Forensic Engineers

Engineers earn some of the highest starting salaries of any career. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, the average beginning salary for engineers with bachelor’s degrees was $76,736 in 2024.

Salaries for forensic engineers ranged from less than $70,000 to $127,000 or more in 2024, according to PayScale.com. The median salary was $93,262. Forensic engineers who work as consultants typically charge by the hour. Experienced engineers may charge clients anywhere from $100 to $325 an hour, plus expenses.

Full-time forensic engineers usually receive benefits such as vacation days, sick leave, health and life insurance, and a savings and pension program. PayScale.com reports that, in 2024, forensic engineers received bonuses that ranged from $2,000 to $20,000. They also received profit sharing benefits of up to $11,000. Self-employed engineers must provide their own benefits.