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Forensic Structural Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

A multi-disciplinary architectural, engineering and construction firm is seeking a Structural Engineer for forensic construction defect litigation, to help them provide exceptional support solutions ...

Structural Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

$135K - $165K/yr

Forensic Consulting relies on scientific principles to investigate all types of failures impacting ... Civil/Structural Engineers in the Greater Los Angeles area - Opportunity Alert! We have an ...

Structural Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site +1

$135K - $165K/yr

Forensic Consulting relies on scientific principles to investigate all types of failures impacting ... Civil/Structural Engineers in the Greater Los Angeles area - Opportunity Alert! We have an ...

A full-service consulting firm specializing in forensic investigative services is seeking a Structural Engineer to branch out from typical design work and investigate to determine the cause of ...

We require a master's degree in structural engineering for our traditional practice areas (healthcare, education, science & technology) but we are open to BS candidates with a background in forensic ...

In addition, the successful applicant may also perform structural/forensic investigations of ... A Bachelor's Degree in Civil / Structural Engineering or related focus; a Master's Degree is ...

In addition, the successful applicant may also perform structural/forensic investigations of ... A Bachelor's Degree in Civil / Structural Engineering or related focus; a Master's Degree is ...

Showing results 21-40

Forensic Structural Engineer information

See California salary details

$42.9K

$113.9K

$165.3K

How much do forensic structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic structural engineer in California is $113,938.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,700.00 and $132,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are common challenges faced by forensic structural engineers when investigating building failures?

Forensic structural engineers often encounter challenges such as limited access to damaged or hazardous sites, incomplete or missing construction records, and the need to differentiate between original construction flaws and damage caused by external factors like weather or accidents. Collaborating with legal teams, insurance adjusters, and other engineering specialists is common, requiring excellent communication and documentation skills. The role frequently involves balancing investigative rigor with tight deadlines, especially when findings will be used in legal or insurance contexts.

What key skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a forensic structural engineer?

To thrive as a Forensic Structural Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or structural engineering, typically with a bachelor's or master's degree and a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with structural analysis software, building codes, and forensic investigation tools is crucial for accurately evaluating failures. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set professionals apart in this field. These skills and qualifications are essential for accurately diagnosing structural issues, presenting findings clearly, and ensuring safety and accountability in the built environment.

What does a forensic structural engineer do?

A forensic structural engineer handles the investigation and inspection of building structures to ensure compliance with industry regulation and discover reasons for failure. Your primary responsibilities in this career have you analyzing damage to structures, identifying causes of structural failures, and preparing reports on your findings. Your duties may also include developing protocols for dealing with compliance issues, reviewing photos and site information, and researching code specifications. A forensic structural engineer often works on multiple projects, visits various field sites, and collaborates with several team members.

What is a forensic structural engineer?

Forensic structural engineers are professionals who investigate and analyze structures that have failed, been damaged, or are performing unsatisfactorily. Their work involves determining the causes of structural failures, such as building collapses, material degradation, or design errors, often as part of legal or insurance cases. They use engineering principles, site inspections, material testing, and historical research to identify problems and provide recommendations for remediation or legal proceedings. Forensic structural engineers often serve as expert witnesses in court and help prevent similar failures in the future by sharing their findings.

What is the difference between Forensic Structural Engineer vs Structural Engineer?

AspectForensic Structural EngineerStructural Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, PE license, specialized training in failure analysisEngineering degree, PE license, design and analysis certifications
Work EnvironmentInvestigations, courtrooms, consulting firmsDesign firms, construction sites, consulting
Industry UsageLegal cases, failure investigations, insurance claimsBuilding design, construction projects, infrastructure

While both roles require engineering credentials and involve structural analysis, forensic structural engineers focus on investigating structural failures and providing expert testimony, whereas structural engineers primarily design and analyze structures for new projects. The forensic role is more investigative and often involves legal or insurance contexts, while the structural engineer role is centered on construction and design.

What cities in California are hiring for Forensic Structural Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Forensic Structural Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Forensic Structural Engineer jobs in CA? For Forensic Structural Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Forensic Structural Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,938 per year, or $54.8 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

A multi-disciplinary architectural, engineering and construction firm is seeking a Structural Engineer for forensic construction defect litigation, to help them provide exceptional support solutions for their clients at their Palo Alto, CA office.

Your Day Includes

  • Conducting structural-engineering analysis and design projects involving mainly timber, as well as concrete and masonry structures

  • Planning and conducting site investigations to document existing conditions

  • Managing smaller projects that may include seismic analyses and evaluations, design of structural elements for large infrastructure projects, investigation of structural failures, and design of rehabilitation and retrofit measures for problem structures

  • Directly engaging with clients within the context of existing work

Must Haves

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in engineering, architecture, construction management, or a closely related discipline

  • Familiarity with computer analysis software (e.g., ETABS, SAP, RISA, RAM, SAFE, etc.)

  • Valid driver's license and an acceptable Motor Vehicle Report

P.S.

In addition to offering a comprehensive health, dental, and vision package, the firm also provides a Costco Card and Gym Membership.

If you have the necessary qualifications and are excited about this opportunity, we encourage you to apply. We look forward to hearing from you.