Senior Structural Engineer - Forensics

The Vertex Companies - Fort Lauderdale, FL

Part-time - Mid Level

Fort Lauderdale, FL

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

The Forensic Structural Engineer position at The Vertex Companies, LLC involves conducting forensic investigations related to property damage claims and construction defects. The role requires a combination of technical expertise in civil engineering, strong business development skills, and the ability to produce detailed investigative reports. The position offers opportunities for mentorship and career advancement within a growing department.

Responsibilities

• Conduct forensic field inspections into the cause and origin of incidents related to residential and commercial property damage claims and/or construction or design defect claims.
• Assess the condition of existing structures for prospective buyers/sellers/tenants.
• Inspect in-construction structures to prevent future claims/losses (loss control).
• Research failures attributed to the building design or construction to determine cause and origin of incident.
• Develop detailed plans for remediation of loss: scope, schedule, budget.
• Develop expert investigative reports with detailed findings and plans for remediation for senior management review and client presentation.
• Plan and execute business development activities and presentations, including regular contact with existing and prospective clients in the region.
• Provide expert witness testimony for litigation cases.
• Assist in the training and mentoring of junior engineers.
• Ensure client satisfaction by meeting project on time and on budget expectations.
• Ensure all assignments are executed with technical proficiency, accuracy, and professionalism.

Requirements

• Bachelor's of Science in Civil Engineering (with emphasis in structures).
• Minimum of 7 years experience in forensics inspection of residential and commercial structures, ideally servicing attorney and insurance company clients.
• Licensed professional engineer (PE) or licensed structural engineer (SE), ability to obtain licensure in multiple states.
• Strong business development skills required with documented book of business.
• Strong knowledge of the residential (IRC), commercial (IBC) and existing (IEBC) I-codes.
• Understanding of wood, steel, concrete, and masonry structural framing and foundation components.
• Understanding of building envelope components preferred.
• Knowledge of computer operations and standard software packages (MS Office) required, MathCAD not required but beneficial.
• Ability to perform complex tasks and handle multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) in English.
• Ability to carry and operate a 24-foot extension ladder unassisted, walk on sloped roofs and uneven surfaces, and work in small spaces (attics, crawl spaces).

Benefits

• Healthcare (with multiple plan options)
• Dental insurance
• Company-paid Life Insurance
• Short Term Disability
• Long-Term Disability
• 401k plan with immediate match and vesting
• Flex Spending Account
• Employee Assistance Program
• Generous paid time off plan including 15 days of vacation, 64 hours of sick time, and 9.5 paid holidays
• Tuition reimbursement and additional support for pursuing advanced education through the 'Lifetime of Learning' program.