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Civil Forensic Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Forensic Engineer

Miami, FL · On-site

$90K - $170K/yr

... and forensic/litigation support. Built on decades of experience, we provide a full spectrum of ... civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering, as well as construction ...

... and forensic/litigation support. Built on decades of experience, we provide a full spectrum of ... civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering, as well as construction ...

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Civil Forensic Engineer information

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$34K

$71.4K

$108K

How much do civil forensic engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for civil forensic engineer in the United States is $71,360.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,000.00 and $73,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Civil Forensic Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Civil Forensic Engineer, you need a solid background in civil engineering principles, investigative techniques, and a relevant engineering degree with professional licensure (PE) or equivalent. Familiarity with structural analysis software, CAD programs, and specialized forensic tools is typically required, along with certifications like ACTAR or NAFE. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and excellent written and verbal communication skills help you effectively investigate failures and convey findings to diverse audiences. These skills and qualifications are crucial for delivering accurate, credible analyses that support legal cases and improve public safety.

How does a Civil Forensic Engineer typically interact with legal teams and other experts during an investigation?

Civil Forensic Engineers often work closely with attorneys, insurance adjusters, and other technical specialists to gather evidence, analyze structural failures, and provide expert opinions. Collaboration may involve site inspections, reviewing documents, preparing detailed reports, and sometimes offering testimony in legal proceedings. Clear communication and thorough documentation are essential, as findings must be understandable to non-engineers and withstand legal scrutiny. This teamwork is crucial for ensuring that complex engineering concepts are accurately conveyed to all stakeholders involved in a case.

What is a Civil Forensic Engineer?

A Civil Forensic Engineer is a professional who investigates and analyzes structures, materials, or components that have failed or caused injury to determine the cause of those failures. They often work on cases involving building collapses, construction defects, or infrastructure accidents. Their expertise is used in legal cases, insurance claims, and to help prevent future failures by identifying contributing factors. Civil Forensic Engineers may also provide expert testimony in court to explain their findings. Their work is crucial in ensuring public safety and improving construction standards.

What is the difference between Civil Forensic Engineer vs Structural Engineer?

AspectCivil Forensic EngineerStructural Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, PE license, forensic certificationsEngineering degree, PE license, specialized in structural analysis
Work EnvironmentInvestigations, courtrooms, consulting firmsDesign offices, construction sites, consulting firms
Industry UsageLegal cases, failure analysis, dispute resolutionBuilding design, construction, structural assessments

While both roles require engineering credentials and often involve consulting, Civil Forensic Engineers focus on investigating failures and providing expert testimony in legal cases, whereas Structural Engineers primarily design and analyze structures for safety and compliance.

More about Civil Forensic Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Civil Forensic Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Civil Forensic Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Civil Forensic Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 1% As Needed, 19% Full Time, 40% Part Time, and 38% Contract. Highlights an 27% Physical, 46% Hybrid, and 27% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,360 per year, or $34.3 per hour.
Forensic Engineer

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Universal Engineering Sciences rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

317th of 350 rated engineering


Job description

Overview
At UES, we're a team of more than 4,000 engineers, scientists, geologists, inspectors, technicians, and drillers united by a shared purpose-to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. As a national leader in geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, and materials testing and inspection, we collaborate on transformative projects across transportation, energy, water, healthcare, and more. Learn more about the benefits of joining Team UES and our core values at careers.teamues.com.
Position Overview
The Forensic Engineer would be conducting forensic engineering investigations of buildings and other structures for a wide variety of problems including structural damage, roof damage, moisture intrusion, interior water damage (plumbing and other causes), settlement, other foundation problems, construction defects, general building material failures, and of course, all types of storm related damage.
The ideal candidate has strong analytical and communication skills, experience conducting field investigations, and the ability to provide engineering opinions related to storm damage, construction defects, water intrusion, foundation movement, fire events, and other property related claims.
Responsibilities
  • Conduct forensic investigations for insurance claims involving:
    • Structural failures
    • Storn and hurrican damage
    • Water intrusion and moisture related issues
    • Foundation settlement and movement
    • Roof damage assessments
    • Fire and impact damage
    • Construction and material defects
  • Perform on-site inspections of residential, commercial, and industrial properties.
  • Conducts forensic engineering investigations of buildings and other structures for a wide variety of problems including structural damage, roof damage, moisture intrusion, interior water damage (plumbing and other causes), settlement and other foundation problems, construction defects, general building material failures, and of course, all types of storm related damage.
  • Experience in all common types of forensic engineering investigations is preferred, especially water damage. Being able to pinpoint the cause and origin of water damage and establish the duration is extremely important.
  • Field investigations: study and determine the cause and origin of construction defects or structural failures and/or damage, building envelope failures and/or damage, as well as determine the extent and repairability of such failures and/or damage.
  • Manages multiple projects, coordinating with other experts and supporting as needed to produce to client reports promptly.
  • Prepare detailed forensic engineering reports with findings, conclusions, and repair recommendations.
  • Conduct roof assessments and evaluate building envelope performance when applicable.
  • Travel to various locations
  • Other duties may be assigned

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil or Structural Engineering (Master's preferred).
  • A minimum of 1 year of Forensic Structural Engineering experience is required.
  • Active PE license required.
  • Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.
  • Ability to pass a background check screening in accordance with Florida's Jessica Lunsford Act (or equivalent state classification)
  • Expertise in structural analysis software, BIM/CAD platforms, and building materials
  • Deep understanding of local, state, and national building codes and design standards
  • Strong client-facing skills and ability to lead cross-functional project teams.
  • Proven ability to manage complexity, mentor others, and deliver technically sound solutions.
    Preferred Qualifications
    • Hurricane, wind, hail or catastrophic loss investigations
    • Building envelope and moisture intrusion assessments
    • Structural damage evalautions

    Travel Requirements
    • This position requires moderate travel, approximately up to 40% of the time, in support of business
    objectives and client engagements. Travel may be both scheduled and on short notice, depending on
    project needs. Destinations typically include job sites, field locations, or regional offices, where work may
    be conducted in outdoor or operational environments. Adherence to all company safety protocols and
    use of PPE is required during travel and on-site work.
    #LI-ND1 #LI-ONSITE
    Physical Demands & Work Environment
    • Combination of field investigations and report writing responsibilities
    • Frequesnt local and regional travel to inspection sites
    • Ability to climb ladders, inspect roofs, enter crawlspaces, and navigate active construction or damaged sites
    • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
    • Occasional overnight travel may be required
    • The position involves sitting for extended periods, performing data entry, and engaging in frequent communication via email, phone, and in-person interactions.
    • The role involves regular communication with team members, clients, and stakeholders, both in person and through virtual platforms.
    • The physical demands of the job may include occasional standing, walking, bending, and lifting of office materials up to 15 pounds.

    EEO Statement
    UES is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is proud to recruit the most qualified candidates. Please see our full EEO Statement at the bottom of the page here

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    About Universal Engineering Sciences

    Sourced by ZipRecruiter

    Universal Engineering Sciences, based in Orlando, FL, US, is a reputable name in the field of geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, construction materials testing, and inspection services. With an impressive industry presence of over six decades since its establishment in 1964, Universal Engineering Sciences specializes in providing engineering consulting services that effectively address multiple civil, structural, and geotechnical challenges. Their extensive service portfolio includes environmental assessments, field testing services, laboratory testing services, and quality control consulting, among others. As a stalwart advocate of integrity, excellence, service, and people, Universal Engineering Sciences takes pride in delivering exceptional services that realize their mission of setting industry standards through technical superiority and efficient communication.

    Industry

    Construction

    Company size

    1,001 - 5,000 Employees

    Headquarters location

    Orlando, FL, US

    Year founded

    1964

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