Professional Forensic Structural Engineer

About DKO Engineering, PLLC

DKO Engineering is a boutique forensic structural engineering practice headquartered in Charlotte, NorthCarolina. We partner with insurers, property owners, attorneys, and design build teams to determine why structures fail and how to restore them, whether after hurricanes on the coast, fires in mill towns, or construction defects on a high rise. Our size lets us move fast; our deep technical bench lets us tackle the toughest problems. We offer opportunities to do fieldwork, report writing, and repair design. If you enjoy field investigations more than cookie cutter design, you’ll fit right in.

What You’ll Do

• Travel to sites (regionally and out of state) to conduct damage assessments of commercial, industrial, and residential buildings (roofs, façades, foundations, collapses, fire & flood losses).
• Forensic investigations to determine the cause and extent of damage from events such as wind, hail, impact, fire, and construction deficiencies.
• Measure, photograph, drone scan, and document existing conditions.
• Perform structural analysis (steel, concrete, masonry, wood, light gauge metal) to determine root cause, code compliance, and repair options.
• Prepare clear, defensible technical reports documenting findings, analysis, conclusions, and repair recommendations as client deliverables.
• Design and produce construction drawings and specifications.

Leadership & Expert Engagement Opportunities

• Provide deposition, mediation, and trial testimony as a subject matter expert.
• Consult with attorneys to develop claims strategy and demonstratives.
• Mentor junior engineers and summer interns.

What You’ll Bring

• Education: B.S. in Civil Engineering (minimum). M.S. in Engineering (strongly preferred).
• Licensure:Professional Engineer (PE) in NCor ability to obtain by comity within 3 Additional Southeast licenses and/or SE credential a plus.
• Experience:5–12years total, with at least 3years in structural design or forensic investigation, construction or fieldwork experience a plus.
• Technical Tools:AutoCAD/Revit drafting; and basic drone flight (FAA Part107 or willingness to obtain).
• Ability to lift, carry, and move objects (including ladders) weighing up to 50 pounds unassisted.
• Communication: Ability to translate engineering technical language into plain English, both in writing and on the witness stand.
• Traits We Love:Responsiveness, relationship-focused, curiosity, decisive judgment, field savvy, willingness to climb roofs and perform investigations in crawlspaces and attics, and an entrepreneurial mindset.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience, plus performance-based bonuses.
• Benefits:100% employer-paid employee medical premium, 401(k) with up to 4% employer match, and a structured bonus program.
• Flexibility:Hybrid model, flexible hours, and comp time for travel days.
• Competitive small-business-industry PTO and leave.
• Compensation for professional licensure, job-related training, and conferences.
• Tools & Tech:Latest software suites, DJI drones, and field gear.
• Culture:Small team camaraderie, quarterly volunteer days, and teambuilding activities encouraged.

How to Apply

Email dkoadmin@dkoengineering.com with:

1. Résumé (PDF)
2. Brief cover note—tell us about a structural mystery you solved or a personal challenge that makes you right for this position
3. Two sample reports or redacted project summaries (optional but appreciated)

We review applications on a rolling basis and will reach out to schedule a 30 minute video chat if there’s a mutual fit.

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DKO Engineering, PLLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Salary/Compensation: $95,000 - $130,000 per year