB, etc.) Inspection reports

Insurance policies Insurance requirements

Inventory management system IPMVP

ISO/IEC 50001 IT Resources

Labor and service provider contracts Labor contracts

Lifecycle cost analysis reports and tools Local jurisdiction vulnerability analysis
14

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Tools, Equipment, and Resources

Locksmith tools Logs and plans

Logs of previous inspections Maintenance records

Metering Modeling software

Monitoring systems O&M manuals

Onsite logistic support resources Operating manuals and documents

Operating references Organizational standards

Owner's project requirements Payroll system

Personnel scheduling system Phase 1 or other historical documents

Plans and facility documentation PM guides

Policies and procedures for the stakeholders Potential new system information

PPE (See Table 13) Previous year's budgets

Prior phase 1 reports Procurement policies and procedures

Product manuals Project schedules

Projected data Projections versus actual

Projections versus actual for past projects Property condition report

Property documents Psychrometric charts

Real time energy dashboard Recovery equipment

Reference and guidance materials pertaining to 

staffing Remote monitoring systems

Resources (Energy Star, FEMP, trade magazines, 

etc.) Riser diagrams

Risk management data Safety materials (spill kits, absorbable, etc.)

Safety tracking system Sample containers

Schematics SDS

Sequence of operations Service logs and historical equipment data

SOPs Specialized emergency equipment

Specialized insurance policies Specialized testing resources (consultants, etc.)

Specialized tools (See Table 14) Strategic plan

Submetering systems Submittals

Systems data and information Technology tools (See Table 15)

Tenant/occupant lease or contract Test equipment

Third party experts Time management system

Training materials Training plans

USGBC Utility cost information

Utility interval data Video management and monitoring systems

Warranty maintenance requirements Waste removal guidelines

Work orders
15

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Table 9. Chemical Analysis Kit Required by Building Operations Professional

Chemical Analysis Kit

pH strips

pH/conductivity meter

TDS meters

non-chemically reactive tubing, pumps and flow meters

Table 10. Codes, Standards, Regulations, and Guidelines for Building Operations Professional

Codes, Standards, Regulations and Guidelines

Sources of information

Most current editions of:

AEE -- Handbook of Energy Audits

AEE Reference Books

American Institute of Architects -- Guideline for the Construction of Hospital and Health Care Facilities

ASHRAE -- Building Performance Metrics Best Practices

ASHRAE -- Handbooks: Fundamentals, Systems, Applications, Refrigeration

ASHRAE -- Procedures for Commercial Building Energy Audits; 2nd Edition

ASHRAE/ASPE/AWW -- Water Condition Standards

Cost Estimating Guides

NFPA Codes

EERE (Air Master, Motor Master, etc.)

General OSHA Guidelines

Illuminating Engineering Society -- The Lighting Handbook

International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocol

FEMP M&V Guidelines

MICA -- National Mechanical Insulation Standards

NIST -- Handbook 135 Life Cycle Costing Manual for Federal Energy Management Program

EPA Regulations regarding environmental hazards such as asbestos and lead paint

EPA Section 608 – Refrigerant handling

ISO/IEC 50001: NEED title

Department of Transportation 39

Department of Transportation 49

ASHRAE Guides, Etc.

ASHRAE Guide 10 -- Interactions Affecting the Achievement of Acceptable Indoor Environments

ASHRAE Guide 11 -- Field Testing of HVAC Controls Performance

ASHRAE Guide 12 -- Minimizing the Risk of Legionellosis with Building Water Systems

ASHRAE Guide 14 -- Measurement of Energy and Demand Savings

ASHRAE Guide 22 -- Instrumentation for Monitoring of Chilled Water Plant Efficiency

ASHRAE Guide 32 -- Sustainable High Performance Operation and Maintenance
16

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Codes, Standards, Regulations and Guidelines

ASHRAE Guide -- Energy Efficiency Guides for Existing Commercial Buildings: Business Case

ASHRAE Guide -- Energy Efficiency Guides for Existing Commercial Buildings: Technical Case

ASHRAE Standards

ASHRAE Standards 15 -- Safety Standards for Refrigeration Systems

ASHRAE Standards 34 -- Designation and Safety Classifications of Refrigerants

ASHRAE Standards 41.1 -- Standard Method for Temperature Measurement

ASHRAE Standards 41.7 -- Method Test for Measurement of Flow of Gas

ASHRAE Standards 55 -- Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy

ASHRAE Standards 62.1 -- Ventilation and Acceptable Indoor Air Quality

ASHRAE Standards 90.1 -- Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low Rise Residential Buildings

ASHRAE Standards 100 -- Energy Conservation in Existing Buildings

ASHRAE Standards 105 -- Standard Method of Measuring and Expressing Building Energy 

Performance

ASHRAE Standards 134 -- Graphic Symbols for Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning and 

Refrigeration Systems

ASHRAE Standards 154 -- Ventilation for Cooking Operations

ASHRAE Standards 169 -- Weather Data for Building Design Standards

ASHRAE Standards 170 -- Ventilation for Health Care Facilities

ASHRAE Standards 180 -- Standard Practice for Inspection and Maintenance of Commercial Building 

HVAC Systems

ASHRAE Standards 189.1 -- Standard for Design of High Performance Green Buildings

ASHRAE Standards 211 (P) -- Standard for Conducting commercial Building Audits

BSR/ASHRAE/USGBC/ASPE/AWWA Standard 191(P) -- Standard for the Efficient Use of Water in 

Building, Site, and Mechanical Systems

ASTM Standards

ASTM Standard E1934-10 -- Standard Guide for Examining Electrical and Mechanical Equipment with 

Infrared Thermograph

ASTM Standard E1311-2010 -- Standard Test Methods for Minimum Temperature Detection 

Difference for Thermal Imaging Systems

ANSI Standards

ANSI/ASSE Z87.1: Occupational and Educational Personal Eye and Face Protection

ANSI/ISEA Z89.1: Industrial Head Protection

Table 11. Software Required for Building Operations Professional

Software

Computerized maintenance management system (CMMS)

BIM Viewer

Building energy modeling software

CAD Viewer

Computer aided facility management (CAFM)

ECAM (Energy Charting and Metrics)

Energy Star Portfolio manager

eQuest
17

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FEMP BLCC (Federal Energy Management Program, Building Life Cycle Costing)

Geospacial information systems (GIS)

Integrated work management system (IWMS)

MotorMaster

Spreadsheets
18

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Table 12. Hand Tools Required for Building Operations Professional

Hand Tools

Adjustable pliers Adjustable wrench

Allen wrenches Amp Probe

Ball-peen hammer Chisel

Clamps Cleaning brushes

Combination wrenches Deburring tool

Extension magnet File

Flashlight Fuse puller

Hacksaw Hammers

Inspection mirror Lock-out/tag-out equipment

Locking pliers Measuring devices

Multimeter Nut drivers

Pipe wrenches Pliers

Pocket knife Pocket level

Ratchets Rubber mallet

Screw drivers Small power tools (hand electric drill)

Socket sets Strap wrench

Tape measure Toilet plunger

Torque wrench Tube bender

Tubing cutters Vises

Water key

Table 13. PPE Required for Building Operations Professional

PPE

Arc flash protection (NFPA 70e)

Back protection

Dust masks

Eye protection/safety glasses

Face shield

Fall protection

Gloves

Hardhat

Hearing protection (plugs and muffs)

Level C suit (Tyvek, etc.)

Respirator

Rubber boots

Safety harnesses

Vests

Welding jacket

Work shoes (toe and shank protection)
19

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Table 14. Specialized Tools Required for Building Operation Professionals

Specialized Tools

Anemometer Borescope

Circuit tracer Combustion analyzing instruments

Digital thermometer (surface and air) Dosimeter

Flow meters Gas Analyzers

Hydrometer Infrared thermometer

Light meters Manometer

Megohmmeter Moisture meter

Plumbing snakes Power analyzer

Psychrometers Refractometer

Refrigeration tools RPM Meter

Shaft alignment tools Smoke stick

Sound meters Tachometers

Temperature meters Thermal imaging camera

Torch Tube brushing machines

Velometer Vibration analysis instrument

Table 15. Technology Tools Required for Building Operations Professional

Technology Tools

Smart phone with 

Camera

WiFi access

Internet access

Two-way communications

Video recording/transmitting

Computer with

Spreadsheet applications

Internet access

Word processing applications

Data storage

Graphics software

External data storage/backup

Data gathering

Data loggers with sensors (t/h/kw/on-off)

Utility tariffs

Real time pricing data stream

DDC

BEMS/BIMS
19

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Table 16. Duties, Tasks, Steps, Specialized Knowledge, Skills, Abilities,

Tools, Equipment, and Resources Required for Supervising Personnel

Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and Resources

Develop Workload Analyses

Develop scopes of work for 

responsibilities • Building systems

(See Table 3)

• Criticality of various 

systems and equipment

• Labor contract agreements

• Levels of service for 

various spaces

• Recommended 

maintenance schedules

• Tenant/occupant contracts

• Understanding of staffing 

models (vacation, sick 

leave, etc.)

• Ability to evaluate bid 

proposals

• Ability to read and interpret 

construction documents

• Ability to write Key 

Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Analytical skills

• Basic and advanced math 

skills 

• Computer skills

• Estimating skills 

• Technical reading ability

• Building data

• Calculator

• Computer, peripherals and pertinent 

software (See Table 11)

• Contracts

• Department of Labor wage 

information

• Equipment lists

• Historical staffing level data

• O&M manuals

• Reference and guidance materials 

pertaining to staffing 

• Technology tools * (see list)

Review data for operating and 

maintaining the building systems* 

(*See separate list)

Evaluate the equipment to 

determine multipliers

Perform a summation of hours

Segregate hours by trade

Compare staffing benchmarks

Analyze Staffing Productivity

Compare work orders completed 

to total staff hours • Building operations and 

procedures

• Building systems* 

(See Table 3)

• Industry norms for 

manpower

• Outsourcing options

• Reporting capabilities of 

work order systems

• Trade terminology and 

definitions

• Ability to analyze data

• Ability to identify alternate 

work practices

• QC skills

• Computerized maintenance 

management system (CMMS)

• Technology tools (See Table 15)

Benchmark productivity

Baseline staff productivity

Compare actual work order hours 

to estimated work order hours

Review quality of staff work

Track and reduce incidences of 

rework

Survey/validate work completion

Review productivity to operations 

plan

Analyze reasons for rework and 

callbacks

Analyze deferred maintenance 

backlogs

Track and benchmark overtime

Supervise Building Staff

Delegate work to staff

 
20

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and Resources

Assign tasks to staff styles

• Human resources

• Job responsibilities

• Performance improvement 

plans

• Personnel performance 

review processes

• Technical knowledge

• Trade and Union 

requirements

• Assertive

• Fair

• Interpersonal skills

• Interviewing skills

• Leadership skills

• Management skills

• Patience

• Safe

• Tactful

• Teambuilding skills

• Verbal communication skills

• Written communication skills

• HR policies

• Labor contracts

• Payroll system

• Personnel scheduling system

• Safety tracking system

• Technology tools (See Table 15)

• Time management system

• Training plans

• Training tools

Review staff performance

Create work schedules for staff

Train facility staff

Develop staff training programs

Document staff training

Manage conflicts among staff

Approve time sheets

Coordinate schedules (vacation, 

sick days, personal time off, etc.)

Discipline staff

Motivate staff

Manage on call and after work 

hours schedule

Mentor staff

Secure Outside Service Providers

Create the Request for Proposals 

(RFPs) and scope of work (SOW) • Building operations and 

procedures

• Building systems (See 

Table 3)

• Contract knowledge

• Funding limitations

• Licensing requirements

• Procurement policies and 

procedures

• RFP Process

• Services to be outsourced

• Trade and Union 

requirements

• Analytical skills

• Interviewing skills

• Technical writing skills

• Written communication skills

• Certified payroll rules

• Codes, standards, regulations and 

guidelines (See Table 10)

• Corporate diversity procurement 

policies

• Davis-Bacon Act (prevailing 

wages)

• Facility information

• Industry resources (BBB, etc.)

• Insurance requirements

• Systems data and information

• Technology tools (See Table 15)

Determine requirements for 

outside services (skills, resources, 

service levels, etc.)

Determine type of contract 

(prescriptive or performance)

Interview service providers

Review proposals or RFP 

responses

Develop a contractor/service 

provider handbook

Conduct orientation for service 

providers

Determine criteria for selection of 

service providers

Secure the services of outside 

service providers (sign contracts, 

etc.)
21

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Table 17. Duties, Tasks, Steps, Specialized Knowledge, Skills, Abilities,

Tools, Equipment, and Resources Required for Conducting Planning Activities 

Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and Resources

Update Procedures (SOPs, BOPs, Operating Plans, Emergency Plans, etc.)

Evaluate existing procedures

• Building operations and 

procedures

• Building systems*

(See Table 3)

• Company labor policies

• National Incident 

Management Systems 

(NIMs)

• Organizational structures

• Adaptable

• Analytical skills

• Leadership skills

• Organizational skills

• Problem solving skills

• Teaching skills

• Technical writing skills

• Codes, standards, regulations and 

guidelines (See Table 10)

• External agencies (fire department,

police department, etc.) 

• Technology tools (See Table 15)

Evaluate building use changes

Conduct gap analyses

Document new procedures

Update and test new/revised 

procedures

Implement revised procedures

Train staff on new/revised 

procedures

Evaluate new/revised procedures

Update emergency operating 

procedures

Update disaster recovery plans

Develop Equipment Operations Plans

Determine required start/stop 

times based on tenant 

occupancies

• Building systems (See 

Table 3) (including 

interdependencies, 

interoperability, limitations, 

operating plans, 

operations, and 

performance expectations)

• Equipment operations and 

specifications

• Rate schedules for utilities

• Ability to distinguish between 

manual and automatic

operations

• Presentation skills

• Teaching skills

• Technical reading ability

• Verbal communication skills

• O&M manuals

• Technology tools (See Table 15)

Review O&M manuals and extract • Tenant/occupant lease or contract

equipment specific information

Develop system specific operation 

procedures (steps in operation)

Train staff on system operations

Develop operating logs

Develop Planned Maintenance Schedules

Conduct equipment inventories

• Criticality of various 

systems and equipment

• Equipment operations and 

specifications

• Facility knowledge

• Failure modes

• Levels of maintenance

• Ability to follow written and 

sequenced directions

• Ability to read and interpret 

construction documents

• Analytical skills

• Mechanical aptitude

• Organizational skills

• Codes, standards, regulations and 

guidelines (See Table 10)

• Hand tools (See Table 12)

• Resources (Energy Star, FEMP, 

trade magazines, etc.)

• Specialized tools (See Table 14)

• Technology tools (See Table 15)

Identify equipment specifications

Identify O&M requirements

Rank equipment in terms of 

priority

Determine level of service to be 

performed on equipment based on 

criticality of system
22

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and Resources

Update Procedures (SOPs, BOPs, Operating Plans, Emergency Plans, etc.)

Identify tasks to be outsourced • Resource planning 

personnel management

• Tenant/occupant needs 

and schedules

• Reading ability

• Verbal communication skills

• Warranty maintenance 

Identify skill level of staff requirements

Identify required tools

Identify opportunities for predictive 

maintenance

Identify opportunities for reliability 

centered maintenance

Identify appropriate timing for 

maintenance (when can it be done 

to eliminate interference with 

operations)

identify frequency of maintenance

Compare needs to available 

budget

Prioritize maintenance tasks

Document maintenance 

procedures

Create the maintenance programs

Document any deviations from 

OEM standards

Plan for third party 

inspections/maintenance

Contribute to Construction Standards and Guidelines

Participate in construction 

meetings • Customer requirements for 

business

• Distinguishing equivalency 

between equipment and/or 

systems

• Equipment operations and 

specifications

• Equipment operations and 

specifications

• Management requirements

• Scope of work

• When substitutions of 

• Ability to read and interpret 

construction documents

• Reading ability

• Verbal communication skills

• Basis of design 

• Certifications and licenses as 

required (EPA refrigerant handling 

certification - EPA rule 608, etc.)

• Codes, standards, regulations and 

guidelines (See Table 10)

• Construction documents (drawings 

and specifications)

• Owner's project requirements

• Project schedules

• Submittals

• Technology tools (See Table 15)

Review construction specifications 

prior to construction design and 

bid

Review designs to actual building 

requirements

Provide input based on existing 

systems

Review submittals

Contribute to commissioning 

planning

Participate in commissioning

Contribute to maintainability 
23

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and Resources

Update Procedures (SOPs, BOPs, Operating Plans, Emergency Plans, etc.)

analysis prior to construction equipment or systems are 

Conduct a surrounding site not allowed

assessment

Contribute to Capital Renewal Plans

Review existing capital renewal 

plans • Emerging technologies 

and tools

• Expected life of major 

building components

• Facility knowledge

• Impact of change on 

tenant/occupant space

• Options for extending the 

life of equipment and 

systems

• Organization's budgeting 

process

• Owner's long-term plan for 

the facility

• Ability to forecast situational 

resources

• Ability to identify options for 

extending useful life of 

equipment and systems

• Computer skills

• Data interpretation and 

management skills

• Verbal communication skills

• Codes, standards, regulations and 

guidelines (See Table 10)

• Computer, peripherals and 

pertinent software (See Table 11)

• Industry and association reference 

materials

• Maintenance records

• Technology tools (See Table 15)

Review organizational strategic 

plans

Develop and review facility 

condition indexes

Advise on new conditions within 

the facility and property

Identify timeline for system and 

equipment replacements

Promote sustainable materials 

and practices for renewal

Analyze ROI

Conduct a project failure analysis

Review system lifecycle 

assessments

Review ongoing maintenance 

requirements

Review schedule for capital 

renewal to level capital 

requirements

Provide input into the facility 

strategic plan

Conduct Data Management Activities

Develop facility/equipment/system 

data acquisition and management 

plans

• Basic data architecture

• Building systems (See 

Table 3)

• Contingency plans/data 

recovery

• Facility knowledge

• Integrated work 

• Ability to operate digitizing 

equipment (scanners, etc.)

• Computer skills

• Organizational skills

• Reading ability

• Written communication skills

• Budgets

• Codes, standards, regulations and 

guidelines (See Table 

10)Computerized maintenance 

management system (CMMS)

• Computer, peripherals and 

pertinent software (See Table 11)

Maintain asset inventories

Maintain handwritten logs

Maintain updated building as-built 

plans

Maintain updated OEMs

Maintain inspection records
24

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and Resources

Update Procedures (SOPs, BOPs, Operating Plans, Emergency Plans, etc.)

Develop data retention policies

management systems 

structure

• Regulatory record 

requirements

• Data storage policies

• HR Resources

• IT Resources

• Logs and plans

• Technology tools (See Table 15)

Determine data storage 

capabilities and needs

Determine offsite data storage 

requirements

Determine data interoperability 

levels

Determine data access levels

Table 18. Duties, Tasks, Steps, Specialized Knowledge, Skills, Abilities,

Tools, Equipment, and Resources Required for Operating Buildings

Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources

Perform Workplace Hazard Assessments

Conduct daily building inspections • Biohazards and hazardous 

chemicals

• Chain of custody

• Limitations of PPE

• Operations within the 

facility

• Safety Codes and 

Standards (including 

OSHA)

• Safety practices

• Understanding of all staff 

functions carried out in the 

facility

• Analytical skills

• Attention to detail

• Organizational skills

• Technical reading ability

• Verbal communication skills

• Written communication skills

• Certifications

• Codes, standards, regulations and 

guidelines (See Table 

10)Organizational standards

• PPE(See Table 13)

• SDS

• SOPs

• Specialized testing resources 

(consultants, etc.)

• Technology tools (See Table 15)

Conduct monthly building 

inspections

Conduct quarterly building 

inspections

Identify confined workspaces

Identify hazardous building 

components

Review workplace injury records

Review workplace biohazards and 

chemicals

Obtain OSHA training

Identify building obsolescence

Create job hazard analyses 

reports
25

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Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources

Identify required PPE

Participate in Emergency Drills

Schedule fire drills • Best practices for 

emergency drills

• Conditions under which a 

building should be 

evacuated

• Emergency procedures 

including first aid and CPR

• Emergency procedures 

including first aid and CPR

• First response mitigation 

techniques (what type of 

fire extinguisher to use, 

etc.)

• Incident command 

systems (ICS)

• National Incident 

Management Systems 

(NIMs)

• Occupancy types and 

typical evacuation 

procedures for various 

occupancies

• Specialized emergency 

equipment

• Ability to remain calm in an

emergency

• Critical thinker

• Leadership skills

• Team management skills

• Verbal communication skills

• Written communication skills

• Codes, standards, regulations and 

guidelines (See Table 10)

• Emergency certifications (first aid, 

CPR, etc.)

• Emergency plans

• Evacuation plans

• Fire extinguishers

• Fire hoses

• Technology tools (See Table 15)

Schedule emergency evacuation 

drills (earthquakes, fires, etc.)

Develop the EAPs (Emergency 

Action Plans)

Coordinate with regional 

emergency agencies

Coordinate with local emergency 

services

Monitor fire panels

Monitor emergency generators

Track and record evacuation times

Create evacuation results reports

Coordinate with building 

tenants/occupants regarding drills

Coordinate with building 

tenants/occupants with disabilities 

and needing assistance in 

evacuating

Maintain emergency equipment 

(radios, communication devices, 

etc.)

Develop communication protocol 

(ICS)

Manage the PPE Program

Identify the hazards • Decontamination 

requirements

• Hazards management

• HIPAA requirements

• Job responsibilities

• Medical evaluation policies 

and requirements

• Evaluation skills

• Teaching skills

• Technical reading ability

• Technical writing skills

• Verbal communication skills

• Written communication skills

• Codes, standards, regulations and 

guidelines (See Table 10)

• HIPAA

• PPE (See Table 13)

• Prior phase 1 reports

• Technology tools (See Table 15)

• Test equipment

Train staff on hazards and PPE 

requirements

Train staff on limitations of PPE

Label hazards and rooms with 

hazards

Test staff on use of PPE for 
26

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources

correct usage • PPE and proper usage 

and maintenance of PPE

• Proper procedures for 

isolating and removing 

hazards

• Training materials

Set up medical evaluations for 

some PPE (Respirators, etc.)

Conduct a fit test of PPE

Document training

Document use compliance

Document PPE testing

Procure required PPE

Verify required PPE is available

Conduct audiometric testing 

(loudness)

Enforce use of PPE

Certify the PPE equipment on an 

annual basis

Document the PPE program

Manage Third Party Inspections

Determine types of inspection 

needed • Equipment operations and 

specifications

• Facility knowledge

• General knowledge of the 

authority having 

jurisdiction

• Inspection agencies 

• Inspection procedures

• Operational impact of 

inspections

• Ability to communication with 

regulatory 

authorities/inspectors

• Interpersonal skills

• Mechanical aptitude

• Teaching skills

• Verbal communication skills

• Codes, standards, regulations 

and guidelines (See Table 10)

• Communication devices

• Construction documents 

(drawings and specifications)

• Hand tools (See Table 12)

• Logs of previous inspections

• Maintenance records

• O&M manuals

• Specialized tools (See Table 14)

• Technology tools (See Table 15)

Schedule third party inspections

Prepare equipment for inspections 

(shut down, etc.)

Operate equipment for inspections 

(elevator recall, etc.)

Participate in inspections (escort 

the inspector, etc.)

Schedule inspections with internal 

staff affected

Verify safety for inspectors 

(hazards, etc.)

Communicate with building 

tenants regarding inspection 

requirements

Communicate results with parties

Schedule inspections with 

tenants/occupants affected
27

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources

Review results of inspections

Address identified deficiencies

Coordinate re-inspections

Respond to Building Emergencies

Identify emergencies • Building systems (See 

Table 3)

• Hazard remediation/clean 

up

• Hazardous materials 

disposal

• Hazards in the area 

(earthquakes, etc.)

• Potential environmental, 

health and safety (EHS) 

hazards and risks

• Normal routine operation 

of the facility

• Reporting requirements for 

emergencies

• Uninterruptable and critical 

systems

• Ability to communicate with 

non-English speaking 

individuals

• Ability to think clearly in an 

emergency

• Leadership skills

• Verbal communication skills

• External resources for 

emergencies (Ammonia response 

team, confined space rescue team, 

etc.)

• Riser diagrams

• SDS

• Technology tools (See Table 15)

Initiate emergency procedures

Communicate with internal 

stakeholders and staff

Secure impacted equipment 

and/or affected areas

Respond to emergencies with no 

established procedures by 

isolating and mitigating the 

emergency

Escalate for additional emergency 

support

Communicate with external 

stakeholders

Clean up after emergencies

Conduct "lessons learned" 

activities

Document emergencies

Restock emergency supplies

Make emergency/temporary 

repairs to stabilize problems

Make permanent repairs

Conduct root cause analyses

Coordinate outside special 

services

Plan for/accommodate nonEnglish speaking building 

tenants/occupants and staff

Managing Building Securities
28

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources

Update access requirements or 

permissions • Key logic systems (master 

keys vs. other keys)

• Organizational security 

requirements (access 

requirements, levels of 

security, etc.)

• Security equipment 

(lighting, cameras, etc.)

• Security policies and 

procedures

• Attention to detail

• Computer skills

• Locksmith skills

• Recordkeeping skills

• Access control systems

• Locksmith tools

• Technology tools (See Table 15)

• Video management and monitoring 

systems

Issue access cards and keys

Verify security of access (door 

locks, self closing door operation, 

etc.)

Maintain chain of custody of 

access cards and keys

Maintain security lighting (exterior 

lights, etc.)

Maintain security equipment 

(camera system, etc.)

Maintain key logic system and 

distribution

Provide temporary access to 

secured areas

Develop policies for temporary 

access for outside vendors

Maintain egress/access 

documentation (doors and window 

counts)

Perform security functions 

(monitor for potential unauthorized 

access)

Respond to unauthorized access

Complete certificates and 

compliance forms regarding 

access

Maintain access (rekey locks, cut 

new keys, etc.)

Maintain security and access 

records (video, written logs, etc.)
29

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources

Coordinate Tenant/Occupant Training

Identify training topics

• Change management 

techniques

• Communications methods 

(Skype, Webinar, etc.)

• Typical training topics

• Organizational skills

• Presentation skills

• Teaching skills

• Technical reading ability

• AV equipment

• Communications methods (Skype, 

Webinar, etc.)

• Policies and procedures for the 

stakeholders

• Specialized tools (See Table 14)

• Technology tools (See Table 15)

Identify knowledge levels of 

tenants/occupants

Develop and update training 

programs

Distribute training materials

Schedule and conduct training

Identify appropriate personnel for 

training

Coordinate training with 

tenant/occupant management

Document completed training

Evaluate success of training

Conduct Risk Management Activities

Define risks associated with 

building operations • Basic knowledge of 

insurance policies for 

equipment and operations

• Hazards in the area 

(earthquakes, etc.)

• Operations within the 

facility

• Root cause analysis 

techniques

• Typical characteristics of 

facilities and equipment

• Analytical skills

• Interpersonal skills

• Recordkeeping skills

• Verbal communication skills

• Written communication skills

• Codes, standards, regulations 

and guidelines (See Table 10)

• Hand tools (See Table 12)

• Industry and association 

reference materials

• Inspection reports

• Local jurisdiction vulnerability 

analysis

• Specialized insurance policies

• Specialized tools (See Table 14)

• \Technology tools (See Table 15)

Assess risks associated with 

building operations

Participate in development of 

hazard vulnerability analysis

Manage utility system risk and 

vulnerability

Examine interoperability of 

systems

Develop action plan for hazard 

risks

Identify external resources 

required

Coordinate management of 

external resources

Review hazard vulnerability 

analyses and update

Manage Responses to Inclement Weather Conditions/Issues
30

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources

Create inclement weather action 

plans • Communications plans

• Emergency equipment 

operation

• Equipment operations and 

specifications

• Facility knowledge

• HVAC systems

• Inclement weather 

escalation plans

• Inclement weather local 

logistics (shelter, food, 

transportation)

• Local weather issues

• Plumbing systems

• Safety codes and 

standards (including 

OSHA)

• Ability to forecast situational 

resources

• Ability to cope with stressful 

situations

• Ability to prioritize

• Ability to work in abnormal 

conditions

• Leadership skills

• Project management skills

• Verbal communication skills

• Written communication skills

• Inclement weather resources 

(deicer, chain saw, PPE, etc.)

• Onsite logistic support resources

• SDS

• Specialized emergency equipment

• Specialized tools (See Table 14)

• Third party experts

• Technology tools (See Table 15)

Identify areas that are vulnerable 

to inclement weather

Redirect resources

Prepare and stock for inclement 

weather incidents

Restock following inclement 

weather incidents

Maintain inclement weather 

response resources

Plan for processes/services that 

cannot be disrupted

Communicate inclement weather 

activities with tenants/occupants 

and stakeholders

Manage and schedule staff to 

address inclement weather 

conditions/issues

Train staff on the inclement 

weather action plans

Monitor inclement weather 

forecasts

Respond to Tenant/Occupant Requests and Issues

Identify core issues of 

tenant/occupant requests • Building systems

(See Table 3)

• Infection control 

procedures

• Remediation procedures

• Resources required for 

typical tenant/occupant 

requests and issues

• Tenant/occupant chain of 

command

• Ability to evaluate facility 

conditions

• Critical thinker

• Diagnostic skills

• Listening skills

• Patience

• Verbal communication skills

• Written communication skills

• Hand tools (See Table 12)

• Plans and facility documentation

• PPE (See Table 13)

• Specialized tools (See Table 14)

• Technology tools (See Table 15)

• Work orders

Document tenant/occupant issues 

or requests

Prioritize responses to 

tenant/occupant requests

Identify staff to address 

tenant/occupant issues

Communicate actions throughout 

the response to tenant/occupant 
31

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources

requests • Work control procedures

Provide a lead-time for responses 

to tenant/occupant requests

Manage tenant/occupant 

expectations

Document resolution of responses 

to tenant/occupant requests and 

issues

Track resources required for 

responses to tenant/occupant 

requests and issues

Assess area for other issues

Identify tenant/occupant request 

responsibilities

Review prior requests (trend 

analysis, historical data)

Identify opportunities for 

improvement

Identify PPE need for response to 

tenant/occupant requests and 

issues

Conduct Equipment Checks

Identify staff responsibilities

• Adjusting equipment 

based on readings

• Building systems (See 

Table 3)

• (including 

interdependencies, 

interoperability, limitations, 

operating plans, 

operations, and 

performance expectations)

• Interpreting equipment test 

readings

• Normal equipment 

operating 

• Ability to convert units

• Ability to perform equipment 

checks and tests

• Ability to read gauges

Ability to utilize a systems or 

holistic approach to equipment 

checks

• Analysis data

• Codes, standards, regulations 

and guidelines ( See Table 10)

• Dashboard and remote monitoring 

systems

• DDC system

• Hand tools (See Table 12)

• Operating references

• PPE (See Table 13)

• Schematics

Technology tools (See Table 15)

Identify equipment/systems that 

require daily check

Record equipment check readings

Collect equipment operating data

Respond to equipment anomalies

Conduct necessary equipment 

tests

Determine frequency of equipment 

checks
32

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources

parameters/limits

• SOPs related to 

equipment

• Whole building integration

Conduct Daily Rounds

Physically tour facilities

• Building systems (See 

Table 3) (including 

interdependencies, 

interoperability, limitations, 

operating plans, 

operations, and 

performance expectations)

• Common or frequent 

deficiencies

• Control systems

• Indicators of problems with 

equipment

• Location of facility 

equipment

• Relationship between 

deficiencies and energy 

efficiency

• Remote monitoring 

systems and equipment

• Sequence of operations

• Tenant/occupant 

equipment and 

requirements

Weather impact on the facility

• Ability to relate graphic 

information to real world 

situations

• Analytical skills

• Attention to detail

• Data interpretation and 

management skills

• Listening skills

• Verbal communication skills

Written communication skills

• Documentation tools (note 

recording, etc.)

• Hand tools (See Table 12)

• PPE (See Table 13)

• Remote monitoring systems

• Specialized tools (See Table 

14)Technology tools (See 

Table 15)

Identify areas requiring efficiency 

upgrades or needing 

improvements

Identify deficiencies

Communicate with building 

tenants/occupants regarding 

concerns

Identify energy conservation 

opportunities (lights on in 

unoccupied areas, ventilation 

issues, HOA switches, etc.)

Listen for potential problems (bad 

bearings, loose belts, etc.)

Observe for other indicators of 

issues (odd smells, etc.)

Check remote and other 

automated monitoring systems

Check for common or known 

issues 

Document deficiencies noted

Coordinate Facility Operations (Normal)
33

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources

Verify occupied, unoccupied and 

standby schedules • Emerging technologies 

and tools

• Historical data associated 

with facility

• Impact of facility 

operations on scheduling

• Impact of facility 

operations on scheduling

• Normal equipment 

operating 

parameters/limits

• Peak demand loads

• Renewable energy 

systems

• Sequence of operations

• Understanding of 

interlocked equipment

• Utility time of use

• Weather related factors 

affecting equipment 

(temperatures, dew points, 

etc.)

• Ability to manipulate 

equipment controls

• Certifications and licenses as 

required (EPA refrigerant 

handling certification - EPA rule 

608, etc.)

• Technology tools (See Table 15)

Compile equipment schedules

Validate equipment availability

Optimize equipment start ups

Obtain peak demand loads

Start equipment

Stop equipment

Verify equipment is operating 

within normal seasonal 

parameters

Verify systems availability

Evaluate alternative scheduling 

needs (holidays, inclement 

weather, etc.)

Document building operations

Operate renewable technologies 

(solar, wind, energy storage 

systems, distributed generation, 

water recovery systems, etc.)

Maintain the BAS system

Maintain the BAS system 

database

Complete activity reports

Coordinate Facility Operations (Other Than Normal)

Perform equipment shut downs for 

maintenances • Basic knowledge of tariffs

• Building systems (See 

Table 3)

• (including 

interdependencies, 

interoperability, limitations, 

operating plans, 

operations, and 

performance expectations)

• Lock-out/tag-outs

• Ability to follow written and 

sequenced directions

• Computer skills

• Project management skills

• Scheduling skills

• Building plans and related 

documents

• Contingency services and 

resources

• Equipment manuals

• Hand tools (See Table 12)

• Sequence of operations

• Specialized tools (See Table 14)

• Technology tools (See Table 

15)

Perform equipment load shedding 

Perform equipment lock-out/tagout

Shut down equipment for smoke 

control

Schedule and notify 

tenants/occupants of shut downs

Adjust to utility shut downs

Verify equipment is ready for 

normal operations
34

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources

Return to normal operations • Manual equipment 

operation

• Normal equipment 

operating 

parameters/limits

• Remote system fluency 

(DDC, etc.)

• Safety concerns 

associated with equipment 

operations

• Sequence of equipment 

operations

• Technical equipment 

knowledge

Understanding of load 

shedding and its importance

Document building operations

Manage the Work Order Process

Obtain work orders

• Asset inventories

• Facility knowledge

• Work order processes

• Analytical skills

• Computer skills

• Customer service skills

• Data interpretation and 

management skills

• Diagnostic skills

• Organizational skills

• Patience

• Procurement skills

• Troubleshooting skills

• Verbal communication skills

• Written communication skills

Build/maintain asset inventory • Technology tools (See Table 15)

Establish work order priorities

Establish response times

Establish whether work order is 

open or closed

Document activities associated 

with work order (including 

completion verification)

Identify responsible party for work 

order

Track labor hours

Assign nominal value to work 

order

Identify if work order is 

recoverable (charge back, etc.)

Track resolution of the work order 

foundation problem

Identify the date of the work order

Identify the time of the work order
35

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources

Verify quality of work associated 

with the work order

Evaluate the efficiency of the work 

order process

Train tenants/occupants regarding 

work order process

Track and compile feedback on 

work order outcomes

Investigate Indoor Environmental Quality

Monitor remote monitoring 

systems • Basic knowledge of 

contaminant limits

• Building systems (See 

Table 3)

• Contaminant containment 

protocols

• Hazards management

• Health effects of 

contaminants (including 

stay times)

• Monitoring systems and 

equipment

• Potential contaminants

• Remediation activities for 

contaminants

• Remote monitoring 

systems and equipment

• When to conduct IEQ tests

• Ability to prioritize

• Ability to read technical data

• Analytical skills

• Attention to detail

• Data interpretation and 

management skills

• Verbal communication skills

• Written communication skills

• Codes, standards, regulations and 

guidelines (See Table 10) 

• Hand tools (See Table 12)

• Industry and association reference 

materials

• Phase 1 or other historical 

documents

• PPE (See Table 13)

• SDS

• Specialized tools (See Table 14)

• Technology tools (See Table 15)

• Third party experts

• Waste removal guidelines

Conduct indoor air quality checks

Address drafts

Investigate CO2 alarms

Survey tenants/occupants

Identify chemicals in the 

workplace

Investigate indoor air quality 

issues

Investigate CO alarms

Conduct random testing to verify 

building automation systems

Control chemicals brought into the 

workplace

Verify air exchange (fresh air, 

exhaust fans) meets requirements

Investigate and respond to 

moisture issues

Investigate gas smells (sewers, 

etc.)

Follow protocols for IAQ testing 

(mold, etc.)

Promote the use of low VOC 

paints

Schedule construction remodeling 

work

Manage ACM programs
36

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources

Manage PACM programs

Develop IEQ plans

Conduct Tenant/Occupant Relations Activities

Check in with tenants/occupants

• Tenant/occupant contracts

• Tenant/occupant hours of 

operation

• Tenant/occupant 

operations and space uses

• Interpersonal skills

• Verbal communication skills

• Written communication skills

• Codes, standards, regulations and 

guidelines (See Table 10)

• Technology tools (See Table 15)

Manage tenant/occupant 

expectations

Train tenants/occupants in 

efficiency measures and protocols

Communicate on a proactive basis 

with tenants/occupants

Confirm building protocols (acids 

not dumped in drains, etc.)

Introduce new initiatives

Solicit tenant/occupant feedback 

and initiatives

Communicate and manage about 

tenant/occupant equipment (space 

heaters, etc.)

Check in with tenants/occupants 

about improvement activities

Communicate with 

tenants/occupants about space 

uses

Manage Consumables

Maintain consumable inventories

• Chain of custody

• Consumable logistics

• Consumable requirements

• Consumable sourcing 

guidelines

• Inventory control systems

• Municipal requirement for 

disposal and recycle of 

consumables

• Procurement policies and 

procedures

• Interpersonal skills

• Verbal communication skills

• Written communication skills

• Codes, standards, regulations and 

guidelines (See Table 10)

• Technology tools (See Table 15)

Track consumable usage

Establish restock levels

Conduct inventory control 

activities (fuel, parts, chemicals, 

etc.)

Identify vendors for consumables

Identify vendors using sustainable 

supplies

Procure consumables in 

accordance with purchasing policy

Manage recyclables

Dispose of regulated consumables 
37

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources

(batteries, paint, computers, etc.) • Regulated consumables

• Safety practices

• Shelf life of consumables

• Shelf life of consumables

• Storage requirements for 

consumables

• Storage requirements for 

consumables

• Vendors

• Vendors

• Ventilation requirements 

for consumables

Manage chain of custody on 

disposal of regulated 

consumables (batteries, paint, 

computers, etc.)

Schedule consumable deliveries

Accept delivery of consumables

Store consumables

Manage Outside Facility Contractors/Service Providers

Verify contractor/service providers 

licenses • Contract requirements

• Facility knowledge

• Insurance requirements

• Licensing requirements

• Permitting requirements

• Scope of work

• Service level agreements

• Leadership skills

• Management skills

• Verbal communication skills

Duties, Tasks, and Steps

• As-built drawings and documents

• Codes, standards, regulations and 

guidelines (See Table 10)

• Construction documents (drawings 

and specifications)

• Contracts

• Hand tools (See Table 12)

• Insurance policies

• O&M manuals

• SOPs

• Submittals

• Technology tools (See Table 15)

• Third party experts

Specialized Knowledge

Verify contractor/service providers 

permits

Verify contractor/service providers 

insurance

Verify contractor/service providers 

compliance with company policies 

and contract documents

Verify contractor/service providers 

compliance with local codes

Distribute facility rules and 

regulations to contractor/service 

providers

Ensure training is provided to 

contractor/service providers

Enforce facility rules and 

regulations with contractor/service 

providers

Check contractor/service 

providers work

Verify contractor/service providers 

PPE

Communicate environmental 
38

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources

hazards to contractor/service 

providers

Validate contractor/service 

providers work has been 

completed prior to payment 

(progress billing)

Obtain lien waivers

Obtain close-out documents 

(submittals, as-builts, etc.) or 

ongoing service documents

Provide access to 

contractors/service providers 

Check actual performance against 

contracted service at periodic 

intervals

Provide site specific orientation to 

contractors/service providers

Manage Environmental Requirements (Permits, etc.)

Identify permit parameters for 

systems (refrigerant logs, etc.) • Building systems (See 

Table 3) (including 

interdependencies, 

interoperability, limitations, 

operating plans, 

operations, and 

performance expectations)

• Measurement equipment 

and techniques

• Monitoring systems and 

equipment

• Payment policies

• Permitting requirements

• Permitting resources

• Reclamation techniques

• Refrigerant recovery 

techniques

• Reporting requirements for 

• Ability to interpret contract 

documents

• Ability to interpret test 

readings

• Interpersonal skills

• Mechanical aptitude

• Organizational skills

• Planning skills

• Verbal communication skills

• Written communication skills

• Certifications and licenses as 

required (EPA refrigerant 

handling certification - EPA rule 

608, etc.)

• Codes, standards, regulations 

and guidelines (See Table 10)

• DOT regulations (for shipping and 

transport)

• EPA and state regulations

• Recovery equipment

• Sample containers

• Technology tools (See Table 15)

Measure and record parameters

Report parameters

Manage readings outside of 

permit parameters

Coordinate outside resources and 

services

Coordinate reclamation processes

Identify appropriate permits 

required

Maintain documentation
39

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources

emergencies

• System documentation 

requirements

Implement an Energy Management Program

Assist in the development of 

energy management programs • Break-even analysis

• Building certification 

programs

• Building systems (See 

Table 3) (including 

interdependencies, 

interoperability, limitations, 

operating plans, 

operations, and 

performance expectations)

• Business case 

development

• Energy conservation 

opportunities

• Financial knowledge

• First cost vs. lifecycle 

costs

• Lifecycle accounting 

practices

• State and local energy 

mandates

Utility bill analysis

• Ability to analyze data

• Ability to compare costs of 

technologies

• Ability to compare data

• Analytical skills

• Leadership skills

• Marketing skills

• Verbal communication skills

• Written communication skills

Duties, Tasks, and Steps

• Better Buildings Resources

• Codes, standards, regulations and 

guidelines (See Table 10)

• Corporate policies

• Corporate social responsibility 

policies

• Energy market data

• Energy modeling software

• Energy Star

• Industry and association reference 

materials

• ISO/IEC 50001

• Lifecycle cost analysis reports and 

tools

• Real time energy dashboard

• Risk management data

• Specialized tools (See Table 14)

• Systems data and information

• Technology tools (See Table 15)

• USGBC

Specialized Knowledge

Assist in the development of 

strategic energy plans

Create baselines

Set goals for energy improvement

Maintain energy-related operating 

improvements

Implement recommissioning or 

ongoing commissioning energy 

programs

Determine targets for reductions

Benchmark internally and 

externally

Develop opportunities for energy 

improvement initiatives

Obtain buy-in from building 

tenants/occupants

Support outreach and marketing 

activities

Evaluate utility bills

Investigate opportunities for 

rebates

Identify code requirements

Document results

Measure and verify savings

Identify KPIs

Maintain the Facility and Systems

Perform emergency maintenance

• Americans with Disabilities 

Act

• Building systems (See 

• Ability to follow written and 

sequenced directions

• Management skills

• Chemical analysis kit (See Table 

9)

• Codes, standards, regulations and 

guidelines (See Table 10

Perform preventive/predictive 

maintenance

Perform scheduled maintenance

Ensure maintenance of life safety 
40

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources

systems Table 3) (including 

interdependencies, 

interoperability, limitations, 

operating plans, 

operations, and 

performance expectations)

• EPA regulations

• Equipment operations and 

specifications

• Facility knowledge

• Funding sources

• Interim life safety 

measures (fire watch, 

alternate evacuation 

routes, etc.)

• Procurement policies and 

procedures

• Refrigerant recovery 

techniques

• Safety Codes and 

Standards (including 

OSHA)

• Trade knowledge for 

specific equipment and 

systems

• Mechanical aptitude

• Organizational skills

• Physical attributes

• Planning skills

• Recordkeeping skills

• Scheduling skills

• Technical aptitude

• Equipment and system information 

(historical information, parts list, 

maintenance information, etc.)

• Facility information

• Hand tools (See Table 12)

• PM guides

• Specialized tools (See Table 14)

• Technology tools (See Table 15)

Test emergency power systems

Maintain water/wastewater 

systems

Maintain plumbing systems

Maintain irrigation systems

Ensure maintenance of security 

systems

Maintain the building envelope

Ensure maintenance of electrical 

systems

Maintain lighting systems

Maintain mechanical systems

Maintain other non-facility 

equipment (food service, laundry, 

etc.)

Ensure maintenance of

elevator/escalator and other 

conveyance systems

Maintain access systems (locks, 

keys, etc.)

Ensure maintenance of 

communications systems

Inspect structural systems

Ensure maintenance of medical 

and laboratory gas systems

Maintain wall systems and finishes 

(paint, drywall, picture frames, 

etc.)

Ensure maintenance of firewall 

penetration integrity

Oversee cleanliness of facility

Oversee building improvements

Oversee tenant/occupant 

improvements

Oversee storm drainage system 

maintenance
41

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources

Oversee landscaping 

maintenance

Manage pest management 

operations

Ensure maintenance of air 

compressor and compressed air 

systems

Ensure the maintenance of 

HVACR systems

Ensure maintenance of building 

control systems (BAS, DDC, EMS, 

BMS, pneumatics, etc.)

Ensure maintenance of hot water 

and steam systems

Maintain utility submetering 

systems

Maintain the onsite power 

generation systems

Maintain the primary sewage and 

gray water systems

Ensure maintenance of other 

building systems* (*See separate 

list)

Maintain other facility use systems 

(operational systems such as 

package tracking, etc.)

Conduct Facility Repair Activities

Ensure fire and life safety systems 

are monitored throughout the 

repair

• Americans with Disabilities 

Act

• Building systems (See 

Table 3) (including 

interdependencies, 

interoperability, limitations, 

operating plans, 

operations, and 

performance expectations)

• Ability to diagnose 

equipment and system 

failures

• Scheduling skills

• As-built drawings and documents

• Certifications and licenses as 

required (EPA refrigerant handling 

certification - EPA rule 608, etc.)

• Codes, standards, regulations and 

guidelines (See Table 10)

• Equipment and system warranties

• Hand tools (See Table 12)

• Specialized tools (See Table 14)

Comply with safety regulations

Make improvements and repairs 

to comply with ADA

Troubleshoot systems

Identify and manage needed 

repairs

Identify repair options or 
42

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources

alternatives • EPA regulations

• Facility knowledge

• Interim life safety 

measures (fire watch, 

alternate evacuation 

routes, etc.)

• Procurement policies and 

procedures

• Refrigerant recovery 

techniques

• Safety Codes and 

Standards (including 

OSHA)

• Technology tools (See Table 15)

Comply with infection control risk 

assessments

Identify environmental issues 

(asbestos, VAT, ACMs, lead paint, 

etc.)

Identify equipment/source 

suppliers

Order repair parts

Coordinate permitting

Ensure business continuity

Communicate repair status to 

stakeholders

Schedule repairs

Repair equipment

Identify sustainable materials (low 

VOC, etc.)

Conduct repair verification and 

follow-up activities

Dispose of waste

Document repairs

Update as-builts if equipment or 

systems change

Table 19. Duties, Tasks, Steps, Specialized Knowledge, Skills, Abilities,

Tools, Equipment, and Resources for Optimizing the Facility

Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources

Conduct Measurement and Verification Activities

Obtain equipment and system 

performance baselines • BAS or monitoring systems

• Basic statistical analyses

• Building systems (See Table 

3) (including 

interdependencies, 

• Ability to apply data to 

protocols

• Ability to compare data

• Basic and advanced math 

skills

• Computer, peripherals and 

pertinent software (See Table 

11)

• Contracts

• Data loggers

• Financial calculator

Identify expectations from basis of 

design

Obtain measurements validating 

performance against basis of 

design
43

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources

Revise basis of design based on 

new conditions

interoperability, limitations, 

operating plans, operations, 

and performance 

expectations)

• Impact of operational changes 

(occupancy changes) on 

performance expectations

• Measured variables to verify 

system performance

• New technologies

• Obtaining measurements

• Other submetering systems

• Trend analysis

• Data interpretation and 

management skills

• Measurement skills

• IPMVP

• Monitoring systems

• Submetering systems

• Systems data and information

• Technology tools (See Table 

15)

Obtain M&V plan

Analyze System Performance

Conduct an energy audit 

(ASHRAE Level 1 or 2) • Baselines

• Benchmarking

• Building systems*

(See Table 3)

• Control theory

• Energy basics

• Testing and balancing 

procedures

• Ability to integrate disparate 

systems and equipment

• Analytical skills

• Strong control system skills

• Systems thinking

• Balancing reports

• Commissioning reports

• Computer, peripherals and 

pertinent software (See Table 

11)

• Construction documents 

(drawings and specifications)

• Hand tools (See Table 12)

• Modeling software

• Monitoring systems

• Sequence of operations

• Service logs and historical 

equipment data

• Specialized tools (See Table 

14)

• Submetering systems

• Systems data and information

• Third party experts

• Technology tools (See Table 

15)

Establish system performance 

baselines

Gather information regarding 

system performance

Determine if facility is being used 

the way the system was designed 

for it to be used

Determine if adequate monitoring 

equipment exists

Compare baselines to measured 

information

Verify facility's needs are being 

met

Validate current sequence of 

operations

Select measuring equipment

Obtain key measurements

Estimate changing use and/or 

loads

Look for non-performers (systems 

that are not performing)
44

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Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources

Compare system performance to 

internal and external benchmarks

Identify equipment or system 

upgrade opportunities

Develop a facility/equipment/

system digital data acquisition 

plan

Identify Cost Saving Measures

Select cost saving equipment 

(operations) • Basic utility bill analysis

• Energy efficiency measures 

(EEM) and economics 

• Financial knowledge

• New technologies

• Utility rate structures and 

schedules

• Ability to conduct a risk 

assessment

• Spreadsheet skills

• Better buildings website

• Case studies

• Computer, peripherals and 

pertinent software (See Table 

11)

• Existing system information

• Hand tools (See Table 12)

• Industry and association 

reference materials

• Potential new system 

information

• Projected data

• Specialized tools (See Table 

14)

• Technology tools (See Table 

15)

Third party experts

Compare old equipment to new 

technologies

Calculate total cost of ownership 

of equipment (capital costs, 

ownership costs, maintenance 

costs, etc.)

Identify recoverable costs

Identify rebates and incentives

Develop a business case for 

upgrade measures

Set a schedule for implementation

Identify productivity improvements 

in the environment

Identify asset value increases

Identify negative impacts of 

change

Respond to Changing Energy Costs

Analyze utility costs

• Comparing alternatives to 

satisfy demands

• Demand management 

strategies

• Financial penalties for going 

above peak demand threshold

• Load demand schedules

• Operating baselines

• Operation equipment loads

• Analytical skills

• Meter calibration and 

verification skills

• Organizational skills

• Contracts

• Equipment energy 

consumption

• Metering

• Systems data and 

information

• Technology tools (See Table 

15)Third party experts

• Utility cost information

• Utility interval data
45

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Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources

• Tenant/occupant tolerances in 

changes to systems

Utility rate structures and 

schedules

Obtain baselines

Manage utility interval data (i.e. 

hourly consumption top establish 

use patterns)

Develop contingency plans for 

energy reduction

Develop communication plan for 

tenants/occupants

Respond to real-time prices

Change utility rates

Implement demand management 

programs

Perform meter analysis

Optimize System Performance

Verify the optimal stop/start 

routine • Building systems(See Table 3)

(including interdependencies, 

interoperability, limitations, 

operating plans, operations, 

and performance 

expectations)

• Control theory

• Energy load profiles

• Equipment operations and 

specifications

• Fluid dynamics

• Heat transfer

• Psychrometrics

• Sequence of operations

• Tenant/occupant requirements

• Thermodynamics

• Typical non-energy costs

• Analytical skills • Computer, peripherals and 

pertinent software (See Table 

11)

• DDC system

• Hand tools (See Table 12)

• Industry and association 

reference materials

• Psychrometric charts

• SOPs

• Specialized tools (See Table 

14)

• Technology tools (See Table 

15)* 

• Third party experts

Implement reset schedules (hot 

and cold water systems, static 

pressure, discharge temperature, 

etc.)

Implement demand control 

strategies

Verify existing sensors and add 

new as needed

Research demand control 

ventilation

Verify critical tenant/occupant 

schedules and reduce where 

possible

Optimize pressure, flow and 

temperatures in all central 

systems

Verify costs savings and 
46

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Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources

optimization

Adjust set point to eliminate 

simultaneous heating and cooling

Ensure all capacity controls are 

operational

Compare air balance to baseline

Manage seasonal use of

equipment

Maintain integration of access with 

user systems

Contribute to the development of 

the energy management program

Identify Sustainability Opportunities

Participate in the waste 

management program • Building systems

(See Table 3)

• Contributors to carbon or 

environmental footprint

• Facility knowledge

• Foot-candles/lumens and 

lighting concepts

• Local water restrictions and 

requirements

• Mitigator of carbon or 

environmental footprint

• Procurement policies and 

procedures

• Sustainability options

• Understanding of photometric 

charts

• Ability to conduct economic 

analysis of alternatives

• Leadership skills

• Leadership skills

• Research skills

• Codes, standards, 

regulations and guidelines 

(See Table 10)

• Foot-candles/light meters

• Technology tools (See Table 

15)

Participate in water conservation 

programs

Participate in sustainable 

procurement programs

Participate in integrated pest 

management programs

Participate in green cleaning 

programs

Participate in recycling programs

Implement refrigerant 

management programs (reduction 

in CFCs etc.)

Identify alternative sustainable 

systems

Contribute to business case for 

alternatives

Participate in "green teams" with 

facility tenants/occupants

Conduct gap analysis to identify 

sustainability options

Participate in heat island reduction 

(roof and non-roof)
47

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Table 20. Duties, Tasks, Steps, Specialized Knowledge, Skills, Abilities,

Tools, Equipment, and Resources Required for Contributing to Budgeting Activities

Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources

Contribute to Long Term Facility Budgets Plan (5 Years)

Review long term/strategic facility 

plans

• Deferred issues (deferred 

maintenance)

• Facility knowledge

• Feasibility studies

• Life cycle assessments

• Long term goals of the 

organization

• Ability to forecast situational 

resources

• Ability to identify alternate 

work practices 

• Teamwork skills

• Ability to work with cross 

functional teams

• Organizational skills

• Planning skills

• Codes, standards, regulations 

and guidelines (See Table 10)

• Industry resources (BBB, etc.)

• Property condition report

• Property documents

• Strategic plan

• Technology tools (See Table 

15)

Provide recommendations on 

repairs or replacements

List out deferred maintenances

Conduct feasibility studies

Create "wish list" of items to be 

repaired/replaced

Conduct life cycle assessments

Forecast staffing, utilities, and 

other contributory costs

Contribute to Facility Operations Budget

Review previous budgets and 

performance against budgets

• Basic financial terminology

• Budget categories

• Contracts and service 

providers

• Financial knowledge

• Material availability

• Ability to understand contract 

documents

• Benchmarking skills

• Computer skills

• Negotiation skills

• Reading ability

• Teamwork skills

• Verbal communication skills

• Written communication skills

• Backlogs and deferred 

activities list

• Codes, standards, regulations 

and guidelines (See Table 10)

• Department of Labor wage 

information

• Facility management plan

• Industry expense references

• Labor and service provider 

contracts

• Previous year's budgets

• Projections versus actual

• Technology tools (See Table 

15)

Identify future changes in 

operations or occupancy usage 

projections

Benchmark operations budgets 

(RS means)

Evaluate equipment and potential 

failures

Identify contractors/service 

providers requirements

Identify staffing requirements for 

future service activities

Identify special maintenance 

needs

Identify potential code changes 

affecting operations

Review maintenance backlog and 

deferred activities

Identify rate increases

Review non-normal operating 

categories (snow removal, etc.)
48

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Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and 

Resources

Review contingencies

Review existing contracts

Manage actual expenditures to 

budgets

Contribute to Capital Improvement Budget(s)

Review expected life of systems 

and facilities

• Basic financial terminology

• Budget categories

• Contracts and service 

providers

• Costs of systems or 

improvements

• Emerging technologies and 

tools

• Financial knowledge

• Maintenance costs of existing 

systems

• Organization's budgeting 

process

• Procurement regulations

• Technical knowledge

• Teamwork skills

• Benchmarking skills

• Computer skills

• Estimating skills

• Negotiation skills

• Reading ability

• Verbal communication skills

• Written communication skills

• Backlogs and deferred 

activities list

• Codes, standards, regulations 

and guidelines (See Table 

10)

• Department of Labor wage 

information

• Facility strategic plan

• Industry expense references

• Labor and service provider 

contracts

• Previous year's budgets

• Projections versus actual for 

past projects

• Technology tools (See Table 

15)

Review previous budgets

Identify future changes in 

operations or occupancy usage 

projections

Evaluate equipment and potential 

failures

Identify special maintenance 

needs

Identify potential code changes 

affecting operations

Review maintenance backlog and 

deferred activities

Review contingencies

Provide input into the 

development of the capital 

improvement budget

Manage actual expenditures to 

budgets
49

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3 Examination Blueprint

The Final Proposed Examination Blueprint for Building Operations Professional is shown below 

in Table 21. The exam blueprint identifies subject matter areas covered on a certification exam. 

Table 21 column headings are defined as follows:

Duties and Tasks: Description of the work

Analytical Weights: The weights calculated by taking the average of the tabulated individual 

ratings on frequency and importance (2 times importance plus frequency). See Section 6.2.

Holistic Weights: These are the weights calculated by taking the average the individual 

responses regarding the overall percentage that should be in each of the Duties and Tasks. See 

Section 6.2.

Final Weight: These are the weights agreed upon by the JTA committee during the postvalidation study webinar. See Section 6.

Final Items: These are the quantity of items (i.e., test questions) that should be on each 

examination in each of the categories as agreed to by the JTA committee during the postvalidation study webinar.

Table 21. Final Proposed Examination Blueprint for Building Operations Professional

Duties and Tasks Analytical 

Weights

Holistic 

Weights

Final 

Weight Final Items

Supervising Personnel 9% 14% 8% 10

Develop workload analyses 2% 1% 1

Analyze staffing productivity 2% 2% 3

Supervise building staff 3% 4% 5

Secure outside service providers 2% 1% 1

Conducting Planning Activities 13% 15% 15% 18

Update procedures (standard operating 

procedures, building operating procedures, 

operating plans, emergency plans, etc.)

2% 3% 4

Develop equipment operations plans 2% 2% 2

Develop planned maintenance schedules 3% 3% 4

Contribute to construction standards and 

guidelines 2% 2% 2

Contribute to capital renewal plans 2% 3% 4

Conduct data management activities 2% 2% 2

Operating Buildings 55% 40% 50% 59

Perform workplace hazard assessments 2% 2% 3

Participate in emergency drills 2% 2% 3

Manage the personal protection equipment

program

2% 2% 3

Manage third party inspections 2% 2% 2

Respond to building emergencies 3% 2% 2
50

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To arrive at the final blueprint, the JTA committee was asked to consider the tabulated frequency 

and importance scales together with the holistic weights.

Respondents were asked to provide a holistic weighting to the domain areas. Based on the 

responses, an examination blueprint was calculated for each domain. This information appears in 

Table 22.

Manage building securities 2% 2% 2

Coordinate/conduct occupant training 2% 2% 2

Conduct risk management activities 2% 2% 2

Manage responses to inclement weather 

conditions/issues 2% 2% 3

Respond to tenant requests/issues 3% 2% 2

Conduct equipment checks 3% 2% 2

Conduct daily rounds 3% 2% 2

Coordinate facility operations (normal) 3% 2% 2

Coordinate facility operations (other than 

normal) 3% 2% 2

Manage the work order process 2% 2% 3

Investigate indoor environmental quality 2% 2% 3

Conduct tenant relations activities 2% 2% 2

Manage consumables 2% 2% 2

Manage outside facility contractors/service 

providers 2% 2% 3

Manage environmental requirements (permits, 

etc.) 2% 2% 3

Implement an energy management program 3% 3% 4

Maintain the facility and systems 3% 3% 4

Conduct facility repair activities 3% 2% 3

Optimizing the Facility 15% 21% 20% 24

Conduct measurement and verification activities 2% 3% 4

Analyze system performance 3% 4% 5

Identify cost saving measures 3% 3% 3

Respond to changing energy costs 2% 3% 3

Optimize system performance 3% 5% 6

Identify sustainability opportunities 2% 2% 3

Contributing to Budgeting Activities 8% 10% 7% 8

Contribute to long term facility budget plan (5 

years) 2% 2% 2

Contribute to facility operations budget 3% 3% 4

Contribute to capital improvement budget(s) 3% 2% 2

100% 100% 100% 120
51

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Table 22. Summary of Respondent Holistic Ratings

Domain %

Supervising Personnel 14.15%

Conduct Planning Activities 15.13%

Operating Buildings 40.00%

Optimizing the Facility 20.85%

Contributing to Budgeting Activities 10.94%

The remainder of this document describes the process for conducting the job task analysis and 

administering the validation survey.
52

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4 Job Task Analysis and Survey Validation

NIBS and NREL organized a group of panelists consisting of 15 SMEs representing Building 

Operations Professionals to conduct a JTA using the DACUM methodology. The 15 experts are

listed in Table 23.

Table 23. List of DACUM JTA Participants

Mohamed Amin, LEED AP, EIT

Project Engineer

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Edison, NJ

Terry M. Bickham, CEM, LEED AP, CSDP

Director , Energy Services and Solutions

Ingersoll Rand/Trane

Lees Summit, MO

Robert Blakey

Sr. Manager - Operations 

CBRE – Group Health

Seattle, WA

Christine C. Maurer, PE, CEM

Energy Engineer

Advanced Energy

Raleigh, NC

Mike McBee

Capital Mechanical Coordinator

Seattle Public Schools / IUOE Local 609

Seattle, WA

Carlos Santamaria, MBA, RPA, LEED AP

Vice President, Engineering Services

Glenborough LLC / CEES-Advisors - Principal

Napa, CA

James Coates, BS, CEM, LEED AP

Training Fund Administrator

International Union of Operating Engineers

Local 399 ETF, Chicago, IL

Rick Dames, MSAE, CFM, CEM, OPMP, CEA

Director of Facility Management

Boone County Schools

Florence, KY

Howard (Mike) Day

Director of Operations

ProSource Consulting

Gainesville, VA

Charles Frost

Energy Manager

UC Berkeley

Berkeley, CA

Hadley Hartshorn

Instructor

Laney College

Oakland, CA

Daniel Sexton, RPA

Director, Tampa Service Center

U.S. General Services Administration (GSA), PBS

Tampa, FL

Daryl R. Walker

Instructor

Renton Technical College

Renton, WA

Rod Weiss

Director of Development – Smart Energy 

Programs

Coleman University

San Diego, CA

Anthony Zotto

Operating Engineer, LEED G.A.

Industry Skills Coordinator

Thomas Shortman Fund Local 32BJ/Training Fund

New York, NY

The DACUM JTA meeting was facilitated by Dr. Cynthia Woodley, psychometrician, and Ms. 

Tracey Paschal, project manager with Professional Testing, Inc. The 3-day meeting developed a 

list of five domains or duties and 42 tasks through group discussions. 

4.1 Survey Development

The task list was used to build a survey that was delivered using an online mechanism. The 

survey consisted of two major sections: Demographic Information and Building Operations 

Professional Tasks. The draft survey was shared with NREL/NIBS/DOE staff for initial review 

and then NIBS volunteered to send out the survey to appropriate respondents. Appendix A 

includes a copy of the survey.
53

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

4.2 Survey Dissemination

NIBS sent the survey to several Building Operations Professionals. The survey was open for 

approximately 30 days in the spring of 2014 for data collection, during which time email 

reminders were sent. The final dataset included 122 respondents, some of whom did not 

complete the survey.
54

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5 Results

All data were included in the analyses, as people who skipped a question or task rating may have 

done so either accidentally or because they felt that the item was not applicable to their position.

The sample size is large enough (122) to allow reasonable confidence in the results. Results from 

the demographics questions will be presented first.

5.1 State of Primary Employment

The largest number of respondents reported working in some “other” (14.2%, n = 15) location 

for which they wrote in responses. The locations with the largest number of respondents included 

California (10.4%, n = 11), New York (9.4%, n = 10), multiple states (8.5%, n = 9), and 

Washington State (7.5%, n = 8). Table 24 provides the summary.

Table 24. State of Employment of Respondents

State % # State % #

Other (please specify) 14.2% 15 Rhode Island 0.9% 1

California 10.4% 11 Tennessee 0.9% 1

New York 9.4% 10 Alabama 0.0% 0

Multiple States 8.5% 9 Alaska 0.0% 0

Washington 7.5% 8 Arkansas 0.0% 0

North Carolina 6.6% 7 Delaware 0.0% 0

Texas 6.6% 7 Georgia 0.0% 0

Virginia 5.7% 6 Idaho 0.0% 0

Colorado 3.8% 4 Indiana 0.0% 0

Maryland 3.8% 4 Iowa 0.0% 0

Pennsylvania 3.8% 4 Kansas 0.0% 0

Connecticut 2.8% 3 Minnesota 0.0% 0

Florida 2.8% 3 Mississippi 0.0% 0

Illinois 2.8% 3 Montana 0.0% 0

Massachusetts 2.8% 3 Nebraska 0.0% 0

Missouri 2.8% 3 Nevada 0.0% 0

New Jersey 2.8% 3 New Hampshire 0.0% 0

Hawaii 1.9% 2 Oklahoma 0.0% 0

Michigan 1.9% 2 South Dakota 0.0% 0

South Carolina 1.9% 2 Utah 0.0% 0

Wisconsin 1.9% 2 Vermont 0.0% 0

Arizona 0.9% 1 West Virginia 0.0% 0

Kentucky 0.9% 1 Wyoming 0.0% 0

Louisiana 0.9% 1 Answered question 106

Maine 0.9% 1

New Mexico 0.9% 1

North Dakota 0.9% 1

Ohio 0.9% 1

Oregon 0.9% 1

Table 25 contains a list of the write-in comments associated with “other.” Several of the write-in 

comments were states where the respondent could have checked a participant state. However,

Table 25 highlights international locations where respondents work (yellow highlight).
55

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Table 25. List of "Other" Write-In Comments

“Other” Write-in Comments

China

Canada

Texas

India

Canada BC

District of Columbia

Israel

All US

Portugal

Greece

Czech

Asia/Taiwan

Jamaica

Guam USA

MU

5.2 Highest Level of Education

Respondents were asked about the highest level of education reached. The majority of 

respondents indicated completing a Bachelor’s degree (30.2%, n = 38) followed by a graduate 

degree (27.8%, n = 35). The result is that 58% (n = 73) have a Bachelor’s degree or higher. Table 

26 and Figure 1 depict this information.

Table 26. Highest Level of Education

What is your highest level of education?

Answer Options Response 

Percent

Response 

Count

Less than High School 0.8% 1

High School or Equivalent 7.9% 10

Some College 10.3% 13

Two Years of College/Technical School/Community College 23.0% 29

Bachelor's Degree 30.2% 38

Graduate Degree 27.8% 35

Answered question 126
56

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Figure 1. Highest level of education

5.3 Years of Energy Experience 

Respondents were asked to identify the number of years of experience they have in an energyrelated industry (all jobs combined) and not necessarily specifically as Building Operations 

Professionals. The majority of respondents (51.6%, n = 65) have more than 21 years of 

experience. Table 27 and Figure 2 depict this information.

Table 27. Years of Energy Experience

How many years of experience do you have in an energy related industry (all jobs 

combined)?

Answer Options Response 

Percent

Response 

Count

5 years or less 6.3% 8

6–10 years 20.6% 26

11–15 years 11.9% 15

16–20 years 9.5% 12

21 or more years 51.6% 65

Answered question 126

Less than High 

School, 0.8%

High School or 

Equivalent, 7.9%

Some College, 

10.3%

Two Years of 

College/Technical 

School/Community 

College, 23.0%

Bachelor's Degree, 

30.2% Graduate Degree, 

27.8%

What is your highest level of education?
57

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Figure 2. Years of energy experience

5.4 Years of Building Operations Experience

The majority of respondents (37.6%, n = 47) had 21 years or more of experience as Building 

Operations Professionals. The JTA Committee felt that this result was representative of the 

Building Operations field. Table 28 and Figure 3 reflect this information.

Table 28. Years of Experience Specifically as a Building Operations Professional

How many years of experience do you have specifically as a Building Operations 

Professional?

Answer Options Response 

Percent

Response 

Count

none 3.2% 4

5 years or less 14.4% 18

6–10 years 17.6% 22

11–15 years 10.4% 13

16–20 years 16.8% 21

21 or more years 37.6% 47

Answered question 125

5 years or less, 6.3%

6-10 years, 20.6%

11-15 years, 11.9%

16-20 years, 9.5%

21 or more years, 

51.6%

How many years of experience do you have in an energy related 

industry (all jobs combined)?
58

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Figure 3. Years of experience specifically as a building operations professional

5.5 Work Sector

Respondents were asked whether they worked in a private or public (government) work sector. A 

majority (62.3%, n = 76) indicated they worked in a private sector. Table 29 and Figure 4 reflect 

this information.

Table 29. Sector in Which Respondent Works

In which sector do you currently work?

Answer Options Response

Percent

Response 

Count

Public (government at any level) 37.7% 46

Private 62.3% 76

Answered question 122

None, 3.2%

5 years or less, 

14.4%

6-10 years, 17.6%

11-15 years, 10.4%

16-20 years, 16.8%

21 or more years, 

37.6%

How many years of experience do you have specifically as a Building 

Operations Professional?
59

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Figure 4. Sector in which respondent works

Public (government 

at any level), 37.7%

Private, 62.3%

In which sector do you currently work?
60

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6 Post-Survey Conference Call/Webinar

Based on this information, Professional Testing facilitated a conference call facilitated on May 

30, 2014, to review and discuss the survey results. The meeting began by reviewing the 

demographic question results to confirm that the sample appeared to be representative of the 

industry. The attending Building Operations SMEs agreed that the group of respondents was 

representative of the industry. They then reviewed the tasks that were flagged for potential 

elimination. The resolution of this conference call was to remove none of the competency 

statements.

6.1 Adequacy of Respondent Demographics

Based on the results of the demographic data, the expert panel felt that the respondents were 

demographically representative and in fact the correct target population was reached.

6.2 Job Task Ratings

Forty-two tasks were included in the final version of the validation survey. These tasks were 

grouped based on the five content domains to be covered by the Building Operations 

Professional examination scheme. The survey used a 4-point rating scale for importance of task 

performance, using the following scale:

1 Not important

2 Somewhat important

3 Important

4 Very Important

In addition to the rating scale for task importance, a 6-point rating scale for the frequency of the 

task, using the following scale:

1 Never

2 1% to 25% of the time

3 26% to 50% of the time

4 51% to 75% of the time

5 76% to 99% of the time

6 100% of the time

Responses were tabulated, and means, standard deviations (SDs), and standard errors of mean 

(SEMs) were calculated for both the frequency scale and the importance scale. This information 

appears in Table 28.

In Table 28, tasks in red represent tasks with less than 2.0 on frequency AND importance. The 

SMEs considered these tasks during the follow-up webinar to determine whether they should be 

dropped. The SMEs determined all tasks were needed.
61

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Table 30. Means, SDs, and SEM of Rating Scale Responses

Duties and Tasks Frequency Importance

Means SD SEM Means SD SEM

Supervising Personnel

Develop workload analyses 1.61 1.16 0.12 1.88 0.90 0.11

Analyze staffing productivity 1.87 1.35 0.13 2.08 0.86 0.11

Supervise building staff 2.64 1.46 0.14 2.29 0.82 0.11

Secure outside service providers 1.60 1.07 0.12 1.81 0.91 0.11

Conducting Planning Activities

Update procedures (SOPs, BOPs, operating 

plans, emergency plans, etc.)

1.68 1.12 0.12 2.06 0.71 0.10

Develop equipment operations plans 1.67 1.14 0.13 2.01 0.75 0.10

Develop planned maintenance schedules 2.15 1.50 0.14 2.40 0.74 0.10

Contribute to construction standards and 

guidelines 1.45 0.94 0.11 1.83 0.79 0.10

Contribute to capital renewal plans 1.65 1.16 0.13 1.99 0.78 0.10

Conduct data management activities 1.65 1.25 0.13 1.68 0.78 0.10

Operating Buildings

Perform workplace hazard assessments 1.95 1.54 0.15 2.14 0.82 0.11

Participate in emergency drills 1.93 1.62 0.15 2.01 0.83 0.11

Manage the PPE program 1.82 1.55 0.15 2.07 0.84 0.11

Manage third party inspections 1.49 1.19 0.13 1.59 0.80 0.11

Respond to building emergencies 2.66 1.79 0.16 2.65 0.63 0.09

Manage building securities 1.40 1.43 0.14 1.71 0.82 0.11

Coordinate/conduct occupant training 1.11 1.15 0.13 1.46 0.90 0.11

Conduct risk management activities 1.42 1.17 0.13 1.70 0.79 0.11

Manage responses to inclement weather 

conditions/issues

2.10 1.63 0.15 2.08 0.79 0.11

Respond to tenant requests/issues 2.79 1.62 0.15 2.32 0.67 0.10

Conduct equipment checks 2.44 1.64 0.15 2.27 0.70 0.10

Conduct daily rounds 2.47 1.85 0.16 2.07 0.83 0.11

Coordinate facility operations (normal) 2.77 1.75 0.15 2.27 0.70 0.10

Coordinate facility operations (other than 

normal) 2.27 1.71 0.15 2.23 0.83 0.11

Manage the work order process 2.19 1.48 0.14 2.03 0.72 0.10

Investigate indoor environmental quality 2.00 1.62 0.15 2.21 0.83 0.11

Conduct tenant relations activities 1.73 1.58 0.15 1.70 0.90 0.11

Manage consumables 1.74 1.55 0.15 1.41 0.85 0.11

Manage outside facility contractors/service 

providers 2.12 1.56 0.15 1.93 0.83 0.11

Manage environmental requirements 

(permits, etc.) 1.88 1.62 0.15 2.03 0.73 0.10

Implement an energy management program 2.34 1.57 0.15 2.37 0.78 0.10

Maintain the facility and systems 3.33 1.58 0.15 2.65 0.56 0.09
62

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Duties and Tasks Frequency Importance

Means SD SEM Means SD SEM

Conduct facility repair activities 2.82 1.70 0.15 2.44 0.73 0.10

Optimizing the Facility

Conduct measurement and verification 

activities 2.00 1.45 0.14 2.00 0.81 0.11

Analyze system performance 2.42 1.51 0.14 2.28 0.72 0.10

Identify cost saving measures 2.45 1.46 0.14 2.37 0.74 0.10

Respond to changing energy costs 1.93 1.54 0.14 1.87 0.86 0.11

Optimize system performance 2.53 1.57 0.15 2.45 0.73 0.10

Identify sustainability opportunities 2.03 1.53 0.14 1.86 0.96 0.12

Contributing to Budgeting Activities

Contribute to long term facility budget plan (5 

years) 2.00 1.56 0.15 2.17 0.71 0.10

Contribute to facility operations budget 2.57 1.70 0.15 2.49 0.60 0.09

Contribute to capital improvement budget(s) 2.19 1.53 0.14 2.28 0.75 0.10

Responses to frequency and importance rankings were combined by doubling the importance and 

adding the frequency to arrive at a single scale. Table 29 shows the tabulated results. 
63

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Table 31. Combined Frequency and Importance Scales

Duties and Tasks Frequency Importance Combined 

Ratings

Overall 

Means SD SEM Means SD SEM Weights

Supervising Personnel

Develop workload analyses 1.61 1.16 0.12 1.88 0.90 0.11 5.37 2.06%

Analyze staffing productivity 1.87 1.35 0.13 2.08 0.86 0.11 6.03 2.31%

Supervise building staff 2.64 1.46 0.14 2.29 0.82 0.11 7.22 2.76%

Secure outside service providers 1.60 1.07 0.12 1.81 0.91 0.11 5.21 2.00%

Conducting Planning Activities

Update procedures (SOPs, BOPs, 

operating plans, emergency plans, etc.) 1.68 1.12 0.12 2.06 0.71 0.10 5.79 2.22%

Develop equipment operations plans 1.67 1.14 0.13 2.01 0.75 0.10 5.70 2.18%

Develop planned maintenance schedules 2.15 1.50 0.14 2.40 0.74 0.10 6.95 2.66%

Contribute to construction standards and 

guidelines 1.45 0.94 0.11 1.83 0.79 0.10 5.11 1.96%

Contribute to capital renewal plans 1.65 1.16 0.13 1.99 0.78 0.10 5.62 2.15%

Conduct data management activities 1.65 1.25 0.13 1.68 0.78 0.10 5.01 1.92%

Operating Buildings

Perform workplace hazard assessments 1.95 1.54 0.15 2.14 0.82 0.11 6.23 2.39%

Participate in emergency drills 1.93 1.62 0.15 2.01 0.83 0.11 5.96 2.28%

Manage the PPE program 1.82 1.55 0.15 2.07 0.84 0.11 5.96 2.28%

Manage third party inspections 1.49 1.19 0.13 1.59 0.80 0.11 4.68 1.79%

Respond to building emergencies 2.66 1.79 0.16 2.65 0.63 0.09 7.95 3.05%

Manage building securities 1.40 1.43 0.14 1.71 0.82 0.11 4.83 1.85%

Coordinate/conduct occupant training 1.11 1.15 0.13 1.46 0.90 0.11 4.02 1.54%

Conduct risk management activities 1.42 1.17 0.13 1.70 0.79 0.11 4.82 1.85%

Manage responses to inclement weather 

conditions/issues 2.10 1.63 0.15 2.08 0.79 0.11 6.26 2.40%

Respond to tenant requests/issues 2.79 1.62 0.15 2.32 0.67 0.10 7.44 2.85%

Conduct equipment checks 2.44 1.64 0.15 2.27 0.70 0.10 6.97 2.67%

Conduct daily rounds 2.47 1.85 0.16 2.07 0.83 0.11 6.61 2.53%
64

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Duties and Tasks Frequency Importance Combined 

Ratings

Overall 

Means SD SEM Means SD SEM Weights

Coordinate facility operations (normal) 2.77 1.75 0.15 2.27 0.70 0.10 7.30 2.80%

Coordinate facility operations (other than 

normal) 2.27 1.71 0.15 2.23 0.83 0.11 6.72 2.58%

Manage the work order process 2.19 1.48 0.14 2.03 0.72 0.10 6.25 2.39%

Investigate indoor environmental quality 2.00 1.62 0.15 2.21 0.83 0.11 6.42 2.46%

Conduct tenant relations activities 1.73 1.58 0.15 1.70 0.90 0.11 5.13 1.97%

Manage consumables 1.74 1.55 0.15 1.41 0.85 0.11 4.56 1.75%

Manage outside facility 

contractors/service providers 2.12 1.56 0.15 1.93 0.83 0.11 5.98 2.29%

Manage environmental requirements 

(permits, etc.) 1.88 1.62 0.15 2.03 0.73 0.10 5.93 2.27%

Implement an energy management 

program

2.34 1.57 0.15 2.37 0.78 0.10 7.07 2.71%

Maintain the facility and systems 3.33 1.58 0.15 2.65 0.56 0.09 8.62 3.30%

Conduct facility repair activities 2.82 1.70 0.15 2.44 0.73 0.10 7.70 2.95%

Optimizing the Facility

Conduct measurement and verification 

activities 2.00 1.45 0.14 2.00 0.81 0.11 6.00 2.30%

Analyze system performance 2.42 1.51 0.14 2.28 0.72 0.10 6.98 2.67%

Identify cost saving measures 2.45 1.46 0.14 2.37 0.74 0.10 7.18 2.75%

Respond to changing energy costs 1.93 1.54 0.14 1.87 0.86 0.11 5.68 2.18%

Optimize system performance 2.53 1.57 0.15 2.45 0.73 0.10 7.43 2.85%

Identify sustainability opportunities 2.03 1.53 0.14 1.86 0.96 0.12 5.75 2.20%

Contributing to Budgeting Activities

Contribute to long term facility budget 

plan (5 years) 2.00 1.56 0.15 2.17 0.71 0.10 6.33 2.43%

Contribute to facility operations budget 2.57 1.70 0.15 2.49 0.60 0.09 7.54 2.89%

Contribute to capital improvement 

budget(s) 2.19 1.53 0.14 2.28 0.75 0.10 6.74 2.58%

261.08 100.00%
65

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

6.3 Tasks or Knowledge Missing

Survey respondents were asked if they felt any tasks or knowledge were missing from the JTA.

Appendix B lists all write-in responses. The JTA Committee reviewed all the comments and 

determined that no content was missing from the JTA.
66

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

7 Conclusions and Next Steps

The JTA is the first step in the test development process, serving as the primary source of 

evidence for validity of the examination. The final DACUM JTA is now validated and may be 

used by training organizations to develop training programs and by a certification body or 

scheme committee to develop a certification scheme. The final DACUM JTA for Building 

Operations Professionals appears in Table 23.
67

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Appendix A: Building Operations Professional 

Validation Study Survey
Commercial Workforce Credentialing Council Job Task Analysis Validation

Welcome!

The National Institute of Building Sciences Commercial Workforce Credentialing Council and industry stakeholders have 

a project to improve the quality and consistency of commercial buildings workforce training and certification programs for 

four key energy­related jobs.

In support of this project, the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS), and Professional Testing, Inc. are seeking 

members of the commercial buildings industry to participate in a nationwide research study validating job task analyses 

(JTAs) of four key energy­related jobs in the commercial buildings sector. The JTA is a procedure for analyzing the tasks 

performed by individuals in a specific job, as well as the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform those 

tasks. JTAs are critical elements of quality training programs and professional certifications.

Current industry practitioners whose work falls into one or more of the following job categories may complete a validation 

study by April 25, 2014. Each energy­related job area survey is nine pages. For each survey you will rate the frequency 

and importance of the work activities associated with each area of responsibility. Participation should take approximately 

30–45 minutes and individuals may complete more than one validation study, if applicable. When determining 

applicability, practitioners should focus on the details of the job descriptions rather than on the job title, as job titles 

frequently vary from one employer to another.

You do not have to respond to all surveys however we ask you to please finish any survey you start.

If you do not have time to complete the survey in one sitting, you can stop and complete the survey later (provided you 

use the same computer and have cookies enabled on that computer). The survey will resume where you stopped. If you 

do not have cookies enabled, the survey will start over from the beginning again.

Your responses will be kept confidential, and we appreciate your assistance. If you have any difficulty responding to this 

survey, please contact NIBS at dsmith@nibs.org.

On the next page you will be given the opportunity to select the energy­related job survey you are interested in 

responding to.
Commercial Workforce Credentialing Council Job Task Analysis Validation

Following is a description of the remaining surveys you may respond to. Please review 

the job descriptions and select the survey for which you feel most qualified. Please select 

the survey for which you wish to respond:

*

Energy Manager ­ Responsible for managing and continually improving energy performance in commercial buildings by establishing and 

maintaining an energy program management system that supports the mission and goals of the organization.

nmlkj

Building Operations Professional ­ Manages the maintenance and operation of building systems and installed equipment, and performs 

general maintenance to maintain the building's operability, optimize building performance, and ensure the comfort, productivity and safety of 

the building occupants.

nmlkj

Building Commissioning Professional ­ Leads, plans, coordinates and manages a commissioning team to implement commissioning 

processes in new and existing buildings.

nmlkj
Commercial Workforce Credentialing Council Job Task Analysis Validation

Please answer the following background questions. Your responses will be kept confidential and this information will only 

be used for statistical purposes.

In which state do you primarily work?

What is your highest level of education?

How many years of experience do you have in an energy related industry (all jobs 

combined)?

How many years of experience do you have specifically as a Building Operations 

Professional?

6

Other (please specify)

nmlkj Less than High School

nmlkj High School or Equivalent

nmlkj Some College

nmlkj Two Years of College/Technical School/Community College

nmlkj Bachelor's Degree

nmlkj Graduate Degree

nmlkj 5 years or less

nmlkj 6­10 years

nmlkj 11­15 years

nmlkj 16­20 years

nmlkj 21 or more years

nmlkj none

nmlkj 5 years or less

nmlkj 6­10 years

nmlkj 11­15 years

nmlkj 16­20 years

nmlkj 21 or more years
Commercial Workforce Credentialing Council Job Task Analysis Validation

In which sector do you currently work?

nmlkj Public (government at any level)

nmlkj Private
Commercial Workforce Credentialing Council Job Task Analysis Validation

Instruction Page

In the following pages, you will be asked to think about tasks that a Building Operations Professional does and to indicate the frequency with which 

a Building Operations Professional performs each task on a job. Then, considering the same task statement, you will be asked to indicate how 

important it is that a Building Operations Professional knows how to do each of these tasks. To respond click the drop down menu and select your 

response. 
Commercial Workforce Credentialing Council Job Task Analysis Validation

When a Building Operations Professional is Managing Human Resources, please indicate 

how frequently this task is performed on the job and how important this task is to a 

Building Operations Professional.

When a Building Operations Professional is Conducting Planning Activities, please 

indicate how frequently this task is performed on the job and how important this task is to 

a Building Operations Professional.

Frequency ­ How often is this task 

performed on the job?

Importance ­ How important is this task to 

the overall successful performance of a 

Building Operations Professional?

Develop workload analyses 6 6

Analyze staffing productivity 6 6

Supervise building staff 6 6

Secure outside service providers 6 6

Frequency ­ How often is this task 

performed on the job?

Importance ­ How important is this task to 

the overall successful performance of a 

Building Operations Professional?

Update procedures (SOPs, BOPs, operating plans, 

emergency plans, etc.)

6 6

Develop equipment operations plans 6 6

Develop planned maintenance schedules 6 6

Contribute to construction standards and guidelines 6 6

Contribute to capital renewal plans 6 6

Conduct data management activities 6 6
Commercial Workforce Credentialing Council Job Task Analysis Validation

When a Building Operations Professional is Operating Buildings, please indicate how 

frequently this task is performed on the job and how important this task is to a Building 

Operations Professional.

Frequency ­ How often is this task 

performed on the job?

Importance ­ How important is this task to 

the overall successful performance of a 

Building Operations Professional?

Perform workplace hazard assessments 6 6

Participate in emergency drills 6 6

Manage the PPE program 6 6

Manage third party inspections 6 6

Respond to building emergencies 6 6

Manage building securities 6 6

Coordinate/conduct occupant training 6 6

Conduct risk management activities 6 6

Manage responses to inclement weather 

conditions/issues

6 6

Respond to tenant requests/issues 6 6

Conduct equipment checks 6 6

Conduct daily rounds 6 6

Coordinate facility operations (normal) 6 6

Coordinate facility operations (other than normal) 6 6

Manage the work order process 6 6

Investigate indoor environmental quality 6 6

Conduct tenant relations activities 6 6

Manage consumables 6 6

Manage outside facility contractors/service providers 6 6

Manage environmental requirements (permits, etc.) 6 6

Implement an energy management program 6 6

Maintain the facility and systems 6 6

Conduct facility repair activities 6 6
Commercial Workforce Credentialing Council Job Task Analysis Validation

When a Building Operations Professional is Optimizing the Facility, please indicate how 

frequently this task is performed on the job and how important this task is to a Building 

Operations Professional.

When a Building Operations Professional is Conducting Budgeting Activities, please 

indicate how frequently this task is performed on the job and how important this task is to 

a Building Operations Professional.

Frequency ­ How often is this task 

performed on the job?

Importance ­ How important is this task to 

the overall successful performance of a 

Building Operations Professional?

Conduct measurement and verification activities 6 6

Analyze system performance 6 6

Identify cost saving measures 6 6

Respond to changing energy costs 6 6

Optimize system performance 6 6

Identify sustainability opportunities 6 6

Frequency ­ How often is this task 

performed on the job?

Importance ­ How important is this task to 

the overall successful performance of a 

Building Operations Professional?

Contribute to long term facility budget plan (5 years) 6 6

Contribute to facility operations budget 6 6

Contribute to capital improvement budget(s) 6 6
Commercial Workforce Credentialing Council Job Task Analysis Validation

Review the specialized knowledge below and indicate the depth of knowledge that is 

required of a Building Operations Professional.

No knowledge needed Some knowledge needed Moderate knowledge neededExtensive knowledge needed

Access requirements for 

maintenance

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Adjusting equipment based 

on readings

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Americans with Disabilities 

Act

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Asset inventories nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Available renewable 

energy systems

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

BAS or monitoring systems nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Baselines nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Basic data architecture nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Basic financial terminology nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Basic knowledge of 

contaminant limits

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Basic knowledge of 

insurance policies for 

equipment and operations

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Basic knowledge of tariffs nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Basic statistical analyses nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Basic utility bill analysis nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Benchmarks for system 

performance

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Best practices for 

emergency drills

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Biohazards and hazardous 

chemicals

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Break­even analysis nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Budget categories nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Building certification 

programs

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Building operations and 

procedures

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Building systems nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Building Systems 

interdependencies

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Building Systems 

interoperability

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Building Systems 

limitations

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj
Commercial Workforce Credentialing Council Job Task Analysis Validation

Building Systems operating 

plan

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Building Systems 

operations

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Building Systems 

performance expectations

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Business case development nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Chain of custody nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Change management 

techniques

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Common or frequent 

deficiencies

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Communications methods 

(Skype, Webinar, etc.)

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Communications plans nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Company labor policies nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Comparing alternatives to 

satisfy demands

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Conditions under which a 

building should be 

evacuated

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Consumable logistics nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Consumable requirements nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Consumable sourcing 

guidelines

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Contaminant containment 

protocols

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Contingency plans/data 

recovery

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Contract knowledge nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Contract requirements nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Contracts and service 

providers

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Contributors to carbon or 

environmental footprint

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Control systems nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Control theory nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Costs of systems or 

improvements

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Criticality of various systems 

and equipment

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Customer requirements for 

business

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Decontamination  nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj
Commercial Workforce Credentialing Council Job Task Analysis Validation

requirements

Deferred issues (deferred 

maintenance)

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Demand management 

strategies

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Distinguishing equivalency 

between equipment and/or 

systems

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Emergency equipment 

operation

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Emergency procedures 

including first aid and CPR

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Emerging technologies and 

tools

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Energy basics nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Energy conservation 

opportunities

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Energy cost savings 

measures

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Energy load profiles nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

EPA regulations nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Equipment operations and 

specifications

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Expected life of major 

building components

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Facility knowledge nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Failure modes nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Familiarity with learning 

styles

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Feasibility studies nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Financial knowledge nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Financial penalties for 

going above peak demand 

threshold

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

First cost vs. lifecycle costs nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

First response mitigation 

techniques (what type of 

fire extinguisher to use, 

etc.)

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Fluid dynamics nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Foot­candles/lumens and 

lighting concepts

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Funding limitations nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Funding sources nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj
Commercial Workforce Credentialing Council Job Task Analysis Validation

General knowledge of the 

authority having jurisdiction

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Hazard remediation/clean 

up

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Hazardous materials 

disposal

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Hazardous materials that 

may be onsite

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Hazards in the area 

(earthquakes, etc.)

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Hazards in the building nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Hazards management nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Health effects of 

contaminants (including 

stay times)

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Heat transfer nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

HIPAA requirements nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Historical data associated 

with facility

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Human resources nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

HVAC systems nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Impact of change on 

tenant/occupant space

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Impact of facility operations 

on scheduling

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Impact of operational 

changes (occupancy 

changes) on performance 

expectations

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Incident command systems 

(ICS)

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Inclement weather 

escalation plans

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Inclement weather local 

logistics (shelter, food, 

transportation)

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Indicators of problems with 

equipment

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Industry norms for 

manpower

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Infection control procedures nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Inspection agencies nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Inspection procedures nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Insurance requirements nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Integrated work  nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj
Commercial Workforce Credentialing Council Job Task Analysis Validation

management systems 

structure

Interim life safety measures 

(fire watch, alternate 

evacuation routes, etc.)

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Interpreting equipment test 

readings

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Inventory control systems nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Job responsibilities nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Key logic systems (master 

keys vs. other keys)

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Labor contract agreements nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Levels of maintenance nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Levels of service for various 

spaces

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Licensing requirements nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Life cycle assessments nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Lifecycle accounting 

practices

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Limitations of PPE nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Load demand schedules nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Local water restrictions and 

requirements

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Local weather issues nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Location of facility 

equipment

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Lock­out/tag­outs nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Long term goals of the 

organization

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Maintenance costs of 

existing systems

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Management requirements nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Manual equipment 

operation

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Markets for rate increases nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Material availability nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Measured variables to 

verify system performance

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Measurement techniques nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Medical evaluation policies 

and requirements

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Mitigation of carbon or 

environmental footprint

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj
Commercial Workforce Credentialing Council Job Task Analysis Validation

Monitoring systems and 

equipment

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Municipal requirement for 

disposal and recycle of 

consumables

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

National Incident 

Management Systems 

(NIMs)

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

New technologies nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Normal equipment 

operating parameters/limits

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Normal routine operation of 

the facility

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Obtaining measurements nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Occupancy types and 

typical evacuation 

procedures for various 

occupancies

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Operating baselines nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Operation equipment loads nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Operational impact of 

inspections

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Operations within the 

facility

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Options for extending the 

life of equipment and 

systems

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Organizational security 

requirements (access 

requirements, levels of 

security, etc.)

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Organizational structures nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Organization's budgeting 

process

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

OSHA workplace safety 

standards

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Other submetering systems nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Outsourcing options nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Owner's long­term plan for 

the facility

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Payment policies nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Peak demand loads nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Performance improvement 

plans

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Permitting requirements nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj
Commercial Workforce Credentialing Council Job Task Analysis Validation

Permitting resources nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Personnel performance 

review processes

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Plumbing systems nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Potential contaminants nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

PPE and proper usage and 

maintenance of PPE

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Process or operations the 

facility supports

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Procurement policies and 

procedures

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Procurement regulations nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Proper procedures for 

isolating and removing 

hazards

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Psychrometrics nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Rate schedules for utilities nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Reclamation techniques nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Recommended 

maintenance schedules

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Refrigerant recovery 

techniques

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Regulated consumables nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Regulatory record 

requirements

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Relationship between 

deficiencies and energy 

efficiency

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Remediation activities for 

contaminants

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Remediation procedures nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Remote monitoring systems 

and equipment

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Remote system fluency 

(DDC, etc.)

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Reporting capabilities of 

work order systems

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Reporting requirements nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Reporting requirements for 

emergencies

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Resource planning 

personnel management

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Resources required for 

typical tenant/occupant 

requests and issues

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Commercial Workforce Credentialing Council Job Task Analysis Validation

RFP Process nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Root cause analysis 

techniques

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Safety codes and standards nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Safety concerns associated 

with equipment operations

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Safety handling 

requirements for 

consumables

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Safety recordkeeping 

requirements

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Scope of work nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Security equipment 

(lighting, cameras, etc.)

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Security policies and 

procedures

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Sequence of equipment 

operations

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Sequence of operations nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Service level agreements nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Services to be outsourced nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Shelf life of consumables nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

SOPs related to equipment nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Specialized emergency 

equipment

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State and local energy 

mandates

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Storage requirements for 

consumables

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Sustainability options nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

System documentation 

requirements

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Technical equipment 

knowledge

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Technical knowledge nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Tenant/occupant chain of 

command

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Tenant/occupant contracts nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Tenant/occupant 

equipment and 

requirements

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Tenant/occupant hours of 

operation

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Tenant/occupant needs  nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj
Commercial Workforce Credentialing Council Job Task Analysis Validation

and schedules

Tenant/occupant 

operations and space uses

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Tenant/occupant 

requirements

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Tenant/occupant 

tolerances in changes to 

systems

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Testing and balancing 

procedures

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Thermodynamics nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Trade and Union 

requirements

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Trade knowledge for 

specific equipment and 

systems

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Trade terminology and 

definitions

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Trend analysis nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Typical characteristics of 

facilities and equipment

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Typical non­energy costs nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Typical training topics nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Understanding of all staff 

functions carried out in the 

facility

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Understanding of 

interlocked equipment

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Understanding of load 

shedding and its 

importance

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Understanding of 

photometric charts

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Understanding of staffing 

models (vacation, sick 

leave, etc.)

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Uninterruptable and critical 

systems

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Utility bill analysis nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Utility rate structures nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Utility time of use nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Vendors nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Ventilation requirements 

for consumables

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Weather impact on the 

facility

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj
Commercial Workforce Credentialing Council Job Task Analysis Validation

Weather related factors 

affecting equipment 

(temperatures, dew points, 

etc.)

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

When substitutions of 

equipment or systems are 

not allowed

nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

When to conduct IEQ tests nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Whole building integration nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Work control procedures nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj

Work order processes nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj nmlkj
Commercial Workforce Credentialing Council Job Task Analysis Validation

Are there any job related tasks that are missing from this survey?

Is there any knowledge that we did not include in this survey that should have been 

included?

nmlkj No

nmlkj Yes

If yes, what?

5

6

nmlkj No

nmlkj Yes

If yes, what?

5

6
Commercial Workforce Credentialing Council Job Task Analysis Validation

If a certification examination were to be developed based on this information, please enter 

the percentage of the exam that should be devoted to each of the content areas listed 

below.

(Note: Your responses should add up to 100.)

Managing Human Resources

Conduct Planning Activities

Operating Buildings

Optimizing the Facility

Conducting Budgeting Activities
Commercial Workforce Credentialing Council Job Task Analysis Validation

* Do you wish to respond to another survey?

nmlkj Yes

nmlkj No
89

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

Appendix B: Tasks or Knowledge Missing: List of 

Written Comments

• 1. Actually recovering and / or charging of refrigerant 2. Do you routinely test and or 

work on live equipment

• Building engineers often replace lighting ballasts. Typically at least one dies every year 

in greater Los Angeles because they don't understand 277 volt lighting systems & ballast 

wiring. If the building is a 480/277 building with 277 v lighting (common here), that is an 

important training consideration. Coil cleaning requires knowledge. Many coil cleaners 

(particularly those designed for condenser coils) are either extremely acidic or extremely 

basic. They have to be applied and rinsed off in a particular manner, and timing is 

critical...you can't leave them on the coil too long. They also remove fin material, so you 

have to evaluate when they are appropriate vs. evaporator coil cleaner (soap) used for the 

same purpose. Most building engineers do coil cleaning, and most don't really know what 

they are doing.

• Building fire suppression systems- testing, locating, code, etc. Plc/ and building 

automation systems - environmental criticality based on tenants needs.

• Client communication property managers budgetary controls review limitations.

• Consideration and development of a self-sustainable business community, formed from 

tenants and occupants of the facility. Our facility is a Historic Landmark in Asheville 

known as the Flatiron and we are that self-sustainable business 

community.http://renewabilities.org

• Fire alarms

• Homeland Preparedness as it relates to facility and crisis management. Variable 

Frequency Drive Knowledge Emergency Generators Transfer Switch Infrared Testing

Back-flow Prevention Water Sampling and Testing Low Voltage Systems Vertical 

Transportation Systems

• I suggest that Building Operators have the appropriate certifications - Electrician, 

Stationary Engineer, Refrigeration, HVAC etc. Building Managers should take the 

Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) Systems Maintenance 

Administrator (SMA) series not the RPA. Property and Building Managers should be 

very knowledgeable in how building equipment operates, and have an good 

understanding of energy management. Every O&M contractor should have an ANSI 

Certified Energy Manager (CEM or an ANSI Certified Certified Practitioner in Energy 

Management Systems (EnMS) for every million square feet. Every Government Property 

Management Organization should have someone with the same qualifications over seeing 

the O&M contractor and Monitoring Building Energy Use for every million square feet.

• Importance of testing and training staff of critical equipment. Rules and Regulations 

(local, state and federal). Mitigating environmental risks ( air pollution, hazardous spills).

• load shedding, occupied and off hour set backs, economizer mode

• Negotiating contracts for services
90

This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications.

• The real issue is the job description is too broad.

• Too many overlapping responsibilities that should be combined or dropped

• Best practices, full energy isolation - lototo lock/tag/try. Varied sources of energy - I. E. 

Pneumatic, hydraulic, chemical, electrical, mechanical.

• emergency fire suppression and/or containment

• Jurisdictional Certification Requirements

• Knowing the safety requirements for working on live equipment

• Most facilities require constant operational training with review.

• quality systems such as ISO9000

• Rare is the building engineer who understands the comfort and total building energy 

implications of either raising AHU leaving air temp to avoid drafts in the winter (then 

leaving it that way as summer comes) or raising leaving chilled water temp to minimize 

chiller power while then increasing their VAV airside power consumption by far more 

than they "saved" at the chiller. The specific relationships therein are a good "break out" 

training session. A simple discussion of air filter efficiencies and MERV ratings is 

directly relevant to building engineers. Basic operation of a conventional open tower 

chemical treatment system (TDS sensors, what the conductivity readings mean, how the 

bleed valve reacts, how chemicals are injected, why a make up water flow meter is good, 

how to control biocide, etc.) is very good knowledge for a building engineer. Elevator 

equipment room cooling has a whole host of code restrictions regarding where the 

equipment may be located, how it can be accessed for service, etc. A building engineer at 

a minimum should know that there are code requirements and roughly what they mean.

• Renewable energy, quality assurance skills.

• Too many overlapping responsibilities that should be combined or dropped

• Understanding of Fire systems and water back flow prevention

• Variable Frequency Drive Knowledge Emergency Generators Transfer Switch Infrared 

Testing Back-flow Prevention Water Sampling and Testing Low Voltage Systems

Vertical Transportation Systems

• Yes level of experience and education. I current have a bachelors in mechanical 

engineering developing the basics of HVAC required to operate facilities, a masters in 

engineering and technology management, a PE license and CEM certification. All of 

these have been instrumental. In addition BAS use, design and operation is a must.