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Building Science Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Stantec

Senior Building Science Consultant

Portland, OR · On-site

$134K - $202K/yr

Direct Building Envelope design and construction document development * Perform forensic analysis of building envelope failures * Conduct presentations to competing interests including working with ...

TEEMA

Senior Building Enclosure Consultant

Portland, OR · On-site

$130K - $175K/yr

Licensed PE and Registered Architect (Oregon preferred) * 8+ years of relevant experience in building science and enclosure consulting * Strong expertise in building enclosure design, mechanical ...

Varsity Tutors

Physical Science Tutor

Portland, OR · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes building scientific inquiry skills and conceptual understanding, connecting physical science to technology, engineering applications, and everyday phenomena. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Portland, OR · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Adapts instruction using rock and mineral samples, weather data analysis, and interactive mapping tools to support middle and high school students building scientific literacy. * Effective Teaching ...

Varsity Tutors

Data Science Tutor

Portland, OR · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... building predictive models, conducting statistical tests, and creating compelling data ... Familiar with data science curricula and bootcamp programs, and common challenges such as data ...

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All JobsBuilding Science JobsBuilding Science Jobs in Portland, OR

Building Science information

See Portland, OR salary details

$29.6K

$103.7K

$156.4K

How much do building science jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for building science in Portland, OR is $103,697.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $126,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Building Science position, and why are they important?

To succeed in Building Science, a strong background in architecture, engineering, or environmental science, along with knowledge of building systems and energy modeling, is essential. Familiarity with tools like EnergyPlus, PHPP, and building information modeling (BIM) software, as well as relevant certifications such as LEED or Building Performance Institute credentials, are highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and clear communication skills help professionals excel in multidisciplinary teams and client-facing projects. Mastery of these abilities is crucial for optimizing building performance, sustainability, and meeting regulatory standards.

What does a building scientist do?

A building scientist researches and analyzes building performance, focusing on energy efficiency, indoor air quality, moisture control, and durability. They often use tools like diagnostic equipment and may hold certifications such as Certified Building Science Professional to assess and improve building systems and envelope performance.

What are the most common challenges faced by professionals in Building Science roles?

Building Science professionals often encounter challenges such as balancing energy efficiency goals with budget constraints, staying current with evolving building codes, and effectively integrating new technologies into existing structures. Collaboration with architects, engineers, contractors, and clients is also essential to ensure that recommendations align with project objectives and stakeholder expectations. Managing detailed simulations and thorough performance assessments can be demanding but are critical for successful project outcomes. These challenges provide opportunities to innovate and deliver high-impact, sustainable solutions in the built environment.

What is a Building Science job?

A Building Science job involves applying principles of physics, engineering, and environmental science to design, construct, and maintain energy-efficient and sustainable buildings. Professionals in this field analyze building performance, focusing on factors like energy efficiency, moisture control, indoor air quality, and material durability. They often work with architects, engineers, and construction teams to optimize building systems and ensure compliance with industry codes and standards. These roles can be found in consulting firms, government agencies, research institutions, and construction companies.

What can you do with a degree in building science?

A degree in building science prepares individuals for careers in designing, analyzing, and managing building systems such as HVAC, insulation, and energy efficiency. Graduates can work as building scientists, energy consultants, construction managers, or sustainability specialists, often utilizing skills in building performance analysis and relevant tools like modeling software. Certifications like LEED or Building Performance Institute credentials can enhance job prospects.

What profession makes $400,000 a year?

In the field of building science, senior roles such as chief engineers, project directors, or specialized consultants with extensive experience and advanced certifications can earn around $400,000 annually. These positions typically require advanced technical skills, leadership abilities, and often involve managing large projects or teams.

What is the highest paying building job?

In building science, high-paying roles include senior building scientists, building envelope consultants, and energy efficiency directors, often requiring advanced certifications and extensive experience. These positions typically involve specialized knowledge of building performance, codes, and environmental systems, and can command salaries exceeding $100,000 annually depending on location and expertise.
What are popular job titles related to Building Science jobs in Portland, OR? For Building Science jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Building Science jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Building Science jobs in Portland, OR are:
Building Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Building Science job openings in Portland, OR as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 9% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $103,697 per year, or $49.9 per hour.

Building Enclosure Consultant (Entry-Level)

RDH Building Science, Inc.

Portland, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

The Consultant role requires knowledge in building science, enclosure design, and building enclosure construction principles. Responsibilities include:
Design and field reviews for new projects.
Investigation, design, document preparation, and field reviews for existing buildings.
The role ranges from supporting senior staff to being the main contact on projects. You will review onsite work and assist with design and construction documentation. This work focuses on assessing solutions to ensure excellent building enclosure performance across various types.
The position involves a mix of site field review and office work related to building documentation.
This role can lead to Professional Engineering licensure and a Project Manager position as experience and responsibilities grow.
Key Responsibilities
  • Participation as part of the RDH team from concept design to the implementation stages of new construction and existing building projects
  • Write reports; prepare and deliver presentations to internal RDH teams and external project teams
  • Assist to ensure delivery of services and products to meet RDH quality standards including following RDH internal processes and technical standards/checklists
  • Assist with the development and delivery of in-house and eventually client education and training programs

Building Enclosure Consulting (New Construction or Existing Building Rehabilitation)
  • Along with senior staff, participate in design meetings with owners, developers, architects, and other consultants. Provide design recommendations and design review of building enclosure assemblies and details. Conduct drawing, detail and specification reviews.
  • Perform site visits for new construction and existing building projects to review building enclosure construction progress relative to the project contract documents.
  • Prepare site visit reports documenting observations and field-testing results. Provide recommendations for all deficiency items, including field sketches, where required.
  • Attend regular site meeting with owner(s), architects, contractors, developers, product manufactures, and any other relevant parties to discuss progress of the work
  • Review "mock-ups" of various details and assemblies within the scope of work. Use independent judgement on site and make recommendations for modifications to design.
  • Review contractor's shop drawings for conformance with the project intent, performance with respect to the various building science principles, and for any scheduling of work issues.
  • Review or create Site Instructions and/or Proposed Change Orders for items not included in the original contract
  • Research building materials when considering alternative/new materials requested by contractors or materials considered for specific, non-typical conditions. Use independent judgement in the evaluation of materials, and make recommendations to senior staff for contractor alternate submittals.
  • Use independent judgement in assisting senior staff in development of recommendations to clients, both in new construction, and in existing building consultation. Work independently and in group settings.
  • Act as a liaison with clients in order to foster strong client relationships.

Existing Building Enclosure Investigation:
  • Review architectural, structural and mechanical drawings to determine original construction detailing and identify area of risk for water penetration, air leakage, and/or condensation.
  • Review any other documentation, including maintenance records, targeted repair documents, and previous reports by other consultant/professionals.
  • Coordinate and undertake on site investigation of existing problems. Conduct visual review of the building exterior and interior components, re-evaluating existing conditions and high-risk areas. Exterior review is typically conducted from ladders, swing stages, etc.
  • Provide order of magnitude budget costs which require quantity take-offs and unit rate development.
  • Prepare written reports, fully documenting the current condition, evaluating the future risk and providing recommendations for renewals, rehabilitation, and/or maintenance.
  • Direct preparation of construction document packages for a range of renewals and rehabilitation projects.
  • Coordinate building and development permit applications.
  • Coordinate and undertake field review and/or contract administration activities.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor of Engineering or Applied Science required
  • Experience in building science consulting, including co-operative education positions with building science consulting or construction firms is an asset.
  • Field experience addressing site conditions and working with construction process in an asset
  • Eligibility to enroll in an EIT program is preferred but not required.
Skills and Competencies
  • Beginning technical knowledge of building enclosure design and construction principles
  • Ability to build collaborative relationships with clients, coworkers, and consultants
  • Ability to gather and diagnose information, interpret data, and drawings and assess conditions of multiple components
  • Analytical problem-solving skills and strong investigative aptitude, including ability to troubleshoot and diagnose building performance issues
  • Proven team player who fosters teamwork and cooperation
  • Excellent ability to communicate technical information to clients, trades, employees, and project managers while instilling confidence
  • Excellent ability to shift focus between changing priorities
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Strong work ethic, eager to assume responsibility and do what it takes to have successful project outcomes for RDH and our clients
  • Excellent attention to detail
  • Excellent organizational skills
  • Strong desire to learn.
Benefits and 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 Us
RDH is an amazing place to work. 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 nine 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.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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