Structural Engineering

About the role

This role focuses on performing forensic structural engineering field work to document as-built conditions and damage to structural systems caused by natural events and human-induced issues. The Structural Engineer evaluates structural designs, determines causes of damage, and develops repair recommendations using building codes, engineering principles, and construction knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Conduct field investigations to document as-built structural conditions and damage resulting from natural events such as floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, fires, earthquakes, and other catastrophic events, as well as from human-induced causes such as design or construction errors and omissions.
• Perform forensic evaluations of structural systems to determine the cause and origin of damage and develop appropriate repair scope recommendations.
• Utilize building codes, standards, and technical knowledge of structural behavior and construction practices to analyze existing structures and prepare engineering conclusions.
• Review and evaluate design drawings, specifications, and related documentation to assess compliance, identify deficiencies, and support forensic findings.
• Prepare clear, detailed, and well-organized written reports that document observations, analyses, conclusions, and repair recommendations.
• Communicate findings and technical concepts effectively to clients, code officials, contractors, and other stakeholders in both written and oral form.
• Interface with building code officials and other authorities having jurisdiction to discuss code interpretations, compliance issues, and repair approaches.
• Collaborate with contractors and other design professionals during investigations and implementation of recommended repairs.
• Manage multiple project assignments concurrently, including planning, scheduling, and executing tasks to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.
• Travel throughout the United States, sometimes on short notice, to perform on-site evaluations, particularly in areas affected by natural disasters.
• Physically access and inspect building components, including carrying and climbing ladders for roof access, navigating steep-slope roofs up to a 6:12 pitch, and using scaffolds and lifts as needed.
• Support the development and retention of client relationships through responsive communication, high-quality deliverables, and professional conduct.
• Contribute to litigation support efforts, including providing expert testimony at depositions, trials, mediations, and arbitration proceedings, as needed and where experience allows.
• Apply knowledge of national building and construction codes such as ICC, ASCE, AISC, ACI, and NDS in forensic evaluations and repair recommendations.
• Cook up with internal team members and external consultants, including MEP and civil engineers, to deliver integrated forensic and structural solutions.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering or Architectural Engineering from an ABET-accredited program.
• New Jersey Licensed Professional Engineer obtained through NCEES examination.
• Minimum of 5 years of structural engineering experience in design or other roles that develop a strong understanding of structural behavior.
• Demonstrated experience in structural engineering and structural design, including structural steel design.
• Field experience performing on-site evaluations, inspections, or investigations of structural systems.
• Knowledge of multiple construction types, including cement, steel, concrete, wood frame, masonry, and building envelopes.
• Proficiency in applying national building and construction codes such as ICC, ASCE, AISC, ACI, and NDS.
• Strong written communication skills for preparing detailed technical reports and documentation.
• Strong oral communication skills for interacting with clients, code officials, contractors, and other stakeholders.
• Ability and willingness to travel throughout the United States, including on short notice, for field assignments and disaster-related investigations.
• Ability to physically carry and climb ladders, access roofs, navigate steep-slope roofing up to a 6:12 pitch, and use scaffolds and lifts safely.
• Eligibility to work in the United States.
• Good driving record suitable for frequent travel to project sites.

Qualifications

• Experience providing litigation support, including expert testimony at depositions and trials, as well as participation in mediation and arbitration proceedings.
• Experience in forensic engineering or failure analysis of structural systems.
• Experience with construction practices and procedures related to a variety of structural systems and materials.
• Ability to develop and maintain strong client relationships and contribute to repeat business.
• Multiple state Professional Engineer registrations or the ability to obtain additional state licenses.
• Experience working on projects related to natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, fires, and earthquakes.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills for handling multiple concurrent projects.
• Ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams, including MEP and civil engineers and external consultants.

Skills

• Forensic Structural Engineering
• Building Codes and Standards
• Structural Analysis
• Technical Writing
• Client Communication
• Project Management
• Physical Inspection
• Literature Review
• Expert Testimony
• Collaboration

Benefits

Commensurate with experience.

Pay

$90,000.00 - $130,000.00/yr.

Schedule

Full-time.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation, and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia, and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.