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Forensic Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$150 - $200/hr

As a Marine Engineering Forensic Expert, you will:Investigate incidents in both the commercial maritime industry as well as the recreational boating community.Analyze maritime equipment and ...

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$77.4K

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How much do forensic investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic investigator in the United States is $77,448.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $89,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a forensic investigator do?

A forensic investigator is responsible for collecting, preserving, and analyzing evidence from crime scenes to help solve criminal cases. Their duties include photographing scenes, gathering physical evidence such as fingerprints, biological samples, and trace materials, and preparing detailed reports on their findings. Forensic investigators may also testify in court about the evidence and how it was collected. They work closely with law enforcement, legal teams, and sometimes laboratories to ensure evidence is handled properly and contributes to the justice process.

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

To thrive as a Forensic Investigator, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a relevant degree in forensic science, criminal justice, or a related field. Familiarity with evidence collection tools, laboratory analysis techniques, and digital forensics software is typically required, along with certifications such as those from the International Association for Identification (IAI). Excellent written communication, critical thinking, and teamwork skills help you document findings clearly and collaborate with law enforcement and legal professionals. These skills ensure accurate evidence analysis and contribute to the integrity and success of criminal investigations.

What are some common challenges faced by forensic investigators in the field?

Forensic investigators often encounter challenges such as working in high-pressure environments where timely and accurate analysis is critical. They may need to process crime scenes that are physically demanding or emotionally difficult, while maintaining strict attention to detail to preserve evidence integrity. Collaboration with law enforcement, legal teams, and sometimes external experts is frequent, requiring strong communication skills. Managing a varied caseload and adapting to rapidly advancing forensic technologies are also key aspects of the job.

What is the difference between Forensic Investigator vs Crime Scene Technician?

AspectForensic InvestigatorCrime Scene Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or related field; certifications like ASCLD-LAB are commonOften requires a high school diploma or associate degree; specialized training in evidence collection
Work EnvironmentInvestigates crime scenes, analyzes evidence, and collaborates with law enforcementCollects, preserves, and documents evidence at crime scenes
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, forensic labs, government agenciesPolice departments, crime labs, forensic units

While both roles work at crime scenes and handle evidence, Forensic Investigators typically have more advanced education and perform detailed analysis and case investigations, whereas Crime Scene Technicians focus on evidence collection and documentation.

Do forensic investigators make good money?

Forensic investigators typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $50,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. Advanced certifications and specialized skills in crime scene analysis or digital forensics can lead to higher pay. The job often requires attention to detail, analytical skills, and working in law enforcement or forensic laboratories.

What cities are hiring for Forensic Investigator jobs?

Cities with the most Forensic Investigator job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Investigator jobs?

The most popular types of Forensic Investigator jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Forensic Investigator jobs?

The top employers for Forensic Investigator jobs are:

What states have the most Forensic Investigator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Forensic Investigator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Forensic Investigator jobs?

For Forensic Investigator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Forensic Investigator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,448 per year, or $37.2 per hour.

Railway Systems Engineer - Forensic Investigator

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

Robson Forensic
Legal Services • 51 - 200 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Investigate railway systems incidents.

  • Analyze railway systems procedures and assess decision-making, operational procedures, and standard of care.

  • Write clear, scientifically sound reports and provide expert testimony.


Job description

You have 15+ years of passenger rail systems experience and a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering. You have significant employment experience with a passenger railroad, and/or a consulting engineering firm with a focus on the railroad industry.  

You are already an expert. Robson Forensic will train you to be a forensic expert. 

As a Railway Systems Engineering Forensic Expert, you will:

  • Investigate railway systems incidents.
  • Analyze railway systems procedures, applying your comprehensive knowledge of standards and practices.
  • Write clear, scientifically sound reports.
  • Provide expert testimony.

You will delve into the "why" behind incidents, critically assessing decision-making, operational procedures, and the standard of care. This role offers you a chance to:

  • Use your cumulative training, experience, and critical thinking skills.
  • Collaborate with highly respected experts. 
  • Continuously learn and grow.
  • Make a tangible difference.

  

Locations: Dublin, OH & Lancaster, PA (hybrid)

 

Requirements:

  • Licensure: Active Professional Engineer (P.E.) license is highly preferred.
  • Education: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from an ABET-accredited program.
  • Experience: 15+ years of hands-on passenger rail systems experience (additional freight experience is a plus).
    • Depth of experience should include some combination of consulting design work, construction, manufacturing, engineering, operations, and/or maintenance of rail operations, rail infrastructure, and/or rolling stock.
    • Breadth of experience should include a working knowledge of some combination of mainline track, rail yards, sidings, stations (above & below grade), terminals, grade crossings, tunnels, bridges, switches, signal systems, power systems (overhead catenary, third-rail), locomotives (diesel, diesel/electric, or electric power), passenger cars, transit cars, freight cars, maintenance-of-way cars/vehicles, rolling stock maintenance, facilities maintenance, maintenance-of-way, Federal Employees Liability Act (FELA), railroad worker safety, track safety, passenger safety, etc.
  • Skills: Excellent technical, analytical, writing, and communication skills.
  • Aptitude: Strong ability to translate complex technical findings into clear, objective evidence for non-technical audiences.
  • Work Style: Approximately 20% travel for inspections; the remainder is focused on analysis and report drafting, working independently and as part of a collaborative team.
  • Prior forensic experience is not required. We seek professionals eager to apply their deep industry knowledge to a challenging new domain.


You must have a clean background screen, a driver’s license, and the ability to drive.

ABOUT US:

Robson Forensic is a national leader in expert witness consulting, providing technical expertise across many fields within engineering, architecture, science, and a broad range of specialty disciplines.  

Employees at Robson Forensic work alongside highly respected experts from both industry and academia. Our forensic experts are engaged in meaningful casework that is consequential to industry and society. Robson Forensic provides a unique working dynamic that blends collaboration and autonomy.  

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

 

HOW TO APPLY:

If this opportunity meets your expectations for a challenging and rewarding career, and you meet our minimum requirements, please apply and attach your resume outlining your professional background and experience.

#LI-Hybrid