Structural Engineer

Knott Laboratory LLC•Austin, TX

11d•$90,000 - $120,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Knott Laboratory is seeking a Structural Forensic Engineer (P.E.) to join our investigative engineering team in Austin, Texas. This hybrid-role offers the opportunity to work on diverse forensic projects involving structural failures, construction defects, and repair design across residential, commercial, and industrial structures. This role is ideal for a motivated engineer who enjoys field work, analytical problem‑solving, client interaction, and clear technical communication. You’ll conduct on-site inspections, perform structural analyses, evaluate failures, and develop repair recommendations—while collaborating with senior experts on cases that may proceed to litigation.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Structural Engineering.
Minimum 2 years of structural engineering experience (design, inspection, analysis, or related).
Strong technical writing and verbal communication skills.
Ability to manage deadlines and multiple concurrent projects.
Proficiency with Autodesk design tools and Microsoft Office Suite (Teams and SharePoint emphasized).
Clean driving record, valid U.S. driver’s license, and reliable personal vehicle.
Residency in the Greater Austin, Texas area (local candidates only).
Ability to work in remote/home-office and field environments as required.

Nice To Haves

Professional Engineer (P.E.) license (or ability to obtain in the near term).
Experience with forensic engineering, construction defect analysis, or structural failure investigations.
Experience in litigation support environments.
Experience in construction management or advanced structural design.

Responsibilities

Conduct structural inspections of residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, as well as bridges and parking structures.
Perform site assessments requiring comfort with ladders, scaffolding, lifts, attic/crawlspace access, and various field environments.
Document field conditions through measurements, photographs, notes, and diagramming.
Analyze structural performance, evaluate failures, and determine root causes.
Develop repair, restoration, and retrofit designs to restore structural integrity.
Prepare detailed, professional reports for clients, including those intended for pre‑litigation or litigation use.
Ensure compliance with building codes, safety standards, and current industry practices, including wind and seismic load evaluations.
Develop scopes of work, project budgets, and proposal inputs.
Manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining quality, accuracy, and timeliness.
Collaborate with senior engineering experts to prepare exhibits, analyses, and documentation for depositions and trials.
Provide strong client service with clear communication and timely follow‑through.
Demonstrate a growth mindset with willingness to learn new software, tools, and investigative techniques.
Build and maintain relationships with clients in a dynamic and growing market.
Contribute to a collaborative, high‑performance team environment.