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Forensic Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Donan

Forensic Engineer Contractor

Chicago, IL · On-site

Forensic Engineer, Civil Engineer, Design Engineer, Structural Engineer, Construction Management, Residential Construction, Residential Design. To learn more about us visit donan.com

Donan

Forensic Engineer Contractor

Chicago, IL · On-site

Forensic Engineer, Civil Engineer, Design Engineer, Structural Engineer, Construction Management, Residential Construction, Residential Design. To learn more about us visit donan.com

J.S. Held LLC

Civil/Structural Forensic Engineer

Chicago, IL

$100K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Our Forensic Architecture & Engineering team is seeking an intermediate level Civil/Structural Engineer (PE or SE) to enhance our already robust team of professionals supporting our clients ...

J.S. Held LLC

Civil/Structural Forensic Engineer

Chicago, IL

$100K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Our Forensic Architecture & Engineering team is seeking an intermediate level Civil/Structural Engineer (PE or SE) to enhance our already robust team of professionals supporting our clients ...

J.S. Held LLC

Civil/Structural Forensic Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Our Forensic Architecture & Engineering team is seeking an intermediate level Civil/Structural Engineer (PE or SE) to enhance our already robust team of professionals supporting our clients ...

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All JobsForensic Engineer JobsForensic Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Forensic Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$44.8K

$132.2K

$334.8K

How much do forensic engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic engineer in Chicago, IL is $132,244.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,100.00 and $133,900.00 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

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

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Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Forensic Engineer job openings:

Forensic Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 84% In-person, 9% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $132,244 per year, or $63.6 per hour.

Forensic Engineer Contractor

Donan

Chicago, IL • On-site

Other

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Welcome to Donan Engineering (Powered by Alpine Intel), a leader in the property insurance intelligence industry. We are currently seeking a 1099 Independent Contractor professional Civil or Structural Engineer inChicago, IL.
Key Responsibilities Include:
  • Site studies evaluating damages to materials or components for residential structures.
  • Write a technical report providing detailed and accurate information on completed projects.
  • Consistently communicate, document your communication, with clients to provide timelines and updates.
  • Provide excellent customer service to company internal and external customers.

Qualifications:
  • Registered as an active Professional Engineer (P.E.) in the state where work is assigned and accepted.
  • Minimum of a bachelor's degree in Civil or Structural Engineering or related engineering disciplines (Mechanical, Electrical, etc.)
  • Two plus years of experience in failure analysis, and knowledge of residential and construction, building codes, design, or related experience is highly preferred.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Required to have strong technical writing abilities with experience using Microsoft Word.
  • Proficient with general computer skills (Microsoft Word, Google Chrome, etc.).
  • Must have superior customer service skills, be team oriented and enjoy service-oriented work.
  • Must be able to work efficiently without supervision.
  • Must have access to high-speed internet service and reliable cellular reception.
  • Must have or obtain a laptop with Microsoft Word and PDF editing software for report completion.
  • Must have or obtain necessary equipment to perform assigned and accepted forensic projects.

Physical Requirements:
  • Frequently required to stand on one's feet for prolonged periods of time.
  • Frequently required to lift and/or move objects weighing 50-100 lbs.
  • Frequently required to climb onto first and second story roofs, ascend/descend ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, etc.
  • Frequently required to balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • Frequently required to reach with hands and arms.
  • Frequently required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel.
  • Frequently required to drive a vehicle for extended periods of time.

Related Experience: Forensic Engineer, Civil Engineer, Design Engineer, Structural Engineer, Construction Management, Residential Construction, Residential Design.
To learn more about us visit donan.com.

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