Building Science Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

ECS is seeking a Building Enclosure Senior Project Associate to join our Midwest Building Science + Infrastructure team in Chicago, IL. In this role, you will manage building enclosure consulting projects and serve as a lead technical consultant on building enclosure investigations, assessments, commissioning, testing, and design consulting. You will work closely with clients and multidisciplinary project teams to evaluate building envelope performance, support construction quality, and deliver practical consulting solutions across a variety of facility types.

This is a client-facing role with daily interaction with clients, architects, contractors, engineers, and owners. The position involves significant responsibility for project management, technical execution, and mentorship of junior staff within a collaborative consulting environment.

• Perform building science & infrastructure related testing, inspections, and consulting services.
• Conduct site observations and inspections of roofing and building enclosure systems.
• Interpret drawings, figures, and site plans; perform drafting or CAD work as needed.
• Develop testing plans and perform specialized building enclosure testing.
• Interpret test results, identify deficiencies, and recommend corrective actions.
• Perform building enclosure investigations, forensic assessments, and commissioning (BECx).
• Perform new construction design reviews and design of repairs to existing building envelope components.
• Perform peer review of design documents, specifications, and submittals.
• Maintain knowledge of applicable building codes and standards including IBC, ASHRAE, ASTM, SMACNA, and CSI.

• Manage building science & infrastructure projects from setup through completion.
• Coordinate project teams and direct site activities with field staff, subcontractors, and senior managers.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining schedule, scope, and budget objectives.
• Prepare and review proposals, change orders, budgets, and invoices.
• Monitor project progress and communicate schedule updates, testing activities, and potential budget impacts.
• Communicate project milestones with clients and advise on significant project changes.

• Interface with clients regularly and lead project meetings and discussions.
• Present testing results, project findings, and recommendations to clients.
• Maintain and develop client relationships and support growth of the client database.

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams on project execution.
• Mentor junior staff and supervise field personnel performing inspections and testing.
• Coordinate staffing needs with other managers to support project execution.

• Prepare building science & infrastructure reports, perform analysis, and provide recommendations.
• Ensure reports meet professional standards for clarity, accuracy, and technical content.
• Review and approve reports prepared by junior staff prior to Principal review.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, Architectural Engineering, Architecture (NCARB), or a related field.
• 5+ years of related experience with building enclosure consulting, including field investigations, testing, commissioning (BECx), design review, or forensic assessments.
• Licensed or certified in at least one of the following preferred but not required:
  • Professional Engineer (P.E.)
  • Registered Architect (R.A.)
  • IIBEC certifications (RRC, RWC, REWC, RBEC, CBECxP)
  • University of Wisconsin–Madison certifications (BECxP, CxA+BE)

• Strong knowledge of building science, building enclosure systems, and construction practices.
• Strong knowledge of building codes, materials, and structural or architectural systems.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong project management and consulting skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and lead multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong judgment, critical thinking, and decision-making abilities.

• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds multiple times per day, stand for extended periods, walk on uneven terrain, and perform work at heights.

• Valid driver’s license required if driving for or on behalf of an ECS subsidiary.

• Nationwide Building Science + Infrastructure Consulting practice made up of more than 180 employees with deep technical expertise and opportunities for collaboration across the country.
• Opportunity to lead high-profile projects with technical complexity and visibility.
• Be part of a growing and innovative team focused on technical excellence and client service.
• Supportive work environment that values expertise, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• Competitive salary, performance bonuses, and comprehensive benefits.
• ECS is an employee-owned company with an Employee Stock Ownership program (ESOP)!
• 401(k) with up to 4% match.
• Tuition Assistance Program.
• And more!

ECS Core Values: Collaborate, Focus & Lead

The expected pay range for this role and location is $90,000 - $105,000/year. The final agreed-upon compensation will be determined based on specific location and other individual qualifications.

ECS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To learn more, click here.