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Forensic Software Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Managing Scientist

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

$172.50 - $220/hr

... software and hardware through code review, static or dynamic testing or reverse engineering ... forensics software such as Cellebrite or EnCase * 1 year of experience in analysis and ...

Data Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$134K - $162K/yr

... and Forensic Engineering peers to develop integrated solutions across Foundry focus areas. • ... Required : • 6+ years of experience in data engineering, data infrastructure, or software ...

Preferred degree in law, engineering, computer science, finance, accounting, economics, information ... Forensic Software: EnCase, Cellebrite, Oxygen, BlackBag, FTK. * Email Systems: Office 365 ...

Preferred degree in law, engineering, computer science, finance, accounting, economics, information ... Forensic Software: EnCase, Cellebrite, Oxygen, BlackBag, FTK. * Email Systems: Office 365 ...

Managing Scientist

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

$172K - $220K/yr

... software and hardware through code review, static or dynamic testing or reverse engineering ... forensics software such as Cellebrite or EnCase * 1 year of experience in analysis and ...

... software and hardware through code review, static or dynamic testing or reverse engineering ... forensics software such as Cellebrite or EnCase * 1 year of experience in analysis and ...

... software and hardware through code review, static or dynamic testing or reverse engineering ... forensics software such as Cellebrite or EnCase * 1 year of experience in analysis and ...

Showing results 41-60

Forensic Software Engineer information

See California salary details

$42.9K

$126.7K

$320.7K

How much do forensic software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic software engineer in California is $126,693.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,400.00 and $128,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a forensic software engineer?

Forensic software engineers are professionals who apply engineering principles and investigative techniques to analyze software systems for legal or security purposes. They often work on uncovering how software failures or breaches occurred, collecting digital evidence, and providing expert testimony in court cases. Their work is crucial in cases of intellectual property disputes, cybercrimes, and software-related accidents. Forensic software engineers must have strong technical expertise as well as an understanding of legal and ethical standards.

How does a forensic software engineer typically collaborate with legal teams during investigations?

Forensic Software Engineers often work closely with legal teams to gather, preserve, and present digital evidence in a way that is admissible in court. This collaboration involves translating technical findings into clear, non-technical language, preparing detailed documentation, and sometimes providing expert testimony. Engineers must ensure strict chain-of-custody protocols and communicate any technical limitations or uncertainties to the legal team. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential, as is the ability to work under tight deadlines and handle sensitive information with discretion.

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

To thrive as a Forensic Software Engineer, you need strong programming expertise, knowledge of digital forensics principles, and a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with forensic analysis tools like EnCase, FTK, and proficiency in scripting languages such as Python are typically required, along with relevant certifications like GCFA or EnCE. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective written communication are crucial soft skills for documenting findings and presenting evidence. These skills are essential for accurately uncovering, analyzing, and reporting digital evidence in legal or investigative contexts.

What is the difference between Forensic Software Engineer vs Digital Forensics Analyst?

AspectForensic Software EngineerDigital Forensics Analyst
CredentialsComputer science degree, certifications like GCFA or EnCECriminal justice or cybersecurity degree, similar certifications
Work EnvironmentDevelops forensic tools, software testing, codingInvestigates digital crimes, analyzes evidence
Industry UsageTech companies, cybersecurity firms, law enforcement software developmentLaw enforcement agencies, cybersecurity firms, legal settings

While both roles focus on digital evidence, Forensic Software Engineers primarily develop and improve forensic tools through coding and software development. Digital Forensics Analysts focus on investigating and analyzing digital evidence in criminal or civil cases. Both require technical skills and certifications, but their daily tasks and work environments differ significantly.

Are forensic software engineers in demand?

Forensic software engineers are in high demand due to the increasing need for digital crime investigation and cybersecurity. They often require skills in programming, data recovery, and knowledge of forensic tools, with job growth driven by the expanding digital landscape and cybercrime cases.

What job categories do people searching Forensic Software Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Forensic Software Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Forensic Software Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Forensic Software Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Forensic Software Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,693 per year, or $60.9 per hour.

Sr. Consultant - Civil Forensic Engineer

Rimkus

Los Angeles, CA • Hybrid

$120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Join Rimkus and unlock your potential with endless opportunities for growth, learning, and making a difference!

Rimkus (www.rimkus.com) is a worldwide leader in Engineering and Technical Consulting. Rimkus experts specialize in building envelope, engineering, forensic consulting, dispute resolution, construction management services, and solutions built for the environment.

NOW IS THE TIME to join this growing and stable company!  We offer our full-time employees a competitive salary, bonus opportunities and a full benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, life, disability, employer-matching 401(k), and opportunities for advancement! 

This is a hybrid position working from the field and your home office! We are looking for Civil,  and Structural Engineers experienced in the areas of Residential and Commercial structures.

Salary minimum: $120,000 per year

Overview

Provides forensic consulting services requiring Civil Engineering expertise for insurance, legal, industrial, and other clients. Assesses and determines the cause and origin of structural failures, water intrusions, foundations damages, roof damages, retaining wall failures, and wind/earthquake damages. Knowledge of construction defects is a plus.  Provides oral and written reports of findings and when needed expert testimony. Manages multiple projects.

Requirements

Duties and Responsibilities
  • Performs the investigation and analysis of residential, commercial, and industrial properties for the purpose of resolving claims and legal matters.
  • Performs forensic assignments within the field of civil engineering expertise based upon a scope of work and budget prepared by the consultant and agreed upon by the client in advance of performing the work.
  • Field Investigations: Study and determine the cause and origin of construction defects or structural failures.
  • Preparation of oral and written reports to document the causes of failure, extent of loss, associated repair scope, and recommended remediation are essential as is providing opinions and expert testimony in litigation matters.
  • Manages multiple projects, coordinating with other experts and support as needed to produce client reports in a timely manner.
  • Ensures that procedure is being followed and checks on safety features of the project during the time it is being completed.
  • Uses many different equations, applications and figures which may include chemical testing applications, drafting and design software, electrical testing devices and equipment, land surveying techniques, and others.
  • Follows land use laws and regulations.
  • May be required to supervise and/or evaluate the performance of associate team members.
  • Ability to initiate, develop and maintain mutually beneficial client relationships.
  • Includes gathering photographic evidence, conducting investigations to document on-site conditions, overseeing field testing, and reviewing historical documentation.
Required Skills and Abilities:
  • Must have high level of analytical skills. Work requires continual attention to detail with the ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
  • Must be able to interact and communicate with clients at all levels (e.g. internal and external).
  • Must have knowledge of a variety of computer software applications including but not limited to, Microsoft Office Applications and computer-assisted engineering and design software.
  • Ability to read, analyze and interpret common scientific and technical reports or journals, financial reports and legal documents.
  • Ability to write scopes-of-work, budget estimates, schedules, reports of findings, proposals, general correspondence, and other technical documents.
  • Ability to respond to inquiries from internal and external clients. Capable of effectively presenting information to top management, clients, public groups and/or boards of directors.
Required Experience, Education, and Certifications
  • B.S. Civil Engineering Required or higher.
  • P.E. Required.
  • 2-10+ years of experience.
  • Project Management and/or Field Investigation Experience preferred.
  • Depending on location, other licenses or certifications may be required.

At Rimkus, we value a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. We are committed to creating a work environment that supports and celebrates the unique perspectives and experiences of all employees. If you share our commitment to diversity and inclusivity and are excited about joining a welcoming and supportive team, we encourage you to apply for our open positions.

Rimkus is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer and will make all employment-related decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. 

Benefits

  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Training & Development
  • Work From Home