Forensic Mechanical Engineer

J.S. Held is a global consulting firm that combines technical, scientific, financial, and strategic expertise to advise clients seeking to realize value and mitigate risk. Our professionals serve as trusted advisors to organizations facing high-stakes matters demanding urgent attention, staunch integrity, proven experience, clear-cut analysis, and an understanding of both tangible and intangible assets. The firm provides a comprehensive suite of services, products, and data that enable clients to navigate complex, contentious, and often catastrophic situations.

About the role

We are seeking a mid-to-senior level Forensic Mechanical Engineer to join our team of professionals supporting clients throughout the US and internationally. Our engineers routinely perform forensic investigations, provide consultation, and serve as expert witnesses. Practice areas include commercial, industrial, manufacturing, and residential property and equipment systems as well as related infrastructure components. Assignments will require local, regional, and inter-regional travel to project sites.

Responsibilities

• Investigate the cause and origin of failures, damages, or defects in mechanical systems and components within industrial, commercial, and residential sites.
• Analyze the failure of mechanical systems, determine the cause of failures, evaluate the quality of construction, and review design and maintenance procedures.
• Perform field investigations, lead multi-party examinations and documentation of damaged property.
• Research failure modes, code requirements, and provide recommendations for repair and/or replacement as needed.
• Prepare accurate, clear, thorough, and concise reports and related documentation for clients detailing opinions and conclusions.
• Participate in multidisciplinary teams on large and complex assignments.
• Maintain established relationships with current clients and consultants.
• Stay abreast of company policies, procedures, and practices; participate in ongoing training and development as assigned or approved to assure knowledge and skills remain current and comprehensive.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of mechanical engineering experience within insurance or legal forensics.
• Residency in the Midwest region of the United States is required.
• Active Professional Engineering (PE) license; minimum required of resident state.
• Willingness to participate in expert witness work and provide court testimony.
• Excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills.
• Computer skills (including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).
• Desire to learn, excel, and grow with us and within the profession.
• Flexibility to travel and accommodate approximately 30–50% travel.

Preferred Qualifications

• A minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience in evaluating mechanical system and component failures in a commercial or industrial setting.
• Multi-state licensing and/or active NCEES Record.
• Expert witness testimony experience.

Physical and Mental Job Qualifications

• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds at times.
• Must be able to travel to various project sites.
• Must be able to access and inspect all areas of mechanical and/or electrical equipment.
• Prolonged periods of standing, bending, kneeling, and lifting.

Benefits

• Flexible work environment allowing remote work when needed.
• Flexible Time Off policy.
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
• 401k Match.
• Commuter Benefit.

Pay

A reasonable estimate of the salary range for this role is $130,000 - $170,000. Any offered salary range is based on factors including but not limited to skillset, experience, training, location, scope of role, and management responsibility.

Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.