Structural Forensic Engineer

ProNet Group, Inc.; Grand Rapids (MI); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

ProNet Group, Inc. in Grand Rapids, MI, is seeking a Structural or Civil Engineer with a P.E. license to lead forensic investigations into building failures, defects, and damages. You will diagnose root causes and prepare professional reports spanning wood, masonry, metal, concrete, and steel.

The role combines fieldwork with analysis, offering hybrid work options and opportunities to collaborate with legal teams as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Civil or Architectural Engineering (Required)
• Active P.E. license in the state of application (Required)
• Additional P.E. licenses in other states (Preferred)
• NCEES certification (Preferred)
• Curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving instincts

Responsibilities

• Investigate and determine root causes of structural issues (e.g., collapses, moisture intrusion, foundation settlement)
• Conduct thorough field inspections of various structures
• Prepare professional written reports and provide verbal findings
• Collaborate with legal teams and potentially serve as an expert witness

Skills

Analytical thinking

Strong communication

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Civil or Architectural Engineering

Job description

Forensic Sleuth for Buildings – Help us uncover the truth behind collapses, construction defects, structural integrity issues, weather‑related damages, and much more!

We're on the hunt for a sharp, inquisitive Structural or Civil Engineer with a P.E. license and a passion for problem‑solving. This isn’t your typical desk job – you will be diving into building mysteries, investigating why structures fail, and figuring out what went wrong. Think CSI, but for wood, masonry, metal, concrete and steel.

Join our expert team in the unique field of forensic engineering where you will utilize your engineering design and/or construction experience to uncover the cause of structural issues in buildings of all sizes – from large commercial structures to high‑rises to homes.

Location: Hybrid office environment (remote or from an office – the choice is all yours!) and on-site inspections

• Be the engineering detective: uncover causes of collapses, foundation failures, leaks, roof damage, and post‑storm, post‑impact, or post‑fire structural issues
• Enjoy flexible scheduling and autonomy during site visits while gathering evidence and documenting field conditions
• Conduct expert evaluations and prepare professional reports
• Collaborate with legal teams and potentially serve as an expert witness – your insight could make all the difference
• Enjoy a healthy mix of field work and remote/office‑based analysis (about 40/60)

What You’ll Do

• Investigate and determine the root causes of:
• Moisture/water intrusion
• Roof damage
• Foundation settlement
• Conduct thorough field inspections of all kinds of structures
• Evaluate extent of damage and structural integrity
• Deliver findings both in writing and verbally

What You Bring

• Bachelor’s Degree in Civil or Architectural Engineering (Required)
• Active P.E. license in the state of application (Required)
• Additional P.E. licenses in other states (Preferred)
• NCEES certification (Preferred)
• Curiosity, creativity, and problem‑solving instincts – you’re the kind of person who wants to know what went wrong and why
• Strong communication skills, both written and oral
• Deep understanding of building materials, construction methods, and building codes

What We Bring

• We support and encourage a healthy work‑life balance
• We foster a culture of inquisitiveness, collaboration, and innovation
• Hands‑on mentorship from seasoned forensic engineers will help build your field investigation and expert report‑writing skills
• Growth and Career Development – you will receive regular performance reviews, attend virtual and in‑person team meetings, and be surrounded by a team of colleagues and leaders that seek to help you spread your wings and let your career fly to new heights
• Career Laddering – have ample opportunities to grow into senior engineer, technical director, or training/mentorship/supervision roles

This role is perfect for engineers who love variety, thrive on solving structural puzzles, and contributing to making a real impact. You won't design buildings – you'll conduct reverse engineering to see why things failed and provide recommendations on how to remedy the situation.