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Computer Forensic Specialist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... forensic specialists and technical consultants who clarify complex events, strengthen business ... computer skills working with various office equipment, computers and various programs including ...

Criminalist I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$90K - $109K/yr

Computer Forensics * Crime Scene Reconstruction * Digital Forensics * Firearms Identification ... specialist, detailing the work performed, dates, and total number of qualifying OCA hours. OCA ...

Criminalist I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$90K - $109K/yr

Blood Alcohol Analysis Computer Forensics Crime Scene Reconstruction Digital Forensics Firearms ... specialist, detailing the work performed, dates, and total number of qualifying OCA hours. OCA ...

Criminalist II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120K - $145K/yr

Blood Alcohol Analysis Computer Forensics Crime Scene Reconstruction Digital Forensics Firearms ... specialist, detailing the work performed, dates, and total number of qualifying OCA hours. OCA ...

Criminalist II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120K - $145K/yr

Computer Forensics * Crime Scene Reconstruction * Digital Forensics * Firearms Identification ... specialist, detailing the work performed, dates, and total number of qualifying OCA hours. OCA ...

FORENSIC ATTENDANT

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$53K - $68K/yr

Performs case related data entry to Medical Examiner's computer system; keeps a log on morgue ... Specialist. An Associate of Science (A.S.) Degree or higher, preferably in the following areas:

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Computer Forensic Specialist information

See California salary details

$25.2K

$60.4K

$93.3K

How much do computer forensic specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer forensic specialist in California is $60,355.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,300.00 and $68,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a computer forensic specialist?

Computer Forensic Specialists are professionals who investigate digital devices and networks to uncover evidence related to cybercrimes or security incidents. They analyze computers, mobile devices, and other electronic storage to recover, preserve, and interpret data that may be crucial in legal cases or internal investigations. Their work often involves following strict procedures to maintain the integrity of digital evidence and may require testifying in court about their findings.

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

To thrive as a Computer Forensic Specialist, a strong background in computer science, cybersecurity, and digital evidence handling is essential, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with forensic tools like EnCase, FTK, and knowledge of operating system internals and chain-of-custody procedures are typically required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting data and presenting findings. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring accurate investigations, maintaining evidence integrity, and supporting legal processes.

What are some common challenges faced by computer forensic specialists when handling digital evidence?

Computer Forensic Specialists often encounter challenges such as dealing with encrypted or damaged data, ensuring the chain of custody is maintained, and keeping up with rapidly evolving technology. Additionally, they must follow strict legal protocols to ensure evidence is admissible in court and often work under tight deadlines during investigations. Collaboration with law enforcement, legal teams, and IT departments is essential to overcome these challenges and ensure thorough, reliable results.

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

AspectComputer Forensic SpecialistDigital Forensics Analyst
CertificationsEnCE, GCFAEnCE, GCFA
Work EnvironmentLaw enforcement, private firms, corporateLaw enforcement, consulting firms, corporate
Industry UsageInvestigations, legal cases, cybersecurityInvestigations, incident response, legal proceedings

Both roles involve analyzing digital evidence, often requiring similar certifications like EnCE or GCFA. The main difference lies in their focus: Computer Forensic Specialists typically handle the collection and preservation of digital evidence, while Digital Forensics Analysts focus more on analyzing and interpreting that evidence for investigations. Both roles are vital in cybersecurity and legal contexts, often overlapping in skills and work environments.

What are popular job titles related to Computer Forensic Specialist jobs in California?

For Computer Forensic Specialist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Computer Forensic Specialist jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Computer Forensic Specialist jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Computer Forensic Specialist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, and 26% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $60,355 per year, or $29 per hour.

Forensic Specialist Trainee / Forensic Specialist

City of Riverside

Riverside, CA

$54K - $89K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


City Of Riverside (California) rating

9.5

Company rating: 9.5 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 856 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

The Position Forensic Specialist Trainee $26.43 - $29.15 Hourly $54,984 - $60,624 Annually Forensic Specialist $30.60 - $43.05 Hourly $63,660 - $89,556 Annually The City of Riverside Police Department is accepting applications for the position of Forensic Specialist Trainee / Forensic Specialist. The department is looking to fill the vacancy based on experience level of the candidate and create an eligibility list for any possible upcoming vacancies within this classification for up to six (6) months. The Forensic Specialist performs routine technical crime scene investigation duties in the collection, preservation, and processing of evidence

Participates in various other criminal investigative and administrative work. This is the entry/journey level within the Forensic Specialist series. This class is distinguished from the Senior Forensic Specialist by the performance of more routine and less complex crime scene duties.

Incumbent is expected to operate under direct supervision on routine crime scenes, provide expert testimony in court, and be aware of the operating procedures and policies within the unit. Incumbents may be promoted to the next level of Senior Forensic Specialist upon satisfactory job performance and meeting the minimum qualifications. Work Performed Responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following: Locate, identify, collect, protect, preserve, and analyze materials and substances as evidence at crime scenes, other locations, and from person; use and employ a variety of techniques and specialized equipment.

Assist in the examination and processing of crime scenes; document crime scenes with photographs, video recordings, diagrams, and reports; locate and record physical or trace evidence using a variety of photographic techniques; interview victims, witnesses, and suspects when requested. Develop, lift, photograph, preserve, classify, compare and identify fingerprints, palm prints and inked prints; evaluate latent print evidence for CAL-ID computer system; conduct chemical fingerprint processing and process hazardous and drug related material for fingerprints. Preserve, compare and attempt to identify evidence such as blood, hair, fibers, cloth, wood, paint and glass fragments; collect pathological samples and evidence for later clinical examination; photograph results of autopsy for criminal investigation and prepare photos for court presentation.

Collect, photograph, preserve, identify and perform basic analysis of DNA, blood, ballistics, narcotics, tool marks and other types of physical evidence; assist in analysis and laboratory activities. Process, download, print, enlarge, and mount photographs; prepare castings of tire, foot, hand, tool, and other types of impressions. Prepare and maintain reports and records; support the preparation of information for court cases.

Assist and participate in the reconstructing of crime scenes. Operate City vehicles; transport, release, and retrieve evidence from forensic laboratories. Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications Recruitment Guidelines: Forensic Specialist Trainee: Education: High school graduation or satisfactory equivalent (GED). Experience: None A trainee in this classification serves in a training capacity and will learn to perform the duties as defined above. Forensic Specialist: Education: High school graduation or satisfactory equivalent (GED) and completion of 15 semester or 20 quarter units from an accredited college or university in criminology, administration of justice, forensic science, or a closely related field.

Experience: One (1) year of experience performing routine crime scene duties such as identifying, photographing, collecting, and preserving evidence and receiving, cataloging, and maintaining custody of evidence. Licenses, Certifications, and Necessary Requirements: Must be willing to work weekends, holidays, nights, and rotating shifts and be subject to recall as needed. Must be willing to work an "on-call" assignment.

Must be able to pass an intensive police background investigation. Possession of an appropriate, valid, Class "C" California Motor Vehicle Operator's License. Possession of, or ability to obtain, a concealed weapons permit (CCW).

Selection Process DOCUMENTS REQUIRED AT THE TIME OF APPLICATION: 1) Completed Employment Application 2)Completed Supplemental Questionnaire FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ON COMPLETING YOUR ON-LINE APPLICATION, CLICK HERE: (Application Guide). The selection process will begin with an employment application package screening, with the best qualified candidates being invited to participate further in the assessment process. This process may include any combination of written, performance, and oral assessments to evaluate job-related education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Those who successfully complete the selection process will be placed on the eligibility list for this classification. IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON SCHEDULING ASSESSMENTS: If you are selected to move forward in the assessment process, you may be required to self-schedule your appointment. You will be notified via email of your status and provided with self-scheduling instructions.

Please check your email regularly following the closing date of this recruitment. Positions that require, or may require, a California Commercial Driver's License are considered Safety Sensitive and are monitored by the U.S. Department of Transportation

Any candidate being considered for a Safety Sensitive position must submit authorization forms to the City immediately upon request to begin the pre-employment process. It is the responsibility of candidates with a disability requiring accommodation in the assessment process to contact the Human Resources Department in writing to request such accommodation prior to the closing date of this recruitment. Appointment may be subject to the successful completion of a pre-employment background investigation, drug screen, and/or medical/physical examination.

NOTE: The City reserves the right to modify selection devices and test instruments in accordance with accepted legal, ethical, and professional standards. Candidates may reapply when there is a posting to establish an eligibility list. EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Proof of education listed in your application will be requested at the time of conditional offer.

Acceptable documentation consists of transcripts or degree, if applicable, by the accredited U.S. college or university. Education obtained outside the United States (US) require one of the following options: An equivalency statement from an evaluation company certified by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) at http://www.naces.org/members.html or the Association of International Credential Evaluators Inc

(AICE) at http://aice-eval.org/members/. An advanced-level degree from an accredited US college or university. All applicants will be notified via e-mail or telephone of their application status and the assessment dates/times/locations after the closing date of this announcement

THE PROVISIONS OF THIS JOB ANNOUNCEMENT DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED CONTRACT.


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