Science Program Manager Jobs in Apex, NC (NOW HIRING)

Help us certify high-performance buildings that cut energy use and carbon emissions.

Southern Energy Management is a certified B Corporation on a mission to improve the way people make and use energy. Since 2001, we've been proving that businesses can be a force for good—and we've been recognized as an INC Best Place to Work for making that journey rewarding for our team.

We're looking for a building performance professional to join our Multifamily and Commercial Energy Services Team as either a Program Manager or Assistant Program Manager. Whether you're a seasoned rater ready to lead projects or an emerging professional with field testing experience ready to level up, there's a place for you here.

You'll own Energy Star certification projects from enrollment to final certification—guiding multifamily developers and builders through the technical requirements while ensuring buildings perform as designed. Your energy modeling reviews, field verifications, and technical problem-solving directly determine whether buildings earn the Energy Star label.

Your day-to-day:

• Manage Energy Star Multifamily New Construction certification projects from design through completion

• Review and validate residential energy models to ensure accuracy and program compliance

• Conduct field inspections (up to 20% of your time) and performance testing at construction sites

• Be the technical expert your project teams rely on—developers, architects, builders, and engineers

• Troubleshoot compliance issues and provide creative solutions to meet certification targets

• Coordinate with field technicians on inspection scheduling and corrective work

• Track project milestones, invoices, and deliver proactive client updates

• Collaborate with a supportive team that values technical excellence and continuous learning

Program Manager ($63,000–$78,000)

• RESNET and Energy Star credentials (SFNH or MFNC) strongly preferred

• Experience with LEED, Fitwel, Green Globes and Life Cycle Analysis is also a great asset

• 3–5 years in field verification, energy rating, or green building certification

• Strong working knowledge of residential energy modeling (ekotrope, REM/Rate, or similar)

• Bachelor's degree in building science, construction, sustainability, architecture, or related field

• Demonstrated ability to review energy models and catch discrepancies

Assistant Program Manager ($48,000–$63,000)

• 1–3 years in field testing, green building programs, or energy rating

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field

• Experience with blower door testing, duct testing, or other diagnostic equipment preferred

• Familiarity with energy modeling software helpful (we'll train you)

• RESNET or other green building credentials a plus—we'll support your professional development

Both roles require:

• Technical understanding of building science fundamentals and HVAC systems

• Strong communication skills for explaining complex technical concepts to diverse audiences

• Excellent organization and attention to detail—accuracy matters in energy ratings

• Comfort with Google Workspace and Asana, and ability to learn energy modeling software

• Willingness to travel occasionally for field inspections across NC, SC, and VA

You're detail-oriented and technically curious. You get excited about building performance data and love solving the puzzle of how to make buildings more efficient. You're an "ideal team player"—humble, hungry, and smart (in the emotional intelligence sense). You want your work to have measurable environmental impact.

Mission that matters. Energy Star buildings use significantly less energy, reducing carbon emissions and utility costs for residents.

Growth-focused culture. We invest in a Team Member’s credentials, relevant training, and career development. The majority of our Guidance Team (Senior Management Team) started in entry level roles.

Technical community. You'll work alongside experienced raters, modelers, and building science professionals who love geeking out about building science.

Real benefits. Comprehensive health insurance, 401(k) matching, progressive PTO, professional development budget (including certification costs), and more.

Flexibility. Work remotely from North Carolina, South Carolina, or Virginia.

We're reviewing applications and scheduling interviews as they come in, so if this role excites you, don't wait. The sooner you apply, the sooner we can start a conversation.

SEM values diversity and inclusion. We strongly encourage applications from women, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ candidates. We're committed to bringing historically disenfranchised voices to the forefront of climate and energy justice work.

Location: Remote (NC, SC, VA)
Employment Type: Full-time, salaried, exempt

Apply today and help us lead the change.