Forensic Structural Engineer
Location: Fairhope, AL (Hybrid)
Company: The Mertens Group, LLC
About Us
The Mertens Group is a forensic engineering and structural consulting firm serving clients throughout the United States. We investigate building failures, construction defects, weather-related damage, moisture intrusion, foundation movement, roof damage, and other structural concerns. Our work involves determining the cause of damage and providing clear, defensible engineering opinions for homeowners, attorneys, insurance professionals, contractors, and property owners.
Position Summary
We are seeking a licensed or license-track Structural Engineer to perform forensic investigations of residential and commercial structures. The successful candidate will conduct site inspections, analyze building conditions, determine causes of distress or damage, prepare technical reports, and communicate findings to clients and stakeholders.
Responsibilities
- Perform field investigations of residential and commercial structures
- Evaluate structural distress, settlement, moisture intrusion, roof damage, storm damage, and construction defects
- Review construction documents, photographs, weather data, and repair records
- Prepare engineering reports, letters, and expert opinions
- Develop repair recommendations when appropriate
- Communicate with clients, contractors, attorneys, insurance representatives, and property owners
- Conduct occasional travel throughout Alabama and across other states
- Provide deposition and litigation support as experience develops
Qualifications
- B.S. or M.S. in Civil Engineering with structural emphasis
- EIT required; PE preferred
- 2–10+ years of structural engineering experience
- Strong technical writing skills
- Comfortable performing roof, attic, crawlspace, and field inspections
- Ability to safely conduct field investigations, including ladder use, roof access, attic and crawlspace inspections, and lifting/carrying field equipment
- Ability to work independently and exercise sound professional judgment during field investigations and project execution
- Experience with forensic engineering, construction defects, or insurance-related investigations is a plus
Preferred Experience
- Structural assessments
- Building envelope investigations
- Residential and light commercial construction
- Construction defect litigation support
- Insurance claim investigations
Benefits
- Flexible work environment
- Competitive salary
- Performance-based bonus opportunities
- Professional development support
- Opportunity to work directly with firm leadership
- Potential for rapid career growth in a growing consulting practice
Pay: $60,000.00 - $125,000.00 per year
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Fairhope, AL 36532
