Forensic Claims Analyst
Location: Remote (Must be able to work Pacific Time Zone hours)

We are seeking a senior level Forensic Claims Analyst to support a major infrastrucure project.

About the Company

For over 30 years, our client has been a trusted provider of Project Management Solutions for major Capital Construction Projects across the U.S., with a focus on Utilities, Oil, Gas, Water, and other large-scale developments. Certified as a Federal SDVOSB (Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business) and California SB/DVBE (Small Business/Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise), their team of Project Controls experts has supported some of the nation’s largest and most complex infrastructure programs.

Position Summary

Our client is seeking a Forensic Claims Analyst to support the California High-Speed Rail (CAHSR) project as part of the Project Controls Office. This high-profile role involves performing detailed forensic delay analyses to evaluate contractor-submitted time extension requests, assess their validity and impact, and support the development of rebuttals. The Analyst will also assist with regional scheduling, reporting, and schedule integrity for this landmark infrastructure project.

The California High-Speed Rail project is the first high-speed rail system in the United States. Once completed, it will connect San Francisco and the Los Angeles basin in under three hours, providing a transformative transportation solution for the state. This multi-billion-dollar program is one of the most ambitious and complex infrastructure initiatives in the country, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, relieve congestion, and promote economic development.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct forensic delay analyses and prepare reports detailing delay causation and chronological events.
• Review and respond to contractor claims and support the development of rebuttals.
• Collaborate with regional Authority staff, consultants, and construction managers to support planning, scheduling, and reporting efforts for various CAHSR segments, including the Central Valley.
• Recommend improvements to the schedule review and tracking process.
• Identify critical path and longest path activities and suggest enhancements to improve schedule reliability.
• Analyze construction schedules for risk identification and provide assessments with actionable recommendations.
• Assist with project controls and scheduling tasks across multiple regions.
• Develop “what-if” scenarios and realistic schedule forecasts to support project decision-making.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field.
• At least 15 years of progressively responsible experience in project controls and scheduling, preferably on major infrastructure or transportation projects.
• Proficiency in forensic delay analysis principles, expert report development, and claims resolution support.
• Strong understanding of cost, schedule, and risk management for complex capital construction projects.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Highly detail-oriented and organized; capable of producing accurate, high-quality deliverables.
• Ability to interface effectively with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders.
• Certified Scheduling Professional (PSP) or equivalent.
• Demonstrated experience in time impact analysis and support of negotiation or dispute resolution efforts.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced proficiency in Primavera P6.
• Strong computer skills including Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook; familiarity with cost management systems.
• Experience supporting large-scale public transportation projects such as transit, rail, or subway.
• Experience mentoring or supervising junior or mid-level schedulers and forensic analysts.
• Skilled in preparing presentations and communicating schedule findings to executive and project stakeholders.
• Proven ability to manage and review schedules across multiple disciplines and regions.

Compensation

Salary Range: $160,000 – $200,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.
The client may consider higher compensation for exceptionally qualified candidates.
This position includes eligibility for benefits and potential performance-based bonuses.

 

Disclaimer

This job description provides only a summary of the typical functions associated with this role and is not intended to represent an exhaustive or comprehensive list of all responsibilities, tasks, or duties. The actual responsibilities, tasks, and duties assigned may differ from those outlined, and additional duties may be assigned. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice. SmartHire is not legally responsible for any changes to the jobholder’s responsibilities or activities implemented by our clients that differ from those described herein.
SmartHire is posting this position on behalf of our client, and the salary range provided is determined by the client. Actual compensation offered will depend on various factors determined by the hiring company, including candidate qualifications, experience, skills, geographic location, and internal equity considerations. SmartHire is not legally responsible for any changes in salary, benefits, or bonuses made by our clients.

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