Structural Engineer

Structural Forensic Engineer

Location: Austin, Texas (ON SITE / HYBRID)
Department: Structural Engineering
Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level
Salary Range: $105,000–$140,000 annually

About the Role

Knott Laboratory is seeking a Structural Engineer (P.E.) to join our investigative engineering team in Austin, Texas. This hybrid-role offers the opportunity to work on diverse forensic projects involving structural failures, investigations, and repair design across residential, commercial, and industrial structures.

This role is ideal for a motivated engineer who enjoys field work, analytical problem‑solving, client interaction, and clear technical communication. You’ll conduct on-site inspections, perform structural analyses, evaluate failures, and develop recommendations for repair.

Key Responsibilities

Field Inspections & Investigations

• Conduct structural inspections of residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, as well as CMU walls.
• Perform site assessments requiring comfort with ladders, scaffolding, lifts, attic/crawlspace access, and various field environments.
• Document field conditions through measurements, photographs, notes, and diagramming.

Engineering Analysis & Reporting

• Analyze structural performance, evaluate failures, and determine root causes.
• Develop repair, restoration, and retrofit designs to restore structural integrity.
• Prepare detailed, professional reports for clients.
• Ensure compliance with building codes, safety standards, and current industry practices, including wind and seismic load evaluations.

Project Management & Client Support

• Develop scopes of work, project budgets, and proposal inputs.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining quality, accuracy, and timeliness.
• Provide strong client service with clear communication and timely follow‑through.

Professional Growth & Contribution

• Demonstrate a growth mindset with willingness to learn new software, tools, and investigative techniques.
• Build and maintain relationships with clients in a dynamic and growing market.
• Contribute to a collaborative, high‑performance team environment.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Structural Engineering
• Texas Professional Engineer (P.E.) license
• Minimum 8+ years of structural engineering experience (design, inspection, analysis, or related).
• Strong technical writing and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage deadlines and multiple concurrent projects.
• Proficiency with Autodesk design tools and Microsoft Office Suite (Teams and SharePoint emphasized).
• Clean driving record, valid U.S. driver’s license, and reliable personal vehicle.
• Residency in the Austin, Texas area (local candidates only).
• Ability to work in remote/home-office and field environments as required.
• Authorization to work in the US without sponsorship, now or in the future

Preferred

• Experience with forensic engineering, construction defect analysis, or structural failure investigations.

• Experience in construction management or advanced structural design.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $105,000–$140,000 (commensurate with experience and qualifications)
• Schedule: Full-time, Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM–4:30 PM
• Work Setting: Hybrid — approximately 60% remote/home office and 40% field inspections
• Benefits:
  • Matching 401(k)
  • Company Profit Sharing Plan
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Paid Time Off and Holidays
  • Professional Development Assistance
  • Tuition Reimbursement (up to $5,250/year)
  • Mileage reimbursement

Why Join Knott Laboratory?

You’ll join a values‑driven, people‑first firm where innovation, expertise, and growth are celebrated. With over 40 years of experience, Knott Laboratory is a nationally recognized forensic engineering firm. Our engineers serve as expert witnesses and offer both pre-litigation and post-litigation consulting services, contributing to enhanced safety and the advancement of design standards.