Forensic Fire Engineer – Electrical

The opportunity

Aviva is looking for a passionate engineer to deliver in‑house forensic engineering consulting services focused on electrical fire origin and cause investigations. The role involves conducting detailed field examinations, performing technical analyses of electrical systems, documenting evidence, and producing comprehensive, timely reports to Claims Professionals. You will also support training on electrical fire risks, advise Underwriters and ARMS, and help strengthen risk evaluation and prevention strategies. What you’ll do

Support claims professionals, independent adjusters and customers by investigating losses to determine the origin and cause of fires and explosions, as well as product, equipment and material failures. You will investigate losses through on‑site inspection and forensic evaluation to support claims handling, coverage determination and recovery efforts against third parties.

Conduct field investigations of structure fires and explosions, including vehicle fires or equipment failures, documenting your work and collecting all necessary evidence including witness interviews, fire service interviews, media reports, security videos, product recalls, etc.

Analyze and identify the root cause of losses using established fire investigation methodology and the scientific method, detailing the steps and assumptions that led to your conclusion.

Make decisions on (1) the most plausible reason for a failure based on data; (2) whether the design, installation or maintenance met industry standards or, if appropriate, building codes; and (3) whether the loss was due to design error, manufacturing defect, improper maintenance or external factors.

Interact with customers to explain the investigation process, gather relevant information, coordinate site access, and communicate findings clearly and professionally without making coverage decisions.

Provide engineering opinions and technical assistance to Claims Professionals, leadership and other key stakeholders, preparing reports and letters that outline your opinions in a clear, precise manner suitable for a non‑technical audience.

Guide the technical direction of investigations, including determining when external specialty expertise is required, reviewing external forensic opinions, and conducting peer reviews of external investigations and opinions.

Contribute to engineering expertise including multi‑disciplinary initiatives or emerging risk areas, as required.

Collaborate with other groups on multidisciplinary projects to provide solutions on complex losses and failures.

Provide recommendations based on your expertise in the field of engineering to internal and external partners on operationalizing strategies for engineering services.

What you’ll bring

Bachelor’s degree or postgraduate degree in Civil, Structural, Mechanical, Fire Protection, Electrical Engineering, Applied Sciences or a related field.

Licensed as a Professional Engineer in Ontario. Licensing in other provinces is an asset.

At least 8 to 10 years of professional experience in forensic engineering, structural investigation, fire/explosion investigation or failure analysis in the insurance field.

Knowledge of fire dynamics, chemistry of fire/combustion and scientific and technical principles (such as flashpoints, vapour density, ignition temperatures) to analyze post‑fire indicators and evidence to support conclusions.

Proven ability to communicate complex technical conclusions clearly to non‑technical stakeholders through verbal explanation and written technical reports.

Experience reviewing and assessing external forensic or specialty expert opinions for technical accuracy.

Experience applying relevant legislation and related documents such as the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, Fire Code, Health and Safety Act, and Building Code.

Certification as a Fire and Explosion Investigator (CFEI).

Valid Canadian driver’s license and access to a vehicle.

Experience testifying in court and previous qualification as an expert is preferred.

Proficiency in MS Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, etc.) and data management/analysis skills.

Excellent oral and written communication skills with the ability to articulate clearly, concisely and simply the results of their investigations and assessments to the Claims Professional or other stakeholders.

Critical thinking skills with strong analytic and problem‑solving skills with the ability to analyze and interpret complex technical data.

Experience analysing trends to support operational performance.

Experience working in the field.

Ability to work in inclement weather and various environmental conditions.

Ability to handle multiple investigations simultaneously while prioritizing along strict timelines.

Ability and willingness to travel throughout the province of Ontario on short notice.

What you’ll get

The salary band for this position ranges from $105,000 to $154,400, based on knowledge, skills and experience.

Compelling rewards package including base compensation, eligibility for annual bonus, retirement savings, share plan, health benefits, personal wellness and volunteer opportunities.

Hybrid flexible work model.

Outstanding career development opportunities.

Support for professional development education.

Competitive vacation package with the option to purchase 5 extra days off per year.

Employee‑driven programs focused on gender, LGBTQ+, origins, diversity and inclusion.

Corporate wellness programs to support physical and mental health.

Aviva Canada welcomes applications from all qualified individuals and has a process in place to provide accommodations for persons with disabilities at all stages of the hiring process and during employment. If you require accommodation during the interview or hiring process, please contact your Aviva Talent Acquisition Partner to arrange an appropriate accommodation.

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