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Entry Level Forensic Accountant Jobs in California

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Entry Level Forensic Accountant information

See California salary details

$56.3K

$84.1K

$151K

How much do entry level forensic accountant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level forensic accountant in California is $84,061.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,700.00 and $83,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level forensic accountant do?

An entry level forensic accountant assists in investigating financial records to detect fraud, embezzlement, and other financial crimes. They work under the supervision of senior accountants to analyze data, prepare reports, and sometimes assist in legal proceedings. Their work often involves examining bank statements, tax records, and other financial documents to identify inconsistencies or illegal activities. Entry level forensic accountants may also help create presentations or documentation for use in court cases.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level forensic accountant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Forensic Accountant, you need a solid understanding of accounting principles, analytical skills, and a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field. Familiarity with forensic accounting software, data analysis tools, and often a CPA or CFE certification are typically required. Strong attention to detail, integrity, and effective communication skills help distinguish professionals in this field. These competencies are crucial for accurately uncovering financial discrepancies, supporting legal investigations, and presenting findings clearly to stakeholders.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level forensic accountants, and how can they be managed?

Entry level forensic accountants often encounter challenges such as managing large volumes of financial data, mastering specialized investigative techniques, and adapting to fast-paced, high-stakes environments. Working closely with senior team members and leveraging available training resources can help new hires build confidence and expertise. Effective communication and attention to detail are crucial, as the role frequently involves collaborating with legal teams, law enforcement, and clients to present findings clearly and accurately.

What is the difference between Entry Level Forensic Accountant vs Entry Level Auditor?

AspectEntry Level Forensic AccountantEntry Level Auditor
CertificationsCPA, CFE often preferredCPA, CIA common
Work EnvironmentInvestigative settings, legal casesCorporate, public accounting firms
Industry UsageLegal, financial fraud detectionFinancial statement review, compliance

Both roles require accounting credentials like CPA, and they often work in related environments. However, forensic accountants focus on fraud investigation and legal cases, while auditors primarily review financial statements for accuracy and compliance. Understanding these differences helps candidates choose the right career path within the accounting industry.

How much does an entry level forensic accountant make?

Entry-level forensic accountants typically earn between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on location, education, and certifications such as CPA or CFE. Starting salaries may be lower in some regions but tend to increase with experience and specialized skills in financial analysis and investigation tools.

Is it easy to get a job as an entry level forensic accountant?

Entry level forensic accountants typically need a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field, along with strong analytical skills and attention to detail. Job availability can vary based on economic conditions and industry demand, but internships and relevant certifications like the Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) can improve chances of employment.
More about Entry Level Forensic Accountant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Accountant jobs in California?

The most popular types of Forensic Accountant jobs in California are:

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For Entry Level Forensic Accountant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Forensic Accountant jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Forensic Accountant jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Forensic Accountant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Forensic Accountant job openings:

Entry Level Forensic Accountant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Forensic Accountant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 9% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,061 per year, or $40.4 per hour.

2027 Intern - Forensic & Litigation Consulting

FTI Consulting

Irvine, CA • On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Who We Are

FTI Consulting is the leading global expert firm for organizations facing crisis and transformation. We work with many of the world’s top multinational corporations, law firms, banks and private equity firms on their most important issues to deliver impact that makes a difference. From resolving disputes, navigating crises, managing risk and optimizing performance, our teams respond rapidly to dynamic and complex situations.

At FTI Consulting, you’ll work side-by side with leaders who have shaped history, helping solve the biggest challenges making headlines today. From day one, you’ll be an integral part of a focused team where you can make a real impact. You’ll be surrounded by an open, collaborative culture that embraces diversity, recognition, professional development and, most importantly, you.

Are you ready to make your impact?

About The Role

Are you an innovative, collaborative, and highly motivated student that is looking to exercise your entrepreneurial spirit in the workplace? FTI Consulting is looking to invest in your future and the future of FTI Consulting with our summer 2027 internship program, which takes place between late May 2027 and August 2027.

The internship program at FTI Consulting serves as a key pathway to entry-level consultant positions, providing interns with the opportunity to gain valuable experience and be considered for future full-time roles.

WhatYou’ll Do

As an Intern, you will become a member of a project team and work closely with our professionals and senior leaders to meet our clients’ needs. We strongly recommend you take time to educate yourself on the Forensic & Litigation Consulting segment, one of our five business segments, as well as the practice areas within Forensic & Litigation Consulting on our Careers Site . While submitting your application, you will have the opportunity to select your practice area and location based on your interests.

The available practices and market locations for this segment are listed below:

  • AI Data & Analytics
  • Location(s): Boston, MA; New York, NY
  • Construction, Projects & Assets
  • Location(s): Atlanta, GA; New York, NY; Pittsburgh, PA; Seattle, WA
  • Construction, Projects & Assets - Advisory & Transformation
  • Location: Houston, TX
  • Cybersecurity
  • Location(s): New York, NY; Washington, DC
  • Data & Analytics
  • Location(s): Boston, MA; Chicago, IL; Los Angeles, CA; New York, NY; Washington, DC
  • Dispute Advisory Services
  • Location(s): Chicago, IL; Dallas, TX; Houston, TX; Irvine, CA; New York, NY; San Francisco, CA
  • Environmental Solutions
  • Location: Wayne, PA
  • Export Controls, Sanctions, & Trade
  • Location: New York, NY
  • Financial Services
  • Location: Charlotte, NC
  • Healthcare
  • Location(s): Atlanta, GA; New York, NY; Washington, DC
  • Risk & Investigations
  • Location(s): Boston, MA; Chicago, IL; Houston, TX; New York, NY; Portland, OR; Washington, DC

HowYou’ll Grow

We are committed to investing and supporting you in your professional development, and we have developed a range of programs focused on fostering leadership, growth and development opportunities. We aim to promote continuous learning and individual skills development through on-the-job learning, self-guided professional development courses and certifications. You’ll be assigned a dedicated coach to mentor, guide and support you through regular coaching sessions and serve as an advocate for your professional growth.

As you progress through your career at FTI Consulting, we offer tailored programs for critical professional milestones to ensure you are prepared and empowered to take on your next role.

What You Will Need To Succeed

Basic Qualifications

  • Actively pursuing a full-time bachelor’s degree or completing a fifth-year master’s program with a graduation date between December 2027 - September 2028.
  • Minimum 3.0 Cumulative GPA
  • Ability to work 40 hours per week for the duration of the internship program, taking place between late May 2027 - August 2027
  • Applicants must be work authorized in the United States on a full time basis without the need for employer sponsorship now or in the future. FTI cannot offer employment to F-1 (student) visa holders who require employer sponsorship in the future or cannot work now on a full time basis.
  • Ability to travel to clients and FTI Consulting office(s)

Preferred Qualifications

  • Major(s): Accounting, Business, Data Science, Business Analytics, Computer Science, Engineering (Systems, Mechanical, Civil, Industrial), Information Systems, Economics, Finance, Construction Management, Cybersecurity, Environmental Science, Health Sciences, Public Policy, Law, International Relations, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Healthcare Management, Actuarial Science, Math, Statistics, Physics

Recruiting Process & Timeline

  • Application Process: Apply to your preferred business segment posting (Corporate Finance, Economic Consulting, Technology, Strategic Communications, Forensic & Litigation Consulting). We recommend applying to no more than 2 segment applications.
  • Application Timeline: Please note; candidates who apply by the Priority Deadline of August 28 may receive earlier consideration , depending on team hiring timelines.
  • Applications Open: July 27
  • Priority Deadline: August 28
  • Final Deadline: September 18
  • Pre-Recorded Video Interview: To be fully considered for this opportunity, candidates must complete the Pre-Recorded Video Interview for each application submitted. Candidates should expect to receive an invitation, along with additional details, within 2 business days of submitting their application.
  • Candidate Status: Candidates will be notified of their application status and potential next steps within 1 week of applications closing on September 18

FTI Consulting is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, protected veteran status, religion, physical or mental disability, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, or any other basis protected by law, ordinance, or regulation.

Compensation

Minimum Pay: $20

Maximum Pay: $34

Compensation Disclosure : The compensation range reflects potential base salary for the role. Actual compensation is determined based on a wide array of relevant factors including market considerations, business needs, and an individual’s location, skills, level of experience, and qualifications.

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