POSITION: Office Assistant                                                                  

AVELAR is seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Office Assistant to support our growing team of forensic experts, construction defect litigation professionals, architectural & engineering design staff, and construction support specialists. This position plays a key role in ensuring the smooth operation of our office and daily workflows. The Office Assistant will report directly to the Accounting Department Manager, with additional collaboration and responsibilities supporting the Office Administrator and IT department.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Front Desk and Client Relations Associate.
• Manage distribution of incoming & outgoing mail and deliveries.
• Maintain both the office phones and copiers and facilitate support when issues arise.
• Maintain and manage inventory of office supplies, including monitoring stock levels, placing orders, and ensuring items are properly organized and replenished in common areas and supply closets.
• Support staff on an as needed basis to compile electronic or paper documents and send or download items to project
  folders, flash drives, server, and DropBox.
• Light cleaning and organizing of the common areas, conference rooms and break areas including loading, running,
  and unloading the dishwasher.
• Assist the accounting team with sending invoices and statements via mail and email and filing invoices in Rever.
• Prepare and reconcile monthly expense reports for office related purchases.
• Coordinate quarterly birthday celebrations and provide logistical support for professional development lunch sessions.
• Manage the various company email accounts to ensure correspondence is handled in a timely manner.
• Schedule in-house Zoom meetings, conference calls and reservations for the two conference rooms.
• Maintain and update digital business cards (vCards) for AVELAR team members, and manage internal phone systems, including extensions, direct dial numbers, and the company-wide phone directory.
• Coordinate with the accounting department to facilitate the on-boarding of new hires including orientation, training on phone and WebEx systems, requesting parking placard and proximity card, and put together the welcome folder.
• Assist with holiday gatherings, cards and gifts.
• Make project binders for depos and reports as requested.
• Update CVs, Terms and Conditions, Letterhead and Footer on an ongoing basis as required.
• Generate contracts and proposals per direction and assist in tracking responses and the assignment of work
• Assist the accounting department with updates to project status, case information sheets, and billing contacts
• Light filing on an as needed basis
• Support the Office Administrator in logging letters of retention and proposals being sent out.
• Update active project list monthly.
• Serve as the primary liaison between AVELAR and the property management company to coordinate office facility needs and communications.
• Other duties as assigned.
• Available to work Monday through Friday 8 AM to 5 PM with a break for lunch.

Qualifications and Skills:

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• 0 to 3 years of experience in office administration or a related support role.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• High attention to detail and accuracy in all work.
• Professional demeanor and appearance; business casual attire required.
• Ability to thrive in a collaborative, multi-disciplinary team environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, and Zoom.
• Familiarity with Rever, Dropbox, Revu (Bluebeam), and WebEx is a plus.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Full-time, hourly, exempt position.
• $25 – $30 per hour depending upon experience plus potential for a performance bonus.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance premiums paid by employer.
• Paid vacation, holidays, and sick days.
• 401(k) pension plan with employer contribution.

About AVELAR:
AVELAR is a leading Bay Area firm specializing in expert witness, forensic analysis, consultation and reconstruction design services for nearly 50 years. We provide a challenging and dynamic work environment that offers diverse projects and experience. We stress professional growth and development, value creative problem solving, and thrive on the strength of the client relationships we have built.

Position: Senior Staff Project licensed Architect (CA)

AVELAR is looking for a qualified Senior Project Architect with (10) ten years minimum experience in preparing construction drawings and specifications.  AVELAR is an East-Bay forensic architectural firm expanding our team of forensic, construction defect litigation, design, and construction support services working with Engineers, Contractors, other design and construction Consultants, and Attorneys on challenging multi-disciplinary projects. The Ideal candidate will have strong comprehension of building functions, codes and have experience to develop the best design approach to various, complicated details for repair. In addition, the ideal candidate will have experience in processes and procedures related to Architecture and should be able to handle several projects and assignments simultaneously. This Architect needs strong oral and written communication skills, will demonstrate leadership, and will have well developed computer skills, as well as proficiency with the full range of Microsoft products (including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook) and AutoCAD. Full time, immediate opening.

Consultant Duties and Responsibilities:

• Perform analysis of existing buildings for the repair, rehabilitation or structural upgrade of projects involving a variety of building types and construction materials.
• Preparing project scope of work and sketches and specifications with in-house staff for rehabilitation, renovation, and new construction projects
• Coordinate with project retained consultants
• Assist in securing bids and permits
• Perform field investigations/surveys
• coordinating production staff for preparation of construction documents and assisting,
• Provide construction administration, and overall management of projects.
• Attend meetings with clients.
• Maintain schedules while managing tasks for multiple cases and projects.
• Develop professional skills and capability through on-going

Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in or Architecture or other relevant
• Field experience required
• Architect license
• Structural, architectural and construction technical
• Strong analytical and creative problem-solving
• Experience in forensic and structural building evaluation and assessments preferred.
• Experience in Construction Administration a plus
• Working knowledge of waterproofing assemblies, permit processes, and Building Codes and standards.
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Ability to work in a collaborative, multi-disciplinary environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word, and AutoCAD.
• Ability and desire to develop and nurture relationships with
• Forensic Architectural experience a plus
• Full Covid-19 Vaccination Required

About AVELAR:

Since 1976, our team consisting of architects, contractors and engineers has solved complex problems related to construction defect litigation.  Projects include both plaintiff and defense representation for construction deficiency issues involving a variety of building types and systems.   Our services include building defect analysis, forensic architecture, and engineering, building envelope design, cost estimating, and project management.

AVELAR is an Equal Opportunity Employer. AVELAR will provide equal opportunity to all individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Compensation

• Competitive salary
• Full Medical, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance
• 401k
• Paid holidays and PTO

Position:  BUILDING DEFECT FORENSIC EXPERT WITNESS/CONSULTANT

East bay Architecture/Engineering firm seeks a qualified licensed CA architect or an experienced CA licensed General Contractor (or specialty licensed professional) to work on our forensic litigation team.  Experience testifying in depositions and/or trial required. The ideal candidate will be comfortable managing time between external field investigations and internal tasks such as documentation and interpretation of analysis to support the writing and testifying of construction defect reports, repair scopes and cost estimates.  The Ideal candidate will have strong comprehension of building functions, codes and standard of care, have experience in design, construction, investigation, and repair of existing building structures, exercise sound judgment, set priorities and meet critical deadlines. In addition, the ideal candidate will have experience in processes and procedures related to the construction field. Candidate should be familiar with commercial and residential construction codes and standards and able to handle several projects and assignments simultaneously. This consultant needs strong oral and written communication skills, will demonstrate leadership, and will have well developed computer skills, as well as proficiency with the full range of Microsoft products (including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook).  This candidate will work collaboratively with a team of Architects, Engineers, General Contractors, and the support staff, and will be able to accept assignments outside of their prior work experience. This position is ideal for a self-starter with great attention to detail, who is well-written and has a passion for problem solving. We encourage our staff to be a creative with an innovative mindset, divergent thinking skills and able to work independently as well as collaboratively

Consultant Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct on-site inspections including field testing, sampling, and documentation
• Research building codes and contractor standard of care
• Analyze, research, and investigate data
• Investigate and diagnose issues that relate to the building envelope, structural design, materials, and construction process
• Provide technically sound solutions to problems
• Prepare investigative reports and final project deliverables
• Develop repair / replacement scopes of work for damaged buildings
• Participate in client and expert meetings, depositions and trials to explain findings and recommendations
• Retention and development of client relationships

Consultant Qualifications and Skills:

• Knowledge about and experience in the construction industry
• Architectural License (CA) and/or General Contracting license (CA
• Ability to climb ladders & scaffolding and inspect attics & crawlspaces
• Advanced communication, organizational and presentation skills
• Working knowledge of building science
• Strong technical, written, and verbal communication skills
• Strong computer skills including Microsoft Office and Excel
• Full Covid-19 Vaccination Required
• Driver’s license and automobile insurance must be in good and current standing

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive salary (negotiable based on experience)
• Medical, dental & vision coverage with generous employer contribution
• 401(k) pension plan with employer contribution

About AVELAR:

Since 1976, our team consisting of architects, contractors and engineers has solved complex problems related to construction defect litigation.  Projects include both plaintiff and defense representation for construction deficiency issues involving a variety of building types and systems.   Our services include building defect analysis, forensic architecture, and engineering, building envelope design, cost estimating, and project management.

AVELAR is an Equal Opportunity Employer. AVELAR will provide equal opportunity to all individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Compensation

• Competitive salary
• Full Medical, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance
• 401k
• Paid holidays and PTO

​Position:  BUILDING DEFECT CONSTRUCTION TECHNICIAN

East bay Architecture/Engineering firm seeks a qualified person for the position of Building Defect Construction Consultant. AVELAR is an East-Bay forensic architectural firm expanding our team of forensic, construction defect litigation, design, and construction support services working with Engineers, Contractors, other design and construction Consultants, and Attorneys on challenging multi-disciplinary projects.  The ideal candidate will be comfortable managing time between external field investigations and internal tasks such as documentation and analysis to support the writing of construction defect reports, repair scopes and cost estimates.  The ideal candidate will have strong comprehension of building functions and have experience in construction, investigation, and the repair of existing building structures. Licensed General Contractor is a plus! Candidate should be familiar with commercial and residential construction codes and standards. The ideal applicant needs strong oral and written communication skills, will demonstrate leadership, and will have well developed computer skills, as well as proficiency with the full range of Microsoft products (including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook). We appreciate self-starters with attention to detail, who is well-written and have a love for problem solving. We encourage our staff to be a creative with an innovative mindset, divergent thinking skills and able to work independently as well as collaboratively. Full time, immediate opening.

Consultant Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct on-site inspections including field testing, sampling, and documentation
• Perform field investigations, surveys, and the analysis of a variety of existing building types and construction materials
• Coordinate with other project retained consultants
• Research building codes and contractor standard of care
• Analyze, research, and investigate data
• Investigate and diagnose issues that relate to the building envelope, structural design, materials, and construction process
• Provide technically sound solutions to problems
• Prepare investigative reports and final project deliverables
• Develop repair / replacement scopes of work for damaged buildings
• Participate in client and expert meetings, depositions, and trials to explain findings and recommendations
• Retention and development of client relationships

Consultant Qualifications and Skills:

• Knowledge about and experience in the construction industry
• General Contracting license (CA) a plus
• Ability to climb ladders & scaffolding and inspect attics & crawlspaces
• Advanced communication, organizational and presentation skills
• Working knowledge of building science
• Strong technical, written, and verbal communication skills
• Strong computer skills including Microsoft Office and Excel
• Driver’s license and automobile insurance must be in good and current standing
• Full Covid-19 Vaccination required

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive salary (negotiable based on experience)
• Medical, dental & vision coverage with generous employer contribution
• 401(k) pension plan with employer contribution

About AVELAR:

Since 1976, our team consisting of architects, contractors and engineers has solved complex problems related to construction defect litigation.  Projects include both plaintiff and defense representation for construction deficiency issues involving a variety of building types and systems.   Our services include building defect analysis, forensic architecture, and engineering, building envelope design, cost estimating, and project management.

AVELAR is an Equal Opportunity Employer. AVELAR will provide equal opportunity to all individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Compensation

• Competitive salary
• Full Medical, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance
• 401k
• Paid holidays and PTO

POSITION:  CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATIVE CONSULTANT

East bay Architecture/Engineering firm seeks a qualified Construction Administrative Consultant responsible for all efforts associated with successfully managing multiple construction projects. This includes all aspects of project management during the development, planning, design, construction, and closeout phases of the project life cycle.  The ideal candidate for this position will be able to handle several projects and assignments simultaneously, will work collaboratively with Architects, Engineers, General Contractors, and the support staff, and will be able to accept assignments outside of their prior work experience. Incumbents are expected to possess the initiative to operate with a significant degree of independence. The abilities to independently conduct research, exercise sound judgment, set priorities and meet critical deadlines are also strongly desired. In addition, the ideal candidate will have experience in processes and procedures related to the construction field.

Consultant Duties and Responsibilities:

• Perform on-site observations and document results relative to the quantity and quality of the contractor’s performance.
• Provide prompt and expeditious service regarding issues of interpretation, construction bulletins, payment request and other matters that contribute to an efficient process.
• Review and evaluate RFIs and submittals. Bring questions or concerns to the attention of design team members who will address problems and suggest resolutions. Assist in preparing sketches or drawing revisions as needed to expedite responses to RFIs. Coordinate directly with consultants to expedite RFI responses and submittal reviews.
• Monitor construction changes, change order requests, RFI’s, shop drawings, samples, product data and/or other submissions from the contractor.
• Review shop drawings, reject work that does not conform to the construction documents, and record any issues.
• Attend client and construction coordination meetings as the project representative, and work closely with the Architect of Record.
• Review pay applications

Qualifications and Skills:

• Construction Management Degree, Bachelor’s Degree in architecture, General Contractors license or relevant program a plus.
• Minimum of three years current construction administration experience required; five years current construction administration experience and architectural project experience preferred. Construction Management experience a plus.
• Previous construction administration experience overseeing construction projects required; experience with waterproofing systems preferred.
• Excellent organizational skills; detailed oriented.
• Highly versed in construction and design contracts and understand the requirements and responsibilities included.
• Understanding of building codes, building conditions, and building failures. Forensic experience a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multi projects and meet deadlines.
• Ability to prioritize conflicting demands quickly and appropriately.
• Ability to read and understand construction drawings and specifications required.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office required. AutoCAD preferred.
• Familiarity with Procore or Construction Management software a plus.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills required.
• Full Covid-19 Vaccination Required

About AVELAR:

Since 1976, our team consisting of architects, contractors and engineers has solved complex problems related to construction defect litigation.  Projects include both plaintiff and defense representation for construction deficiency issues involving a variety of building types and systems.   Our services include building defect analysis, forensic architecture, and engineering, building envelope design, cost estimating, and project management.

AVELAR is an Equal Opportunity Employer. AVELAR will provide equal opportunity to all individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Compensation

• Competitive salary
• Full Medical, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance
• 401k
• Paid holidays and PTO

POSITION: STRUCTURAL DESIGNER

AVELAR seeks a qualified candidate for the position of Structural Designer to be part of our growing forensic, construction defect litigation, design, and construction support services. Work with our in-house team of Architects, Contractors, and Consultants, as well as our industry partners and clients that include other design and construction Consultants, property managers, and Attorneys on challenging multi-disciplinary projects. This position offers the opportunity to join a growing engineering division and to help direct our future.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Participate in building condition surveys, evaluations of building performance, damage assessments, and investigations of deficiencies and resultant damage.
• Conduct review of contract documents, code analysis, documentation of as-built conditions, and structural analysis.
• Participate in site investigations by means of visual observations, non-invasive techniques, and destructive testing.
• Assist with preparation of clear and concise reports with strong analysis of the issues and actionable recommendations.
• Support senior staff for deposition, mediation, arbitration, and trial testimony.
• Assist with the structural analysis of existing buildings for the repair, rehabilitation or structural upgrade of projects involving a variety of building types and construction materials.
• Prepare calculations for rehabilitation, renovation, and new construction projects.
• Assist in the preparation of structural design drawings and specifications with in-house staff and external consultants.
• Provide engineering support during construction for design and reconstruction projects.
• Develop professional skills and capability through on-going training.
• Work towards obtaining a license as a Civil Engineer in the State of California.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Structural, or Architectural Engineering or other relevant degree.
• 0 to 3 years of engineering experience.
• EIT certification in the State of California.
• Strong background in structural engineering fundamentals.
• Architectural and construction technical knowledge preferred.
• Strong analytical and creative problem-solving skills.
• Coursework or experience in wood-frame design a plus.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work in a collaborative, multi-disciplinary environment.
• Working knowledge in Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word, and AutoCAD.
• Familiarity with CBC, ASCE 7, NDS, AISC, and ACI codes & standards.
• Ability and desire to develop and nurture relationships with clients.
• This position requires driving to various locations; a valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle is required.
• Candidate must be comfortable and capable using ladders, scaffolding, and lifts, as well as accessing crawl spaces and attics with proper PPE.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Highly competitive salary, based on experience
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance premiums paid by employer
• Paid vacation, holidays, and sick days
• 401(k) pension plan with employer contribution

About AVELAR:

AVELAR is a leading Bay Area firm specializing in expert witness, forensic analysis, consultation and reconstruction design services for nearly 50 years. We provide a challenging and dynamic work environment that offers diverse projects and experience. We stress professional growth and development, value creative problem solving, and thrive on the strength of the client relationships we have built.

Position: Forensic Building Consultant – Environmental

Our long-established forensic architectural and engineering firm requires a Forensic Building Consultant knowledgeable in microbial investigations to join our full-time staff. AVELAR is a dedicated team of architects, engineers, and construction consultants with a range of specialized skills ready to solve complex construction and environmental related problems. Our services include forensic architecture and engineering, reconstruction design, structural engineering, indoor air quality, schedule damages, cost estimating, and project management.

 Position Summary:

We are interested in growing and developing our well established and well recognized environmental department. This includes but is not limited to indoor air quality investigations, cause of loss determinations and investigations, providing detailed written protocols and assisting with mitigation and repair strategies. The ideal candidate for our firm will have a documented history of performing indoor environmental evaluations, have a solid understanding of how a building functions, and have experience with insurance companies, property managers and attorneys. Prospective candidates will have experience in design, investigation, and repair of existing building structures. Candidates should also be familiar with commercial and residential construction codes and standards. We appreciate self- starters with attention to detail, who can write well and a love for finding solutions. We encourage all of our staff to be creative and to think outside the box, so we’re looking for a consultant who can fit well in that environment. Most of all, we are looking for someone who genuinely cares about the clients as most of them have been injured by their environments.

Consultant Duties and Responsibilities:

• Position reports to Principal Consultant
• Have a working knowledge of the IICRC S500 and S520
• Be able to physically inspect attic and crawl spaces
• Be able to research building codes and contractor standard of care
• Conduct on-site inspections including field testing, sampling, and documentation
• Analyze, research and investigate data
• Investigate and diagnose issues with building envelope, structural design, materials, construction process
• Provide technically sound solutions to problems
• Prepare investigative reports and final project deliverables
• Develop repair / replacement scopes of work of damaged buildings
• Working from field notes and photographs to conceptualize a detailed repair scope estimate
• Development of unit costs for detailed repair scope
• Retention and development of client relationships

Consultant Qualifications and Skills:

• 5+ years in construction with an emphasis in insurance repair and environmental remediation
• IICRC Certification a plus
• Advanced communication and presentation skills
• Working knowledge of building science
• Strong technical, written, and verbal communication skills
• Conversant with statistical analysis
• Strong computer skills including Microsoft Office; Xactimate is a plus
• Ability to work independently
• Driver’s license and automobile insurance must be in good and current standing
• Ability to climb ladders, work at heights, inspect crawl spaces and attic spaces and travel by car / air to job sites

Position: Litigation Support\Estimator

 Position Summary:

Responsible for preparing cost estimates for residential, commercial, and municipal building projects based on the use of construction plans and industry knowledge. Your role will include working side-by-side with engineers, contractors, architects, attorneys, and clients.

Primary Responsibilities Cost Estimator:

• Analyze documentation, such as blueprints and other data, to prepare materials, cost, time, and labor estimates.
• Develop accurate forecasts of the cost, size, and duration of future projects. Collect and analyze data on all of the factors that can affect costs, such as materials, labor, location, duration of the project, and special machinery requirements.
• Perform onsite investigations during the course of a project and make adjustments to project budgets as needed
• Participate in decision-making efforts; review drawings and specifications, perform site visits, gather information related to site access; surface topography and drainage, and the availability of electricity, water, and other services. Fully document of information obtained.
• Prepare an estimate of the materials, labor, subcontractors, and equipment required to perform the statement of work (SOW). Prepare documentation using standard estimating forms, filling in dimensions, numbers of units, and other information. Analyze bids made by subcontractors. Identify equipment needs, sequence of operations, labor specialties, crew size, and physical constraints at the site. Allowances for wasted materials, inclement weather, shipping delays, and other factors that may increase costs must be incorporated into the estimate. Develop a cost summary for the entire project, which includes the costs of labor, equipment, materials, subcontractors, overhead, taxes, insurance, markup, and any additional costs that may affect the project.
• Ensure that all legally mandated and company documentation related to projects is current, accurate, and complete.
• Maintain, approve, and submit hourly timecards with all necessary details for job costing purposes.

About AVELAR:

Since 1976, our team consisting of architects, contractors and engineers has solved complex problems related to construction defect litigation. Projects include both plaintiff and defense representation for construction deficiency issues involving a variety of building types and systems. Our services include building defect analysis, forensic architecture, and engineering, building envelope design, cost estimating, and project management.

AVELAR is an Equal Opportunity Employer. AVELAR will provide equal opportunity to all individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Compensation:

• Competitive salary
• Full Medical, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance
• 401k
• Paid holidays and PTO