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Forensic Structural Engineer Jobs in Pennsylvania

Thornton Tomasetti applies engineering and scientific principles to solve the world's challenges ... structural forensic investigation, litigation support, risk loss consulting, and structural repair.

We are currently seeking a 1099 Independent Contractor professional Civil or Structural Engineer ... Must have or obtain necessary equipment to perform assigned and accepted forensic projects.

We are currently seeking a 1099 Independent Contractor professional Civil or Structural Engineer ... Must have or obtain necessary equipment to perform assigned and accepted forensic projects.

Assesses and determines the cause and origin of structural failures and/or damage, building ... Performs forensic assignments within the field of civil engineering expertise based upon a scope of ...

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Forensic Structural Engineer information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$43.6K

$115.7K

$167.9K

How much do forensic structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic structural engineer in Pennsylvania is $115,727.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,200.00 and $134,800.00 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 are popular job titles related to Forensic Structural Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania? For Forensic Structural Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Structural Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Structural Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania are:
What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Forensic Structural Engineer jobs? Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Forensic Structural Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Forensic Structural Engineer jobs in PA? For Forensic Structural Engineer jobs in PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Forensic Structural Engineer job openings in Pennsylvania as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $115,727 per year, or $55.6 per hour.

Structural Engineer - Forensic Investigator

Robson Forensic

Lancaster, PA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 11 hours ago


Job description

You are a P.E. with 15+ years of hands-on structural engineering experience, seeking an intellectually stimulating new challenge. You have a broad understanding of design and construction.

You are already an expert. Robson Forensic will train you to be a forensic expert.

As a Structural Engineering Forensic Expert, you will:

  • Investigate structural engineering incidents.
  • Analyze structural engineering procedures, applying your comprehensive knowledge of standards and practices.
  • Write clear, scientifically sound reports.
  • Provide expert testimony.


You will delve into the "why" behind incidents, critically assessing decision-making, operational procedures, and the standard of care. This role offers you a chance to:

  • Use your cumulative training, experience, and critical thinking skills.
  • Collaborate with highly respected experts.
  • Continuously learn and grow.
  • Make a tangible difference.

Locations: Columbus/Dublin, OH & Lancaster, PA (hybrid)

Requirements:

  • Licensure: Active Professional Engineer (P.E.) license; S.E license is a plus.

  • Education: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering.

  • Experience: 15+ years of hands-on structural engineering experience, including broad structural and vertical construction experience (horizontal also is a plus); construction management, maintenance, and structural design experience in residential, industrial, institutional, or commercial structures.

  • Skills: Excellent technical, analytical, writing, and communication skills.

  • Aptitude: Strong ability to translate complex technical findings into clear, objective evidence for non-technical audiences.

  • Work Style: Approximately 20% travel for inspections; the remainder is focused on analysis and report drafting, working independently and as part of a collaborative team.

  • Prior forensic experience is not required. We seek professionals eager to apply their deep industry knowledge to a challenging new area.

    You must have a clean background screen, a driver’s license, and the ability to drive.

About Us:

Robson Forensic is a national leader in expert witness consulting, providing technical expertise across many fields within engineering, architecture, science, and a broad range of specialty disciplines.

Employees at Robson Forensic work alongside highly respected experts from both industry and academia. Our forensic experts are engaged in meaningful casework that is consequential to industry and society. Robson Forensic provides a unique working dynamic that blends collaboration and autonomy.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

How to Apply:

If this opportunity meets your requirements for a challenging and rewarding career and you meet our minimum requirements, please apply at robsonforensic.com/careers and attach your resume and a cover letter outlining your professional background and experience.