Electrical Engineer (Forensic Engineering)
Job Description
Overview
We are seeking a curious, life-long learner to join our team in Baltimore, Maryland. For more than five decades, SEA has collaborated with attorneys, manufacturers and insurers to determine the root causes of failures. We hire top engineering experts who thrive in an employee-first culture. Post-academic experience is required, and prior forensic firm experience is a plus but not required. Discover growth opportunities with SEA and become part of our expanding team. SEA welcomes resumes for similar roles at office locations across the country. Compensation varies based on experience and education, with higher experience generally commanding higher pay.
Essential Job Functions
- Conduct field investigations to identify the root causes of failures, accidents and performance issues across electrical systems such as residential and commercial wiring, transformers, generators, energy storage systems (including lithium-ion batteries), motors, switchgear, insulators, overcurrent protection, grounding and bonding systems, industrial controls, lighting, and renewable energy installations.
- Complete fire investigations to determine origin and cause.
- Analyze design, construction, operation and maintenance of electrical systems to support findings.
- Assess standard of care for engineers, general contractors, subcontractors, service providers and owners.
- Determine causation and responsibility for system failures, operational issues and equipment malfunctions.
- Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of experts to develop conclusions.
- Present technical findings in clear, layman terms both verbally and in writing.
- Provide testimony in legal proceedings, including depositions and court appearances.
- Incorporate constructive feedback into performance and maintain ongoing professional development through workshops, publications, professional networks and societies.
- Drive client development and contribute to client retention efforts.
- Maintain a regular and dependable presence at work.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Position Requirements
- Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering required; Master's Degree preferred.
- Ability to learn fire investigation; prior fire investigation experience is a significant plus.
- Professional Engineer registration or ability to obtain within one year.
- Minimum of five years of post-academic engineering experience.
- Ability to accept and integrate constructive feedback.
- Diverse knowledge of electrical systems.
- Strong writing skills.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; public speaking experience is a plus.
Physical Requirements
- Travel up to 25 percent of the time.
- Ability to lift up to 80 pounds and remove large or heavy artifacts from fire scenes.
- Carry equipment such as shovels, camera, evidence case, etc., up stairs.
- Navigate around buildings and structures, including climbing ladders.
- Drive in all traffic and weather conditions; ability to fly on airplanes.
- Communicate effectively with clients and colleagues.
- Visually inspect job sites and relevant artifacts.
- Wear personal protective equipment as required by the work site.
- Learn new industries and obtain necessary certifications.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Benefits
SEA places a strong emphasis on diversity, equity and inclusion across the organization, believing these values create a richer work environment and better service for clients. The company is committed to staff health and wellbeing and offers benefits such as an Employee Assistance Program and a Motion Wellness Program that rewards activity through contributions to employee health savings accounts.