Forensic Civil​/Structural Engineer - Des Moines, IA

Overview

Provides forensic consulting services requiring civil/structural engineering expertise for insurance, legal, industrial, and other clients. Assesses and determines the cause and origin of structural failures and/or damage, building envelope failures and/or damage, and construction defects, and determines the extent and repairability of such failures and/or damage. Provides oral and written reports of findings and, when needed, expert testimony. Manages multiple projects.

• Performs the investigation and analysis of residential, commercial, and industrial properties to resolve claims and legal matters.
• Performs forensic assignments within the field of civil/structural engineering expertise based upon a scope of work and budget prepared by the consultant and agreed upon by the client in advance of performing the work.
• Field Investigations:
  Study and determine the cause and origin of construction defects or structural failures and/or damage, and building envelope failures and/or damage, the extent and repairability. Includes gathering photographic evidence, conducting on-site investigations, conducting in-person and/or telephone interviews, overseeing field testing, reviewing construction and/or design drawings, contracts, specifications, and historical documentation.
• Preparation of oral and written reports to document causes of failure/damage, extent of loss, associated repair scope, and recommendations, including expert testimony in litigation matters.
• Manages multiple projects, coordinating with other experts and support as needed to produce client reports promptly.
• Ensures procedures are followed and performs safety and due diligence of the project when it is being completed.
• Initiates, develops, and maintains mutually beneficial client relationships.

• S. Civil or Structural Engineering degree or higher.
• E. required in the state of employment or the ability to obtain it quickly.
• NCEE record preferred.
• 5+ years of experience.
• Project Management and/or Field Investigation preferred.
• Depending on location, other licenses or certifications may be required.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• High level of analytical skills. Prioritizes attention to detail, defines problems, collects data, establishes facts, and draws valid conclusions.
• Interacts and communicates with clients at all levels.
• Keen knowledge of computer software applications including but not limited to Microsoft Office and engineering/design software.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret standard scientific/technical reports or journals, financial reports, and legal documents.
• Ability to write scopes of work, budget estimates, schedules, reports of findings, proposals, general correspondence, and other technical documents.
• Ability to respond to inquiries from internal and external clients, and effectively present information to top management, clients, public groups, and/or boards of directors.

Competitive salary, bonus opportunities, and full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, employer‑matching 401(k), and opportunities for advancement.

• Physical Demands – Work performed in both office settings and at various outside locations (clients’ offices, industrial, construction, residential sites). Requires standing, walking on sloped roofs, climbing ladders, bending, carrying up to 50 pounds, driving a motor vehicle to job sites, and frequent vision and depth perception requirements.
• Overtime – Exempt salaried position; regular hours 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday to Friday, one‑hour lunch break; overtime may be required to meet demands.
• Travel Requirements – Up to 50% local/regional travel; less than 5% outside area and overnight.

Rimkus is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer and will make all employment‑related decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

THIS JOB DESCRIPTION IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A CONTRACT FOR EMPLOYMENT OR A GUARANTEE OF CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT.