Consulting Engineer, Structural Investigator

Simpson Gumpertz & Heger•Chicago, IL

About The Position

Simpson Gumpertz & Heger (SGH) is a national engineering firm committed to delivering holistic advice for our clients’ most complex challenges. We leverage our collective and diverse experience, technical expertise, and industry knowledge of structures and building enclosures, advanced analysis, performance & code consulting, and applied science & research to deliver unrivaled, comprehensive solutions that drive superior performance. With 750 employees in ten office locations throughout the United States, SGH’s industry-leading teams constantly seek to advance the meaning of what’s possible. We are seeking someone who is passionate about investigating structural behavior, diagnosing problems in existing buildings and infrastructure, and developing repair or rehabilitation recommendations. As a Consulting Engineer, you will work closely with senior staff while taking increasing responsibility for project execution, client communication, and technical leadership.

Requirements

MS in Civil, Structural, or Architectural Engineering from an ABET-accredited university.
5–8+ years of experience in structural engineering, building evaluation, or forensic investigation.
Structural Engineer (SE) license in Illinois.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, including the ability to think critically and investigate failure mechanisms.
Experience with steel, concrete, masonry, and/or wood design and analysis.
Strong technical writing skills and comfort presenting findings to clients and project stakeholders.
Ability to conduct fieldwork, including climbing ladders, working at heights, in confined spaces, or on active construction sites.
Proficiency with structural analysis and modeling software (e.g., SAP2000, ETABS, RISA, RAM) and familiarity with Revit and/or AutoCAD.
Working knowledge of applicable codes and standards (IBC, ASCE 7, ACI, AISC, etc.).
Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to project sites in the U.S.

Responsibilities

Conduct field investigations to assess the condition and performance of existing structures, including buildings, garages, bridges, and other constructed facilities.
Perform structural analyses to evaluate load paths, material performance, deterioration mechanisms, and code compliance.
Assist in developing recommendations for repair, strengthening, or rehabilitation of various structural systems.
Prepare written reports, technical memos, drawings, and specifications with a high level of clarity and detail.
Manage components of projects, including planning fieldwork, coordinating with clients, and delegating tasks to junior staff.
Support senior engineers with failure investigations and forensic assessments.
Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams, including materials scientists, building technology consultants, and geotechnical engineers.
Participate in construction-phase services, such as reviewing submittals, responding to RFIs, and performing site observations.
Contribute to proposal preparation and client presentations as needed.
Continue to build expertise in structural behavior, materials performance, and investigative techniques.