1

Forensic Structural Engineer Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, Architecture, or a related discipline. * Experience in structural design, forensic investigation, building assessment, restoration, or ...

Forensic Structural Engineer information

See Indiana salary details

$41.4K

$109.9K

$159.4K

How much do forensic structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic structural engineer in Indiana is $109,857.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,300.00 and $128,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 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 Indiana are hiring for Forensic Structural Engineer jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Forensic Structural Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Forensic Structural Engineer jobs in IN?

For Forensic Structural Engineer jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Forensic Structural Engineer job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,857 per year, or $52.8 per hour.

Project Manager - Forensic Engineer

Indianapolis, IN โ€ข On-site

Designworks Talent
Recruiting and Staffing Servicesย โ€ขย 1 - 10 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Overview:
Join a dynamic, values-driven engineering and architecture firm dedicated to delivering exceptional service to clients and communities. Our client emphasizes respect, professional growth, collaboration, and results. Team members are encouraged to explore innovative solutions, contribute to meaningful projects, and help turn clients’ visions into reality. With competitive benefits, training, and mentorship, this role offers a pathway to a rewarding career beyond just a job.

Position Summary:
We are seeking a Project Manager with experience in forensic engineering or architecture to lead and support a variety of investigative projects. The role involves assessing structural and building enclosure conditions, performing damage and deterioration investigations, and designing repair and rehabilitation solutions for existing facilities. Projects span commercial, residential, industrial, utility infrastructure, and municipal sectors.

This position requires strong technical expertise, excellent communication skills, and the ability to manage multiple assignments while interacting directly with clients and staff. Frequent local and occasional regional travel is required.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Conduct investigations and assessments, preparing accurate technical reports and repair documentation under guidance of senior staff.

  • Manage multiple projects simultaneously and support project scheduling and coordination.

  • Assist in developing repair designs, drawings, and technical specifications.

  • Support senior staff with technical research, report writing, and project execution.

  • Mentor and guide Staff Engineers and Interns as needed.

  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to lift or move objects up to 50 lbs.

  • Willingness to climb ladders and scaffolding, access crawl spaces, walk roofs, and work from heights.

  • Comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Civil or Structural Engineering, Architecture, or related field; other degrees considered with relevant experience.

  • Engineering Intern certification or passed NCEES FE exam preferred.

  • Minimum of 2 years of relevant experience in engineering, architecture, or forensic investigations.

  • Experience with AutoCAD and/or Revit is a plus.

  • Prior design and/or forensic investigation experience preferred.

  • Proficiency in MS Office applications.

  • Valid driver’s license and reliable personal transportation.

  • Strong oral and written communication skills.

Why Apply:
This role offers the opportunity to work on challenging projects in a collaborative environment, with professional development and mentorship opportunities. If you have a passion for forensic investigations and structural problem-solving, and want to contribute to meaningful projects, this position is for you.