Forensic Analyst Jobs in Chicago, IL

Description

Company Description

The Vertex Companies, LLC (VERTEX) is a $180M global consulting firm that integrates strategic advisory, project management, and dispute resolution services for organizations facing complex challenges in a world of risk. We embody our core values of embracing lifelong learning, operating with urgency, maximizing value, and driving collaboration to better outcomes for our clients, colleagues, and communities. Join us if you are looking for a career that offers you a chance to love what you do and deliver meaningful impact.

Job Description

Our Forensic team is a collaborative group of architects, engineers, fire investigators, and building consultants who provide expert analysis for clients including insurance firms, law firms, developers, and property owners. We work on complex projects involving property damage, construction defects, and design errors, with a strong pipeline of challenging assignments across industries.

As a Forensic Engineer, you will conduct field investigations into incidents such as fires, floods, explosions, hurricanes, vehicle impacts, and structural failures. You will analyze findings, develop detailed reports and repair scopes, and interface directly with clients. This role provides exposure to diverse projects, mentorship from leading experts, and clear career development opportunities.

Core Responsibilities

Work Product Creation, Project Management, Coordination with Team Members

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  Perform forensic field inspections and analysis of residential and commercial buildings.
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  Develop high-quality technical reports, repair scopes, and client deliverables.
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  Support project management, ensuring deadlines, budgets, and utilization targets are met.
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  Collaborate with team members to review work product, share knowledge, and deliver consistent results.
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  Communicate findings effectively with clients, colleagues, and leadership.
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  Maintain compliance with industry regulations, codes, and company standards.
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  Contribute to business objectives by producing reliable, profitable work product.
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  Travel as required throughout region to perform site investigations and support client needs.

Operations

• Be aware of and work in a manner that supports the organization’s vision and defined business objectives
• Conduct self and collaborate with others in working toward achievement of defined profit objectives of assigned projects
• Cooperate in construction of strong cross-functional teams (cooperate with any suggested project assignments outside of original assigned practice area) to achieve success in shared goals, understanding that multiple perspectives and talents build stronger teams and results
• Complete daily tasks consistent

Qualifications & Competencies

• Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 2 years of related experience; or an advanced degree without experience; or 5 years of related work experience and no degree.
• EIT required for engineers; PE preferred.

Knowledge & Skills

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  Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
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  Ability to work independently while contributing to team goals.
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  Proficiency in MS Office; experience with construction codes preferred.
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  Physical ability to access roofs, crawl spaces, and uneven terrain.

Additional Information

At VERTEX, we invest in top talent with a highly competitive total compensation package that rewards performance and supports long-term success. Total compensation includes a base salary and a discretionary variable bonus program, depending on your level. Our comprehensive benefits package offers multiple healthcare and dental plan options, as well as company-paid Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability coverage—ensuring peace of mind for you and your family.

We offer a 401(k) plan with immediate matching and full vesting, empowering employees to build financial security from day one. Additional benefits include Flexible Spending Accounts, a robust Employee Assistance Program, and a suite of exclusive perks that enhance everyday life.

At The Vertex Companies, our salary ranges are intentionally designed to support meaningful career growth over time. These ranges allow employees to develop, expand their impact, and increase their earnings as they progress within their job level. A new hire’s starting compensation is determined by their experience, geographical location, scope of the role at the time of hire, and Company affordability. Our ranges are structured to reward growth and performance, ensuring there is room for advancement and long-term opportunity.

The salary ranges for this role are as follows:

$50,000 - $118,000 USD annually (Geographical Tier B - Sample Locations - Baltimore, Chicago, Anchorage, Portland)
$45,000 - $107,000 USD annually (Geographical Tier C - Sample Locations - Atlanta, Charlotte, Cincinnati, Miami)
$43,000 - $102,000 USD annually (Geographical Tier D - Sample Locations - Mississippi, Mobile AL, Bowling Kreen KY, Tulsa)

Time away matters—so we provide a generous paid time off program, including vacation, sick time, and paid holidays (with prorated options for eligible part-time employees).

At VERTEX, growth never stops. Our signature “Lifetime of Learning” program offers tuition reimbursement and personalized support for employees pursuing advanced education—helping you sharpen your skills and accelerate your career.

Notice to Third Party Agencies:

Please note that The Vertex Companies employs a fully staffed recruiting team. We do not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the absence of a signed Recruitment Agreement, VERTEX will not consider or agree to payment of any referral compensation or recruiter fee. In the event a recruiter or agency submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed agreement, VERTEX explicitly reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers, are deemed to be the property of VERTEX.