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Computer Forensic Examiner Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Forensic Computer Analyst SR

Richmond, CA · On-site

$133K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Conducts complex and difficult forensic examinations of digital and ... International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists (IACIS) Certified Forensic Computer ...

Forensic Computer Analyst

Anaheim, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Conducts forensic examinations of digital and other multimedia ... Bachelor's degree in computer sciences, forensic science, or a closely related field from a college ...

Functions independently to perform forensic examinations, document findings, and collect evidence ... Windows computer skills including proficient use of keyboarding, use of mouse or keys for functions ...

Functions independently to perform forensic examinations, document findings, and collect evidence ... Windows computer skills including proficient use of keyboarding, use of mouse or keys for functions ...

Continuous but may close at any time Oral Examination: TBA To learn more about the Sheriff's Office ... Operate a variety of computer programs; Multi-task, prioritize and problem solve; and Travel to ...

$86 - $171/hr

Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE) GIAC Certified Forensic Examiner (GCFE) EnCase Certified Examiner (EnCE) AccessData Certified Examiner (ACE) Certified Computer Examiner (CCE) ISACA, (ISC ...

FORENSIC ATTENDANT

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$53K - $68K/yr

The Department of Medical Examiner is seeking qualified candidates to fill emergency Forensic ... Performs case related data entry to Medical Examiner's computer system; keeps a log on morgue ...

Structural Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$135K - $165K/yr

Forensic Consulting relies on scientific principles to investigate all types of failures impacting ... Performs field investigations, leads multi-party examinations and documentation of damaged property.

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Computer Forensic Examiner information

See California salary details

$112K

$115.2K

$117.4K

How much do computer forensic examiner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer forensic examiner in California is $115,185.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $115,000.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a computer forensic examiner do?

A Computer Forensic Examiner is responsible for identifying, preserving, analyzing, and presenting digital evidence from computers and other electronic devices. They often work on criminal cases, civil litigation, or corporate investigations to uncover evidence of cybercrimes, fraud, or data breaches. Their work includes recovering deleted files, analyzing data storage devices, and ensuring the integrity of digital evidence for use in legal proceedings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a computer forensic examiner?

To thrive as a Computer Forensic Examiner, you need expertise in digital evidence collection, analysis, and a strong understanding of computer systems, often supported by a degree in computer science or related certifications. Familiarity with forensic tools such as EnCase, FTK, and knowledge of chain-of-custody procedures are typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective written and verbal communication are critical soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure accurate, legal, and clear handling of digital evidence, which is vital for supporting investigations and legal proceedings.

What are some common challenges computer forensic examiners face when handling digital evidence?

Computer forensic examiners often encounter challenges such as dealing with encrypted files, rapidly evolving technology, and maintaining the integrity of digital evidence throughout the investigative process. Strict chain-of-custody procedures must be followed to ensure that evidence is admissible in court. Additionally, examiners must stay updated on new software, hardware, and cyber threats, as well as effectively collaborate with law enforcement or legal teams to present findings clearly and accurately.

What is the difference between Computer Forensic Examiner vs Digital Forensics Analyst?

AspectComputer Forensic ExaminerDigital Forensics Analyst
CertificationsEnCE, GCFAEnCE, GCFA
Work EnvironmentLaw enforcement, private firms, corporateLaw enforcement, private firms, corporate
Primary FocusCollecting, analyzing digital evidence for legal casesInvestigating cyber incidents, analyzing digital data
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, cybersecurity firmsCybersecurity companies, law enforcement, consulting

Both roles require similar certifications and often work in comparable environments. The main difference is that Computer Forensic Examiners focus on collecting and presenting digital evidence for legal proceedings, while Digital Forensics Analysts primarily investigate cyber incidents and analyze digital data to understand security breaches.

How do you become a computer forensic examiner?

To become a computer forensic examiner, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science, cybersecurity, or a related field, along with specialized training in digital forensics. Certifications such as EnCase Certified Examiner (EnCE) or Certified Computer Examiner (CCE) can enhance job prospects, and experience with forensic tools and understanding of legal procedures are important for the role.

How much do computer forensic examiners make?

Computer forensic examiners typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced examiners with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in government or private sectors.

Is computer forensic examiners a good career?

Computer forensic examiners play a vital role in investigating cybercrimes and digital evidence, often requiring knowledge of cybersecurity tools and certifications such as EnCE or CFCE. The field offers strong job growth, competitive salaries, and opportunities to work in law enforcement, private firms, or government agencies. It is a specialized career that demands attention to detail, technical skills, and ongoing education to stay current with evolving technology.
Infographic showing various Computer Forensic Examiner job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 76% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,185 per year, or $55.4 per hour.

Forensic Computer Analyst SR

US Postal Service

Richmond, CA • On-site

$133K/yr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Facility Location

USPIS FORENSIC LABORATORY SERVICE

SAN FRANCISCO DIGITAL EVIDENCE LAB

2501 RYDIN RD FLR 2S

RICHMOND, CA 94850

Position Information

NON-SCHEDULED DAYS: SAT-SUN

HOURS: 08:00 AM - 04:00 PM

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 complex and difficult forensic analyses of digital and other multimedia evidence utilizing appropriate scientific methodologies and forensic techniques in support of criminal and administrative investigations.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Conducts complex and difficult 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 interpretation and conclusions from forensic examinations and technical data to a lay audience.

4. Maintains quality control of forensic work products by conducting ongoing technical work reviews of forensic computer analysts to ensure examinations are conducted in accordance with accepted analytical methods, scientific standards, and evidence handling requirements.

5. Designs, conducts and documents scientific research for the purpose of discovering new forensic techniques and validation methods, and resolving forensic examination problems.

6. 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; oversees and serves as a team leader for crime scene and evidence collection activities during major field investigations.

7. Develops and implements programs, policies, and procedures to ensure laboratory procedures, forensic examinations, and evidence handling processes are up-to-date and reflective of current trends and techniques within the law enforcement and scientific communities.

8. Plans, coordinates, and conducts training to inspectors and/or law enforcement officials in laboratory services, evidence collection, and field examination training.

9. Serves as an authoritative source and provides expert advice on technical developments, analytical techniques, and forensic examination issues; participates in inter-agency task groups.

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

REQUIREMENTS

1. Knowledge of evidence collection, preservation, packaging, and shipment procedures sufficient to serve as a technical advisor in such matters, and to serve as a crime scene team leader for evidence collection activities during major field investigations.

2. 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.

3. Ability to plan, coordinate and conduct training regarding laboratory services, evidence collection, and field examination.

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

5. Ability to conduct technical work reviews of analysts to ensure quality assurance and digital evidence discipline principles, procedures, and protocols have been followed.

6. 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.

7. EDUCATION/ CERTIFICATION: Applicant must possess the one of the following certifications: 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). NOTE: 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, policies and procedures to ensure laboratory services are reflective of current trends and techniques in the forensic document discipline.

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

10. 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.

**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.