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Forensic Accountant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

J.S. Held LLC

Forensic Accountant, Family Law

Phoenix, AZ · On-site +1

$85K - $105K/yr

We are seeking an experienced forensic accounting professional to join our Economic Damages & Valuations team as a Senior Consultant , supporting engagements primarily focused on family law and ...

J.S. Held LLC

Forensic Accountant, Family Law

Miami, FL · On-site +1

$85K - $105K/yr

We are seeking an experienced forensic accounting professional to join our Economic Damages & Valuations team as a Senior Consultant , supporting engagements primarily focused on family law and ...

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Forensic Accountant

Sherman Oaks, CA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

This is an excellent opportunity to join one of the largest forensic accounting firms located in Sherman Oaks & Irvine. A recognized name in Southern California providing full-service accounting ...

J.S. Held LLC

Forensic Accountant, Family Law

Miami, FL · On-site +1

$85K - $105K/yr

We are seeking an experienced forensic accounting professional to join our Economic Damages & Valuations team as a Senior Consultant , supporting engagements primarily focused on family law and ...

J.S. Held LLC

Forensic Accountant, Family Law

Miami, FL · On-site +1

$85K - $105K/yr

We are seeking an experienced forensic accounting professional to join our Economic Damages & Valuations team as a Senior Consultant , supporting engagements primarily focused on family law and ...

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How much do forensic accountant jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic accountant in the United States is $85,177.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,500.00 and $85,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you make $500,000 a year as an accountant?

Forensic accountants and senior-level accounting professionals can potentially earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, certifications like CPA or CFE, and working in high-paying industries or senior management roles. However, such salaries are typically achieved after many years of experience and often involve leadership positions or consulting work.

What exactly does a forensic accountant do?

A forensic accountant investigates financial records to detect fraud, embezzlement, or other financial crimes. They analyze data, prepare reports, and may testify in court, often using accounting software and adhering to legal standards. Their work supports legal proceedings and helps organizations prevent financial misconduct.

Do I need a CPA to be a forensic accountant?

A CPA license is not strictly required to work as a forensic accountant, but many professionals in the field pursue CPA certification to enhance their credibility and job prospects. Forensic accountants often have backgrounds in accounting, finance, or auditing, and additional certifications like the Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) can also be valuable. Skills in accounting software, investigation, and report writing are essential in this role.

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

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 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 forensic accountants?

Forensic accountants are specialized professionals who use accounting, auditing, and investigative skills to examine financial records for use in legal proceedings. They help uncover fraud, embezzlement, and other financial crimes by analyzing complex financial data and presenting their findings in reports or as expert witnesses in court. Their work is crucial in both criminal and civil cases, including disputes, insurance claims, and divorce proceedings. Forensic accountants often collaborate with law enforcement, attorneys, and other experts to provide clear, evidence-based conclusions.

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.

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.

Is forensic accountant a good career?

Forensic accountants analyze financial data to investigate fraud, embezzlement, and other financial crimes, often working for accounting firms, law enforcement, or corporations. The career offers strong job growth, competitive salaries, and requires skills in accounting, auditing, and investigation, often supported by certifications like the CPA or CFE. It can be a rewarding field for those interested in finance and legal processes.
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Forensic Accountant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Accountant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,177 per year, or $41 per hour.
Forensic Accountant Supporting DCIS

Forensic Accountant Supporting DCIS

Ruchman and Associates, Inc.

Alexandria, VA

Other

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Description

Ruchman and Associates, Inc. is currently seeking a Forensic Accountant to support forfeiture related tasks at the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS).  The DCIS is a federal law enforcement organization whose mission is to protect America's warfighters by conducting investigations in support of crucial National Defense priorities involving fraud, waste, and abuse. 

As a Forensic Accountant, you will work independently to investigate and analyze all components of the financial infrastructure, their methods of criminal money movements, and the professional money laundering infrastructure facilitating these movements. You will support Federal investigations and prosecutions by using criminal investigative tools. 

Key Responsibilities: 

  • Participate in strategic planning sessions with financial investigative groups and task forces.
  • Conduct analysis during investigation support on financial transactions to accurately identify all parties involved in the criminal activity.
  • Conduct analysis and audit complex financial and business records to support Federal investigations and prosecutions.
  • Obtain raw criminal intelligence from various database resources and correlate the data, culminating in a full analysis of the information.
  • Provide factual witness testimony during federal prosecutions.
  • Traveling to support asset forfeiture-related work.

Requirements

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree- Finance, Accounting, Business, or a related field is required.
  • Minimum of 2 years law enforcement experience with planning, conducting, and participating in financial investigations. Experience as a government forensic accountant (white collar criminal fraud).
  • Knowledge of current and anticipated banking anti-money laundering regulations and practices.
  • Skilled and capable in oral and written communications.
  • Experience providing witness testimony.
  • Have strong analytical and investigative experience.
  • Must be able to work on client site (some telework is allowed). Travel to other locations is required.
  • Must have an active DOD clearance.
  • Licensed CPA, preferred.
  • Experience working independently with minimal supervision and guidance.



RAI is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and will not discriminate against any application for employment based on age, race, color, gender, national origin, religion, creed, disability, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, disability, or sex including pregnancy and childbirth or related medical condition or on any other basis prohibited by law. RAI participates in the E-Verify program to confirm the employment eligibility of all persons hired. This means that we will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization. RAI. will not use E-Verify to pre-screen job applicants.

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