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Forensic Accountant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Bridge Forensic CPAs

Forensic Accountant

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Staff Forensic Accountant Company: Bridge Forensic CPAs Location: Walnut Creek, CA Job Type: Full-time About Us: Our firm is one of the premiere family law forensic accounting firms in the Bay Area.

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Forensic Accountant information

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$56.3K

$84.1K

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How much do forensic accountant jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for 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 is a forensic accountant?

A forensic accountant is an accountant who investigates potential financial crime or fraud cases, typically those that involve litigation or legal and criminal disputes. Usually, they are the main investigator analyzing the books and financial holdings that may become evidence in a court case. Their analyses, documentation, and findings are presented to lawyers, judges, and juries, and often, the forensic accountant will testify as a subject matter expert on the evidence.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forensic accountant?

To thrive as a Forensic Accountant, you need strong analytical skills, detailed knowledge of accounting principles, and a relevant degree such as a bachelor’s in accounting or finance, often supplemented by certifications like CPA or CFE. Familiarity with forensic accounting software, data analysis tools, and advanced Excel functions is typically required. Exceptional attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication are vital soft skills for investigating and explaining complex financial issues. These competencies enable forensic accountants to detect fraud, support legal proceedings, and deliver reliable financial analysis.

What are some common challenges forensic accountants face when working on fraud investigations?

Forensic accountants often encounter challenges such as incomplete financial records, uncooperative witnesses, and attempts by perpetrators to conceal evidence. Navigating complex financial transactions and translating findings into clear, actionable reports for non-accounting audiences can also be demanding. These professionals must remain detail-oriented and persistent while collaborating closely with legal teams, law enforcement, and clients to build a strong case.

What is the difference between Forensic Accountant vs Auditing Accountant?

AspectForensic AccountantAuditing Accountant
CertificationsCPA, CFECPA, CIA
Work EnvironmentLegal cases, investigations, litigation supportFinancial statement audits, compliance reviews
Industry UsageLegal, insurance, fraud detectionPublic accounting firms, corporations

While both forensic accountants and auditing accountants hold CPA credentials and work within the accounting industry, forensic accountants focus on investigations related to fraud and legal cases, often working with law enforcement or legal teams. Auditing accountants primarily perform financial audits to ensure accuracy and compliance in financial statements. Their work environments and objectives differ, with forensic accountants specializing in uncovering financial crimes and auditing accountants ensuring financial integrity.

Is there a demand for forensic accountants?

Forensic accountants are in high demand due to increasing financial fraud, white-collar crime, and regulatory compliance needs. They often work in law enforcement, legal firms, and corporations, with strong skills in auditing, investigation, and certification, making their expertise valuable across various industries.

What does a forensic accountant actually do?

A forensic accountant investigates financial records to detect fraud, embezzlement, or other financial crimes. They analyze data, prepare reports, and may testify as expert witnesses in legal proceedings, often using accounting software and adhering to legal standards. Their work supports criminal investigations, litigation, and dispute resolution.
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Forensic Accountant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Accountant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% In-person, 9% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,061 per year, or $40.4 per hour.

Forensic Accountant

Bridge Forensic CPAs

Walnut Creek, CA • On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Staff Forensic Accountant

Company: Bridge Forensic CPAs

Location: Walnut Creek, CA

Job Type: Full-time

About Us:

Our firm is one of the premiere family law forensic accounting firms in the Bay Area. We assist courts and attorneys in other forensic and fraud matters as expert witnesses. Additionally, we perform business valuations for hundreds of businesses across the country.

Position Overview:

You will get an opportunity to work in all our service areas with plenty of on-the-job training, assisting with calculations related to family law forensic matters, including tracings, income determinations, and stock analysis. You will learn how to determine the value of privately held businesses and draft reports to substantiate valuation conclusions, as well as working on fraud and forensic matters to assist attorneys and the court. This is a hybrid position requiring three days a week in office at our Walnut Creek, California location with Monday and Wednesday as two of the required office days.

Key Responsibilities:

·        Assist with schedule and report preparation at the direction of partners, seniors, and managers.

·        Review documents provided by clients and prepare inventories of documents.

·        Accurately enter and transcribe date from source financial documents for use in schedule preparation.

·        Take comprehensive notes from internal and external client meetings.

·        Organize physical client documents when received and facilitate return of documents.

·        Assist with document scanning and data input on client work as requested.

·        Process occasional client retainer / bill payment over the phone.

·        Heavy formal and informal written communication by email and messaging.

·        Litigation and valuation report drafting.

Qualifications:

·        Foundational knowledge of accounting concepts.

·        Strong organizational and time-management skills.

·        Proficient in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).

·        Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

·        Ability to prioritize tasks effectively.

Education and Experience:

  • Bachelor's degree in accounting.

Physical duties of this role:

·        Ability to work at a computer and participate in video conferencing, speaking, and typing for extended periods of time.

Occasional physical duties:

·        Be able to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

·        Be able to stand for long periods of time.

Schedule

Monday – Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm - Hybrid position requiring three days a week in the office, Monday and Wednesday as two of the required office days.

Base Salary Range between $70,000 and $85,000. Additional quarterly incentive compensation between 10%–15% of compensation.

Benefits

·        Medical/Dental/Vision coverage (100% for employee)

·        Paid Time Off (4 weeks)

·        Paid Holidays (10 paid holidays)

·        Life/ AD&D Insurance

·        Long Term Disability Insurance

·        401K w/ profit sharing (5% of compensation, non-discretionary)

·        Quarterly bonus potential

How to Apply:

If you are interested in joining our dynamic team, please submit your resume and a cover letter highlighting your relevant experience. Please confirm in your application that you are able to work in person three days a week at our Walnut Creek, CA office, and that you are authorized to work in the United States.


Bridge Forensic CPAs is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.

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