Job Title: Graduate Research Co-op — Massachusetts Building Energy Code Policy Study
Organization: Home Builders & Remodelers Association of Cape Cod (HBRACC) Location: Remote / Flexible, with occasional check-ins Term: May – Mid-August 2026 (approx. 15 weeks) Compensation: Paid co-op, commensurate with experience Faculty Oversight: Wentworth Institute of Technology — Construction Management Program
About the Project
HBRACC is a regional trade association representing builders, remodelers, and construction professionals on Cape Cod. We are initiating a research project to document the history, structure, and evolution of Massachusetts residential energy codes — including the Base Code, Stretch Code, and Municipal Opt-In Specialized Code — and how state regulatory changes have affected municipalities that adopted these codes over the past 15 years.
The research will serve as the foundation for an HBRACC policy guide and educational materials used in municipal briefings, town meetings, and advocacy efforts across the region.
Scope of Work
The co-op student will:
- Compile and organize a documented timeline of Massachusetts energy code development and municipal adoption statewide
- Research the Green Communities Act, associated grant programs, and funding distributed to municipalities
- Document the 2021 Climate Act’s transfer of Stretch Code authority from BBRS to DOER, and the resulting 2023 regulatory changes
- Review public records, town meeting minutes, and public comment from the March 2024 DOER listening sessions
- Identify and document municipalities that have rescinded or considered rescinding Stretch Code adoption (approximately 6–7 towns requiring detailed review)
- Compile a regulatory change log and source bibliography
- Contribute to the development of graphics and summary materials for the final guide
Ideal Candidate
- Graduate student in Construction Management, Architecture, Project Management, or a related field
- Strong research, writing, and organizational skills
- Ability to work independently and manage a project timeline
- Interest in building policy, energy codes, housing, or municipal governance
- Familiarity with Massachusetts regulatory or municipal processes a plus
Structure
The student will be employed directly by HBRACC and will work under the guidance of the HBRACC Government Affairs Committee, with faculty oversight provided by Wentworth Institute of Technology. Weekly check-ins with committee contacts will be provided throughout the term.
To Apply
Submit your resume and a brief cover letter describing your interest in building policy or energy code research.
