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Forensic Engineering Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Welcome to Donan Engineering (Powered by Alpine Intel), a leader in the property insurance ... Must have or obtain necessary equipment to perform assigned and accepted forensic projects.

Welcome to Donan Engineering (Powered by Alpine Intel), a leader in the property insurance ... Must have or obtain necessary equipment to perform assigned and accepted forensic projects.

Project Manager / Senior Project Manager - Forensic Engineering ๐Ÿ“ Kentucky ๐Ÿ’ฐ $120,000-$160,000 | Dependent on Experience ๐Ÿข Full-Time | Remote We're partnering with a well-established ...

Forensic Mechanical Engineer

Detroit, MI ยท On-site +1

$130K - $170K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and a minimum of 3-5 years of mechanical engineering experience within insurance or legal forensics. * Residency in Midwest region of United States is ...

Forensic Mechanical Engineer

Detroit, MI ยท Hybrid

$130K - $170K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and a minimum of 3-5 years of mechanical engineering experience within insurance or legal forensics. * Residency in Midwest region of United States is ...

Senior Structural Engineer

Plymouth, MI ยท On-site

$95K - $129K/yr

... forensic engineering. This role blends hands-on technical leadership with practice growth, offering the opportunity to leverage professional expertise and relationships to expand our structural ...

... 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 ...

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

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

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

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

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Showing results 1-20

Forensic Engineering information

See Michigan salary details

$37.9K

$111.9K

$283.3K

How much do forensic engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic engineering in Michigan is $111,891.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,300.00 and $113,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is forensic engineering?

Forensic engineering is the application of engineering principles and practices to investigate failures or accidents in structures, materials, or products. Forensic engineers analyze evidence from incidents such as building collapses, fires, or equipment malfunctions to determine the root cause. Their findings are often used in legal cases, insurance claims, and to improve safety standards. This field combines engineering expertise with investigative skills to help resolve disputes and prevent future failures.

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

To thrive as a Forensic Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, failure analysis, and investigative techniques, typically supported by a degree in engineering and relevant licensure (such as a Professional Engineer license). Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and laboratory testing equipment is commonly required, and certifications like CFEI (Certified Fire and Explosion Investigator) can be advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective written and verbal communication skills set outstanding forensic engineers apart. These competencies are vital for accurately determining causes of failure, presenting clear findings, and supporting legal proceedings or insurance claims.

What are some common challenges faced by forensic engineers during investigations, and how are they typically addressed?

Forensic engineers often encounter challenges such as incomplete or contaminated evidence, time constraints, and the need to communicate complex technical findings to non-engineers like legal professionals. To address these issues, they follow strict protocols for evidence collection and documentation, collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, and utilize advanced analytical tools to reconstruct incidents as accurately as possible. Additionally, they invest significant effort in preparing clear, concise reports and expert testimony to ensure their findings are understood in legal settings.

What is the difference between Forensic Engineering vs Structural Engineering?

AspectForensic EngineeringStructural Engineering
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, Professional Engineer (PE) license, specialized training in failure analysisEngineering degree, PE license, focus on design and analysis of structures
Work EnvironmentInvestigative settings, laboratories, accident sites, courtroomsDesign offices, construction sites, project sites
Industry UsageLegal cases, failure investigations, insurance claimsBuilding design, construction, infrastructure projects

Forensic Engineering and Structural Engineering share foundational engineering credentials but differ in focus. Forensic engineers investigate failures and accidents, often working in legal and investigative contexts, while structural engineers design and analyze structures for safety and compliance. Both roles require engineering expertise, but their work environments and primary objectives differ significantly.

Are forensic engineers in demand?

Forensic engineering is a specialized field with steady demand, especially in areas such as construction, accident investigation, and failure analysis. The need for qualified forensic engineers is driven by legal cases, insurance claims, and safety regulations, making it a stable career choice for those with engineering expertise and investigative skills.

How do I become a forensic engineer?

To become a forensic engineer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field, along with experience in engineering practice. Many forensic engineers also pursue professional engineering licensure and develop skills in investigation, report writing, and courtroom testimony. Gaining specialized knowledge in accident reconstruction, failure analysis, or materials testing can enhance qualifications.

What are the jobs of forensic engineering?

Forensic engineering involves investigating failures or accidents to determine their causes, often for legal or insurance purposes. Forensic engineers analyze evidence, conduct inspections, prepare reports, and may testify in court. They work in various fields such as structural, mechanical, or electrical engineering, often requiring specialized knowledge and certifications.

What do forensic engineers do?

Forensic engineers investigate failures, accidents, or damages to determine their causes and assess liability. They analyze physical evidence, review records, and often prepare reports or testify in court, using skills in engineering, investigation, and documentation. Their work supports legal and insurance processes related to structural, mechanical, or electrical failures.

What job categories do people searching Forensic Engineering jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Forensic Engineering jobs in Michigan are:

Infographic showing various Forensic Engineering job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,891 per year, or $53.8 per hour.

Forensic Engineer Contractor

Detroit, MI โ€ข On-site

Donan
Civil Engineering Constructionย โ€ขย 201 - 500 employees

Contractor

Re-posted 23 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 โ€‹in Detroit, MI.
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 bachelorโ€™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 oneโ€™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.