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Apprentice Computer Forensics Analyst Jobs in California

Forensic Computer Analyst SR

Richmond, CA · On-site

$133K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Employees in the Forensic Computer Analyst or Forensic Computer Analyst Sr position prior to June 27, 2015 are exempt from this requirement. 8. Ability to develop and implement laboratory programs ...

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Apprentice Computer Forensics Analyst information

What does an apprentice computer forensics analyst do?

An Apprentice Computer Forensics Analyst assists in investigating cybercrimes by collecting, preserving, and analyzing digital evidence from computers, mobile devices, and networks. They work under the supervision of experienced analysts to recover deleted files, trace unauthorized activity, and document findings for use in legal cases. This role often involves learning specialized software tools and following strict procedures to ensure evidence integrity. Apprentices gain practical experience while developing the technical and analytical skills needed for a career in digital forensics.

What kinds of cases or investigations might an apprentice computer forensics analyst typically work on, and how does this impact their daily responsibilities?

As an Apprentice Computer Forensics Analyst, you will often assist with investigations involving cybercrimes, data breaches, fraud, or internal policy violations. Your daily tasks may include collecting and preserving digital evidence, analyzing hard drives and mobile devices, and preparing detailed reports for senior analysts or law enforcement. You’ll also collaborate closely with IT security teams, legal professionals, and sometimes law enforcement officers. This variety ensures hands-on experience with real-world cases, helping you build a strong foundation in digital evidence handling and investigative processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an apprentice computer forensics analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Computer Forensics Analyst, you need a foundational understanding of computer systems, cybersecurity principles, and investigative techniques, usually supported by relevant coursework or an associate degree in information technology or a related field. Familiarity with forensic tools such as EnCase, FTK, or Autopsy, and knowledge of chain-of-custody procedures, are essential, and certifications like CompTIA Security+ or EC-Council's CHFI can be beneficial. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong written communication help you excel when analyzing digital evidence and preparing reports. These skills and qualifications are crucial for accurately uncovering, preserving, and presenting digital evidence in investigations and legal proceedings.

What is the difference between Apprentice Computer Forensics Analyst vs Computer Forensics Analyst?

AspectApprentice Computer Forensics AnalystComputer Forensics Analyst
CertificationsEntry-level certifications (e.g., CompTIA Security+)Advanced certifications (e.g., GCFA, EnCE)
Work ExperienceLimited or no professional experienceSeveral years of experience in digital forensics
Work EnvironmentSupervised training, assisting investigationsIndependent analysis, leading investigations
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning tools, basic data recoveryAnalyzing digital evidence, preparing reports

The main difference is that an Apprentice Computer Forensics Analyst is in training with limited experience and responsibilities, while a Computer Forensics Analyst has more experience, certifications, and independence in handling investigations.

How do you become an Apprentice Computer Forensics Analyst?

To become an Apprentice Computer Forensics Analyst, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with foundational knowledge of computer systems and cybersecurity. Relevant skills include understanding digital evidence, using forensic tools, and often pursuing certifications such as the Certified Computer Forensics Examiner (CCFE) or EnCase Certified Examiner (EnCE). Gaining hands-on experience through internships or entry-level IT roles can also improve prospects in this field.

How much does an Apprentice Computer Forensics Analyst make?

An Apprentice Computer Forensics Analyst typically earns between $30,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on location, employer, and prior experience. Entry-level positions often include training in digital investigation tools and may offer additional benefits as part of the apprenticeship program.

Is computer forensics in demand?

Computer forensics analysts are in increasing demand due to the rise in cybercrime and digital investigations. Employers seek professionals skilled in digital evidence collection, analysis, and tools like EnCase or FTK, often requiring certifications such as GCFA or EnCE. The field offers growth opportunities in law enforcement, cybersecurity firms, and corporate security departments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Forensics Analyst jobs in California?

The most popular types of Computer Forensics Analyst jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Apprentice Computer Forensics Analyst jobs?

Cities in California with the most Apprentice Computer Forensics Analyst job openings:

Infographic showing various Apprentice Computer Forensics Analyst job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% Internship, 83% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Forensic Computer Analyst

US Postal Service

Anaheim, CA • On-site

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Facility Location

FORENSIC LABORATORY SERVICES

ANAHEIM DIGITAL EVIDENCE UNIT

5335 E LA PALMA AVE

ANAHEIM, CA 92899-9001

Position Information

GRADE: W2 - 02

FLSA DESIGNATION: Exempt

NON-SCHEDULED DAYS: Saturday/Sunday

HOURS: 08:00 A.M. to 04:00 P.M.

BENEFIT INFORMATION: The salary will be based on previous experience, salary history, and current postal pay policies. We offer excellent benefits including health and life insurance, retirement plan, savings/investment plan with employer contribution, flexible spending, flextime scheduling of core work hours, annual and sick leave.

Functional Purpose

Conducts forensic analyses of digital and other multimedia evidence utilizing appropriate scientific methodologies, forensic techniques, and quality assurance practices in support of criminal and administrative investigations.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Conducts forensic examinations of digital and other multimedia evidence through the application of scientific practices for the recognition, collection, analysis, and interpretation of digital evidence for criminal and civil law or regulatory purposes.

2. Examines and analyzes evidence and interprets scientific observations and data to render conclusions, form opinions and produce reports utilizing a full range of electronic search methods and forensic examination techniques.

3. Provides expert witness testimony; produces comprehensive reports and illustrative exhibits for federal, state, and local judicial proceedings at a level sufficient to explain evidence interpretations and conclusions from forensic examinations and scientific data to a lay audience.

4. Serves as a subject matter expert and technical advisor in matters relating to the proper collection, preservation, packaging, and submission of digital and multimedia evidence; participates in crime scene evidence collection activities in

major field investigations; ensures evidence handling requirements are met.

5. Performs ongoing evaluation and validation of laboratory instrumentation and methods, operating protocols, and safety practices under supervision; maintains awareness of safety procedures and identifies possible physical conditions and/or laboratory procedures that may create unsafe conditions.

6. Delivers training in laboratory services, evidence collection, crime scene processing and field examination.

7. Conducts studies and research for improving forensic analyses, scientific methods, and resolving forensic examination problems.

8. Acts as liaison with postal management and federal, state, and local organizations on technical developments, forensic methods, and investigative problems of common interest.

9. Analyzes systems to assist with network intrusion and cybersecurity investigations to determine the cause and extent of a breach.

The United States Postal Service has the following excellent and challenging employment opportunity for highly motivated and innovative individuals. Successful candidates must demonstrate through a combination of education, training, and experience the following requirements:

Requirements

1. Ability to communicate orally and in writing in order to prepare reports of examination results and conclusions, and provide testimony as an expert witness before state, federal or other judicial bodies.

2. Ability to provide training related to laboratory services, evidence collection, and field examination.

3. Knowledge of evidence collection, preservation, packaging and shipment procedures sufficient to serve as a technical advisor in such matters and to ensure evidence handling requirements are met.

4. Knowledge of forensic science techniques, laboratory protocols, research methodologies, quality assurance standards and computer forensic and cyber security examination procedures, instrumentation and software sufficient to properly access, preserve, and extract appropriate evidence from a variety of media and conduct detailed and complex analyses and interpretation of the value of evidentiary items.

5. Ability to render conclusions/opinions and make recommendations based on forensic practices of recognition, collection,

and interpretation of digital and multimedia evidence related to computer forensic examinations.

6. Ability to conduct and document scientific research related to computer forensic examinations.

7. EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION: Bachelor’s degree in computer sciences, forensic science, or a closely related field from a

college or university accredited by a national or regional accreditation organization recognized and sanctioned by the U.S. Department of Education. NOTE: Employees in the Forensic Computer Analyst or Forensic Computer Analyst Sr position prior to June 27, 2015 are exempt from this requirement.

Desirable Qualifications: CERTIFICATION: International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists (IACIS) Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE) or the International Society of Forensic Computer Examiners (ISFCE) Certified Computer Examiner (CCE) or Defense Cyber Investigations Training Academy (DCITA) Digital Forensic Examiner (DFE)

**Reimbursement of relocation expenses will NOT be authorized**

Qualified applicants must successfully pass a pre-employment drug screening to meet the U.S. Postal Service''s requirement to be drug free.

  • Seniority Level

    Not Applicable

  • Employment Type

    Full-time

  • Job Functions
    • Information Technology
    • Analyst
    • Legal
  • Skills
    • Digital Forensics
    • Cybersecurity
    • Computer Forensics
    • Data Analysis
    • Information Technology
    • Technical Writing
    • Incident Response
    • Expert Witness