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Computer Forensic Investigator Jobs in California

KPMG

Manager, Forensic Technology

San Francisco, CA

$103K - $206K/yr

Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, digital forensics, or equivalent from an ... Experience conducting iOS, MacOS, and Windows dead box forensic investigations, including employee ...

KPMG

Manager, Forensic Technology

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$103K - $206K/yr

Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, digital forensics, or equivalent from an ... Experience conducting iOS, MacOS, and Windows dead box forensic investigations, including employee ...

Stanislaus County

Forensic Pathologist

Modesto, CA

$168.98 - $253.46/hr

Perform general case investigation, including preparation of comprehensive reports; Provide expert ... Operate a variety of computer programs; Multi-task, prioritize and problem solve; and Travel to ...

Aperture, LLC

Forensic Expert

Long Beach, CA

$80K - $100K/yr

Essential Functions · Investigate vehicles and conduct scene field investigations for a variety of ... computer skills working with various office equipment, computers and various programs including ...

Rimkus

Fire Investigator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$83K - $124K/yr

Rimkus experts specialize in building envelope, engineering, forensic consulting, dispute ... Must have knowledge of a variety of computer software applications including but not limited to ...

Rimkus

Fire Investigator

Los Angeles, CA

$83K - $124K/yr

Rimkus experts specialize in building envelope, engineering, forensic consulting, dispute ... Must have knowledge of a variety of computer software applications including but not limited to ...

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All JobsComputer Forensic Investigator JobsComputer Forensic Investigator Jobs in California

Computer Forensic Investigator information

See California salary details

$32.6K

$76.4K

$131.3K

How much do computer forensic investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer forensic investigator in California is $76,434.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,300.00 and $87,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Computer Forensic Investigators?

Computer Forensic Investigators are professionals who specialize in identifying, collecting, analyzing, and preserving digital evidence from computers and other electronic devices. They often assist law enforcement agencies, private companies, and legal teams in investigating cybercrimes, data breaches, and unauthorized access incidents. Their work involves recovering deleted files, tracing digital footprints, and ensuring evidence is handled according to legal standards so it can be used in court. Computer Forensic Investigators play a crucial role in uncovering digital evidence and supporting criminal and civil investigations.

Is computer forensics a good career?

Computer Forensic Investigators analyze digital evidence to support criminal and civil investigations, often working with law enforcement or private firms. The field offers strong job growth, competitive salaries, and requires skills in cybersecurity, data analysis, and certifications like EnCE or CFCE. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in technology and justice.

What are some common challenges faced by Computer Forensic Investigators during digital evidence collection?

Computer Forensic Investigators often encounter challenges such as encrypted data, damaged or deliberately altered devices, and the need to maintain a strict chain of custody to ensure evidence integrity. Working under tight deadlines and managing large volumes of data can also be demanding. Collaboration with law enforcement, legal teams, and IT professionals is essential to navigate these obstacles and ensure that evidence is admissible in court.

How do you become a computer forensics investigator?

To become a computer forensics investigator, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science, cybersecurity, or a related field. Gaining experience with digital evidence, understanding legal procedures, and obtaining certifications such as the Certified Computer Forensics Examiner (CCFE) or EnCase Certified Examiner (EnCE) can enhance job prospects. Strong analytical skills and familiarity with forensic tools and software are also important.

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

AspectComputer Forensic InvestigatorDigital Forensics Analyst
CertificationsGCFA, GCFE, EnCEGCFA, EnCE, CISSP
Work EnvironmentLaw enforcement, private firms, corporate securityConsulting firms, law enforcement, corporate security
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, cybersecurity firmsLegal, government, private sector
Primary FocusInvestigating cybercrimes, collecting digital evidenceAnalyzing digital data, preparing reports

Both roles involve digital evidence analysis, but Computer Forensic Investigators focus on crime scene investigation and evidence collection, often working with law enforcement. Digital Forensics Analysts tend to analyze digital data for various purposes, including security assessments and legal cases, often in consulting or corporate environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Computer Forensic Investigator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Computer Forensic Investigator, you need expertise in digital evidence collection, data analysis, and a solid understanding of cybersecurity principles, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with forensic tools such as EnCase, FTK, and Cellebrite, along with certifications like GCFA or CCE, is typically required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and strong written communication are vital soft skills that set top professionals apart. These skills and qualifications are crucial for accurately uncovering digital evidence, supporting legal proceedings, and maintaining the integrity of investigations.

How much do computer forensic investigators make?

Computer forensic investigators typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Those with specialized skills in digital evidence analysis and certifications like CFCE or EnCE may earn higher salaries, especially in government or private sectors.

What do computer forensic investigators do?

Computer forensic investigators analyze digital devices and data to uncover evidence related to cybercrimes, fraud, or security breaches. They use specialized tools and techniques to recover, examine, and preserve electronic evidence, often working closely with law enforcement or legal teams. Their work requires attention to detail, knowledge of cybersecurity, and adherence to legal standards.
What are popular job titles related to Computer Forensic Investigator jobs in California? For Computer Forensic Investigator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Computer Forensic Investigator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Forensic Investigator jobs in California are:
Computer Forensic Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Forensic Investigator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,434 per year, or $36.7 per hour.
Computer Specialist - Network and Digital Forensics Examiner (San Diego)

Computer Specialist - Network and Digital Forensics Examiner (San Diego)

Longeviti LLC

San Diego, CA • On-site

$145K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Longeviti LLC is searching for a Digital Forensic Examiner with an active TS clearance and SCI eligibility to support NCIS in Camp Pendleton, CA. Candidates must have certification in DCITA DoD Digital Forensic Examiner or FBI Computer Analysis Response Team (CART) and five (5) or more years of experience using Cellebrite UFED4PC/Physical Analyzer, proficiency in FTK, and/or OSForensics.
DESCRIPTION:
Provide detailed forensic examinations for NCIS cases when computers or other digital media are instruments of crime, DoN computer networks are victims, or when computers or other digital media is used to store data of evidentiary or intelligence value. Additionally, serve as SME and testify in court proceedings, test new network-based investigative tools and network monitoring technologies, and provide informal on-the-job training to government staff as needed.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Conduct complex and high-profile, non-destructive evaluations of target computer systems to determine operating and file systems, stored information, user and program logs, ownership, and access methodology, as well as security features and usage
  • Provide detailed forensic examinations for NCIS cases
  • Document artifacts and deliverables according to standardized formats and approved templates created through collaboration with NCIS Divisions
  • Follow NCIS organizational policies and procedures
  • Work in a team environment to provide forensic support via active engagement with Cyber-Referent agents
  • Liaison between NCIS agents in the field and NCIS analysts at NCISHQ
  • Collect and preserve critical evidence from large data sets
  • Conduct intrusion identification
  • Write SQL queries to verify/retrieve data
  • Perform log analysis in support of NCIS investigations
  • Conduct forensic extraction and analysis of data and electronic evidence from seized digital media
  • Analyze computer network security settings, server, system, router, firewall, intrusion detection system (IDS) and intrusion prevention system (IPS) logs and packet capture data
  • Assist the NCIS Special Agent as a technical consultant, ensuring that the data is seized in compliance with computer forensic standards and in compliance with chain of custody guidelines
  • Serve as a subject matter expert (SME) and testify in court proceedings regarding forensic procedures utilized to acquire evidence and the description of any evidence obtained
  • Analyze and test network monitoring technologies
  • Test and assess new commercial and government-developed network-based investigative tools for reviewing and improving NCIS' current collection platforms
  • Evaluate and implement new technologies to support the improvement and modernization of the NCIS criminal and intelligence capabilities regarding the gathering digital evidence
  • Provide emergent forensic response support to internal and external surge requirements
  • Configure, install, and maintain Network Intrusion Detection systems and Network Forensic Analysis Tools on locally configured networks

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES, COMPETENCIES:
  • Minimum of five years digital forensics experience using Cellebrite UFED4PC/Physical Analyzer. Proficiency with FTK, and/or OSForensics.
  • Expertise with various computer operating systems to include Windows, Linux/Unix, and Macintosh OS.
  • Expertise with a variety of computer hardware to include servers, workstations, desktops, laptops, networking equipment, tablets and cellphones.
  • Full understanding of proper forensic data collection procedures, chain of custody, and documentation procedures in a law enforcement environment.
  • SANS FOR 500 and SANS FOR 585
  • Cellebrite CCO and CCPA.
  • Strong documentation skills.
  • Ability to testify as an expert witness in judicial proceedings.
  • Proficient in information security, information assurance, information technology, and cyber defense best practices and principles.

CERTIFICATIONS OR TRAINING REQUIRED:
  • DCITA DoD Digital Forensic Examiner or FBI Computer Analysis Response Team (CART) certification.

SECURITY CLEARANCE:
  • This position requires the person(s) to be eligible AND adjudicated to Top Secret (TS SCI) clearance level at contract start.

EDUCATION:
  • Minimum of a Bachelor's Degree in a Computer Science-related field or five years of equivalent work experience.

SALARY RANGE:
  • $135,0000 USD - $145,000 USD. However, Longeviti considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills.

SAFETY and HEALTH
Longeviti, LLC, as the employer, herein notifies each employee candidate and hired employee of the enterprise-wide employee requirement to follow and adhere to all Longeviti Occupational Safety, Health, and Environmental (LOSH)-E controls, policies, procedures, standards, rules, regulations, orders, and guidelines as a condition of employment (herein referred to as safety controls) as directed by Longeviti, LLC supervision, management, and administration.
BENEFITS
Longeviti offers a comprehensive and generous benefits package. The Longeviti benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision insurance for the employee and/or their families. Longeviti also includes basic life insurance which includes AD&D plus short- and long-term disability for the employee. Employees may elect to enroll in our company's 401k plan. Employees will also accrue paid time off and holidays. Additional voluntary elections include legal coverage, supplemental accident, critical illness and hospital insurance plans, and commuter benefits.
ABOUT LONGEVITI
Longeviti, LLC is a government contractor specializing in providing professional support services in the fields of information technology, program management, agency administration, and intelligence analysis.
We are a certified 8(a) and small disadvantaged business that excels in the market having earned our status as an ISO 9001 certified provider of services and are rated as CMMI Level 3 Services. Quality and continuous improvement are basic tenets of the organization and giving our staff the tools to make it happen are a trademark. Customer satisfaction is paramount.
Longeviti, LLC is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. Longeviti is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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