Forensic Structural Engineer III, Detroit, MI

Haag, a Salas O'Brien Company•, MI

2d•$125,000 - $185,000•Remote

About The Position

Haag, a Salas O’Brien company, is seeking an experienced Forensic Structural Engineer in the Detroit, Michigan area. This remote, home-office role investigates and evaluates the cause and extent of structural damage arising from storms, natural disasters, fires and explosions, construction or design defects, accidents, foundation movement, and other causes. The engineer conducts field investigations, evaluates failure modes and contributing factors, and develops clear, well-supported conclusions and technical reports. The role involves independent work from a home office alongside collaboration with internal experts and external stakeholders. The engineer communicates professionally with clients and partners, manages expectations, drives issues to resolution, and helps improve processes, tools, and customer outcomes. Fieldwork may include confined spaces and roof inspections, and travel locally, regionally, and nationally is required as needed, including some overnight travel. The position requires a Michigan Professional Engineer license or eligibility through reciprocity, and a bachelor’s degree in civil or structural engineering or a closely related discipline from an ABET-accredited university. A master’s degree and expert witness experience are preferred. The listed base salary range is $125,000–$185,000 per year, with additional nondiscretionary compensation tied to billable productivity and an alternative billable-rate compensation model available. The role is eligible for a U.S.-based benefits package.

Requirements

At least 2 years of forensic engineering experience.
Ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team of experts.
Strong technical writing skills and the ability to produce effective reports.
Strong verbal communication skills, including effective face-to-face communication.
Commitment to providing excellent customer service to clients.
Technical proficiency with computers, phones, cameras, and similar equipment.
Professional Engineer (P.E.) license in Michigan, or eligibility for licensure by reciprocity.
Legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship or restrictions.
Bachelor of Science degree in civil or structural engineering, or a closely related degree, from an ABET-accredited university.
Ability to perform fieldwork, including confined-space and roof inspections; carry ladders; and operate required equipment.
Willingness to travel locally, regionally, and nationally by vehicle or plane as needed, including some overnight travel.

Nice To Haves

5–10 years of forensic engineering experience preferred.
Expert witness experience preferred.
Master of Science degree in civil or structural engineering preferred.

Responsibilities

Conduct site inspections to determine the cause, origin, and extent of structural damage and evaluate failure modes and contributing factors.
Develop well-supported conclusions and prepare technical reports, documentation, and other deliverables.
Provide timely, professional updates to clients, contractors, and internal stakeholders; close communication gaps and manage expectations.
Work independently from a home office while using internal experts and resources, and build long-term relationships with colleagues, clients, and partners.
Drive issues to resolution with internal and external stakeholders and ensure deliverables meet or exceed customer expectations and applicable standards.
Contribute ideas to improve processes, tools, and customer outcomes, and help others navigate and adopt improvements.
Perform fieldwork, including inspections in confined spaces and on roofs, and travel locally, regionally, and nationally as needed.