Verification Specialist

Willdan is seeking a Verification Specialist to join our innovative and creative team. The Verification Specialist will play an important role in the verification of energy efficient building design options for new construction and major renovation projects. The ideal candidate has a strong interest in sustainable design features, integrated building design projects, and the measurement and verification of building and engineered systems' performance. Success in this role will contribute to real, measurable cost savings for our clients and has the potential to make a meaningful impact towards carbon emissions reduction across the US. The role will ensure internal and external review of program and project data to be in strict compliance with utility program expectations for project verification.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead and perform verification activities for energy efficiency projects, including review of construction documents, field verification, and analysis of project data.
• Exercise independent judgment in evaluating project compliance with program requirements and determining appropriate verification methodologies and outcomes.
• Develop, implement, and continuously improve internal verification and QA/QC processes to align with client and program requirements.
• Interpret construction documents, submittals, and technical specifications to verify energy efficiency measures, including lighting, controls, HVAC systems, service water heating, plug/ process, and building envelope components.
• Independently conduct site inspections for complex or high-profile projects and evaluate findings against program criteria.
• Prepare and deliver comprehensive reports summarizing verification findings, energy savings achievements, and performance metrics.
• Analyze data and trends to identify risks, discrepancies, and opportunities for improvement, and recommend solutions.
• Serve as a technical resource to internal teams, clients, and stakeholders regarding verification standards, methodologies, and program requirements.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with program staff (e.g., consultants, outreach, program support) to ensure consistent quality and alignment with program objectives.
• Interface directly with client representatives and external stakeholders, including EM&V teams, to resolve issues and ensure compliance.
• Oversee and prioritize a portfolio of projects at various stages, ensuring timely and accurate completion of deliverables.
• Provide guidance and informal mentorship to junior staff, including Verification Aides, as needed.
• Perform work with minimal supervision; assignments are reviewed based on overall results and achievement of objectives.
• Contribute to strategic and operational initiatives to enhance program effectiveness and quality outcomes.

Job Requirements / Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Construction Management, Building Science, Environmental Sustainability, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 2–5 years of progressively responsible experience in building energy analysis, verification, commissioning, or a related field.
• Knowledge of building systems, construction practices, and energy efficiency measures across commercial, industrial, and/or multifamily sectors.
• Strong technical expertise in electric and gas energy conservation measures (ECMs), including HVAC systems, controls, and plant optimization strategies.
• Ability to read, understand, and interpret project documents including; construction documents, construction submittals, specifications, sequences of operation across architectural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing.
• Demonstrated ability to apply advanced technical principles (e.g., thermodynamics, heat transfer, building science) to real-world project evaluation.
• Working knowledge of relevant energy codes and standards (e.g., ASHRAE 90.1, 62.1, 55, 189.1).
• Proven ability to exercise independent judgment, analyze complex information, and make sound decisions in a dynamic environment.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information to a variety of audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize competing demands, and meet deadlines with minimal supervision.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other analytical tools.
• Industry certifications (e.g., CEM, BEMP, LEED AP, BEAP, CxA) preferred.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively in a collaborative team environment.
• 5% travel throughout Minnesota is required for this position.

EEO Non-Discrimination and ADA Reasonable Accommodation Statement Willdan is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, religious creed, color, age marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, citizenship status, national origin, ancestry, religion, military service or veteran status, disability, medical condition, childbirth and related medical conditions, genetic testing, reproductive status or any other classification protected by federal, state or local laws and ordinances. Willdan does not discriminate on the basis of physical or mental disability where the essential functions of the job can be reasonably accommodated. Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis. If you need reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please notify us.

Willdan Energy Solutions participates in E-Verify