Forensic Scientist Phd Jobs (NOW HIRING)

At Haag, a Salas O’Brien company, we’ve been a trusted leader in forensic engineering and consulting since 1924, helping clients solve complex, high-stakes problems when it matters most. We’re known for technical excellence, integrity, and clear, defensible conclusions. We’re equally committed to building a career environment where talented engineers can do their best work, grow their expertise, and make a real impact.

In June 2024, Haag merged with Salas O’Brien, expanding what’s possible for our team. Haag remains focused on forensic engineering, and we now offer the added strength of a broader, employee-owned organization. This brings deeper technical resources, expanded collaboration, and more opportunities to build your career across a wide range of disciplines and industries.

Founded in 1975, Salas O’Brien is an employee-owned engineering and professional services firm focused on achieving impact for our clients, our team, and the world. We are engineered for impact, and we bring that same commitment to our people as we do to our projects.

We work across a variety of industries providing integrated engineering and consulting services. Our specialized experience includes design for energy, manufacturing and industrial process, data centers, healthcare, science and technology, high-rise buildings, education, and more.

We’re seeking a Forensic Electrical Engineer to join our team. In this remote/home office role, you will investigate and evaluate the root cause and extent of failures and damage involving electrical systems, components, and devices across residential, commercial, and industrial settings.

• Forensic Investigations: Conduct field inspections to determine the origin, cause, and extent of electrical failures, including fires, explosions, and system malfunctions.
• Analysis & Reporting: Develop clear, well-supported conclusions and produce comprehensive technical reports and documentation.
• Client Communication: Provide timely, professional updates to clients, attorneys, insurers, and internal stakeholders; manage expectations and maintain strong relationships.
• Collaboration & Independence: Work independently from a home office while leveraging internal expertise and resources across disciplines.
• Project Ownership: Drive investigations through completion, ensuring high-quality deliverables that meet client expectations and industry standards.
• Continuous Improvement: Contribute ideas to enhance processes, tools, and technical approaches to improve client outcomes.

• 5–10 years of experience working with or designing electrical systems.
• Forensic engineering experience strongly preferred.
• Experience investigating electrical failures, fires, or explosions.
• Expert witness experience, including depositions and trial testimony, preferred.
• Strong technical writing skills; ability to produce clear, defensible reports is critical.
• Strong verbal communication and client service skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a cross-functional environment.
• Proficiency with technical tools (computers, cameras, and engineering software).
• Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.

• Professional Engineer (P.E.) license required.
• Additional state licenses or ability to obtain via reciprocity preferred.
• CFEI (NAFI), CFI, or related certifications preferred.
• NCEES Record preferred.

• Ability to perform field investigations, including inspections in confined spaces, rooftops, and industrial environments.
• Ability to transport equipment and conduct site assessments safely.
• Willingness to travel locally, regionally, and nationally as needed, including occasional overnight travel.

• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from an ABET-accredited university required.
• Master’s or PhD in Electrical Engineering preferred.

• Remote (home office) – U.S.-based (major metro areas preferred)

• Base salary range: $120,000 – $170,000
• Additional nondiscretionary compensation tied to billable productivity
• Opportunity to transition to a productivity-based compensation model over time

This role is also eligible for a comprehensive U.S. benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and company holidays
• Life, disability, and AD&D coverage
• Health savings account and wellness resources
• Professional development and training through Haag Education and Certification programs

Salas O’Brien provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type, consistent with applicable laws.

We do not accept unsolicited resumes from third-party recruiters or agencies. Submissions without an active agreement will not be eligible for placement fees.