Building and Design Analyst
Job Type
Full-time
Description

VHFA is seeking an experienced architecture, engineering, construction management or building performance professional to provide technical leadership that supports durable, efficient, resilient, and cost-effective affordable housing across Vermont.


At the Vermont Housing Finance Agency (VHFA), we are on a mission to ensure all Vermonters have access to affordable housing. We are seeking a Building & Design Analyst who is part technical design reviewer, part cost-control strategist, and entirely dedicated to sustainable, high-quality housing development. In this role, you will provide technical leadership across our development pipeline. From evaluating architectural plans, building specifications, and construction budgets to establishing design standards, visiting job sites, and advising property owners on long-term capital planning, your work will ensure that VHFA-financed housing is built to last. 


The Impact You’ll Make

Evaluate proposed construction and rehabilitation projects, including plans, specifications, contracts, site conditions, accessibility, energy performance, climate resilience, constructability, and other design considerations; identify material risks and recommend improvements to management. 

  • Evaluate project budgets, estimates, bids, contingencies, change orders, and design alternatives for reasonableness, value, and alignment with approved scope and financing; use cost benchmarks to identify pressures, overruns, trends, and practical options for management and Board consideration. 
  • Maintain practical design guidelines and provide clear technical guidance to staff, property owners, managers, and project partners to support durable, efficient, accessible, maintainable, and cost-effective housing aligned with funding and inspection requirements. 
  • Analyze Capital Needs Assessments and other property information, including needs affecting manufactured home communities and infrastructure, to identify preservation priorities and risks and inform long-term maintenance, capital planning, management recommendations, and Board reporting. 
  • Scope, coordinate, and evaluate construction progress inspections, prevailing-wage monitoring, and environmental reviews; translate findings into clear recommendations on project decisions, compliance, corrective action, and significant portfolio risks. 
  • Coordinate with funders, inspecting agencies, and technical consultants to support consistent expectations, effective oversight, and reduced duplication. 
  • Keep VHFA’s building and design practices current with applicable Vermont codes, federal standards, required credentials, and best practices by maintaining relevant qualifications and updating policies, procedures, and analytical tools.


Work Environment & Flexibility


This position offers a hybrid work structure. You will work in our collaborative Burlington office environment and remotely as coordinated with your supervisor once trained, with in-person presence required for key agency meetings, Board presentations, and required site inspections across the state


The Perks

  • A comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and the family or optional buy-out plan   
  • Flexible Spending Account & Dependent Care Account   
  • Company-sponsored Short and Long-Term Disability   
  • Company-sponsored Life Insurance  
  • Up to $4,000 educational assistance   
  • Employee Assistance Program   
  • Combined Time Off & Holiday Pay   
  • Up to 6 weeks of paid time off for parental and family leave   
  • Parking Reimbursement for designated lots   
  • Free Car Share membership for work-related travel   
  • 403b Savings Account & 457 Retirement Plan   

Ready to help us build a stronger community? Apply today to join our collaborative team!

Requirements

What You Bring to the Table


Education: Bachelor’s degree in Building Science, Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field required (Master’s preferred).   

Experience: Minimum of 5 to 7 years of progressive experience in building design analysis, architectural review, construction management, or physical capital needs assessment (or 2 to 5 years with a Master's degree).   

Technical Mastery: Deep knowledge of building systems, architectural plan review, Vermont building codes, energy efficiency standards, accessibility requirements, and construction cost estimating.   

Certifications & Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook); relevant technical credentials (such as UPCS or NSPIRE) or ability to acquire them is desirable.  

Mobility: Ability to travel across Vermont to conduct on-site physical inspections of housing developments (VHFA provides a free Car Share membership for business travel).  

Mission Alignment: Deep commitment to community development and shared alignment with VHFA’s VIIBE values: Integrity, Innovation, Belonging, and Equity

Salary Description
$85,000 - $100,000 per year