Senior Forensic Engineer

J.S. Held•New York, NY

About The Position

J.S. Held is seeking a highly experienced and technically accomplished Senior Forensic Engineer to serve as a senior-level contributor within its Forensic Architecture & Engineering practice. The role is suited to a licensed professional engineer with expertise in large-loss forensic investigations, litigation support, and technical reporting. The Senior Forensic Engineer will lead complex investigations, provide expert analysis and testimony, and act as a technical advisor to clients. The position offers visibility and influence across the practice, with opportunities to mentor or manage staff, contribute to thought leadership, and support business development. The individual is expected to bring existing client relationships to support revenue generation and the continued growth of the practice. The role includes client engagement and business development, strategic leadership and team development, and technical oversight and project delivery. The employee will oversee and conduct investigations into structural failures, construction defects, and material performance issues; prepare and review expert reports and litigation support documents; and testify as an expert witness when required. The position requires travel to project sites and field investigations, including work in hot and cold environments and physical activity such as carrying equipment, climbing, standing, walking, kneeling, and crouching for extended periods. J.S. Held describes a flexible work environment that allows employees to work remotely when needed. Benefits listed include flexible time off, medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) match, and a commuter benefit.

Requirements

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Civil, Structural, or a related Engineering field from an ABET-accredited program.
Active PE or SE license.
Advanced engineering experience, including forensic consulting.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including expert report writing and courtroom testimony.
Ability to travel to project sites and conduct field investigations.
Ability to work in hot and cold environments.
Ability to carry and operate equipment relevant to the role.
Physical ability to climb, stand, walk, kneel, and crouch for extended periods.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with insurance carriers, law firms, or construction litigation.
Ability to work independently and manage multiple complex assignments.
Existing client relationships to support revenue generation and practice growth.

Responsibilities

Serve as a senior point of contact for clients, supporting satisfaction and long-term relationships.
Identify and pursue business opportunities in the insurance, legal, and construction sectors.
Represent the firm at industry events, conferences, and client meetings.
Collaborate with senior leadership to define and implement growth strategies.
Help mentor and grow a team of engineers, fostering a collaborative, high-performance culture.
Provide strategic direction and oversight on client engagements to ensure quality and consistency.
Support professional development and knowledge sharing across the team.
Oversee and conduct forensic investigations into structural failures, construction defects, and material performance issues.
Prepare and review expert reports, technical analyses, and litigation support documents.
Testify as an expert witness in legal proceedings when required.
Ensure consistency in inspection methodology, client communication, and deliverable quality.