Forensic Engineer

UES; Austin (TX); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

UES in Austin, Texas, seeks a Forensic Engineer to conduct investigations of buildings for structural damage and other issues. Ideal candidates will hold a Bachelor's degree in Civil or Structural Engineering, have at least 1 year of experience, and possess an active PE license. Responsibilities include on-site inspections, project management, and preparing detailed reports. The role includes moderate travel, requiring analytical skills and good communication, suitable for problem solvers in forensic contexts.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 1 year of Forensic Structural Engineering experience.
• Active PE license required.
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.

Responsibilities

• Conduct forensic investigations for insurance claims involving structural failures.
• Perform on-site inspections of various properties.
• Manage multiple projects and produce client reports.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Structural analysis software

BIM/CAD platforms

Client-facing skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Structural Engineering

Master’s degree in relevant field (preferred)

Job description

Overview

At UES, we’re a team of more than 4,000 engineers, scientists, geologists, inspectors, technicians, and drillers united by a shared purpose—to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. As a national leader in geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, and materials testing and inspection, we collaborate on transformative projects across transportation, energy, water, healthcare, and more. Learn more about the benefits of joining Team UES and our core values at careers.teamues.com.

Position Overview

The Forensic Engineer will conduct forensic engineering investigations of buildings and other structures for a wide variety of problems, including structural damage, roof damage, moisture intrusion, interior water damage, settlement, foundation problems, construction defects, material failures, and storm‑related damage.

The ideal candidate has strong analytical and communication skills, experience conducting field investigations, and the ability to provide engineering opinions related to storm damage, construction defects, water intrusion, foundation movement, fire events, and other property‑related claims.

Responsibilities

• Conduct forensic investigations for insurance claims involving:
  • Structural failures
  • Storm and hurricane damage
  • Water intrusion and moisture‑related issues
  • Foundation settlement and movement
  • Roof damage assessments
  • Fire and impact damage
  • Construction and material defects
• Perform on‑site inspections of residential, commercial, and industrial properties.
• Execute field investigations to determine causes of construction defects or structural failures and assess the extent and repairability of such failures.
• Manage multiple projects, coordinate with other experts, and produce client reports promptly.
• Prepare detailed forensic engineering reports with findings, conclusions, and repair recommendations.
• Conduct roof assessments and evaluate building envelope performance when applicable.
• Travel to various locations as required.
• Other duties may be assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Structural Engineering (Master’s preferred).
• Minimum of 1 year of Forensic Structural Engineering experience.
• Active PE license required.
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
• Ability to pass a background check in accordance with Florida’s Jessica Lunsford Act (or equivalent state classification).
• Expertise in structural analysis software, BIM/CAD platforms, and building materials.
• Deep understanding of local, state, and national building codes and design standards.
• Strong client‑facing skills and ability to lead cross‑functional project teams.
• Proven ability to manage complexity, mentor others, and deliver technically sound solutions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Hurricane, wind, hail, or catastrophic loss investigations.
• Building envelope and moisture intrusion assessments.
• Structural damage evaluations.

Travel Requirements

This position requires moderate travel, approximately up to 40% of the time, to support business objectives and client engagements. Travel may be both scheduled and on short notice, depending on project needs. Destinations typically include job sites, field locations, or regional offices, where work may be conducted in outdoor or operational environments. Adherence to all company safety protocols and use of PPE is required during travel and on‑site work.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• Combination of field investigations and report writing responsibilities.
• Frequent local and regional travel to inspection sites.
• Ability to climb ladders, inspect roofs, enter crawlspaces, and navigate active construction or damaged sites.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Occasional overnight travel may be required.
• The position involves sitting for extended periods, performing data entry, and engaging in frequent communication via email, phone, and in‑person interactions.
• The role involves regular communication with team members, clients, and stakeholders, both in person and through virtual platforms.
• Physical demands of the job may include occasional standing, walking, bending, and lifting of office materials up to 15 pounds.

EEO Statement

UES is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is proud to recruit the most qualified candidates. Please see our full EEO Statement at the bottom of the page.