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Forensic Structural Engineer Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Architect - Premises Liability

Portland, OR ยท On-site

$69 - $89/hr

Rimkus experts specialize in building envelope engineering, forensic consulting, dispute resolution ... Studies and determines the cause and origin of construction defects or structural failures.

Forensic Structural Engineer information

See Oregon salary details

$46K

$122.1K

$177.1K

How much do forensic structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic structural engineer in Oregon is $122,063.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,600.00 and $142,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by forensic structural engineers when investigating building failures?

Forensic structural engineers often encounter challenges such as limited access to damaged or hazardous sites, incomplete or missing construction records, and the need to differentiate between original construction flaws and damage caused by external factors like weather or accidents. Collaborating with legal teams, insurance adjusters, and other engineering specialists is common, requiring excellent communication and documentation skills. The role frequently involves balancing investigative rigor with tight deadlines, especially when findings will be used in legal or insurance contexts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Forensic Structural Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forensic Structural Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or structural engineering, typically with a bachelor's or master's degree and a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with structural analysis software, building codes, and forensic investigation tools is crucial for accurately evaluating failures. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set professionals apart in this field. These skills and qualifications are essential for accurately diagnosing structural issues, presenting findings clearly, and ensuring safety and accountability in the built environment.

What Is the Job of a Forensic Structural Engineer?

A forensic structural engineer handles the investigation and inspection of building structures to ensure compliance with industry regulation and discover reasons for failure. Your primary responsibilities in this career have you analyzing damage to structures, identifying causes of structural failures, and preparing reports on your findings. Your duties may also include developing protocols for dealing with compliance issues, reviewing photos and site information, and researching code specifications. A forensic structural engineer often works on multiple projects, visits various field sites, and collaborates with several team members.

What are forensic structural engineers?

Forensic structural engineers are professionals who investigate and analyze structures that have failed, been damaged, or are performing unsatisfactorily. Their work involves determining the causes of structural failures, such as building collapses, material degradation, or design errors, often as part of legal or insurance cases. They use engineering principles, site inspections, material testing, and historical research to identify problems and provide recommendations for remediation or legal proceedings. Forensic structural engineers often serve as expert witnesses in court and help prevent similar failures in the future by sharing their findings.

What is the difference between Forensic Structural Engineer vs Structural Engineer?

AspectForensic Structural EngineerStructural Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, PE license, specialized training in failure analysisEngineering degree, PE license, design and analysis certifications
Work EnvironmentInvestigations, courtrooms, consulting firmsDesign firms, construction sites, consulting
Industry UsageLegal cases, failure investigations, insurance claimsBuilding design, construction projects, infrastructure

While both roles require engineering credentials and involve structural analysis, forensic structural engineers focus on investigating structural failures and providing expert testimony, whereas structural engineers primarily design and analyze structures for new projects. The forensic role is more investigative and often involves legal or insurance contexts, while the structural engineer role is centered on construction and design.

What job categories do people searching Forensic Structural Engineer jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Structural Engineer jobs in Oregon are:
What are popular job titles related to Forensic Structural Engineer jobs in OR? For Forensic Structural Engineer jobs in OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) - Forensic Engineer

Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) - Forensic Engineer

J2 Building Consultants

Portland, OR โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Salary: $95,000 - $140,000

Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) - Forensic Engineer/Building Envelope Specialist


Love solving building problems? Ready to stamp AND lead?

J2 Building Consultants is looking for aLicensed Professional Engineer (PE) to join our growing team of problem-solvers and building experts. Youll be investigating real issues in the field, collaborating with a talented team, and using your license to make a real impact. This is NOT a production drafting or pure design role. Youll be the one who answers the tough questions and signs off on the solutions.


We need someone who is licensed (in WA, OR, and/or UT) and confident stamping structural reports and designs. You dont need 7+ years of experience. You just need to know your stuff, be willing to learn fast, and ready to dive into the field.


WHAT YOU'LL DO

Stamp with Confidence
You're licensed for a reason. Youll review, approve, and stamp designs, drawings, and recommendations that meet code and keep people safe.

Solve Structural Mysteries
Conduct inspections, assess failures, and figure out the "why" behind the issue. From roofing to cladding to waterproofingyoull be in the field diagnosing problems.

Collaborate & Communicate
Work closely with project managers, designers, and clients. Translate complex engineering findings into practical, actionable solutions.

Balance Office and Field
Split your time between analysis, report writing, and site investigations. From crawlspaces to rooftops, youll get hands-on with the buildings youre improving.


WHO YOU ARE

Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) (WA, OR, UT or able to obtain)
Interested in both technical work AND project ownership
Naturally curious you like figuring out why things failed
Not looking for a large, siloed firm
Comfortable working in a hands-on, collaborative environment
Open to wearing multiple hats as you grow


Bonus points if you:

  • Have experience in building envelope consulting or forensic work
  • Know your way around structural analysis software (ETABS, SAP2000, RISA, etc.)
  • Have additional PE licensure in ID, or elsewhere


WHAT THIS ROLE IS NOT

This is not a pure design or production role
This is not a large corporate environment with rigid structure
This is not a stay in your lane type of job


GROWTH & LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITY

This is not a role where youll wait years to move up.


At J2, we are a smaller, growing firm which means the right person has the opportunity to take on leadership responsibilities quickly. Our structure allows you to grow into senior technical and leadership roles, including future leadership of the engineering function.


If youre looking for a place where you can:

  • Take ownership of your work
  • Grow into a leadership role
  • Have a real voice in how things are done


This is that opportunity.


That said, this isnt a plug-and-play leadership role its something you grow into by earning trust, building expertise, and consistently taking ownership.


WHAT YOULL GET

Competitive salary + monthly incentive bonuses
100% employer-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision for employees - dependents can be added at the employee's cost

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
401(k) with company match
Paid vacation and sick time, plus 8 holidays
HSA, Costco & Gym membership reimbursements
Monthly cell phone reimbursement
Company-paid Life, AD&D, and Disability insurance
Professional development support
A solid team that values trust, autonomy, and high standards


WHY J2?

Were a building envelope consulting firm - but were not like every other firm. We prioritize:

  • Quality over quantity
  • People over process
  • Autonomy over micromanagement
  • Growth over ego


We take pride in doing great work, supporting one another, and building a team we genuinely enjoy working with. If you want to grow your impact, learn from other sharp professionals, and take ownership of your projects, we'd love to meet you.


And yes were dog-friendly. Office walks are encouraged.


Note: This is a hybrid field/office role with required in-person presence. Applicants must be able to reliably commute MondayFriday.


And just so you know:
Yes, this is a real open position. No ghost postings, no AI bots screening your app. Every application is reviewed by an actual human (hi, thats me ).

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement


At J2 Building Consultants, were committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer. That means every qualified candidate and employee has access to fair, equitable opportunitiesno matter their race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.


This commitment applies to all areas of employment, including hiring, promotions, compensation, training, and day-to-day workplace culture. Our practices are aligned with the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII), along with all other applicable federal, state, and local employment laws.


If you have questions about our hiring practices or our commitment to equity and inclusion, feel free to reach out tohr@j2consultants.com.