Structural Engineer, PE – Forensic Investigations (Buildings & Failures)

S4 Search Partners; United States; Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering recruitment firm is seeking a licensed Structural Engineer (PE) for forensic investigations of existing buildings. This role involves on-site inspections and analysis of structures with damage and failures. Ideal candidates will possess a strong engineering background and effective communication skills, aiming to understand structural failures through critical thinking and real-world applications. Engineers valuing independence and problem-solving will thrive in this position, backed by peer support and a trusted work environment.

Qualifications

• Must hold an active Professional Engineer (PE) license.
• Civil or Structural Engineering background is required.
• Experience with existing structures is essential.

Responsibilities

• Conduct on-site investigations of buildings.
• Inspect various structural components.
• Document damage, distress, and construction conditions.

Skills

Field investigations

Technical writing

Communication skills

Education

Active Professional Engineer (PE) license

Civil or Structural Engineering background

Job description

Overview

Structural Engineer, PE – Forensic Investigations (Field-Based)

Multiple Locations Nationwide

This role is NOT fully remote.

Home-based reporting is combined with local and regional on-site building inspections.

If you are not comfortable performing field investigations, please do not apply.

We are hiring a licensed Structural Engineer (PE) to perform forensic investigations of existing buildings involving structural damage, failures, and construction issues.

This position is ideal for engineers who want to work on real-world failures, apply engineering judgment in the field, and understand why structures fail—not just how they are designed.

What You’ll Do

• Perform on-site investigations of residential and commercial buildings
• Inspect roofs, framing, foundations, steel, concrete, and masonry
• Document damage, distress, and construction conditions
• Analyze gravity and lateral systems using engineering fundamentals
• Review drawings, specifications, and applicable codes
• Write clear, objective forensic engineering reports
• Communicate findings to insurers, attorneys, and clients
• Manage cases from inspection through final report with internal support

This is hands-on, judgment-driven engineering.

Required Qualifications

• Active Professional Engineer (PE) license
• Civil or Structural Engineering background
• Experience working with existing structures
• Willingness to perform on-site inspections and field investigations
• Strong technical writing and communication skills
• Forensic engineering experience is a plus, but not required.

How the Role Works

• Home-based reporting and analysis
• Local and regional field investigations
• Travel varies by case and is not weekly road-warrior travel
• Peer review, mentorship, and technical support provided
• You are trusted to work independently, but you are not left on an island.

Why Engineers Choose Forensics

Engineers who succeed in this role often say:

• Design work became repetitive
• They enjoy solving problems without obvious answers
• They wanted work that felt more meaningful

Bottom Line

If you’re a PE with real structural experience who enjoys investigation, fieldwork, and applying engineering judgment to real failures, this role offers a proven path in forensic engineering.

Apply only if you are comfortable being in the field, owning your work, and thinking critically.