Senior Mechanical Engineer / Accident Reconstruction Engineer (P.E.)

About Us

Accident Reconstruction Analysis, PLLC (ARA) is a nationally recognized forensic engineering and fire investigation firm providing expert analysis in vehicle collisions, product failures, structural failures, industrial incidents, fire origin and cause investigations, and other complex technical matters. Our engineers work alongside attorneys, insurance carriers, manufacturers, corporations, and government agencies to investigate failures and provide expert testimony throughout the United States.

We are seeking an experienced PE to join our growing forensic engineering team.

Position Summary

The Senior Mechanical Engineer will investigate vehicle collisions, equipment failures, structural incidents, fires, and other engineering-related losses. The successful candidate will perform field inspections, analyze physical evidence, conduct engineering calculations, prepare detailed technical reports, develop demonstrative exhibits, and provide expert testimony when required. This position offers a unique opportunity to apply engineering principles to real world investigations while working on challenging, high profile litigation matters.

Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct field investigations involving:
• • Motor vehicle collisions
  • Commercial vehicle crashes
  • Industrial accidents
  • Product failures
  • Mechanical failures
  • Fire and explosion losses
  • Structural failures
• Document accident scenes using photography, measurements, drones, laser scanning, and mapping technology
• Analyze vehicle damage, event data recorders (EDRs), and physical evidence
• Perform engineering calculations and accident reconstruction analyses
• Conduct product testing and engineering evaluations
• Develop computer simulations and visual demonstrative exhibits
• Prepare detailed technical reports for litigation and insurance claims
• Communicate findings with attorneys, insurance companies, and clients
• Participate in depositions and provide expert witness testimony
• Travel as needed throughout North Carolina and occasionally nationwide

Preferred Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or closely related engineering discipline
• P.E. license (or ability to obtain NC licensure through comity)
• Minimum 8+ years of engineering experience
• Excellent technical writing skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Valid driver's license
• Ability to travel

Preferred

Experience with one or more of the following:

• Accident Reconstruction
• Fire Investigation
• Failure Analysis
• Product Liability
• Heavy Truck Reconstruction
• Human Factors
• Vehicle Dynamics
• Event Data Recorder (EDR) Analysis
• 3D Modeling or Animation
• Photogrammetry
• FARO Laser Scanner
• Drone Mapping
• CAD Software
• Engineering Litigation Support

Certifications such as ACTAR, CFI, FAA Part 107, or Fire Investigation credentials are highly desirable but not required.

What You'll Do

Every investigation is different. One week you may inspect a tractor-trailer collision, while the next you may examine a collapsed structure, investigate a fire scene, evaluate a failed industrial component, or reconstruct a complex multi-vehicle crash. Our engineers work directly with evidence, perform engineering analyses, and present defensible technical opinions that help resolve litigation.

Why Join ARA?

• Diverse forensic engineering projects
• Nationally recognized expert witness practice
• Collaborative team of engineers and fire investigators
• Opportunities for professional development and specialty certifications
• Cutting edge forensic technology and equipment
• Competitive compensation
• Health benefits
• Paid time off
• Continuing education support
• Retirement plan

Ideal Candidate

We're looking for an engineer who enjoys solving complex technical problems, is comfortable working both in the field and the office, and can clearly communicate engineering conclusions to clients, attorneys, judges, and juries. Attention to detail, sound engineering judgment, and strong written communication skills are essential.