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Apprentice Computer Forensics Analyst Jobs in Illinois

Threat Hunter

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$97K - $189K/yr

Advanced experience with forensic tools for OS artifact, memory, and network analysis. * Strong ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Scienceor related discipline, or equivalent experience. * Typicallya ...

Major in Accounting, Finance, Economics, Business Administration, Cybersecurity, Computer Forensics, Data Analytics, or related fields * Advanced degree or professional certification * Series 99 ...

Threat Analyst

Chicago, IL · On-site

$86K - $111K/yr

Bachelor's degree/diploma in Computer Science, Information Security, or related field. * Minimum 2 ... Knowledge of digital forensics, malware analysis, penetration testing and ethical hacking.

Bachelor's degree/diploma in Computer Science, Information Security, or related field. * Minimum 2 ... Knowledge of digital forensics, malware analysis, penetration testing and ethical hacking.

Forensic Mechanical Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$130K - $170K/yr

Analyze the failure of mechanical systems, determine the cause of failures, evaluate the quality of ... Computer skills (including Word, Excel and PowerPoint). * A desire to learn, excel and grow with us ...

Forensic Mechanical Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$130K - $170K/yr

Analyze the failure of mechanical systems, determine the cause of failures, evaluate the quality of ... Computer skills (including Word, Excel and PowerPoint). * A desire to learn, excel and grow with us ...

Forensic Mechanical Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$130K - $170K/yr

Analyze the failure of mechanical systems, determine the cause of failures, evaluate the quality of ... Computer skills (including Word, Excel and PowerPoint). * A desire to learn, excel and grow with us ...

Forensic analysis across endpoints, network, and/or cloud • Strong track record in Incident ... Computer Science or related field • A minimum of 7 years of technical experience across one or ...

Apprentice Operator 12-Hour

IL · On-site

$17.75 - $23/hr

Maintaining all computer inventory control systems. * And other duties as assigned. Position ... analytical skills. * Good communication and problem-solving skills are also required. * This ...

Apprentice Operator 12-Hour

Argo, IL

$17.75 - $23/hr

Maintaining all computer inventory control systems. * And other duties as assigned. Position ... analytical skills. * Good communication and problem-solving skills are also required. * This ...

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Apprentice Computer Forensics Analyst information

Can I be a CSI without being a cop?

A Computer Forensics Analyst or CSI role typically does not require law enforcement credentials, as it focuses on digital evidence analysis, often requiring technical skills, certifications, and knowledge of forensic tools. While some CSIs are police officers, many organizations hire civilians with specialized training in digital forensics, and certifications like EnCase or CFCE can be beneficial.

Is AI taking over forensics?

As an Apprentice Computer Forensics Analyst, understanding AI's role is important, as AI tools are increasingly used to analyze digital evidence more efficiently and identify patterns. However, human expertise remains essential for interpreting complex data, verifying findings, and ensuring legal admissibility. AI complements forensic work but does not replace the need for skilled analysts.

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 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 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 much do computer forensics analysts make?

Computer forensics analysts typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced analysts with specialized skills or certifications can earn over $100,000 annually.

How to become a forensic computer analyst?

To become a forensic computer analyst, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science, cybersecurity, or a related field. Gaining experience with digital forensics tools, such as EnCase or FTK, and obtaining certifications like the Certified Computer Forensics Examiner (CCFE) or GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA) can improve job prospects. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of legal procedures are also important for success in this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Forensics Analyst jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Computer Forensics Analyst jobs in Illinois are:
What job categories do people searching Apprentice Computer Forensics Analyst jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice Computer Forensics Analyst jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Apprentice Computer Forensics Analyst jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Apprentice Computer Forensics Analyst job openings:
Threat Hunter

Threat Hunter

Cna

Chicago, IL • Hybrid

$97K - $189K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

You have a clear vision of where your career can go. And we have the leadership to help you get there.At CNA, we strive to create a culture in which people know they matter and are part of something important, ensuring the abilities of all employees are used to their fullest potential.

Threat Hunter, Consulting Director is a senior-level individual contributor focused on proactively searching adversarial activity in the network with the goal of discovering threats prior to an adversary completing its mission. This role utilizes advanced skills to perform enterprise forensics including operating system artifact analysis, log analysis, network traffic analysis, and the MITRE ATT&CK framework. This position is responsible for developing innovative and creative detection tactics and techniques that protect client data and corporate assets from diverse threats. The role is a key member of a highly technical team operating in a rapidly changing environment.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Performs a combination of duties in accordance with departmental guidelines:

  • Leads and conducts real-time and historical analysis using the full security suite including Endpoint Protection, SIEM, Firewall, EDR, IDS, Email Gateway, Web Content Filtering, and Identity Management technologies.

  • Conducts incident response triage analysis on suspected hosts todeterminepotential attacks and scope.

  • Conducts threat hunting operations based on the latest threat intelligence.

  • Creates strategies for enterprise-wide hunts based on triage findings and intelligence efforts.

  • Maintains awareness of emerging attack tactics, techniques, and procedures.

  • Collaborates with SOC, Threat Intelligence, Incident Response, and Enterprise Security teams.

  • Identifiesvisibility gaps and recommends improvements.

  • Manages day-to-day SOC monitoring, investigations, response, and intelligence activities.

  • Coordinates escalation for advanced forensics and malware reverse engineering.

  • Communicates security incidents clearly to business and non-technical stakeholders.

May perform additional duties as assigned.

Reporting Relationship

Typically AVP or above

Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

  • In-depth knowledge of SIEM, IDS/IPS, web proxies, DLP, CASB, DNS security, DDoS protection, and firewalls.

  • Advanced experience with forensic tools for OS artifact, memory, and network analysis.

  • Strong understanding of malware, reverse engineering principles, and network protocols.

  • Demonstrated ability to build, execute, and lead enterprise threat hunting programs.

  • Ability to work collaboratively in high-pressure incident response environments.

  • Demonstrated ability to apply artificial intelligence and machine-learning techniques to threat hunting, including use of LLMs, UEBA, and statistical models to surface anomalous behavior, enrich low-signal telemetry, and accelerate hypothesis-driven hunts across large enterprise datasets.

  • Experience evaluating, tuning, and operationalizing AI-enabled security capabilities (e.g., AI-assisted SIEM, EDR/XDR, and detection engineering workflows), with an understanding of model limitations, bias, false-positive risk, and the need for analytically defensible outcomes suitable for executive, legal, and regulatory review.

Education & Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Scienceor related discipline, or equivalent experience.

  • Typicallya minimum of 10years of experience in cyber monitoring, threat hunting, incident response, forensics, or related disciplines.

#LI-KJ1 #LI-HYBRID

In certain jurisdictions, CNA is legally required to include a reasonable estimate of the compensation for this role. In District of Columbia, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York and Washington, the national base pay range for this job level is $97,000 to $189,000 annually.Salary determinations are based on various factors, including but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications and location. CNA offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to help our employees - and their family members - achieve their physical, financial, emotional and social wellbeing goals. For a detailed look at CNA's benefits, please visitcnabenefits.com.

CNA is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in the recruitment process. To request an accommodation, please contactleaveadministration@cna.com.