Senior Residential Decarbonization Advisor, Modernization Navigator

Position Description August 2024

Hybrid position ideally for people living in Massachusetts.

Working alongside two primary partners, the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) and All In Energy (“AIE”), Abode is serving as lead technical advisor for a new program (Home Modernization Navigator) aimed at speeding the adoption of decarbonization electrification measures in environmental justice communities. The Senior Residential Decarbonization Advisor will conduct virtual assessments, work with homeowners to develop multi‑year decarbonization plans, prioritize projects, and help them implement these plans.

This is a terrific opportunity for someone with a strong background in building science and residential energy efficiency to play a critical role in bringing the benefits of electrification to a historically underserved population.

• Conduct virtual decarbonization assessments of single and multi‑family homes. The Advisor follows Abode protocols to conduct comprehensive virtual assessments that combine elements of traditional home energy audits with holistic electrification and decarbonization opportunities to meet homeowner goals. Consultations may range from educating homeowners about electric appliances to helping people understand the basic pros and cons inherent to heat pump systems. The Advisor will produce a report summarizing these opportunities and a recommended action plan.
• Provide continued assistance to homeowners in implementing decarbonization solutions. The Advisor offers educational and technical assistance over time to help homeowners move forward with near‑term solutions identified in the action plan. Assistance may include advice on finding and coordinating contractors, help accessing available utility, government or other financial incentives, and reviewing quotes for decarbonization solutions with customers.
• The Advisor will proactively learn about and apply the latest best practices for residential decarbonization. This includes staying informed on emerging technologies, available rebate and incentive programs, and evolving standards for designing efficient, fossil‑free systems. The Advisor will also monitor changes in the decarbonization market and relevant government policies.
• Other tasks as assigned by the Manager. As the program evolves, the Advisor may be assigned other tasks ranging from assisting with analysis or reports, working closely with contractors, to providing training or outreach to partners and stakeholders. The Advisor will work with the rest of the Decarbonization team to apply day‑to‑day learnings to improve processes and tools used to achieve program results.

• Exposure to and interest in energy efficiency and electrification measures in the residential space as evidenced by previous academic, work or volunteer experience. A degree in related fields (such as building science, mechanical engineering, or sustainability) and/or related industry certifications (such as HERS, PHIUS, BPI, or LEED) strongly preferred.
• Previous experience in and knowledge of energy efficiency programs, home improvement contracting, or other related businesses.
• Demonstrated aptitude for learning industry jargon and technical content and translating it into clear, concise, digestible information.
• Previous experience in an advisory, educational, or customer service role providing advice or assistance to residential customers.
• Familiarity with navigating government or utility incentive programs.
• Effective oral and written communication skills; both one‑on‑one and in making presentations to groups. Proficiency in Spanish or Portuguese, as well as English, would be strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated aptitude in quickly learning and working with software such as Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, and Salesforce.
• Calm, even temperament suited to meeting people with different needs and backgrounds where they are.
• Adaptable, flexible, collaborative team player who brings a positive can‑do attitude.
• A self‑starter, able to proactively manage competing demands and change…