Mechanical Engineer
Charleston, South Carolina
Mechanical Forensic Engineer
📍 Charleston, SC (Projects Across the Southeast)
✈️ ~25% Travel | Field-Based Role
💼 Full Benefits
About the Opportunity
Join a highly respected forensic engineering firm specializing in structural and mechanical investigations across the Southeast. This team works on complex, real-world cases—building failures, moisture intrusion, construction disputes, and storm-related claims that often lead to litigation.
The firm is intentionally small, technically rigorous, and trusted by insurers, developers, and legal teams. Engineers here take ownership of their work, collaborate closely with experts, and build careers in a specialized, high-demand niche.
What You’ll Be Doing
This role offers a mix of fieldwork, analysis, and client interaction. You won’t be stuck behind a desk—you’ll be actively investigating, solving, and communicating findings.
Investigate mechanical and building system failures, including HVAC, plumbing, fire suppression, and building envelope issues
Determine origin, cause, and contributing factors of failures and construction defects
Conduct site inspections, document conditions, and collect system data
Review construction documents, maintenance records, and applicable codes/standards
Perform engineering calculations and develop clear, defensible reports
Collaborate with attorneys, insurers, contractors, and other experts
Support litigation efforts, including depositions and trial testimony
Respond to storm and catastrophe events across the Southeast
Coordinate and interpret laboratory testing when needed
Build and maintain strong client relationships
What You Bring
🎓 B.S. in Mechanical Engineering (required)
🧰 P.E. license (active or ability to obtain in South Carolina)
🔍 2+ years of forensic, failure analysis, or investigative engineering experience
🏗 Background in HVAC, plumbing, building systems, or mechanical design
📐 Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
🗣 Clear communication skills—able to explain technical findings to non-engineers
🧗 Comfortable working in the field (roofs, crawl spaces, active job sites)
➕ Experience with CAD, drones, or surveying tools is a plus
Additional Details
Based in Charleston, SC with regional travel (SC, NC, GA, FL)
Travel is typically day trips, with occasional overnight assignments
Field work includes physical activity such as climbing, lifting (up to 50 lbs), and navigating job sites
Why This Role Stands Out
Work on high-impact cases that often make it to litigation
Exposure to expert witness work and courtroom involvement
Tight-knit, collaborative team with strong technical mentorship
Diverse, non-repetitive projects across the Southeast
Opportunity to build a niche, highly valuable skillset in forensic engineering
Interested?
If you’re looking for a role that combines engineering, investigation, and real-world impact, I’d love to connect.