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Computer Forensic Investigator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

... computer related evidence - Coordinate with Government staff and customer personnel to validate/investigate alerts or additional preliminary findings - Conduct analysis of forensic images, and ...

... computer related evidence - Coordinate with Government staff and customer personnel to validate/investigate alerts or additional preliminary findings - Conduct analysis of forensic images, and ...

Contract personnel perform investigations to characterize of the severity of breaches, develop ... BS Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Computer Engineering or related degree; or HS Diploma and 10+ ...

Contract personnel perform investigations to characterize of the severity of breaches, develop ... Required Education: BS Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Computer Engineering or related degree; or ...

Contract personnel perform investigations to characterize of the severity of breaches, develop ... BS Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Computer Engineering or related degree; or HS Diploma and 10+ ...

Contract personnel perform investigations to characterize of the severity of breaches, develop ... Required Education: BS Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Computer Engineering or related degree; or ...

... computer related evidence - Coordinating with others within the Government and with customer personnel to validate/investigate alerts or other preliminary findings - Conducting analysis of forensic ...

... computer related evidence - Coordinating with others within the Government and with customer personnel to validate/investigate alerts or other preliminary findings - Conducting analysis of forensic ...

Lead advanced digital forensic investigations across endpoints, networks, and cloud environments ... D. in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Information Systems, Information Technology ...

Lead advanced digital forensic investigations across endpoints, networks, and cloud environments ... D. in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Information Systems, Information Technology ...

Digital Forensics Analyst

Herndon, VA · On-site

$104K - $166K/yr

Lead advanced digital forensic investigations across endpoints, networks, and cloud environments ... D. in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Information Systems, Information Technology ...

... coordinating forensic teams in preliminary investigation * Planning, coordinating, and directing the inventory, examination, and comprehensive technical analysis of computer-related evidence

Interfacing with investigators and developing analysis plan to meet customer needs. * Utilizing ... Bachelor's degree in a science or computer related field from an accredited University or foreign ...

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Computer Forensic Investigator information

See Virginia salary details

$32.7K

$76.8K

$131.9K

How much do computer forensic investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer forensic investigator in Virginia is $76,784.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,500.00 and $88,200.00 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 in law enforcement, government agencies, 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 criminal 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.

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 can I become a computer forensics investigator?

To become a computer forensics investigator, you 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 improve job prospects. Familiarity with forensic tools and strong analytical skills are essential in this role.

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 does a forensic computer investigator do?

A forensic computer investigator analyzes digital devices to recover, examine, and preserve electronic evidence for legal cases. They use specialized tools and techniques to investigate cybercrimes, data breaches, and other digital incidents, often working closely with law enforcement and legal teams. Certifications like EnCE or CFCE and knowledge of operating systems, networks, and encryption are important in this role.
What job categories do people searching Computer Forensic Investigator jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Forensic Investigator jobs in Virginia are:

Cloud Forensic Analyst IV

Nwis

Arlington, VA

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.
Nightwing is supporting a U.S. Government customer to provide support for onsite incident response to civilian Government agencies and critical asset owners who experience cyber-attacks, providing immediate investigation and resolution. Contract personnel perform investigations to characterize the severity of breaches, develop mitigation plans, and assist with the restoration of services. Nightwing is seeking a Cloud Forensics Analyst to support this critical customer mission.
The CFA is a recently identified position for the HIRT and affords ample opportunities for training and career growth within the Cloud Forensics field.
The Desired Skills/CERTs/Education are not required and will be used to develop training plans for candidates/team members that demonstrate a cyber aptitude, desire to learn and strong work ethic.
Responsibilities:

- Acquire/collect computer artifacts (e.g., malware, user activity, link files) in support of onsite engagements

- Triage electronic devices and assess evidentiary value

- Correlate forensic findings to network events in support of developing an intrusion narrative

- Collect and document system state information (e.g. running processes, network connections) prior to imaging, as required

- Perform forensic triage of an incident to include determining scope, urgency and potential impact

- Track and document forensic analysis from initial participation through resolution

- Collect, process, preserve, analyze and present computer related evidence

- Coordinate with Government staff and customer personnel to validate/investigate alerts or additional preliminary findings

- Conduct analysis of forensic images, and available evidence in support of forensic write-ups for inclusion in reports and written products

- Assist with documenting and publishing Computer Network Defense (CND) guidance and reports pertaining to incident findings

Required Skills/Clearances:

- U.S. Citizenship

- Active TS/SCI clearance

- Ability to obtain Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Entry on Duty (EOD) Suitability

- 10 years of direct relevant experience in cyber forensic investigations using leading edge technologies and industry standard forensic tools

- In depth understanding of SaaS, PaaS and IaaS in the Cloud Environment

- Ability to create forensically sound duplicates of evidence (forensic images)

- Ability to author cyber investigative reports documenting digital forensics findings

- Proficiency with analysis and characterization of cyber attacks

- Proficiency with proper evidence handing procedures and chain of custody protocols

- Skilled in identifying different classes of attacks and attack stages

- Understanding of system and application security threats and vulnerabilities

- Understanding of proactive analysis of systems and networks, to include creating trust levels of critical resources- Able to work collaboratively across physical locations

- Action-oriented and have a proactive approach to problem solving

- Proficiency with common operating systems (e,g, Linux/Unix, Windows)

Desired Skills:

- Ability to provide knowledge of strategies/architectures involved in implementing M365/Azure authentication, how these hook to a federated identity solution and a fundamental understanding of how threat actors would target identity to compromise an environment

- Advanced experience and proficiency across various aspects of IT operations (e.g. networking, virtualization, identity, security, business continuity, disaster recovery, data management, governance)

- Experience and understanding in acquisition, processing and analysis of digital evidence from onsite enterprises and cloud native platforms

- Fundamental understanding of APIs and proficiency with PowerShell/PowerShell modules leveraged to conduct API queries as they relate to Azure/M365

- Proficiency with scripting languages (e.g. Bash, Python, Powershell, JS) for automation of hunt tools used in commercial cloud environments- Ability to develop tools, architecture and configurations in Azure environment to support identifying threat activity.

- Understanding of Azure administration, M365 administration and/or development/DevOps, with advanced level skills in at least one of these domains

- Understand of how Azure/M365 platform protection is implemented and security operations available

Required Education:

BS Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Computer Engineering or related degree; or HS Diploma 10 years of host or digital forensics experience.

Desired Certifications/Education:

- One or more of the following certifications:
GCFA, GCFE, GCIH, EnCE, CCE, CFCE, CISSP, AWS Practitioner, AWS Certified Developer, AWS Certified SysOps Administrator, AWS Certified Architect, Kubernetes Security SpecialistMS-500: Microsoft 365 Security AdministrationAZ-900:Azure FundamentalsAZ-500: Azure Security TechnologiesAZ-303: Azure Architect TechnologiesAZ-304: Azure Architect DesignMS-100: Microsoft 365 Identity and ServicesMS-101: Microsoft 365 Mobility and SecurityAZ-104: Azure Administrator SANS SEC 510, Public Cloud Security: AWS, Azure, and GCPSANS FOR509: Enterprise Cloud Forensics and Incident Response (BETA)SEC 541: Cloud Monitoring and Threat DetectionSEC584: Cloud Native Security: Defending Containers and KubernetesSEC588: Cloud Penetration testing AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner AWS Certified SysOps Administrator Associate or AWS Certified Developer Associate or AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate AWS Certified Solutions Architect Professional or AWS Certified DevOps Engineer Professional

At Nightwing, we value collaboration and teamwork. You'll have the opportunity to work alongside talented individuals who are passionate about what they do. Together, we'll leverage our collective expertise to drive innovation, solve complex problems, and deliver exceptional results for our clients.


Thank you for considering joining us as we embark on this new journey and shape the future of cybersecurity and intelligence together as part of the Nightwing team.

Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class.