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Entry Level Forensic Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR

Entry Level Forensic Engineer information

See Portland, OR salary details

$46.1K

$136.1K

$344.7K

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

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level forensic engineer in Portland, OR is $136,142.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,800.00 and $137,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

Are entry level forensic engineers in demand?

Entry level forensic engineers are in moderate demand as the field grows with increased focus on accident reconstruction, failure analysis, and legal investigations. Employers seek candidates with strong analytical skills, relevant certifications, and knowledge of investigative tools, making entry-level opportunities available in consulting firms, government agencies, and insurance companies.
Infographic showing various Entry Level Forensic Engineer job openings in Portland, OR as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, 38% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $136,142 per year, or $65.5 per hour.

2027 Intern - Forensic & Litigation Consulting

Portland, OR • On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


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.