Structural Forensics Consultant (Licensed PE)

Department: Forensics Lerch Bates is seeking a Structural Forensics Consultant to investigate building performance issues, identify root causes of failures, and develop practical repair and rehabilitation solutions for existing buildings and structures. This role combines forensic investigation, structural assessment, building envelope evaluation, project management, and client consulting. You will lead field investigations, analyze building conditions, prepare technical reports, and collaborate with owners, architects, engineers, contractors, and project teams to deliver effective solutions. If you are a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) who enjoys solving real-world structural problems in existing buildings and delivering repair solutions that extend building life and performance, this role offers meaningful and high-impact work. Become an Employee-Owner One of the biggest advantages of working at Lerch Bates is that we are 100% employee-owned through our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Unlike many companies that offer only a salary and retirement plan, eligible employees receive company-funded ESOP shares at no cost to them as part of their long-term retirement benefits. As Lerch Bates grows, employee-owners share in the company's success. For many employees, the ESOP becomes one of the most valuable financial benefits of their career by helping build meaningful long-term wealth in addition to their salary and traditional 401(k). When you join Lerch Bates, you are not just building better buildings. You also have the opportunity to build your financial future alongside the company's success. About Lerch Bates Lerch Bates (LB) is a global technical consulting firm focused on improving how buildings perform for owners, designers, and the people who use them every day. For more than 75 years we’ve partnered on some of the world’s most complex and high-profile projects. Today we provide Total Building Performance expertise that integrates Building Science and Building Flow into a unified delivery model. Our work spans design, construction, investigation, repair, rehabilitation, management, and modernization with one consistent goal: helping clients make confident, well-informed decisions in an increasingly complex built environment. We are 100% employee-owned through our ESOP, which fosters an ownership mindset and accountability in everything we do. At Lerch Bates, your expertise matters, your voice carries weight, and your work directly contributes to our shared success as OneLB. What You’ll Do The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed in this position. They are not intended to prescribe or restrict the assignments that management may make. Building Investigations & Assessments Conduct on-site investigations and field assessments of existing buildings and structuresEvaluate structural systems, building enclosures, roofing systems, waterproofing assemblies, façade systems, and masonry componentsReview original construction documents, drawings, and historical project informationIdentify performance issues related to water intrusion, air leakage, condensation, structural deterioration, and construction defectsAnalyze observed conditions and determine probable causes of failures or deficiencies Technical Analysis & Reporting Prepare technical reports documenting findings, existing conditions, and repair recommendationsDevelop practical repair and restoration strategiesAnalyze deficiencies and determine long-term solutionsConduct peer reviews of technical reports and project findings Design Review & Project Coordination Participate in meetings with owners, developers, architects, contractors, adjusters, and consultantsCoordinate with internal engineers, designers, and project teamsReview construction documents, drawings, specifications, shop drawings, and submittalsVerify compliance with design intent, engineering principles, and industry standards Project Management & Construction Oversight Conduct site observations and quality assurance reviews during constructionDocument project progress and prepare field reportsProvide technical guidance to specialists and project team membersManage project scope, schedule, budgets, staffing, and deliverablesTrack project performance and resolve issues affecting quality or timelines Client Management & Leadership Serve as a trusted advisor throughout project lifecyclesBuild and maintain strong client relationshipsIdentify opportunities to expand services for existing clientsCommunicate project status, findings, and recommendations proactivelyMentor and support team members as applicable What You’ll Bring Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, or a related discipline5+ years of experience in architecture, engineering, construction, building science, rehabilitation, forensic consulting, or related industriesProfessional licensure such as PE, SE, AIA, or other relevant credentials preferredStrong understanding of residential, commercial, or institutional building systems and construction practicesKnowledge of building science and building enclosure systems, including roofing, waterproofing, façade systems, exterior wall assemblies, and air/moisture/thermal barriersExperience with structural investigations, rehabilitation projects, building envelope consulting, or forensic evaluations preferredStrong technical writing, communication, and presentation skills with the ability to clearly explain complex findings and recommendationsAbility to build relationships and collaborate effectively with clients, contractors, subcontractors, and internal teamsStrong organizational, analytical, and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and shifting prioritiesDemonstrated commitment to quality, accuracy, and attention to detailExperience with project budgeting, accounting, or financial management preferredExperience with AutoCAD, Revit, Bluebeam®, WUFI, THERM, or related design and analysis software preferred Why Work with Lerch Bates? Competitive base salary of $90,000 - $120,000 per year, based on experience, qualifications, and locationAnnual performance-based bonus opportunity, with target incentive levels varying by position and based on individual and company performance.100% Employee-Owned ESOP (company-funded retirement benefit that allows eligible employees to share in the company's long-term success)Health, dental, and vision insurancePaid time off (starting at 17 days annually)10 paid holidays401(k) with 6% employer matchPaid parental leaveProfessional development and tuition reimbursementEmployee assistance and wellness programs Be more than just an employee… Lerch Bates is 100% employee-owned! Our employee-owners bring a distinct “we own what we do” brand of technical consulting to every project and partnership. When you work with us, you join a company with an ownership mindset. Expect responsibility, service, and performance in everything we do. So, what does that mean for you? After a certain service time, you are eligible for stock ownership, which essentially works as an additional wealth accumulation and/or retirement account! Core Values Ownership Community Integrity Respect Optimism Working Environment This role includes a mixture of office and field work, including visits to active construction sites and existing buildings. Fieldwork may involve climbing, confined spaces, and exposure to construction environments. Reasonable accommodation is available upon request. Physical Demands The employee must be able to work at extreme heights using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and in various weather conditions (e.g., extreme heat, cold, and wet). The work environment varies greatly from a general office environment, construction sites and entry into tight spaces which requires the ability to tolerate constant up, down, forward and reversing motions while performing work Mental Demands This position requires strong written and verbal communication, problem-solving, and analytical skills. Employees must interpret complex information, apply mathematical and logical reasoning, quickly learn new skills, and manage detailed, multitask workloads under shifting deadlines. Regular interaction with executives, colleagues, clients, and external stakeholders is also expected. Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment background check and drug test. The drug test includes screening for marijuana, regardless of state or local laws permitting its use. A conditional offer of employment will be rescinded if a candidate fails either the background check or the drug test. This requirement is mandated by federal regulations applicable to our government contracting obligations. We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by law.