Building Efficiency Associate (BEACON Fellow)

The Building Efficiency Associate (BEACON Fellow) position at SEI offers emerging professionals a full-time, 10-month fellowship focused on advancing clean building initiatives in Washington. Fellows will conduct outreach, provide energy services, and support compliance with state standards while receiving mentorship and training in energy efficiency. The role primarily requires on-site work, but also includes occasional remote work opportunities, enhancing flexibility in various work settings.
Launch your Sustainability Career with the Climate Corps Fellowship program!

SEI’s Climate Corps Fellowship program offers emerging professionals the opportunity to lead meaningful projects that address climate change and build community resilience all while gaining paid, hands-on experience and professional development. This full-time, bridge-to-career opportunity pairs emerging leaders with host organizations that range from local governments and nonprofits to for-profit businesses, where fellows lead impactful projects that drive real-world change.

The Impact You’ll Make

Join the Climate Corps BEACON Fellowship and play a key role in advancing clean building initiatives across Washington. As a Building Efficiency and Clean Operations Network (BEACON) Fellow, you will receive mentorship and training to conduct outreach, provide energy services, and connect building owners with resources to help them comply with the Washington State Clean Buildings Performance Standard. You will also support your host site with energy efficiency projects that contribute to statewide sustainability goals. In addition to hands-on experience, Fellows will receive training through the Building Operator Certification (BOC) program, gaining specialized training in building systems maintenance and energy efficiency. This is a full-time, 10-month, on-site fellowship in Washington state starting June 2nd, 2025.

Washington’s Clean Buildings Performance Standards aim to improve energy efficiency, reduce costs, and lower pollution from fossil fuel use in existing buildings. By 2027, thousands of buildings must meet these standards, yet many owners need additional support and guidance. Fellows will be at the forefront of this effort, helping drive impactful change in the built environment.

The BEACON Fellow work environment is primarily on-site with occasional off-site visits and the potential for periodic remote work. Flexibility and the ability to adapt to different work settings are essential. We have openings in the following locations: Bellingham, Tacoma, Lakewood, Everett, Spokane, Centralia, and Seattle.

Apply today to make a difference in the future of sustainable building!

About the BEACON Fellowship

The BEACON Fellowship is a 10-month program designed to train Fellows in supporting energy managers and facilities teams in integrating energy efficiency and sustainability into business practices.

Fellows will receive specialized professional training, including:
• Training and project work in building systems maintenance through the Building Operator Certification (BOC) program.
• Weekly online classroom sessions and office hours through the Clean Building Compliance Practicum to support specific project work.
• Bi-monthly training with the Climate Corps Team.

What You'll Do

Under the guidance & support of supervisors/mentors, BEACON Fellows will be responsible for:
• Outreach and education to building owners, operators, managers, and other relevant stakeholders.
• Building out resources regarding compliance, incentives, timelines, mapping, and materials for building owners.
• Support building owners with general CBPS requirements and incentive applications.
• Assistance with benchmarking by gathering building data (utility bills, square footage, occupancy, etc.) to identify the building’s energy use intensity and target.
• Assist building owners with Clean Buildings Portal management
• Act as a liaison between the building owner and the WA Department of Commerce
• Gather or create the required documentation for the Clean Building Performance Standard compliance
• Use the Energy Star Portfolio Manager software to calculate energy use for buildings.
• Learn other energy software as needed (ex, PSE Energy Cap).
• Assist sites in developing and implementing Operations and Maintenance (O&M) plans as required by the WA Clean Buildings Performance Standard
• Assist sites in developing Energy Management plans (EMP) as required by the WA Clean Buildings Performance Standard.
• Develop knowledge of different Energy Efficiency Measures (EEMs).
• Some local travel will be required with reimbursement.

What We're Looking For

We encourage all interested candidates to apply, even if they don’t meet every listed qualification. We value diverse perspectives and believe that unique backgrounds can strengthen and enhance the fellowship.
• Coursework, training or experience in fields related to energy efficiency, renewable energy, data analysis, or building efficiency.
• Be comfortable with the basic functions of one or more of the following: Google Office Suite, Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.
• Be an organized self-starter and have excellent time management skills.
• Strong communication skills (writing, corresponding, speaking).
• Ability to work independently and carry out assignments.
• Ability to effectively manage multiple projects
• Valid driver’s license with reliable transportation to be available at various sites as needed by clients and up to 4-5 days per week.

Fellowship Benefits
• A monthly stipend of $3750.
• $1200 end-of-program financial award.​
• Healthcare coverage with 100% of healthcare insurance premiums covered by the employer.
• Participation in the Building Operator Certification series
• Access to a national Member Assistance Program offering financial, legal, medical advocacy, and counseling services.
• Comprehensive career-readiness training, including interview prep, salary negotiation, and resume building.
• Panels, workshops, and networking with climate resilience industry professionals.
• Professional networking and learning opportunities.

Join the Climate Corps Movement

Climate Corps, a program of SEI, is an award-winning fellowship designed to prepare the next generation of leaders in sustainability and climate action. Our fellows work on cutting-edge sustainability and resiliency projects with local governments, nonprofits, and businesses, building essential skills and creating real-world impact. Since 2010, Climate Corps has empowered over 800 Fellows to work with 500+ partners on 1,350 transformative projects. With nearly 99% of Fellows continuing careers in sustainability—many hired by their host organizations—you could be the next environmental leader shaping a better future!
Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

We seek candidates who share SEI’s commitment to equity and environmental justice, and who share a commitment to work and learn within an anti-oppression framework. Persons of color, persons with disabilities, and members of the LGBTQ+ community are strongly encouraged to apply. SEI is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer and is committed to promoting diversity, inclusion, and equity. We believe that a wide array of perspectives contributes to creative climate solutions where all communities thrive. We strive to reflect diverse communities, especially those most impacted by climate change and other kinds of environmental, social, and economic injustices.
How to Apply

By applying to the Climate Corps Fellowship, you'll automatically be considered for all relevant positions. Apply only once to the position in your geographic region that best matches your background.