Forensic Structural Engineer - Detroit, MI

Overview Provides forensic consulting services requiring civil/structural engineering expertise for insurance, legal, industrial, and other clients. Assesses and determines the cause and origin of structural failures and/or damage, building envelope failures and/or damage, and construction defects, as well as determines the extent and repairability of such shortcomings and/or damage. Provides oral and written reports of findings and, when needed, expert testimony. Manages multiple projects. Essential Job Functions Performs the investigation and analysis of residential, commercial, and industrial properties to resolve claims and legal matters. Performs forensic assignments within the field of civil/structural engineering expertise based upon a scope of work and budget prepared by the consultant and agreed upon by the client in advance of performing the work. Field Investigations Study and determine the cause and origin of construction defects or structural failures and/or damage and building envelope failures and/or damage, as well as determine the extent and repairability of such shortcomings and/or damage. This includes gathering photographic evidence, conducting investigations to document on-site conditions, in-person and/or telephone interviews, overseeing field testing, reviewing construction and/or design drawings, contracts, or specifications, and/or reviewing historical documentation. Preparation of oral and written reports to document the causes of failure and/or damage, extent of loss, associated repair scope, and recommended remediation is essential, as is providing opinions and expert testimony in litigation matters. Manages multiple projects, coordinating with other experts and providing support as needed to produce client reports in a timely manner. Ensures that the procedure is followed and performs safety and due diligence of the project when it is being completed. Ability to initiate, develop, and maintain mutually beneficial client relationships. Required Experience, Education, and Certifications Civil or structural engineering degree or higher. P.E. required or fourth-year EIT with the ability to obtain the P.E. license quickly. NCEE record preferred. 5+ years of experience. Project management and/or field investigation experience is preferred. Depending on location, other licenses or certifications may be required. Required Skills and Abilities Must have strong verbal and written communication skills. Must have strong organizational and time management skills. Must have a high level of analytical skills. Work requires continual attention to detail with the ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Must be able to interact and communicate with clients at all levels (e.g., internal and external). Must have knowledge of a variety of computer software applications, including but not limited to Microsoft Office applications and computer-assisted engineering and design software. Ability to read, analyze, and interpret common scientific and technical reports or journals, financial reports, and legal documents. Ability to write scopes of work, budget estimates, schedules, reports of findings, proposals, general correspondence, and other technical documents. Ability to respond to inquiries from internal and external clients. Capable of effectively presenting information to top management, clients, public groups, and/or boards of directors. Physical Demands, Overtime, and Travel Requirements Physical Demands—Work is performed both in an office setting and at outside locations (i.e., Client’s office, industrial, construction, and/or residential sites). The employee is frequently required to stand, walk on sloped roofs, sit, climb ladders, bend, climb inside attics, crawl under homes and tunnels, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, talk, hear, use handheld equipment and/or tools, and drive a motor vehicle to job sites. Employees may lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Employees must be sharp, focused, and alert when conducting site inspections, speaking with clients, preparing written reports of findings, and testifying in a deposition or at trial. Clear vision and depth perception are also necessary. Overtime—This position is classified as salaried with an exempt FLSA status. Regular working hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, with a one-hour lunch break. There will be periods when overtime will be required, and the employee will need to comply to meet the demands of the position. Travel Requirements—This position requires up to 50% local/regional travel. Less than 5% out-of-area and overnight travel may be required. Benefits Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision) Retirement Plan (401k, IRA) Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D) Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays) Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity) Short Term & Long Term Disability Training & Development Work From Home We offer a competitive salary, bonus opportunities, and a full benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, life, disability, employer‑matching 401(k), and opportunities for advancement. At Rimkus, we value a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. We are committed to creating a work environment that supports and celebrates the unique perspectives and experiences of all employees. If you share our commitment to diversity and inclusivity and are excited about joining a welcoming and supportive team, we encourage you to apply for our open positions. Rimkus is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer and will make all employment‑related decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. This job description is subject to change and does not constitute a contract for employment or a guarantee of continued employment. #J-18808-Ljbffr Rimkus Consulting Group