In order to land the green jobs of the future, American workers will have to

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get new certifications, college degrees or training. The purpose of this article is show job seekers some of the credentials that will be in demand as the job market opens up.

1. LEED-AP (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design):This certification  focuses on green building techniques and energy efficiency. 75% of the federal government buildings and countless privately owned properties will be retrofitted to be more energy efficient and ecofriendly. If you are considering a career move into green building construction, this is the certification that will set you apart.

2. PE (Professional Engineer): The Smart Grid, alternative energy, nuclear and fossil fuel and shovel ready infrastructure projects are in dire need of licensed electrical, civil, structural, geotechnical, mechanical, environmental, mining and petroleum engineers. There are not enough people going into these fields to backfill the Baby boomers who are retiring. If you are an engineer, a PE license does make a difference in your career and financial future. Get it.

3. PMP (Project Management Professional):Project management has evolved into a excellent long term career choice. This certification lets employers know that you are knowledgeable in the standards of practice and ethics of project management. In these economic times, project managers will be more accountable for their use of time, talent and resources. To stay ahead of the chopping block, it is important project managers should maintain their hands-on technical skills.

4. CCM (Certified Construction Manager): Construction Management is not a new field but it is evolving into a more technology driven profession. Since new buildings are designed using 3D Building Information Management systems (BIM), construction managers must understand the difference between construction in the real world versus the digital world to put a quality building in the ground.

5. CPE (Certified Professional Estimator):Every construction project has a cost. Professional Estimators must be able to give building owners and construction professionals accurate cost estimates in time, materials and manpower. This field has huge shortage of people in the energy, commercial, healthcare and industrial sectors. It is highly recommended that a person has architecture, construction or engineering experience before pursuing this certification.

6. CPEA (Certified Environmental Auditor):Environmental Auditors make sure that all industries are adhering to environmental regulations and protocols. As the green economy moves forward there is going to be an increased need for these professionals who understand climate change issues.
7. PLS (Professional Surveyor): Most people have encountered surveyors at one time or another. As you drive by you see one person holding what looks like a large ruler and the other person is looking at them through a camera. Don’t let your first glance fool you into thinking that this is a simple job. Professional Surveyors or Geomatics professionals provide topographical data for construction projects, property transfers and digital mapping. Before anyone moves any dirt on the Smart Grid or any type of green project, a PLS will measure the site. There is large shortage of these professionals.

8. CWO (Certified Water Treatment Plant Operator): Clean Water is vital to life and the economy. These professionals run our drinking water and wastewater treatment facilities. There are record numbers of these professionals headed to retirement and few people in line to replace them. Every state has its own certification program.

9.  CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional): If you have ever seen the movie Live Free or Die Hard, the thought of a fire sale should make you uncomfortable. CISSP professionals have a role in the Green economy by protecting our infrastructure from foreign and domestic cyber attacks.

10. Electrician License: Electricians will see a resurgence as the Green economy grows. They will be first responders to fix generators, switchgear and electrical circuitry as businesses and homes move toward alternative energy. Every state has its own license program.

11. CIA/CPA (Certified Internal Auditor and Public Accountant): America is tired of ponzi schemes and fraud. Law enforcement, the federal government and corporations will depend on these professionals to keep the numbers straight.  

12. PHR/CIR (Professional in Human Resources and Certified Internal Recruiter): As the economy heats up so will the war of employees. These professionals will be on the front lines battling to find the right people for the job and keeping them. If you are a job seeker, make sure you distinguish yourself from the crowd so they can find you.

New Certifications For 2011

Here are 2 certifications and licenses that will make a surge in the green, environmental and infrastructure economy in 2011:

• Certified Construction Inspector: Every state requires all construction projects to be inspected and monitored to ensure the contractor meet state and local codes. In 2011, expect new construction inspection jobs in highway & bridge, power & utilities (especially underground water infrastructure and power lines) and green buildings. The International Code Council website is a great place to start to find information on construction inspection certifications (see it here) .

• Certified Asset Manager (CTAM): The water industry is at a crossroads where large portions of infrastructure must be replaced or repaired.  Asset managers will deal with cost/benefit analysis, long term planning, maintenance and funding issues. This certification may require a degree in accounting, engineering or construction ( see it here)

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