Principal Consultant- Building Science

Rimkus•Jersey City, NJ

2d•$130,000 - $190,000

About The Position

The Principal Consultant, Building Science is an experienced technical leader and subject matter expert in building enclosure systems, restoration design, and consulting services. The role leads complex, high-value assignments involving roofing, waterproofing, facades, glazing systems, air and vapor barriers, and exterior wall assemblies. Working with minimal supervision, the Principal Consultant exercises independent judgment, provides technical oversight and quality assurance, builds client relationships, and supports the growth of the regional Building Science practice. The successful candidate will bring an existing book of business or demonstrate the ability to quickly develop and grow a client base in the target market. The position combines technical consulting, project leadership, business development, and client service. Work includes investigations and assessments, repair recommendations and restoration design, technical reviews, construction administration, expert analysis when required, project financial oversight, and mentorship of other consultants. Work is performed in an office and at client, industrial, construction, and residential sites. Regular hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, with one hour for lunch; overtime is required at times to meet the demands of the position. The stated salary range is $130,000–$190,000, depending on education, experience, location, and certifications or licensure. Full-time employees are offered competitive salary, bonus opportunities, a benefits package, and opportunities for advancement. The company also describes its commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Architectural Engineering, Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, Building Science, or a related technical discipline.
At least 10 years of progressively responsible experience in building envelope consulting, building science, restoration design, forensic investigation, and/or building enclosure engineering.
Professional registration as a Registered Architect (RA) or Professional Engineer (PE).
Demonstrated experience leading complex consulting projects and managing client relationships.
Advanced knowledge of commercial and residential building envelope systems and their performance characteristics.
Extensive experience evaluating, designing, and rehabilitating roofing, waterproofing, exterior wall and cladding assemblies, curtain wall and glazing systems, air and vapor barrier systems, thermal insulation systems, and building enclosure interfaces and transitions.
Strong understanding of moisture management, thermal performance, air leakage, and building durability principles.
Ability to diagnose complex building enclosure failures and develop practical repair solutions.
Comprehensive knowledge of current and historical building codes, industry standards, and best practices.
Strong technical report writing and presentation skills.
Excellent project management, organizational, and client relationship skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining quality and responsiveness.
Strong leadership, collaboration, critical-thinking, and decision-making abilities.
Ability to develop business opportunities and grow client relationships.

Nice To Haves

Experience with forensic investigations, restoration consulting, building enclosure assessments, and construction administration.
Proficiency with AutoCAD, Revit, and industry-standard building enclosure analysis tools.
Demonstrated success in business development, practice growth, or maintaining an established client base.

Responsibilities

Serve as a technical leader and subject matter expert for building science, building enclosure, restoration, rehabilitation, and forensic consulting projects.
Lead and manage investigations into building envelope failures, water intrusion, moisture-related issues, facade deterioration, roofing failures, and waterproofing deficiencies.
Develop repair recommendations, restoration designs, specifications, and construction documents for existing and new construction projects.
Perform and oversee condition assessments, due diligence evaluations, reserve studies, and building enclosure investigations.
Manage multiple projects, including scope development, budgeting, scheduling, resource allocation, and client communication.
Provide peer review and QA/QC oversight of reports, drawings, specifications, and other technical deliverables.
Review, seal, and approve professional documents in accordance with applicable licensing requirements.
Conduct constructability reviews and third-party peer reviews of plans, specifications, and building enclosure designs.
Direct construction administration, including site observations, contractor coordination, and review of project progress and compliance.
Provide technical consultation and expert analysis for insurance claims, litigation, arbitrations, and dispute resolution assignments when required.
Research applicable building codes, industry standards, historical code requirements, and regulatory compliance issues.
Develop proposals, scopes of work, budgets, and fee estimates for prospective projects.
Cultivate client relationships and support repeat business through networking, client meetings, industry involvement, presentations, and marketing activities.
Contribute to strategic planning and growth initiatives within the Building Science practice.
Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior and mid-level consultants.
Review project financial performance, including budget management, invoice review, and project profitability.
Ensure deliverables meet company standards for technical accuracy, professionalism, responsiveness, and timeliness.
Perform other duties as assigned.