Buildings sit at the intersection of climate change, energy use, durability, health, affordability and housing. RDH is seeking a Phius Verifier / Building Science Consultant who wants to use rigorous field work and practical building science to help change what gets built.
You will help deliver buildings that use dramatically less energy, last longer and provide healthy, comfortable places to live. The objective is not simply certification. It is to close the gap between what sustainable buildings promise on paper and what is constructed, tested and operated in the real world.
We are especially interested in someone motivated to help make low-carbon, resilient and high-performance housing practical, repeatable and scalable, so that better performance can support abundant, durable and affordable housing rather than remain limited to exceptional projects.
Key Responsibilities- Lead and support third-party Phius Verification for multifamily and non-residential projects from design through construction and certification.
- Review architectural, building enclosure, structural, and MEP drawings and specifications to assess compliance with Phius and related program requirements.
- Develop verification plans, inspection schedules, documentation protocols, and project-specific testing strategies.
- Coordinate with owners, architects, engineers, construction managers, contractors, trades, and certification program providers.
- Conduct field inspections of air barriers, insulation, fenestration, penetrations, interfaces, compartmentalization, and relevant mechanical systems.
- Provide guidance and training to contractors and trades on Passive House requirements, building science principles, and construction best practices.
- Perform and support building performance testing, including whole-building airtightness, blower door, compartmentalization, duct leakage, and ventilation airflow testing.
- Investigate building performance issues using pressure diagnostics, infrared thermography, and field observations, and recommend practical corrective solutions.
- Support HERS/ERI modeling and certification programs, including ENERGY STAR Multifamily New Construction, EPA Indoor airPLUS, and DOE Efficient New Homes.
- Prepare technical reports, inspection documentation, checklists, and certification submissions to support project compliance and quality assurance.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across RDH, contributing to projects involving Passive House design, building enclosure consulting, energy modeling, commissioning, and broader building science initiatives.
Qualifications- Education or equivalent experience in building science, engineering, architecture, construction management, building technology, or a related discipline.
- Previous experience with Passive House, HERS, energy-efficient construction, building enclosures, or building performance testing.
- Experience reviewing construction drawings, specifications, and technical documentation.
- Experience conducting field inspections, building performance testing, or construction quality assurance.
- Phius Certified Verifier, RESNET HERS Rater, Certified Passive House Builder, or comparable professional certification considered an asset.
- Experience with ENERGY STAR Multifamily New Construction, Ekotrope, or other energy modeling and certification programs considered an asset.
- Massachusetts Construction Supervisor License or comparable construction credential considered an asset.
- Experience with construction supervision, contractor training, commissioning, project management, or client leadership considered an asset.
Skills and Competencies- Strong understanding of building science principles, including air barriers, insulation, fenestration, mechanical systems, and building performance.
- Ability to interpret construction drawings, specifications, and technical requirements.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify performance issues and recommend practical solutions.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare clear technical reports and explain complex concepts to diverse audiences.
- Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to coordinate multiple projects, inspections, and deadlines.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams, contractors, clients, and other project stakeholders.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to technical accuracy, quality, and continuous improvement.
- Ability to work independently in the field while maintaining effective communication with project teams.
- Willingness and ability to perform the essential functions of a field-based position, including regular travel to active construction sites, with or without reasonable accommodation.
- Interest in continued professional development and expanding expertise across Passive House, building enclosures, construction, and broader building science disciplines.
Benefits & PerksThe base salary range for this position is $84,000 to $108,000 annualized for a full-time role. Salary is dependent various factors, including qualifications, skills, competencies, experience, and location. You may also be eligible for discretionary incentives and share ownership.
We offer a robust benefits package to support the well-being of our employees. This includes: GRSP/401K contributions, Health and Dental coverage, Primary Caregiver benefits, Vacation and Sick Time, Statutory Holiday substitutions, and a learning fund of $1,000 per year for education or career goals.
