Civil Engineer

Civil Engineer (P.E.) – Premises Liability

Location: Nashville, TN or Chicago, IL
Job Type: Full-Time
Work Setting: Hybrid 
Travel & Field Work: Up to 40%

Compensation: Grade 4 - Project Manager: $110,000-135,000

Position Overview

Knott Laboratory is seeking a licensed Civil Engineer (P.E.) to join our growing Premises Liability team. This role is ideal for a technically strong, detail-oriented engineer who enjoys applying engineering principles to real-world incidents.

In this position, you will investigate accidents and incidents occurring in the built environment, evaluate compliance with applicable building codes and standards, and develop clear, defensible technical opinions. Your work will play a critical role in supporting clients through complex claims and litigation.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct site inspections and field investigations related to premises liability incidents (e.g., slips, trips, falls, structural concerns, accessibility issues).
• Evaluate building design, construction, and maintenance against applicable codes, standards, and industry best practices.
• Analyze physical evidence, documentation, photographs, and witness statements to determine cause and contributing factors of incidents.
• Apply engineering principles to assess safety conditions and code compliance (e.g., ADA, IBC, local building codes).
• Prepare clear, concise, and defensible technical reports summarizing findings and opinions.
• Collaborate with internal teams and clients to support litigation and claims processes.
• Provide expert witness testimony as needed (deposition and trial experience is a plus).

Required Qualifications

• Licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.) required.
• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or related discipline.
• 5+ years of experience in forensic engineering, accident investigation, or related work.
• Demonstrated experience with: 
  • Investigating accidents or failures in the built environment
  • Assessing building code compliance
  • Writing technical or forensic engineering reports
• Strong knowledge of building codes, safety standards, and accessibility requirements.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and written communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.

Preferred Experience

• Prior experience in forensic engineering, litigation support, or expert consulting.
• Familiarity with ADA compliance, slip/trip/fall analysis, and human factors considerations.
• Experience providing deposition or trial testimony.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to translate complex technical findings into clear, client-friendly language.

Work Environment

• Hybrid role with remote work flexibility
• Combination of home office-based analytical work, field investigations, project site visits, and courtroom testimony
• Field work and travel may include daytime, evening, or occasional weekend commitments based on case needs
• Collaborative, team-oriented culture with a focus on quality, integrity, and professional growth

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary: $110,000–$135,000, based on experience and credentials
• Matching 401(k)
• Company Profit Sharing Plan
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
• Professional Development Assistance & Tuition Reimbursement up to $5,200 per year
• Support for certifications, licensure, and continued technical development

Why Join Knott Laboratory?

• Work on unique, high-impact cases that combine engineering and real-world problem solving.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of experts.
• Opportunities for professional growth, specialization, and expert witness development.
• Supportive, team-oriented culture focused on quality, integrity, and continuous learning.