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Forensic Collision Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vehicle Accident Reconstructionist

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$124K - $171K/yr

Overview Responsible for investigating, analyzing, traffic control systems and reconstructing ... Provide collision scene evidence analysis and forensic mapping of collision sites and vehicles.

Requirements Overview Responsible for investigating, analyzing, traffic control systems and ... Provide collision scene evidence analysis and forensic mapping of collision sites and vehicles.

Overview Responsible for investigating, analyzing, traffic control systems and reconstructing ... Provide collision scene evidence analysis and forensic mapping of collision sites and vehicles.

Vehicle Accident Reconstructionist

Seattle, WA ยท On-site +1

$124K - $171K/yr

Overview Responsible for investigating, analyzing, traffic control systems and reconstructing ... Provide collision scene evidence analysis and forensic mapping of collision sites and vehicles.

Requirements Overview Responsible for investigating, analyzing, traffic control systems and ... Provide collision scene evidence analysis and forensic mapping of collision sites and vehicles.

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Forensic Collision Investigator information

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How much do forensic collision investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic collision investigator in the United States is $77,448.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $89,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a forensic collision investigator?

A Forensic Collision Investigator examines road traffic collisions to determine their causes and contributing factors. They analyze evidence such as vehicle damage, road conditions, witness statements, and CCTV footage. Their findings help law enforcement, insurance companies, and courts understand how incidents occurred. Using scientific techniques, they reconstruct accidents and provide expert testimony if required. This role requires attention to detail, analytical skills, and knowledge of physics and engineering principles.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a forensic collision investigator?

As a Forensic Collision Investigator, your daily work involves visiting accident scenes, collecting and analyzing physical evidence, and reconstructing crash events using data and specialized software. You may document findings through detailed reports, liaise with law enforcement or attorneys, and sometimes provide expert testimony in court. The role often requires working both in the field and in an office environment, sometimes on call for emergencies. Collaboration with other investigators and public safety officials is common. This variety makes the job engaging and impactful for those interested in both technical problem-solving and real-world outcomes.

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

To excel as a Forensic Collision Investigator, you need a strong background in accident reconstruction, physics, engineering principles, and often a degree in a related field such as forensic science or criminal justice. Competency with specialized software such as CAD programs, 3D modeling tools, and familiarity with data collection devices is commonly required, along with certifications like ACTAR. Exceptional attention to detail, analytical thinking, and clear communication skills set top professionals apart, enabling them to explain complex findings to non-experts. These abilities ensure accurate investigations, effective teamwork with law enforcement, and credible testimony in legal proceedings.

How to be a forensic collision investigator?

To become a forensic collision investigator, individuals typically need a background in criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field, along with experience in accident reconstruction or law enforcement. Certification from organizations such as the Accreditation Commission for Traffic Accident Reconstruction (ACTAR) can enhance job prospects, and proficiency with tools like measurement devices and accident reconstruction software is important. The role often requires working in a forensic or law enforcement environment, with attention to detail and analytical skills.

How to become a forensic collision investigator?

To become a forensic collision investigator, candidates typically need a background in criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field, along with experience in accident reconstruction or law enforcement. Certification from organizations like the Accreditation Commission for Traffic Accident Reconstruction (ACTAR) can enhance job prospects, and proficiency with tools such as CAD software and accident reconstruction techniques is important. A valid driver's license and the ability to work in various environments are also often required.

What do forensic collision investigators do?

Forensic collision investigators analyze vehicle accidents to determine causes and contributing factors. They examine physical evidence, such as skid marks, vehicle damage, and accident scenes, often using tools like measurement devices and accident reconstruction software. Their work helps establish facts for legal cases and improves road safety.
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Infographic showing various Forensic Collision Investigator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $77,448 per year, or $37.2 per hour.

Senior Mechanical Engineer / Accident Reconstruction Engineer (P.E.)

Accident Reconstruction Analysis

Raleigh, NC โ€ข On-site

$100K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Conduct field investigations of vehicle collisions, structural incidents, fires, and other engineering-related losses.

  • Analyze physical evidence, perform engineering calculations, and develop technical reports and demonstrative exhibits.

  • Communicate findings and provide expert testimony in litigation and insurance claims.


Job description

About Us


Accident Reconstruction Analysis, PLLC (ARA) is a nationally recognized forensic engineering and fire investigation firm providing expert analysis in vehicle collisions, product failures, structural failures, industrial incidents, fire origin and cause investigations, and other complex technical matters. Our engineers work alongside attorneys, insurance carriers, manufacturers, corporations, and government agencies to investigate failures and provide expert testimony throughout the United States.

We are seeking an experienced PE to join our growing forensic engineering team.


Position Summary


The Senior Mechanical Engineer will investigate vehicle collisions, equipment failures, structural incidents, fires, and other engineering-related losses. The successful candidate will perform field inspections, analyze physical evidence, conduct engineering calculations, prepare detailed technical reports, develop demonstrative exhibits, and provide expert testimony when required. This position offers a unique opportunity to apply engineering principles to real world investigations while working on challenging, high profile litigation matters.


Primary Responsibilities


  • Conduct field investigations involving:
    • Motor vehicle collisions
    • Commercial vehicle crashes
    • Industrial accidents
    • Product failures
    • Mechanical failures
    • Fire and explosion losses
    • Structural failures
  • Document accident scenes using photography, measurements, drones, laser scanning, and mapping technology
  • Analyze vehicle damage, event data recorders (EDRs), and physical evidence
  • Perform engineering calculations and accident reconstruction analyses
  • Conduct product testing and engineering evaluations
  • Develop computer simulations and visual demonstrative exhibits
  • Prepare detailed technical reports for litigation and insurance claims
  • Communicate findings with attorneys, insurance companies, and clients
  • Participate in depositions and provide expert witness testimony
  • Travel as needed throughout North Carolina and occasionally nationwide


Preferred Qualifications


Required


  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or closely related engineering discipline
  • P.E. license (or ability to obtain NC licensure through comity)
  • Minimum 8+ years of engineering experience
  • Excellent technical writing skills
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
  • Valid driver's license
  • Ability to travel


Preferred


Experience with one or more of the following:


  • Accident Reconstruction
  • Fire Investigation
  • Failure Analysis
  • Product Liability
  • Heavy Truck Reconstruction
  • Human Factors
  • Vehicle Dynamics
  • Event Data Recorder (EDR) Analysis
  • 3D Modeling or Animation
  • Photogrammetry
  • FARO Laser Scanner
  • Drone Mapping
  • CAD Software
  • Engineering Litigation Support


Certifications such as ACTAR, CFI, FAA Part 107, or Fire Investigation credentials are highly desirable but not required.


What You'll Do


Every investigation is different. One week you may inspect a tractor-trailer collision, while the next you may examine a collapsed structure, investigate a fire scene, evaluate a failed industrial component, or reconstruct a complex multi-vehicle crash. Our engineers work directly with evidence, perform engineering analyses, and present defensible technical opinions that help resolve litigation.


Why Join ARA?


  • Diverse forensic engineering projects
  • Nationally recognized expert witness practice
  • Collaborative team of engineers and fire investigators
  • Opportunities for professional development and specialty certifications
  • Cutting edge forensic technology and equipment
  • Competitive compensation
  • Health benefits
  • Paid time off
  • Continuing education support
  • Retirement plan


Ideal Candidate


We're looking for an engineer who enjoys solving complex technical problems, is comfortable working both in the field and the office, and can clearly communicate engineering conclusions to clients, attorneys, judges, and juries. Attention to detail, sound engineering judgment, and strong written communication skills are essential.