Building Science Technician at RDH Building Science in Boston, MA

Building Science Technician

The Building Science Technician supports building enclosure projects through hands-on field work, testing, investigations, and site documentation. Working under the direction of senior engineers and technical staff, the Technician helps gather accurate field information and supports the assessment of building enclosure systems and performance.

This is a field-focused role for someone who is mechanically minded, comfortable working with tools and equipment, and enjoys hands-on problem solving. The Technician will spend a significant amount of time on project sites and is not responsible for engineering design.

This role provides an opportunity to build practical building science knowledge and technical field skills while working alongside experienced engineers and consultants.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct site visits and field reviews under the direction of senior engineers and technical staff.
• Support building investigations, including visual inspections, exploratory openings, moisture assessments, air leakage testing and water testing.
• Set up, operate, maintain, and troubleshoot field testing equipment and tools.
• Assist with opening building assemblies and exposing components for investigation, then support temporary protection or restoration of investigation areas as directed.
• Document field conditions through photographs, thermography, measurements, notes, sketches, and other project records.
• Assist with measurement and testing of air leakage of duct systems, dwelling units, and whole buildings.
• Assist with measurement and testing of HVAC systems including airflows and power measurements.
• Assist with water testing testing of windows, walls, roofs, and other building enclosure components using established procedures and standards.
• Inspect building exteriors and interiors using appropriate access equipment, including ladders, swing stages, and boatswain's chairs following required training.
• Collect, label, organize, and preserve samples, materials, and other field evidence as directed.
• Support installation and maintenance of monitoring equipment used to collect environmental and building performance data.
• Coordinate with engineers, contractors, trades, and other project team members while working safely and professionally on active job sites.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required
• Trade school, technical training, or hands-on experience in construction, building maintenance, testing, mechanical work, or a related field is preferred
• Previous construction or field experience is an asset but not required

Previous certification as a HERS Rater, ENERGY STAR Rater, or Phius Rater/Verifier is an asset but not required

Skills and Competencies

• Mechanically minded with strong hands-on problem-solving skills
• Comfortable using hand tools, power tools, testing equipment, and other field equipment
• Ability and willingness to spend significant time working in the field and outdoors in varying conditions
• Comfortable working at heights and using ladders and other access equipment following required training
• Strong attention to detail when documenting field conditions, measurements, and observations
• Ability to follow technical instructions, established procedures, and direction from senior staff
• Safety-minded and able to recognize and communicate potential hazards
• Reliable, organized, and able to manage changing field priorities
• Clear communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with engineers, contractors, trades, and clients
• Curious and eager to learn about buildings, construction, and building enclosure systems
• Ability to perform the physical requirements of field work, including carrying equipment and working in active construction environments
• Professional, dependable, and comfortable working as part of a field-based project team

Benefits & Perks

The base salary range for this position is $70,000 - $90,000 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.

About RDH

A role with RDH is a career commitment to learn and grow alongside inspiring and dedicated people who care deeply about making buildings better.

We are an employee-owned consulting firm with 300+ employees in 11 offices across North America. Our core area of business is the integration of building science engineering, architecture, and construction management to optimize the performance of the building enclosure (walls, windows and roofs). Since our beginnings in 1997, we have become industry leaders in North America and continue to grow as we focus on technical excellence and delivering high-quality projects.

We offer a positive workplace with incredible teams, opportunities for professional growth, development and ownership. As well as your background, we seek alignment with RDH’s core values: 1) commit to excellence, 2) act with integrity, 3) work as a team 4) do what it takes, and 5) always learn.