Forensic Structural Engineer, Chicago II
Job Summary
We’re seeking a Forensic Structural Engineer in the Chicago, IL area. In this remote/home office role, you will investigate and evaluate the cause and extent of structural damage resulting from storms, natural disasters, fires/explosions, construction/design defects, accidents, foundation movement, and more.
Key Responsibilities
Conduct site inspections to determine the cause, origin, and extent of structural damage; evaluate failure modes and contributing factors.
Develop clear, well-supported conclusions and produce high-quality technical reports, documentation, and deliverables.
Provide timely, professional updates to clients, contractors, and internal stakeholders; proactively close communication gaps and manage expectations.
Work independently from a home office while leveraging internal experts and resources; build long-term relationships with colleagues, clients, and partners.
Drive issues to resolution with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring deliverables meet or exceed customer expectations and applicable standards.
Contribute ideas that strengthen processes, tools, and customer outcomes; help others navigate change and adopt improvements.
Qualifications and Experience
Experience: 1+ years’ forensic engineering experience preferred.
Must be able to work independently and with a cross-functional team of experts.
Strong technical writing skills are required; the ability to write effective reports is critical.
Strong verbal communication skills are necessary; you should be an effective communicator in face-to-face interactions.
The ability to provide the utmost in customer service to our clients is a must.
Technical proficiency with computers, phones, cameras, etc.
Expert Witness experience is preferred.
Licensure
Professional Engineer (P.E.) license in Illinois is required, or eligible by reciprocity.
Physical & Travel Requirements
Ability to perform fieldwork, including confined spaces and roof inspections.
Must be able to carry ladders and operate required equipment.
Willingness to travel locally, regionally, and nationally by vehicle or plane as needed.
Some overnight travel will be required. However, most investigations can be done without overnight travel.
Education
Bachelor of Science degree in Civil or Structural Engineering or a closely related degree from an ABET-accredited university required.
Master of Science Degree in Civil or Structural Engineering preferred.
Location
Remote (home office) – Chicago, IL area
Compensation & Benefits
Base salary range: $90,000 – $130,000
In addition to the base salary, the compensation plan includes additional, nondiscretionary compensation based on billable productivity above a minimum threshold.
Employees may elect at any time to transition to a model based primarily on a higher percentage of their billable rate applied to all billable hours worked.
This role is also eligible for a comprehensive U.S. based benefits package, including:
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) with company match
Paid time off and company holidays
Wellness programs and employee assistance resources
Professional development support
Benefits
For more information, visit our full benefits overview here.
Equal Opportunity Employment Statement
Salas O’Brien provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, or local laws.
Salas O’Brien will accommodate the disability-related needs of applicants as required by law.
Third-Party Agency Notice
We do not accept unsolicited resumes from external recruiters or agencies. We only work with approved partners engaged directly by our Talent Acquisition team for specific searches. Unsolicited submissions will not be eligible for placement fees.