Existing Building Repair & Forensics Engineer
About The Position
Lerch Bates is seeking an Existing Building Repair & Forensics Engineer to evaluate existing buildings, investigate building performance issues, develop repair and rehabilitation solutions, and support projects from initial assessment through construction completion. The role involves a mix of field investigations, design, problem-solving, technical consulting, and project management across building enclosures, structural systems, roofing assemblies, waterproofing systems, exterior facades, and other building components. The engineer helps clients understand building conditions, identify deterioration or failure causes, and develop practical, cost-effective strategies to improve performance and extend service life. The work includes conducting building assessments; reviewing drawings, specifications, historical documents, and construction records; documenting findings; preparing repair recommendations, drawings, specifications, and bid documents; participating in design reviews; and supporting construction administration and quality assurance. The engineer also supports multiple projects, coordinates schedules and communications, prepares reports and presentations, and builds relationships with clients and project stakeholders. Lerch Bates is a global technical consulting firm focused on building performance, with work spanning design, construction, investigation, repair, rehabilitation, management, and modernization. The company is 100% employee-owned through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). The position is performed across office, remote, client, and field environments, with regular travel to project sites.
Requirements
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, Construction Engineering, Architecture, Building Science, or a related discipline.
- Professional Engineer (PE) license or ability to obtain licensure within six months.
- At least 4 years of experience in engineering, architecture, construction, building science, restoration, rehabilitation, forensic engineering, or a related field.
- Knowledge of building design, construction methods, and building enclosure systems.
- Experience evaluating or working with roofing, waterproofing, facades, exterior walls, fenestration systems, or structural systems.
- Strong technical writing and communication skills.
- Ability to analyze problems, develop solutions, and communicate recommendations effectively.
- Experience reviewing drawings, specifications, construction documents, and shop drawings.
- Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
- Ability to work independently and contribute within a collaborative team environment.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Bluebeam.
Nice To Haves
- Experience with AutoCAD, Revit, WUFI, THERM, or similar design and analysis software.
- Experience with building restoration, rehabilitation, repair design, forensics, or existing building consulting.
- Previous experience working for a contractor specializing in structural, waterproofing, roofing, or building enclosure projects.
- Experience with project budgeting and project financial management.
- Exposure to condition assessments, reserve studies, capital planning, or forensic investigations.
- Professional involvement with IIBEC, AIA, ASCE, SEI, or similar industry organizations.
Responsibilities
- Conduct field investigations and condition assessments of existing buildings.
- Evaluate building enclosure systems, roofing systems, waterproofing assemblies, exterior facades, and structural components.
- Review drawings, specifications, historical documents, and construction records to understand existing conditions and identify concerns.
- Identify sources of water intrusion, air leakage, condensation, facade distress, structural deterioration, and other building performance issues.
- Document findings through field reports, technical assessments, photographs, and presentations.
- Assist in developing repair, rehabilitation, and restoration recommendations.
- Prepare and review construction drawings, technical specifications, and bid documents.
- Coordinate with architects, engineers, consultants, and technical staff during project development.
- Participate in design reviews and technical discussions about repair strategies and project execution.
- Review submittals and shop drawings for conformance with project requirements and design intent.
- Conduct site visits and construction observations during repair and rehabilitation projects.
- Review construction progress for compliance with contract documents, industry standards, and project requirements.
- Prepare site observation reports and communicate findings to project teams and clients.
- Support construction quality assurance and help resolve field-related issues.
- Support management of multiple projects, including schedules, deliverables, client communications, project tracking, budgeting, and quality control.
- Prepare technical reports, recommendations, and client presentations.
- Build and maintain relationships with owners, property managers, architects, contractors, and industry partners.
Benefits
- Annual performance-based bonus opportunity.
- 100% employee-owned ESOP with company-funded retirement benefits.
- Health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Paid time off starting at 17 days annually.
- 10 paid holidays.
- 401(k) with 6% employer match.
- Paid parental leave.
- Professional development and tuition reimbursement.
- Employee assistance and wellness programs.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
