Principal, Construction Defect Lit & Forensics Leader

Thomas Young Group; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 140,000 - 230,000; Full time

Job summary

Thomas Young Group is seeking a leader to guide and expand the engineering and architectural practice in Chicago. You will oversee forensic investigations, defect evaluations, and expert work, while collaborating with disputes on delays and damages.

You will build relationships with law firms, contractors, insurers, and owners, recruit and mentor a technical team, and uphold rigorous standards for accuracy and integrity across all reports and testimony.

Qualifications

• PE, RA, or GC license is required.
• Background in engineering, architecture, or construction management.
• Extensive experience in construction defect litigation, forensic analysis, expert reporting, or testimony.
• Strong technical understanding of building systems, design, and construction methods.
• Proven leadership experience, including growing teams or building a practice.
• Ability to manage client relationships, develop new business, and deliver expert-level work.

Responsibilities

• Leading and growing the engineering/architectural practice locally
• Overseeing forensic investigations, defect evaluations, and technical expert work
• Preparing and reviewing expert reports, analyses, and litigation support documentation
• Collaborating closely with the disputes team on delay, damages, and schedule matters
• Building relationships with law firms, contractors, insurers, and owners
• Recruiting, mentoring, and developing a technical team as the practice expands
• Maintaining high standards for technical accuracy, quality, and integrity
• Contributing to the broader strategy of a growing national practice

Skills

PE/RA/GC license

Leadership experience

Business development

Client relationship management

Education

Engineering, architecture, or construction management

Job description

Thomas Young Group is seeking a leader to guide and expand the engineering and architectural practice in Chicago. You will oversee forensic investigations, defect evaluations, and expert work, while collaborating with disputes on delays and damages.

You will build relationships with law firms, contractors, insurers, and owners, recruit and mentor a technical team, and uphold rigorous standards for accuracy and integrity across all reports and testimony.