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Forensic Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Welcome to Donan Engineering, a leader in the property insurance intelligence industry. We are currently seeking a full-time professional Field Forensic Engineer with a background in Electrical ...

Welcome to Donan Engineering, a leader in the property insurance intelligence industry. We are currently seeking a full-time professional Field Forensic Engineer with a background in Electrical ...

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Forensic Engineering information

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$43.5K

$128.4K

$325K

How much do forensic engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic engineering in the United States is $128,375.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,500.00 and $130,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.
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What states have the most Forensic Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Forensic Engineering jobs include:
Structural Design Engineer - Forensic Engineering

Structural Design Engineer - Forensic Engineering

Barry Isett & Associates Inc.

Phoenixville, PA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Description:

Barry Isett & Associates (Isett) is an employee-owned, multi-discipline engineering and consulting firm headquartered in Allentown, PA, with additional offices throughout eastern and central Pennsylvania. Our employee-owners have the opportunity to perform meaningful work that strengthens the communities we serve every day. Isett is a values-based organization that has been recognized for its award-winning culture, including:

  • Best Places to Work in PA (annually since 2019)
  • The Morning Callโ€™s Top Workplaces (annually since 2013)
  • Empowering Women Award โ€“ Central Penn Business Journal & Lehigh Valley Business (2023)
  • Philadelphia Inquirerโ€™s Top Workplaces (2023)
  • Corporate Citizen of the Year โ€“ Lehigh Valley Business Journal
  • The Societas Award for Responsible Corporate Conduct (Ethics)

Benefits

  • Career advancement and continuing education opportunities
  • Work-life balance with flexible scheduling options
  • Paid vacation, holidays, and sick time
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
  • 401(k)/Roth match
  • Parental leave
  • Employee engagement events and social activities
  • Discounted and/or complimentary Isett-branded apparel

As a multi-discipline firm, Isett provides comprehensive engineering and consulting services including civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, environmental, geotechnical, municipal engineering, surveying, landscape architecture, code enforcement, plan review, construction management, construction materials testing, and grant writing throughout the Mid-Atlantic region.


Position Overview

The Forensic Engineering Department at Isett specializes in evaluating existing buildings and structures that are damaged, distressed, or underperforming. The forensics team then designs practical and constructable repair solutions. We are currently seeking a Structural Design Engineer to support varied repair, renovation, and design projects arising from forensic investigations.

While forensic investigation exposure is part of the role, the primary focus is on structural assessment, analysis, and design.

The successful candidate has extensive experience with structural building analysis of existing structures and design of repairs or new, ground-up structures including commercial and residential construction. Prior work with a range of construction materials such as wood, steel, concrete, and masonry is desirable. A background in forensic investigation and failure analysis is ideal but not required.


Key Responsibilities

  • Prepare calculation packages and drawings
  • Perform non-invasive and invasive building inspections
  • Design structural solutions for existing residential and commercial buildings
  • Design ground-up structures, as required, for buildings beyond repair
  • Prepare construction documents, calculations, and technical details to support repair designs
  • Perform site visits and detailed structural inspections to inform design recommendations
  • Evaluate structural systems and building components including superstructures, foundations, and building envelopes
  • Assist with forensic investigations by analyzing observed conditions and identifying structural deficiencies
  • Prepare clear, concise written reports documenting findings, analyses, and repair recommendations
  • Interface with property owners, facility managers, contractors, and internal project teams
  • Support project management activities from assignment through construction and invoicing
  • Respond to emergency site inspections where structural conditions may present safety concerns, as required
Requirements:
  • Bachelorโ€™s degree in Architectural Engineering with focus on Structural Engineering
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license in PA, NJ, DE, MD, or ability to obtain licensure within a reasonable timeframe
  • Demonstrates experience with structural analysis and design
  • Experience with software such as finite element analysis and/or structural modeling software, or a willingness to learn
  • Familiarity with preparing technical assessment reports
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to convey technical concepts to non-technical audiences
  • Ability to interact professionally with clients, adjusters, attorneys, contractors, and property owners
  • Ability to obtain PA Act 34, 114, and 151 Clearances
  • Valid driverโ€™s license

Work Location

This position may be based out of Isettโ€™s Allentown, Phoenixville, or Mechanicsburg, PA offices.


Please no third party recruiters