Entry-Level Civil/Structural Forensic Engineer

Entry-Level Civil/Structural Forensic Engineer
Location: Annapolis, Maryland

Trident Engineering is a growing forensic engineering firm based in Annapolis, Maryland. Our engineers investigate failures and damages primarily for insurance and legal clients, evaluating residential, commercial, and industrial properties. Typical cases involve structural failures, storm damage, water intrusion, construction defects, fire damage, collapses, settlement, and more. The role focuses on the evaluation of existing structures and determination of origin and cause of damages.

Our clients include insurance carriers, attorneys, property owners, and contractors. We pride ourselves on delivering objective and technically sound conclusions supported by thorough investigations and clear communication.

Position Summary

We are seeking an Entry-Level Engineer to join our forensic engineering team in Annapolis, Maryland. This role provides hands-on experience in field investigations, engineering analysis, and technical report writing under the mentorship of experienced forensic engineers.

Work includes evaluating damage to residential and commercial structures, determining origin and cause of failures, and communicating findings in clear, objective reports.

The ideal candidate is curious, analytical, and motivated to learn. They are comfortable working in both field and office environments, interacting with property owners and professionals, and developing practical engineering judgement through real-world investigations.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct on-site investigations of structural damage and building system failures in residential and commercial properties (e.g., roofs, foundations, water intrusion, cladding, structural systems).
• Document site conditions through photographs, measurements, and detailed field notes.
• Review construction documents, engineering drawings, and repair records.
• Analyze findings and prepare clear, concise engineering reports with defensible conclusions.
• Communicate professionally with clients, property owners, contractors, and legal professionals.
• Collaborate with senior engineers on complex investigations.
• Manage multiple assignments and maintain project schedules.
• Support litigation work, including depositions and testimony as needed.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Civil or Structural Engineering from an ABET-accredited institution required.
• Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification or ability to obtain within 12 months.
• Strong technical writing and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Must provide a personal vehicle, valid driver’s license and insurance, and willingness to travel throughout Maryland and surrounding states.
• Must pass a criminal background check.

Preferred

• Professional Engineer (PE) licensure.
• Prior internship, co-op, construction, inspection or engineering experience.
• Experience with residential or commercial construction.
• Familiarity with building codes and construction practices

What You'll Learn

• Failure analysis and forensic investigation techniques.
• Structural and construction defect evaluations.
• Insurance and litigation-related engineering consulting.
• Technical report writing and expert communication.
• Practical application of engineering principles in real-world investigations

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary: $70,000 - $90,000, depending on experience and qualifications.
• PE licensure support and mentorship
• Paid on-the-job training and support for professional development and certification.
• Reimbursement for mileage (IRS rate) and approved travel expenses.
• Paid time off and holidays

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift/move up to 50 lbs and work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to safely navigate construction sites, fire scenes, and damaged structures.
• Must be able to climb ladders, access roofs, crawl spaces, attics, scaffolding, and uneven terrain.
• Frequent standing, walking, kneeling, squatting, and balancing required.

Why Join Us?

Engineering school teaches you how things are supposed to work. Forensic engineering teaches you what happens when they don't.

At Trident, you'll be involved in every stage of an investigation—from site inspections and client interactions to engineering analysis and report preparation. Rather than being limited to a narrow specialty, you'll gain experience across a wide range of projects and work directly with experienced engineers who are committed to mentoring and professional development.

If you enjoy solving problems, working in the field, and applying engineering principles to real-world situations, forensic engineering offers a challenging and rewarding career where no two days are the same.

Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter describing your interest in forensic engineering.

Candidates only please. No third party recruiters.

We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.

www.tridentengineering.com

Work Location: In person

Pay: $70,000.00 - $90,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person