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Forensic Engineer Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

SME

Mid-Level Structural Engineer

Plymouth, MI · On-site

We are seeking a mid-level structural engineer with experience in existing buildings and forensic engineering to join our team. In this role, you will evaluate existing structural systems, perform ...

SMEUSA

Senior Structural Engineer

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

We are seeking a senior structural engineer who thrives as a seller/doer and has a strong background in existing buildings and forensic engineering. This role blends hands-on technical leadership ...

Explico

Senior Artist

Detroit, MI · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

WHO WE ARE Explico is an employee-owned forensic engineering firm dedicated to uncovering the truth through scientific rigor and objective analysis. In an industry increasingly shaped by financial ...

New

3B Staffing LLC

SOC Tier 3 Analyst

Farmington, MI · On-site

* Provides advanced technical investigation and forensics capabilities across malware, phishing ... Degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, or Cyber Security or equivalent ...

3B Staffing LLC

SOC Tier 3 Analyst

Farmington, MI · On-site

* Provides advanced technical investigation and forensics capabilities across malware, phishing ... Degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, or Cyber Security or equivalent ...

GeoWorld

Civil - Structural

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

... forensic engineering. * Support evaluation and design efforts for structural steel, reinforced concrete, dams, excavation support systems, foundations, and other above and below grade structures ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsForensic Engineer JobsForensic Engineer Jobs in Detroit, MI

Forensic Engineer information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$43.1K

$127.1K

$321.7K

How much do forensic engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic engineer in Detroit, MI is $127,086.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,600.00 and $128,700.00 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.
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Forensic Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Engineer job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 77% In-person, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,086 per year, or $61.1 per hour.

Mid-Level Structural Engineer

SME

Plymouth, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

SME is seeking a Mid-Level Structural Engineer to join our Building Materials Group in our Plymouth, Michigan office. This position is performed in person and includes regular collaboration in the office and on project sites.
The Opportunity:
We are seeking a mid-level structural engineer with experience in existing buildings and forensic engineering to join our team. In this role, you will evaluate existing structural systems, perform field investigations, and contribute to the analysis, documentation, and development of repair or stabilization concepts for a variety of building types.
This position is well suited for an engineer who enjoys handson field work, has developed foundational engineering judgment, and is interested in understanding how structural systems perform, deteriorate, and are repaired over time. You will work both independently and in collaboration with senior engineers, supporting investigations, preparing calculations and technical documentation, and participating in client and project team coordination.
As this role develops, you will also begin to support sellerdoer efforts by assisting with proposal development, participating in client meetings, and helping maintain strong client relationships through reliable technical delivery and responsive communication. This position provides exposure to business development as a natural extension of project execution, with opportunities to gradually build confidence in client-facing responsibilities while remaining technically focused.
Qualifications:
  • Approximately five (5) or more years of experience supporting the analysis and design of structural systems, including concrete, masonry, steel, and wood elements and structures.

  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering with a structural emphasis from an accredited engineering program.

  • Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred (or ability and intent to obtain licensure).

  • Working knowledge of applicable industry standards, including AISC 360, ASCE 7, ACI 318, and related codes.

  • Experience using industry-standard structural analysis and design software, such as STAAD, RISA, IES, or equivalent.

  • Effective technical, graphical, written, and verbal communication skills.

  • Team-oriented mindset with a willingness to take on varied technical and project-support responsibilities.

Responsibilities:
  • Perform and support structural engineering tasks for projects involving the assessment, investigation, and restoration design of existing structures, including preparation of calculations, sketches, repair details, and technical documentation.

  • Participate in field investigations and observations of existing structural systems, documenting observed conditions and assisting with evaluations under the guidance of senior staff.

  • Support the day-to-day execution of projects by assisting with task coordination, schedule tracking, and preparation of deliverables.

  • Work collaboratively with senior engineers, project managers, architects, and contractors to support project goals and technical quality.

  • Assist with proposal development, scope definition, and client communications as part of developing seller/doer skills and understanding how projects are procured and delivered.

  • Provide technical support and informal mentorship to early-career steam members as appropriate.

  • Contribute to office and group initiatives, continuing education efforts, and professional development activities.

  • Perform additional duties as assigned.

Preferred Skills and Experience:
  • Previous consulting experience involving existing buildings, assessments, or forensic investigations.

  • Familiarity with structural rehabilitation, repair design, or construction-phase services.

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to safely use and operate ladders and stairs, scaffolds, lifts and other equipment to access existing or under-construction buildings recording the necessary field data to conduct structural analysis and produce technical documents for building systems and components.

  • Ability to learn new concepts and adapt to challenges.

  • Ability to work overtime, including weekends on an as-needed basis.

  • Ability to work in an efficient and organized manner independently and with a team.

  • Medically fit to use a respiratory protective device and other personal protective equipment.

  • Ability to work in varied environments as dictated by the project, for example:

  • Sitting and use of a computer for prolonged periods of time.

  • Work in confined spaces and at heights greater than six feet (potentially on ladders, boom lifts, and swing stages).

  • Travel locally and out-of- area; A valid driver's license (good driving record) is required.

SME's Core Values:
  • Honesty and Integrity
  • Respect
  • Selfless Service
  • Teamwork
  • Practical Solutions

Benefits:
At SME, we believe that taking care of our employees is the cornerstone of our success. Our commitment to your well-being goes beyond a job- it is about helping you thrive both personally and professionally. We offer a benefits package that is not simply meeting an expectation, but a key component of your overall job satisfaction. The following list highlights many of the benefits SME offers its employees.
  • SME provides Medical, Dental, and Vision after 30 days of employment.
  • SME covers the premium cost of medical insurance so that you and your families never have to worry about the costs of healthcare.
  • 401k match
  • Yearly profit sharing that goes directly into your 401k
  • Yearly performance bonuses
  • Yearly wage evaluations
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Competitive Paid Time Off
  • Volunteer Time Off

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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