Technical Weatherization Trainer - Energy Efficiency

Michigan Public Health Institute (MPHI); Lansing (MI); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 88,000; Full time

Job summary

Michigan Public Health Institute (MPHI) is seeking a Technical Weatherization Trainer to provide expert instruction in energy efficiency and building science to various professionals. This remote position requires a commitment to travel within Michigan for training purposes. Candidates should have at least two years of relevant experience, with certifications in building science preferred. Strong communication skills and the ability to develop and deliver training are critical for success in this role. MPHI promotes an inclusive environment and is EEO compliant.

Qualifications

• Minimum of two years experience in Weatherization Assistance Program or related field.
• Certifications such as BPI, QCI, and OSHA are preferred.
• Significant work experience in residential construction with knowledge of training.

Responsibilities

• Conduct building science technical training for Weatherization professionals.
• Deliver updated curriculum and training sessions.
• Provide technical assistance and support students.

Skills

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Collaborative, positive, team-oriented attitude

Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite

Experience in building science and energy efficiency

Education

Degree or equivalent experience in building science or related field

Job description

Title: Technical Weatherization Trainer - Energy Efficiency

Salary: $60,000 - $88,000

Location: Remote/Virtual - Must Live and Work in Michigan - Travel to Training Site in Michigan Required

Purpose

The Michigan Weatherization Training Center will provide technical expert instruction and assistance to Weatherization professionals, home professionals, builders, contractors, developers, architects, and others. The training center focuses on building science coursework to support the Weatherization Assistance Program’s (WAP) comprehensive technical trainings and certifications outlined in the Quality Work Plan that establishes a benchmark for quality home energy upgrades, released by U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Both comprehensive and specific training will be conducted to address acute deficiencies in the field such as dense packing, crawlspace, ASHRAE, and other topics as needed. Training will foster engagement, innovation, quality work practices, enhance performance, teach energy‑efficiency conservation measures, health and safety techniques, and ensure student success through hands‑on training opportunities by high‑quality certified instructors and classroom innovations.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Serve as a Technical Trainer reporting to the MiTEC Manager to conduct building science technical training for the Weatherization Training Center.
• Conduct technical training of the building science coursework, curriculum, and testing related skills, use appropriate props and demonstrations in a training environment, engage in research of industry best practices, and provide technical assistance for students of the Michigan Weatherization Training Center.
• Responsible for delivering training using updated curriculum and coursework that aligns with federal and state program requirements, risk assessments, and monitoring outcomes.

Energy Auditor

• Some experience in construction or energy efficiency is preferred.
• Certifications preferred: Building Performance Institute (BPI) Building Analyst Certification, BPI Energy Auditor Certification, Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) Home Energy Rater Certification.
• Collect visual, material, dimensional, and appliance information about the building for an energy audit.
• Document energy consumption.
• Conduct a physical/visual inspection of the building exterior and interior.
• Identify, collect data, and respond to health and safety issues.
• Collect appliance and base load information.
• Determine the condition of the ventilation ductwork/piping (e.g., pitch, insulation, size, material, elbows, length of run, terminations).
• Collect building insulation data (roof, attic, walls, and foundation/subspaces).
• Collect attic, walls, windows, doors, foundations/subspaces, and roof data.
• Collect conditioned building enclosure data.
• Identify pressure and thermal boundaries and ensure proper alignment.
• Perform diagnostic testing of the dwelling unit, including safety and efficiency of combustion appliances, air leakage of the building envelope, and performance of HVAC distribution.
• Evaluate collected energy audit data to determine the scope of work.

SHELL

• Dense pack wall insulation.
• Attic preparation, air sealing and insulation.
• Foundation air sealing, moisture source control and insulation strategies.
• Health & Safety issues related to performance of the Weatherization Assistance Program.
• Door and window retrofits as appropriate in the Weatherization Assistance Program.
• Mobile home weatherization includes air‑sealing, and insulation in the roof, belly or walls.
• Understanding, installation and application of the ASHRAE 62.2 Standard.
• Use of equipment such as blower doors, manometers, insulation equipment and infrared cameras.

HVAC

• Michigan Mechanical Contractor license preferred.
• Understanding static pressure implications, combustion analysis, duct sizing and testing, and proper performance and commissioning of HVAC systems.
• Understanding, installation and application of the ASHRAE 62.2 Standard.
• Health & Safety issues related to performance of the Weatherization Assistance Program.
• Understanding of operation and venting issues related to residential domestic water heaters: atmospheric, electric, heat pump, on‑demand and boiler models.
• Working knowledge of a broad range of HVAC systems including forced air natural gas, propane and oil, heat pumps—both air source and geothermal, boilers, ductless mini‑split systems, and vented space heaters.
• Working knowledge of NFPA, ICC, NEC and state and local codes.
• Use of equipment such as blower doors, manometers and infrared cameras is preferred.

Core Skills

• Provide classroom and field training at partner facilities, meeting the requirements of the training contract outlined in the DOE State Plan and IREC certification requirements.
• Train others to perform energy audits, inspections and quality assurance assessments using diagnostic equipment including the Blower Door, Duct Blaster, Pressure Pan, CO Analyzer, Infrared Camera, and NEAT/MHEA tools.
• Proctor Building Performance Institute certification exams following required guidelines.
• Assist in identifying concepts for an internal curriculum development team.
• Deliver classroom, in‑field and online trainings from approved curriculum.
• Coordinate and manage logistics for delivery of on‑site training courses.
• Create technical documents to support various weatherization and energy efficiency programs.
• Provide technical support to staff, students, the public, and industry stakeholders on topics including energy efficiency, home performance upgrades, and proper selection and installation of products.
• Work with clients in the field during on‑site training.
• Familiarity with the Weatherization Assistance Program rules, requirements, Standard Work Specifications, Michigan field guide, approved energy audit and BCAEO database software packages, and monitoring for training technical weatherization professionals.
• Represent the training center at national, state and local events, conferences, meetings, and committees as needed.
• Always represent the best interests of MDHHS and MPHI.
• All other duties as assigned.

Qualifications / Requirements

Education

Possession of a degree or equivalent experience in building science, building construction, civil or structural engineering, weatherization assistance program, or a related field is preferred.

Experience

A minimum of two years of related and progressively more responsible work experience in the Weatherization Assistance Program, energy efficiency, construction trades, or related field is required.

Proven experience as a Technical Trainer and/or IREC Master Trainer is helpful. Industry certifications such as BPI, QCI, HEP, Lead RRP, and OSHA are helpful. Demonstrated customer service skills in a high‑pace, service‑oriented environment.

The Technical Trainer will have significant work experience in residential single‑family and low‑ and mid‑rise multifamily construction with specific knowledge related to training, curriculum development, project management, and building science. The trainer must rely on strong interpersonal and leadership skills to maintain the trust of the Training Center’s students and be innovative in implementing new teaching methods.

Important Skills and Characteristics

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Collaborative, positive, team‑oriented attitude coupled with ability to work independently and solve problems.
• Highly motivated individuals with educational experience and strong technical knowledge related to building science, energy efficiency, home performance, weatherization and residential construction.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, smartphones, tablets, and web technology.

Work Environment, Mobility, and Physical Requirements

Job may require moderate physical effort including lifting materials and equipment. This position involves performance of various diagnostic tests, inspections and demonstrations, requiring the ability to carry equipment weighing 35 pounds. Performing fieldwork involves use of ladders and extensive navigation in and around worksites, buildings, attics, crawlspaces, and other locations. Therefore, Technical Trainers must possess physical dexterity, endurance and balance to safely and effectively accomplish this work. It will also involve viewing a CRT or VDT screen 25% to 75% of the time and the use of another standard office environment.

This position will require a Technical Trainer to use a mobile work environment, including the use of a home office, satellite locations, and other spaces as needed, to increase responsiveness and decision‑making speed, resolve internal issues faster, and increase productivity.

Travel

Travel throughout the state to the training center satellite locations and partner facilities will be required. In addition, travel to conferences and other events may be required. BCAEO Staff, both Civil Service and Affiliate Employees, are to follow the DTMB Travel guidelines and rates. Travel or other expenses that are not pre‑approved are not subject to reimbursement.

Exempt Classification

For purposes of employment standards, this classification is "Exempt" from the overtime provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act.

MPHI is an EEO employer that participates with e‑verify.