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Computer Forensic Investigator Jobs in California

Forensic Pathologist

Modesto, CA · On-site

$175.74 - $263.60/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 ...

Senior Associate, Forensic Technology

Los Angeles, CA

$88K - $162K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Support execution of end-to-end dead-box forensic investigations across iOS, MacOS, and Windows ... Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, digital forensics, or equivalent from an ...

Senior Associate, Forensic Technology

San Francisco, CA

$88K - $162K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Support execution of end-to-end dead-box forensic investigations across iOS, MacOS, and Windows ... Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, digital forensics, or equivalent from an ...

Senior Associate, Forensic Technology

San Francisco, CA

$88K - $162K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Support execution of end-to-end dead-box forensic investigations across iOS, MacOS, and Windows ... Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, digital forensics, or equivalent from an ...

Senior Associate, Forensic Technology

Los Angeles, CA

$88K - $162K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Support execution of end-to-end dead-box forensic investigations across iOS, MacOS, and Windows ... Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, digital forensics, or equivalent from an ...

Fire Investigator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$83K - $124K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Fire Investigator

Los Angeles, CA

$83K - $124K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Forensic Expert

Long Beach, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Essential Functions · Conduct vehicle and scene field investigations for a variety of accidents ... computer skills working with various office equipment, computers and various programs including ...

$86 - $171/hr

Experience leading forensic investigations or supervising engagement teams * Knowledge of computer networking, cloud environments, data security, and computer hardware * Experience with scripting or ...

Insider Risk Investigator

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$152K - $208K/yr

... including forensic and investigative methodologies. * Monitor internal and external threat ... Required Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Criminal Justice, Law ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Aug 17, 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 is a computer forensic investigator?

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.

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.

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.

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 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:

Infographic showing various Computer Forensic Investigator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,434 per year, or $36.7 per hour.

Managing Director, Digital Investigations & Cyber Risk

Nardello

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

THE POSITION:

Reporting to the Managing Director & Head of Digital Investigations & Cyber Risk, the Managing Director will be responsible for helping to drive the expansion of the firm’s Digital Investigations and Cyber Risk practice, which provides a diverse range of investigative and forensic capabilities to clients. The qualified candidate will work with senior management on new business development and project execution, overseeing multidisciplinary teams, ensuring work quality and managing client relationships at the highest levels.


WHAT THE JOB ENTAILS:

  • Develop and execute a business development plan while working closely with Nardello & Co. senior management and staff.
  • Actively grow the firm’s client base by generating significant new business and managing client relationships. The ideal candidate will have an active book of business that can be integrated into Nardello & Co.
  • Direct overall case management process from proposal to delivery of technical support including digital forensics/incident response, security assessment and advice, incident preparedness, etc.,  to report production, including client relationships, staffing, budgeting, and quality control.
  • In addition to managing the overall team, the candidate will be expected to be an active practitioner and have the ability to execute digital forensic analysis, including expert testimony.  The ideal candidate will have prior expert witness experience.
  • Participate in the training and development of more junior practice professionals.
  • Assure the firm’s continued growth and expansion by helping to shape the firm’s overall strategy.


YOUR BACKGROUND

  • Minimum 12 years of experience in digital forensic and cyber response services practice, including in senior management-level roles.
  • A proven track record of developing a book of business.
  • Deep experience in conducting complex, confidential investigations in both an investigative and advisory capacity.
  • Experience in preparing, delivering, and defending expert analysis and testimony in litigation support and/or regulatory matters.
  • Willingness and ability to actively support a broad range of engagement types in a hands-on capacity.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • High degree of attention to detail and work product quality.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to motivate and support high performing teams.
  • A track record of demonstrating credibility, trust, enthusiasm, integrity, and ethics.
  • Other skills of interest include business valuation, internal controls assessment and advisory, and high-volume forensic data analysis. Sector experience in financial services, technology, health care & life sciences also a plus.


PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS:

  • One or more digital forensics and incident response certifications, such as GCIH, GCFE, GCFA, CFCE, CCME or equivalent government forensic certifications.


 ENVIRONMENT DETAILS          

  • Some travel is required.
  • Hybrid working arrangement.


Nardello & Co. offers employees a competitive compensation and set of benefits.

Nardello & Co. is an equal opportunity employer.


WHO WE ARE:

With offices in New York, London, Paris, Washington DC, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Dubai, Nardello & Co. is a global investigations firm whose experienced professionals handle a broad range of matters including due diligence, anti-corruption and fraud investigations, civil and white collar criminal litigation and arbitration support, asset tracing, activist defense, political risk and strategic intelligence, digital investigations and cyber defense, monitorships and independent investigations, and compliance.


Nardello & Co. enjoys a reputation as the best kept secret of leading law firms and financial institutions, Fortune 500 and FTSE 100 companies, high-net-worth individuals and family offices, governments, NGOs, sports organizations and academic institutions who know that managing risk effectively requires choosing the best investigative partner.


We believe that excellence starts with having the right people. Our professionals have spent their entire careers building and enhancing their expertise. Our professional team includes former US federal prosecutors, US and international lawyers, former law enforcement personnel and intelligence operatives, licensed investigators, research analysts, former journalists, financial crimes specialists, forensic accountants, and computer forensic experts. Our team is composed of proven performers who think creatively and strategically, adhere to the highest ethical standards, and are committed to excellence.