Application Guide

How to Apply for System Designer (Heat Pumps, Residential)

at Zero Homes

🏢 About Zero Homes

Zero Homes is a digital platform revolutionizing the transition to all-electric homes. Unlike traditional HVAC companies, they combine software, data analytics, and expert design to make electrification seamless. Working here means being at the forefront of the clean energy movement, with a mission-driven team and remote flexibility.

About This Role

As a System Designer, you'll be the technical backbone of residential heat pump installations, ensuring every system is optimized for efficiency and comfort. Your designs directly impact customer satisfaction and the company's reputation for high-quality electrification. This role is critical in scaling Zero Homes' impact across the US.

💡 A Day in the Life

You'll start by reviewing new project assignments from sales, then perform Manual J/S load calculations using software like Wrightsoft or Right-J. Afternoons involve collaborating with installation teams to troubleshoot design challenges, and you might spend time refining Python scripts to automate repetitive calculations. You'll also participate in cross-functional meetings to align on quality standards.

🚀 Application Tools

Generate Cover Letter

AI-powered, tailored for Zero Homes

Interview Prep

Practice questions for this role

🎯 Who Zero Homes Is Looking For

  • Has 2+ years of hands-on experience with Manual J/S load calculations and HVAC design for heat pumps in residential settings.
  • Possesses deep building science knowledge, including building envelope, MEP systems, and energy modeling tools like BEopt or EnergyGauge.
  • Is proficient in data-driven tools, especially Python for automating calculations or analyzing system performance data.
  • Thrives in cross-functional collaboration, communicating technical details clearly to sales and installation teams.

📝 Tips for Applying to Zero Homes

1

Highlight specific projects where you designed heat pump systems for existing homes, including load calculations and equipment selection.

2

Showcase any experience with battery storage or electrical panel upgrades, as these are scoping requirements.

3

Mention your proficiency with Python or similar tools, and provide examples (e.g., scripts for load calc automation).

4

Tailor your cover letter to emphasize your understanding of building science and heat pump technology, not just general HVAC.

5

Include a portfolio or case study of a past design that improved efficiency or solved a tricky retrofit challenge.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your expertise in Manual J/S load calculations for heat pumps, with specific examples of projects.', 'How you ensure designs meet both customer needs and building codes while optimizing efficiency.', 'Your ability to collaborate with sales and installation teams to translate customer specs into actionable designs.', 'Your comfort with data-driven tools like Python to improve design accuracy or streamline processes.']

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review Zero Homes' website and blog to understand their platform, customer journey, and mission.
  • → Read about their approach to electrification and any case studies or testimonials from homeowners.
  • → Familiarize yourself with the latest heat pump rebates and incentives in key US markets (e.g., IRA).
  • → Check their careers page and LinkedIn for team members' backgrounds to understand company culture.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Walk me through how you would approach a Manual J calculation for a 1950s home with poor insulation.
2 Describe a time you had to adjust a design due to electrical panel limitations or customer budget.
3 How do you stay updated on evolving heat pump technology and efficiency standards?
4 Explain your process for collaborating with installation teams to ensure design intent is met.
5 How have you used Python or spreadsheets to improve your design workflow?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic resume without highlighting heat pump or residential system design experience.
  • Focusing only on commercial or new construction HVAC, not retrofit and existing homes.
  • Not demonstrating proficiency with data tools like Python, which is explicitly required.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Zero Homes!

← Back to Job Listing Apply Now →