--- title: 'Principal/Source Code & IP Investigations (Forensic Services practice) at Charles River Associates' canonical: 'https://feeny.ai/job/principal-source-code-ip-investigations-forensic-services-practice-charles-4tddxk8m4q02' type: 'job' last_seen: '2026-10-20' --- # Principal/Source Code & IP Investigations (Forensic Services practice) at Charles River Associates - **Company:** Charles River Associates - **Location:** Boston, MA / Chicago, IL / Dallas, TX / Houston, TX / New York, NY / Washington, DC - **Posted:** 2026-10-01 - **Last confirmed live:** 2026-10-20 - **Apply:** https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/charlesriverassociates/jobs/8244924 ## Job description ## About Charles River Associates CRA is a leading global consulting firm that provides independent economic and financial analysis behind litigation matters, guides businesses through critical strategy and operational issues to become more profitable, and advises governments on the economic impact of policies and regulations. Our two main services – economic and management consulting – are delivered by practice groups that focus on specific areas of expertise or industries. Position Overview CRA’s [Forensic Services](https://www.crai.com/forensic-services-practice/) practice supports companies’ commitment to integrity by assisting them and their counsel in independently responding to allegations of fraud, waste, abuse, misconduct, and non-compliance. We are noted for deploying cross-trained teams of forensic professionals to assist our clients in gaining deeper insights and greater value more quickly. We are looking for curious, analytical, highly motivated candidates with 10+ years of experience in source code- and technology-related liability analysis in a litigation context, who have majored in Computer Science or an equivalent degree. We value knowledge of software development, system design and implementation, exceptional written and oral communication skills, and a high level of initiative. We expect Principals to use their technical expertise to solve client problems, collaboratively manage teams and projects, effectively manage their time and the time of their team members, prioritize and delegate tasks, and take pride and ownership in their work and in client deliverable. Each Principal reports directly to a Vice President in the Forensic Services practice. The opportunities to contribute to the Forensic Services team in this role may include (but are not limited to): - Serve as primary point of contact for clients with regard to all engagement activities; - Lead teams to conduct detailed forensic investigations of source code and systems in the context of copyright infringement, patent infringement, software failure, and software audit matters; - Create, lead, and maintain leveraged team environment that is positioned for continued success and expansion by actively recruiting and retaining employees, and managing team morale; - Leverage personal and team members’ technical and consulting expertise to support counsel and clients in intellectual property litigation or disputes involving complex technology; - Direct the analysis and inspection of source code, database schemas, system configurations, technical documentation, and other sources of technical evidence typically produced in the context of intellectual property litigation; - Assist with the preparation of expert reports, of both other experts and your own, describing technical and analytical findings; - Ensure reliability of analysis and risk management through implementing quality control measures and documentation; - Participate in practice-building activities including recruiting and training; - Identify opportunities and implementing improvements to increase the abilities of the Forensic Services practice; - Participate in and leading business development efforts by building relationships with current and potential clients, drafting and presenting proposals, participating in pitches, and demonstrating firm capabilities to potential clients. Desired Qualifications - Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a related field; - 10+ years of experience in source code- and technology-related liability analysis in a litigation context, including performing the activities listed above; - Ability to effectively lead teams, prioritize multiple projects, meet timely deadlines, and communicate effectively in both oral and written form; - Experience and deep understanding of programming languages including C, Java, or Python; - Experience in a hands-on technical role functioning as a testifying expert; - Strong understanding of source code analysis, binary reverse engineering, and hardware functional testing techniques; - Familiarity of analytical tools (e.g., SciTools Understand) used to visualize and understand software code; - Understanding of database administration and software development models (SDLC, Agile, etc.); - Experience with drafting expert reports, technical and investigative reports, and communicating technical findings; - Willing and able to travel for client projects. To Apply To be considered for a position in the United States, we require the following: - Resume – please include current address, personal email and telephone number; Career Growth and Benefits - CRA’s robust [skills development programs](https://www.crai.com/cra-careers/talent-development/), including both formal and informal programs, encourage you to thrive as an individual and team member. Beginning with research and analysis skill building, training continues with technical training, presentation skills, internal seminars, and career mentoring and performance coaching from an assigned senior colleague. Additional leadership and collaboration opportunities exist through internal firm development activities. - We offer a comprehensive total rewards program including a superior benefits package, [wellness programming](https://www.crai.com/benefits/) to support physical, mental, emotional and financial well-being, and in-house [immigration support](https://www.crai.com/cra-careers/immigration-global-mobility/) for foreign nationals and international business travelers. Work Location Flexibility CRA creates a work environment that enables our colleagues to benefit from being together in the office to best deliver on our promise of career growth, mentorship and inclusivity. At the same time, we recognize that individuals realize a range of benefits when working from home periodically. We currently ask that individuals spend 3 to 4 days a week on average working in the office (which may include traveling to another CRA office or to a client's location), with specific days determined in coordination with your practice or team. At certain times of the year (e.g. holiday periods), additional remote work options are offered to those whose work commitments permit it, although our offices remain open for those who choose or need to be there. Our Commitment to Diversity Charles River Associates is an equal opportunity employer (EOE/AAE). As part of our focus on equity and inclusion, we work to ensure a fair and consistent hiring process. We celebrate diversity and we are committed to an inclusive work environment. Salary and other compensation A good-faith estimate of the annual base salary range for this position is $175,000 - $250,000. Stating pay within this range may vary based on factors such as education level, experience, skills, geographic location, market conditions, and other qualifications of the successful candidate. This position may be eligible for additional bonus incentive compensation. CRA offers a comprehensive benefits package, subject to eligibility requirements, which include: medical, dental, and vision insurance; 401(k) retirement plan with employer match; life and disability insurance; paid time off (vacation, sick leave, holidays); paid parental leave; wellness programs and employee assistance resources; and commuter benefits. ## About Charles River Associates ## Company Overview - **One-liner**: Charles River Associates (CRA) is a leading global consulting firm that provides economic, financial, and strategic expertise to major law firms, corporations, accounting firms, and governments worldwide. - **Entity Type**: Public (NASDAQ: CRAI) - **Headquarters**: Boston, Massachusetts, USA - **Founded**: 1965 - **Founders**: Founded by professors from Harvard and MIT ## Core Business - **Primary industry/industries**: Management Consulting, Economic Litigation Consulting, Financial Consulting, Strategy Consulting - **Target customers**: Major law firms (98% of the Am Law 100), corporations (88% of the Fortune 100), accounting firms, and governments - **Mission or purpose statement**: To deliver thoughtful, effective advice backed by research and real-world experience, helping clients navigate high-stakes litigation, regulatory proceedings, and critical business strategy issues. ## Products & Services CRA operates through ten distinct practice areas, offering a multidisciplinary approach: - **Antitrust & Competition Economics**: Economic analysis for merger reviews, antitrust litigation, and competition policy. - **Financial Economics**: Valuation, damages analysis, and financial modeling for disputes and transactions. - **International Arbitration**: Expert economic and financial advice in international arbitration proceedings. - **Labor & Employment**: Analysis of employment practices, compensation, and workforce issues. - **Life Sciences**: Strategic and economic consulting for pharmaceutical, biotech, and medical device companies. - **Energy & Environment**: Economic and regulatory analysis for energy markets, environmental policy, and climate change. - **Forensic Services**: Investigation and analysis of financial fraud, accounting irregularities, and asset tracing. - **Intellectual Property**: Damages analysis and valuation in IP disputes. - **Transfer Pricing**: Economic analysis for intercompany pricing and tax compliance. - **Strategy & Performance**: Corporate strategy, operational improvement, and performance optimization. ## Market Standing - **Valuation/Market Cap**: As of July 2025, approximately $1.5 billion (market cap fluctuates; check latest) - **Key Metric**: Revenue growth of 48% over the past five years (as reported on CRA's essential facts page) - **Notable Investors/Partners**: Clients include 88% of the Fortune 100 and 98% of the Am Law 100. The firm is publicly traded, so major institutional investors hold shares. - **Growth Signals**: Over 1,000 consultants across 20+ offices worldwide; staff from more than 70 countries; over 35 languages spoken; ranked as a top consulting firm by Vault and Management Consulted. ## Competitive Advantages - **Academic Heritage**: Founded by Harvard and MIT professors, CRA maintains a culture of rigorous analysis and intellectual curiosity. - **Expertise Depth**: Over 82% of senior staff hold advanced degrees, with more than 35% holding PhDs in economics, finance, and related fields. - **High-Stakes Client Base**: Serves 98% of the Am Law 100 and 88% of the Fortune 100, indicating a trusted reputation for complex, high-profile matters. - **Multidisciplinary Approach**: Ten practice areas allow for cross-disciplinary collaboration, providing comprehensive solutions to client challenges. - **Objectivity and Integrity**: Known for fact-based, defensible analysis that withstands scrutiny in litigation and regulatory settings. ## Strategic Focus - **Talent Development**: Heavy investment in training and professional development, including CRA Tech Labs (internal skill-building sessions) and formal mentorship programs. - **Global Expansion**: Continued growth across 20+ offices worldwide, with a focus on attracting diverse talent from over 70 countries. - **Practice Area Innovation**: Developing new capabilities at the intersection of economics, finance, and technology to address emerging client needs (e.g., climate, digital markets, life sciences). - **Community and Inclusion**: Emphasis on pro bono work, volunteer programs, and Employee Resource Groups to foster an inclusive culture. ## Why Work Here - **Culture**: Described as intellectually curious, collegial, and academically rigorous. The firm emphasizes learning, resourcefulness, and integrity. - **Work Environment**: Collaborative, with a strong focus on mentorship and peer support. Employees are encouraged to lead initiatives, from social committees to Tech Lab training sessions. - **Remote/Hybrid Policy**: CRA offers flexible work arrangements, though specific policies vary by office and role. The firm supports a hybrid model for many positions. - **Benefits & Wellness**: Extensive offerings supporting physical, mental, financial, and emotional wellbeing, including competitive compensation, health coverage, and wellness programs. - **Career Growth**: Clear pathways for advancement, with a focus on hands-on learning from day one. Internships and entry-level roles provide exposure to high-stakes client work. - **Immigration Support**: CRA is committed to supporting international employees through the global immigration process. - **Notable Perks**: Access to a global network of experts, pro bono opportunities, and a strong alumni community. ## Sources 1. [crai.com](https://www.crai.com/) - Company website 2. [crai.com/cra-careers](https://www.crai.com/cra-careers/) - Careers page 3. [crai.com/about-us](https://www.crai.com/about-us/) - About page 4. [crai.com/cra-careers/essential-facts](https://www.crai.com/cra-careers/essential-facts/) - Essential facts page 5. [crai.com/cra-careers/why-cra](https://www.crai.com/cra-careers/why-cra/) - Why CRA page ## Other roles at Charles River Associates - [Praktikant/in, Life Sciences Strategieberatung/Life Sciences Intern (2027 Start) - m/f/d](https://feeny.ai/job/praktikant-in-life-sciences-strategieberatung-life-sciences-intern-2027-start-m-rjqyax575d6z) — Munich, Germany - [Senior Platform Engineer (IT Services)](https://feeny.ai/job/senior-platform-engineer-it-services-charles-river-associates-boston-g336dyjn1ktp) — Boston, MA / Chicago, IL / Dallas, TX - [Associate (Financial Economics practice)](https://feeny.ai/job/associate-financial-economics-practice-charles-river-associates-washington-k9vjqshjkxjr) — Washington, DC - [[2028 graduates] Intern (Antitrust & Competition Economics Practice) - Summer 2027](https://feeny.ai/job/2028-graduates-intern-antitrust-competition-economics-practice-summer-2027-8rccj6n5grbq) — London, United Kingdom - [Intern/Policy Consulting (Life Sciences practice) - Summer 2027](https://feeny.ai/job/intern-policy-consulting-life-sciences-practice-summer-2027-charles-river-pjcpv16epqpf) — Cambridge Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom / London, United Kingdom - [Intern/Strategy Consulting (Life Sciences practice) - Summer 2027](https://feeny.ai/job/intern-strategy-consulting-life-sciences-practice-summer-2027-charles-river-9xrrta9ws4fa) — Cambridge Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom / London, United Kingdom - [Analyst Intern (Labor & Employment practice) - Winter/Spring 2027](https://feeny.ai/job/analyst-intern-labor-employment-practice-winter-spring-2027-charles-river-bqdejspchq81) — College Station, TX / Tallahassee, FL - [(2027 PhD/ABD graduates) Senior Associate (Antitrust & Competition Economics) - European Union](https://feeny.ai/job/2027-phd-abd-graduates-senior-associate-antitrust-competition-economics-30g8h2rcd084) — Brussels, Belgium / Dusseldorf, Germany / Munich, Germany / Paris, France - [(2027 Bachelor's/Master's graduates) Management Advisory Analyst/Associate (Energy)](https://feeny.ai/job/2027-bachelor-s-master-s-graduates-management-advisory-analyst-associate-energy-gswstgmskna6) — Toronto, Canada - [Associate/Cyber Incident Response eDiscovery (Forensic Services practice)](https://feeny.ai/job/associate-cyber-incident-response-ediscovery-forensic-services-practice-charles-x8q8ys9w742w) — Boston, MA / Chicago, IL / Dallas, TX / New York, NY / Washington, DC