Structural Engineer

Job Description

Structural Forensic Engineer

Location: Phoenix, Arizona (Hybrid - requires ON SITE 2 days/week, local residents only)
Department: Structural Engineering
Requisition ID: 1001
Experience Level: Mid-Level
Salary Range: $90,000-$120,000 annually

About the Role

Knott Laboratory is seeking a Structural Forensic Engineer (P.E.) to join our investigative engineering team in Phoenix, Arizona. This hybrid-role offers the opportunity to work on diverse forensic projects involving structural failures, investigations, 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 recommendations for repair.

Key Responsibilities

Field Inspections & Investigations
  • Conduct structural inspections of residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, as well as CMU walls.
  • 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.

Engineering Analysis & Reporting
  • 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.
  • Ensure compliance with building codes, safety standards, and current industry practices, including wind and seismic load evaluations.

Project Management & Client Support
  • Develop scopes of work, project budgets, and proposal inputs.
  • Manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining quality, accuracy, and timeliness.
  • Provide strong client service with clear communication and timely follow-through.

Professional Growth & Contribution
  • 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.

Qualifications

Required
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil or Structural Engineering.
  • Minimum 3 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 Phoenix, Arizona area (local candidates only).
  • Ability to work in remote/home-office and field environments as required.

Preferred
  • 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.

Compensation & Benefits
  • Salary: $90,000-$120,000 (commensurate with experience and qualifications)
  • Schedule: Full-time, Monday-Friday, 7:30 AM-4:30 PM
  • Work Setting: Hybrid - approximately 60% remote/home office and 40% field inspections
  • Benefits:
    • Matching 401(k)
    • Company Profit Sharing Plan
    • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
    • Paid Time Off and Holidays
    • Professional Development Assistance
    • Tuition Reimbursement (up to $5,250/year)
    • Mileage reimbursement

Why Join Knott Laboratory?

You'll join a values-driven, people-first firm where innovation, expertise, and growth are celebrated. With over 40 years of experience, Knott Laboratory is a nationally recognized forensic engineering firm. Our engineers serve as expert witnesses and offer both pre-litigation and post-litigation consulting services, contributing to enhanced safety and the advancement of design standards.