New York City, USA Hybrid

City of New York - Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) is hiring a Principal Engineer, Forensic Engineering

Responsibilities

  • Collaborate closely with borough management, emergency response units, city emergency management, inspectors, and other specialized teams to evaluate and address structural safety concerns and implement corrective measures.
  • Respond to structural emergencies and incidents at any time, including 24/7 availability, with occasional out-of-state assignments requiring extended on-site presence.
  • Conduct detailed evaluations of structural designs and provide expert guidance on engineering challenges during construction of both new and existing buildings, regardless of project scale or complexity.
  • Identify and document code violations related to proposed construction, alterations, or repairs in accordance with construction codes, zoning regulations, and applicable laws.
  • Advise on the implementation of technical programs and engineering initiatives to enhance safety and compliance.
  • Review construction plans in various formats—2D, 3D, paper, and digital—for diverse building projects and temporary construction systems.
  • Engage with property owners, design engineers, and licensed contractors to assess project progress and ensure adherence to building codes, regulations, and enforcement policies.
  • Coordinate with federal, state, local, and other city agencies to align regulatory actions and technical standards.
  • Serve as a technical expert and factual witness in legal and administrative proceedings, including court cases, depositions, and hearings before the Environmental Control Board or OATH.
  • Participate in industry engagement events to promote awareness and gather feedback on compliance and forensic engineering initiatives.
  • Work with senior leadership and technical staff to ensure construction codes reflect current industry practices and technological advancements.
  • Conduct audits of design submissions, construction site operations, and inspection reports from special inspectors, engineers, architects, and testing labs.
  • Provide technical expertise on historic building methods and materials, including concrete, steel, wood, masonry, and temporary support systems, for internal and public inquiries.
  • Interpret and clarify provisions of the NYC Construction Codes, including legacy and historical versions, along with other relevant regulations.
  • Support code development efforts by contributing to revisions related to historic structures, structural systems, and foundation requirements.
  • Prepare analytical reports for executive staff to support enforcement decisions and compliance actions.
  • Issue violations and official orders to design professionals, licensed individuals, inspectors, property owners, and active construction sites as needed.
  • Help resolve issues related to Stop Work Orders, design flaws, construction defects, and inadequate engineering plans.
  • Support resolution of emergency structural challenges involving shoring, bracing, and demolition methods.
  • Attend training sessions during and outside regular work hours to maintain technical proficiency.
  • Support data evaluation and trend identification related to existing building performance and compliance.
  • Assist with cross-training, incident response, special projects, and management within the Existing Buildings Compliance program.

Work Arrangement

Hybrid

Other

  • 24/7 emergency response is a required component of the role.
  • Occasional out-of-state assignments may be necessary and could require multi-day on-site presence.
  • Must maintain active New York State licensure as a Professional Engineer throughout employment.
  • Participation in work hours and after-hours training seminars is mandatory.
Required Skills
Report WritingProject ManagementTechnical Documentation
About company
City of New York - Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP)
The NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) protects and enhances the daily economic lives of New Yorkers to create thriving communities. It licenses nearly 45,000 businesses in more than 40 industries and enforces key consumer protection and workplace laws.
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Job Details
Category other
Posted 5 months ago