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Entry Level Forensic Engineer Jobs in California

$32 - $34/hr

Candidates should be entry-level with the ability to learn and grow during a two-year assignment ... Perform forensic analysis of devices * Conduct root cause analysis using standard methodologies

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Entry Level Forensic Engineer information

What does an entry level forensic engineer do?

An entry level forensic engineer assists in investigating and analyzing accidents, equipment failures, and structural issues to determine their causes. They collect and examine evidence, prepare reports, and may help senior engineers with site visits and laboratory tests. Their work supports legal cases, insurance claims, and safety improvements. Entry level forensic engineers often work under supervision while gaining hands-on experience in the field.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an entry level forensic engineer expect during their first year on the job?

As an entry level forensic engineer, you will typically be involved in supporting the investigation of structural failures, accidents, and material defects. Your daily tasks may include collecting and documenting evidence at sites, assisting with laboratory analyses, preparing technical reports, and collaborating with senior engineers on case studies. The role often requires strong attention to detail, clear communication, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team. Early exposure to diverse cases and mentorship from experienced colleagues provides a solid foundation for developing specialized expertise in the field.

What is the difference between Entry Level Forensic Engineer vs Entry Level Civil Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Forensic EngineerEntry Level Civil Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in engineering, engineering license preferredBachelor's in civil engineering, licensure optional at entry
Work EnvironmentInvestigations, legal settings, forensic labsConstruction sites, design offices, urban planning
Employer & Industry UsageLegal cases, insurance claims, forensic consultingConstruction firms, government agencies, consulting firms

Entry Level Forensic Engineers focus on investigating engineering failures and providing expert testimony, often working in legal or forensic settings. In contrast, Entry Level Civil Engineers typically work on designing and managing infrastructure projects. While both roles require an engineering degree, forensic engineers often need knowledge of legal processes and forensic analysis, whereas civil engineers focus on construction and design. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path based on their interests and credentials.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Forensic Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Forensic Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, analytical problem-solving, and a relevant bachelor's degree in fields such as civil, mechanical, or electrical engineering. Familiarity with industry-standard software like AutoCAD, MATLAB, and forensic investigation tools, as well as certifications such as EIT (Engineer-in-Training), are commonly required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and strong organizational skills help you excel in documenting evidence and presenting findings. These competencies ensure accurate investigations, clear reporting, and credibility in legal or insurance contexts.
What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Forensic Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Forensic Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Forensic Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Forensic Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 66% In-person, 17% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution.
Entry-Level Structural Engineer | Designer

Entry-Level Structural Engineer | Designer

Degenkolb Engineers

Oakland, CA • Hybrid

$84K - $112K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Be an early applicant


Job description


Company Background: Founded in 1940 and headquartered in San Francisco, Degenkolb Engineers has more than eight decades of commitment to innovation, client service, and life-long learning. We deliver customized structural solutions in a variety of practice areas such as healthcare, education, science and technology, forensics, construction engineering, and federal buildings. We address every project need—whether meeting stringent codes, staying on budget, adhering to tight schedules, or creating landmark structural systems.

Position Description: We review candidates for this Entry-Level Structural Engineer | Designer position throughout the year in all of our California offices (Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Diego, and Oakland), as well as our Midwest offices in Detroit and Grand Rapids, MI. Applicants may indicate interest in multiple locations on a single application.

Ideal Candidate: A high-achieving master’s student (undergraduate GPA 3.40 or above) with a passion for structural engineering, seismic analysis (non-Michigan offices) and/or steel (Michigan). You want to be part of a high-performing team that supports your professional development with a challenging mix of projects, mentorship, and lifelong learning opportunities.

Compensation and Benefits: The pay rate for this position, across the various offices, generally ranges between $84,000 and $112,000 annually. This range is a good faith estimate provided pursuant to pay transparency laws. Actual pay rates will be based on various factors, including location, company geographic differentials, education level, and candidate qualifications.

Benefits include health and life insurance, commuter benefits, paid parental leave, 401(k) with company Profit Sharing contribution, employee ownership in a privately held stock plan, financial support for professional activities, company holidays, and a generous paid time off program.

Culture: We offer a flexible hybrid work schedule and a fun office environment! Our firm is highly collaborative and filled with experts united by a passion for industry involvement, pride in company ownership, and respect for personal lives. You will benefit from focused professional development within a supportive and transparent team environment, as well as opportunities for committee participation and leadership, variety in work assignments, and a pay scale set at the 75th market percentile. To learn more about the company, please visit: https://degenkolb.com/culture/

Job Description:
Create a safe and beautifully built environment through expert engineering consultation, with a commitment to serving the needs of our clients. The core technical tasks you focus on during this training period will prepare you for the Professional Engineering (PE) licensing exam.

Responsibilities:

  • Review architectural and structural drawings for new and existing structures to provide structural design and analysis.
  • Prepare engineering calculation packages, including assumptions and narrative to justify design methodology.
  • Assist in solving client construction challenges by coordinating with other disciplines, responding to RFIs, reviewing submittals, and performing construction engineering.
  • Gain exposure to new concepts in construction.

Minimum Requirements:

  • MS in Structural Engineering (preferred) OR BS in Civil Engineering with a structural emphasis with 1–2 years of relevant, post-degree, full-time work experience.
  • Undergraduate GPA 3.40 or higher.
  • Professional communication skills.
  • Must be currently authorized to work in the United States for any employer.
  • Unofficial Undergraduate and Graduate transcript submission.

Desired Qualifications:

  • Passing grade on FE exam.
  • Knowledge of software programs such as AutoCAD, Tekla, RISA, RAM, Revit, Excel, MathCAD, SAP2000, ETABS, Python, or others.
  • Demonstrated leadership potential.
  • Experience in seismic engineering analysis and design of buildings a plus.

Application Process: Please read through the job postings and apply to a single position for which you feel you are best qualified. Click the Apply Now button and complete the application.

Submit all of the following:

  1. Resume
  2. Unofficial transcripts—undergraduate and graduate, as applicable
  3. Targeted cover letter describing why you want to work with Degenkolb and how your background aligns with this position
Degenkolb Engineers complies with Equal Opportunity Employer guidelines, meaning we do not discriminate in employment matters on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, military service eligibility, veteran status, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, or any other protected class. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where a wide range of perspectives, skills, and experiences are welcomed and respected.