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Forensic Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

J.S. Held LLC

Forensic Mechanical Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site +1

$130K - $170K/yr

Our engineers routinely perform forensic investigations, provide consultation, and serve as expert witnesses. Our practice areas include commercial, industrial, manufacturing, and residential ...

J.S. Held LLC

Forensic Mechanical Engineer

Des Moines, IA · Hybrid

$130K - $170K/yr

Our engineers routinely perform forensic investigations, provide consultation, and serve as expert witnesses. Our practice areas include commercial, industrial, manufacturing, and residential ...

Rimkus

Civil/Structural Engineer

Des Moines, IA · Hybrid

Provides forensic consulting services requiring Civil Engineering expertise for insurance, legal, industrial, and other clients. Assesses and determines the cause and origin of structural failures ...

Rimkus

Civil/Structural Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

Provides forensic consulting services requiring Civil Engineering expertise for insurance, legal, industrial, and other clients. Assesses and determines the cause and origin of structural failures ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Detection Engineer

Peterson, IA · On-site

$69K - $158K/yr

Detection Engineer The Opportunity: Are you ready to take an active role in cyber defense for a ... forensic operations. Your work will directly impact the Combatant Command Theater and mission ...

Olsson

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Des Moines, IA · Hybrid

$102K - $134K/yr

We also provide building inspection and forensic investigation services. As a member of this team, you will contribute to diverse, high-impact projects, delivering engineering solutions that make a ...

Crystal Group

Test Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA

Job Title: Test Engineer Reports to: Manager, Compliance Department: Engineering Work Model ... forensic analysis of failures; troubleshooting failures; supervising sub-contractors. * Attain ...

Crystal Group

Test Engineer

Hiawatha, IA

Job Title: Test Engineer Reports to: Manager, Compliance Department: Engineering Work Model ... forensic analysis of failures; troubleshooting failures; supervising sub-contractors. * Attain ...

Crystal Group

Test Engineer

Hiawatha, IA · On-site

Job Title: Test Engineer Reports to: Manager, Compliance Department: Engineering Work Model ... forensic analysis of failures; troubleshooting failures; supervising sub-contractors. * Attain ...

Olsson

Project Electrical Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

We also provide building inspection and forensic investigation services. As a member of this team, you will contribute to diverse, high-impact projects, delivering engineering solutions that make a ...

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All JobsForensic Engineer JobsForensic Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Forensic Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$40.9K

$120.6K

$305.3K

How much do forensic engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic engineer in Iowa is $120,578.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,200.00 and $122,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a forensic engineer?

A forensic engineer specializes in accident and failure analysis of structures or product that have failed to perform correctly and to discover whether there is a design flaw. As a forensic engineer, your responsibilities include examining the product or structure that did not perform as intended, collecting and analyzing the evidence and making recommendations for future preventative measures. Your job is to oversee the investigation of the design, materials, and all other contributing factors in the failure, to prevent future incidents.

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

To thrive as a Forensic Engineer, you need a strong background in engineering principles, analytical problem-solving, and an accredited engineering degree, often paired with a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with specialized investigation tools, CAD software, and report-writing systems is typically required. Exceptional attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective written and verbal communication skills help you stand out in this role. These competencies are essential for accurately analyzing incidents, preparing clear technical reports, and providing credible expert testimony in legal contexts.

What are some common challenges forensic engineers face during investigations?

Forensic engineers often encounter challenges such as incomplete or damaged evidence, tight deadlines, and the need to communicate complex technical findings to non-experts like legal teams or juries. They must meticulously document their work and maintain objectivity, as their analyses may be scrutinized in court. Collaboration with other specialists, such as law enforcement or insurance investigators, is key to piecing together accurate conclusions from limited information.

What is the difference between Forensic Engineer vs Structural Engineer?

AspectForensic EngineerStructural Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, Professional Engineer (PE) license, specialized training in accident or failure analysisEngineering degree, PE license, focus on structural design and analysis
Work EnvironmentInvestigations, courtrooms, consulting firms, insurance companiesConstruction sites, design offices, consulting firms
Industry UsageLegal cases, failure analysis, accident investigationsBuilding design, construction, structural assessments

While both roles require engineering credentials and a PE license, forensic engineers focus on investigating failures and providing expert testimony in legal cases, often working in investigative and courtroom settings. Structural engineers primarily design and analyze structures, working on construction projects and structural assessments. The two roles overlap in engineering expertise but differ in their primary functions and work environments.

Are forensic engineers in demand?

Forensic engineers are in steady demand due to their role in investigating failures, accidents, and structural issues across various industries. Employment opportunities are often linked to construction, insurance, and legal sectors, with a need for strong technical skills and relevant certifications. The field is expected to grow as infrastructure and safety regulations evolve.

What does a forensic engineer do?

A forensic engineer investigates failures, accidents, or damages related to structures, products, or systems to determine causes and liability. They analyze evidence, prepare reports, and may testify in court, often using tools like CAD software and requiring engineering licensure. Their work supports legal and insurance processes by providing expert opinions.
More about Forensic Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Engineer jobs in Iowa?

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For Forensic Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Forensic Engineer jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Forensic Engineer jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Forensic Engineer jobs in IA?

For Forensic Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Forensic Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% As Needed, 60% Full Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $120,578 per year, or $58 per hour.

Senior Forensic Structural Engineer, P.E

Sedgwick Claims Management Services Ltd

Nevada, IA • On-site

$80 - $110/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Sedgwick rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 327 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

212th of 311 rated insurance

Job description

Job Summary

We are seeking a dedicated Professional Engineer to join our forensic engineering team in the greater Las Vegas area, specializing in structural damage assessment, failure analysis, and forensic investigations across commercial, residential, and industrial buildings. Candidates must hold a valid PE license in their state of residence.

Key Responsibilities
  • Determine the origin, cause, and extent of structural failures, including roof damage, water intrusion, post-fire damage, storm damage, building system failures, foundation settlement, product liability, and construction defects.
  • Survey loss scenes and conduct inspections at residential and commercial buildings.
  • Investigate and document the scope of damage caused by recent acute events.
  • Analyze and document failure causation for insurers and litigation support.
  • Collaborate with other investigators to produce detailed reports outlining causes and origins of losses.
  • Serve as an expert witness in court and depositions.
  • Maintain billable hours and time- and expense records for forensic engineering projects.
Qualifications & Requirements
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering from an accredited institution.
  • Valid Professional Engineer (PE) license in the state of residence; multi-state licensure and/or active NCEES record preferred.
  • Experience in structural failure analysis, storm and roof damage assessments, building envelope investigations, and evaluating structural collapses.
  • Strong analytical and communication skills with the ability to produce clear, comprehensive reports.
  • Capacity to stand, walk, kneel, squat, and work outdoors in varied weather conditions; ability to lift or carry up to 50 pounds and push or pull up to 100 pounds.
Benefits
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • 401(k) plan with employer matching
  • Paid time off (PTO)
  • Disability and life insurance
  • Employee assistance program and flexible spending account options
Equal Opportunity Employer

EFI Global is an equal-opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all qualified persons. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic.

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