Building Performance Analyst

Populous•Kansas City, KS

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

Populous is seeking an early-career Building Performance Analyst in Kansas City to support building decarbonization and climate-resilient design. The analyst will use building science, energy modeling, and environmental simulation to evaluate building performance and inform high-performance, low-carbon, and climate-responsive design solutions. The role involves close collaboration with architects, designers, sustainability specialists, and building services engineers. The position is suited to someone with sound technical fundamentals, analytical curiosity, initiative, and a desire to learn. Prior experience in Populous’s specialized project sectors is not required. Travel may be required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Requirements

Bachelor's or master's degree in Building Science, Architecture, Architectural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
0–4 years of relevant experience, including academic research, internships, or professional practice.
Strong understanding of building physics, heat transfer, and thermal comfort.
Foundational knowledge of HVAC systems, building envelopes, and passive design.
Experience with building energy modeling or environmental simulation tools.
Strong quantitative, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to interpret technical data and communicate practical recommendations.
Familiarity with architectural drawings and building design processes.
Strong communication and organizational skills.
Strong analytical thinking and ability to apply building science fundamentals to real-world design challenges.
Curiosity, initiative, and willingness to explore new tools, methods, and solutions.
Ability to translate technical analysis into clear, practical recommendations for design teams.
Ability to collaborate effectively with architects, engineers, and other disciplines.
Commitment to accuracy, quality, continuous learning, and professional growth.

Nice To Haves

A specialized master's degree is highly valued.
Experience with IES-VE, EnergyPlus, OpenStudio, ClimateStudio, or similar tools.
Experience with Rhino, Grasshopper, Ladybug Tools, Honeybee, Revit, or SketchUp.
Familiarity with ASHRAE 90.1, ASHRAE 55, IECC, California Title 24, or IgCC.
Knowledge of daylighting, natural ventilation, and thermal comfort analysis.
Understanding of operational carbon, electrification, and climate resilience.
Familiarity with LEED (v5), ILFI, WELL, or similar sustainability frameworks.
Experience with Python, parametric modeling, or data visualization.

Responsibilities

Conduct building energy, carbon, and environmental performance analyses.
Develop and maintain building energy models using industry-standard simulation tools.
Evaluate passive design strategies, building envelopes, and energy systems.
Analyze energy efficiency, electrification, renewable energy, and storage opportunities.
Assess thermal comfort, climate-responsive design, and resilience strategies.
Evaluate energy code requirements and building performance targets.
Support cost-benefit analyses of energy and carbon reduction measures.
Collaborate with design teams to identify and evaluate performance improvements.
Document modeling assumptions, methodologies, and results.
Prepare technical reports, graphics, and presentations to communicate findings.
Contribute to internal research, modeling workflows, and best practices.