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Building Science Engineer Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA

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Building Science Engineer information

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$31

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How much do building science engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for building science engineer in Pittsburgh, PA is $31.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.76 and $35.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a building science engineer?

A Building Science Engineer is a professional who applies scientific principles to the design, construction, and operation of buildings to ensure they are energy-efficient, sustainable, and comfortable for occupants. They analyze how different building materials, designs, and systems interact with environmental factors such as heat, air, and moisture. Their work helps optimize building performance, reduce energy consumption, and improve indoor air quality. Building Science Engineers often collaborate with architects, contractors, and other engineers to develop solutions that address both the structural and environmental aspects of buildings.

What are some common interdisciplinary collaborations for a building science engineer, and how do they influence project outcomes?

Building Science Engineers often work closely with architects, structural engineers, HVAC specialists, and sustainability consultants to create energy-efficient and healthy buildings. These collaborations are essential for integrating advanced building systems, ensuring compliance with environmental standards, and optimizing occupant comfort. Regular teamwork and communication help identify potential conflicts early, streamline the design process, and deliver innovative solutions that meet project goals. Being proactive in interdisciplinary teamwork is key to driving successful project outcomes and professional growth in this field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a building science engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Building Science Engineer, you need expertise in building physics, energy modeling, sustainable design, and typically a degree in engineering or architecture. Familiarity with simulation software such as EnergyPlus, WUFI, and AutoCAD, as well as certifications like LEED or ASHRAE, is commonly required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and clients. These competencies are vital for designing energy-efficient, durable, and healthy buildings that meet both regulatory and client expectations.

What is the difference between Building Science Engineer vs Building Envelope Consultant?

AspectBuilding Science EngineerBuilding Envelope Consultant
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications like LEED or PEEngineering or architecture background, certifications like LEED
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, consulting firms, construction sitesConsulting firms, design teams, construction projects
Industry UsageBuilding design, energy efficiency, sustainabilityBuilding envelope performance, moisture, air leakage

Building Science Engineers and Building Envelope Consultants both focus on building performance, but the former has a broader scope including energy and sustainability, while the latter specializes in envelope systems like insulation and waterproofing. Both roles often collaborate during design and construction phases to ensure building durability and efficiency.

What do building science engineers do?

Building science engineers analyze and improve the performance of buildings by assessing factors such as energy efficiency, indoor air quality, moisture control, and thermal comfort. They use tools like modeling software and conduct field inspections to develop solutions that enhance building durability and sustainability, often working closely with architects, contractors, and clients.

What are popular job titles related to Building Science Engineer jobs in Pittsburgh, PA?

For Building Science Engineer jobs in Pittsburgh, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Building Science Engineer job openings in Pittsburgh, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,322 per year, or $31.4 per hour.

Materials Science Senior Project Associate

ECS Ltd

Cranberry Township, PA โ€ข On-site

$64K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Responsibilities
A Senior Project Associate is responsible to ensure that all required tasks on a project from proposal to final invoice payment are completed either by themselves or by subordinates. The Senior Project Associate is primarily responsible for the completion and overall success of the project. Senior Project Associate will act as the main point of contact for the client on their projects. Field work may be required. Present a positive customer service attitude and understanding of ECS Core Values.
Responsibilities
  • Strong knowledge of building science + infrastructure related testing and consulting services
  • Collaborate with staff members on a variety of projects and actively mentor junior staff and support overall development of the team
  • Coordinates and leads project meetings, providing solutions to technical and administrative issues as necessary
  • Markets our services and maintains and further develops the client database
  • Strong ability to manage project budgets and prepare change orders
  • Manages project budgets and oversees project budgets of others as assigned
  • Reviews change orders and invoices, assists with collection efforts, and assists junior staff with how to communicate testing and/or budget concerns
  • Strong ability to prioritize tasks and meet project deadlines.
  • Possesses exceptional technical writing skills with regard to basic conventions of spelling, grammar, and professional content/tone
  • Knows, understands, and uses standard industry terms and jargon
  • Effectively proofreads their own written work and performs "peer reviews" of colleagues' reports focusing on mechanical considerations (grammar, spelling, etc.) and also on report content and the validity of conclusions
  • Prepares building science + infrastructure reports, perform analyses, and provides recommendations with a strong ability to interpret test results, identify issues, and recommend corrective actions.
  • Leads client meetings and or calls to present/discuss report findings and conclusions and oversees the preparation and review of reports from junior staff prior to Principal review; Provide final sign off where approved
  • Directs project set up and implementation with junior staff and ensures that appropriately trained and experienced staff are assigned
  • Oversees several building science + infrastructure projects being performed simultaneously and assists junior staff with resolution of issues and training of field staff
  • Oversees the preparation and review of proposals and change orders
  • Performs peer/senior review of deliverables prior to submission for Principal review and provide final sign off where approved
  • Hosts or attends project discussions with clients to follow up on reports to determine if there are questions
  • Scheduling and training of junior staff members
  • Collaborates with other managers to make staffing decisions and maintain appropriate staff levels
  • Performs other duties as assigned

Qualifications
Required Qualifications
  • 5 years of related experience
  • Bachelor and/or Master of Science in Civil Engineering Architecture (NCARB), Civil (Structural) Engineering, Architectural Engineering, or other degree relevant to the practice of Building Science + Infrastructure
  • Licensure, certifications, or proficiency testing may be required depending on the type of work performed
  • If driving for, or on behalf of, any ECS subsidiary, a valid driver's license is required
  • Extensive knowledge of building science + infrastructure principles and applications
  • Extensive knowledge of building and materials codes and construction practices
  • Extensive knowledge of structural, architectural, and building systems, design, and/or analysis
  • Excellent oral & written communication skills
  • Dependable, self-motivated, responsible and detail-oriented
  • Ability to work effectively with clients, peers, and supervisors as well as independently with the ability to build and manage a team
  • Excellent interpersonal skills
  • Excellent project management and consulting skills
  • Must be able to lift a minimum of 40 pounds a number of times each day, stand for extended periods, walk on uneven ground through various terrains, and perform work at heights
  • Strong ability to use sound judgment and critical thinking to analyze situations, solve problems, and make informed decisions
  • Strong decision making and leadership skills
  • Excellent ability to manage and develop new clients
  • Experience delegating/assigning projects and tasks to other staff while also managing other projects independently

The expected pay range for this role and location is $64k - $85k/year. The final agreed-upon compensation will be determined based on specific location and other individual qualifications.
About Us
ECS Group of Companies (ECS) was founded in 1988 with the goal to raise the standards of professional engineering consulting. Today, we are a leader in geotechnical, construction materials, environmental and building science + infrastructure consulting services. We are employee-owned with more than 3,00 employees in 100+ offices and testing facilities coast to coast. ECS is currently ranked #60 in Engineering News-Record's Top 500 Design Firms (April 2026), #148 in Engineering News-Record's Top 200 Environmental Firms (October 2025) and #38 in Zweig Group's Hot Firm List (June 2026). For additional information about ECS, visit: www.ecslimited.com.
ECS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To learn more, click here.