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Computer Forensics Investigator Jobs in California

Exponent Inc.

Managing Scientist

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

... and computer forensics software such as Cellebrite or EnCase * 1 year of experience in analysis and investigations of consumer electronics, medical devices and automotive vehicles for root cause ...

Exponent Inc.

Managing Scientist

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

$172K - $220K/yr

... and computer forensics software such as Cellebrite or EnCase * 1 year of experience in analysis and investigations of consumer electronics, medical devices and automotive vehicles for root cause ...

Exponent Inc.

Managing Scientist

Menlo Park, CA

... and computer forensics software such as Cellebrite or EnCase * 1 year of experience in analysis and investigations of consumer electronics, medical devices and automotive vehicles for root cause ...

Meta

Security Engineer, Applied AI

Menlo Park, CA

$154K/yr

S. in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or a related field, or equivalent experience * 5+ years of ... Experience with forensic investigation -- reconstructing attack timelines from evidence across ...

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Computer Forensics Investigator information

See California salary details

$30.1K

$69.2K

$112.5K

How much do computer forensics investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer forensics investigator in California is $69,205.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,300.00 and $83,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a computer forensics investigator do?

A Computer Forensics Investigator is a specialist who collects, analyzes, and preserves digital evidence from computers, mobile devices, and other electronic systems. They often work on cases involving cybercrimes, data breaches, or legal disputes requiring digital evidence. Their work involves recovering deleted files, tracing cyberattacks, and presenting findings in legal proceedings. These professionals play a crucial role in ensuring digital evidence is handled properly and remains admissible in court.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a computer forensics investigator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Computer Forensics Investigator, you need a solid background in cybersecurity, digital evidence handling, and investigative procedures, usually supported by a degree in computer science or criminal justice. Familiarity with forensic tools such as EnCase, FTK, and Cellebrite, along with certifications like CFCE or GCFA, is highly valued. Attention to detail, strong analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help professionals excel in this role. These capabilities ensure accurate evidence collection, proper legal documentation, and successful collaboration with law enforcement during investigations.

What are some common challenges faced by computer forensics investigators during digital evidence collection, and how are they addressed?

Computer Forensics Investigators often encounter challenges such as encrypted data, damaged storage devices, and volatile evidence that may be altered or lost if not handled properly. To address these issues, investigators use specialized tools to create bit-by-bit copies (forensic images) of digital media, ensuring evidence integrity. They also follow strict chain-of-custody procedures and adhere to legal protocols to maintain admissibility in court. Ongoing training and collaboration with IT, law enforcement, and legal professionals are essential for staying current with evolving technologies and methods.

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

AspectComputer Forensics InvestigatorDigital Forensics Analyst
CertificationsGCFA, GCFE, EnCEGCFA, EnCE, CISSP
Work EnvironmentLaw enforcement, corporate securityCybersecurity firms, law enforcement
Industry UsageLegal cases, criminal investigationsIncident response, data recovery

Both roles involve analyzing digital evidence, often requiring similar certifications and working in related environments. However, Computer Forensics Investigators typically focus on legal cases and criminal investigations, while Digital Forensics Analysts often work on incident response and cybersecurity threats. The roles overlap but differ mainly in their primary focus and context of investigations.

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 GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA) can enhance job prospects.

How much do computer forensics investigators make?

Computer forensics investigators typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Entry-level roles may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in high-demand environments or with law enforcement agencies.

What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Forensics Investigator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Computer Forensics Investigator jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Computer Forensics Investigator jobs in California?

For Computer Forensics Investigator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Computer Forensics Investigator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Computer Forensics Investigator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Computer Forensics Investigator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Computer Forensics Investigator job openings:

Computer Forensics Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Forensics Investigator 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 $69,205 per year, or $33.3 per hour.

Managing Scientist

Exponent Inc.

Menlo Park, CA • On-site

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

About Exponent

Exponent is the only premium engineering and scientific consulting firm with the depth and breadth of expertise to solve our clients' most profoundly unique, unprecedented, and urgent challenges.

We are committed to engaging multidisciplinary teams of science, engineering, and regulatory experts to empower our clients with solutions that create a safer, healthier, more sustainable world. For over five decades, we've connected the lessons of past failures with tomorrow's solutions to advise clients as they innovate technologically complex products and processes, ensure the safety and health of their users, and address the challenges of sustainability.

Join our team of experts with degrees from top programs at over 500 universities and extensive experience spanning a variety of industries. At Exponent, you'll contribute to the diverse pool of ideas, talents, backgrounds, and experiences that drives our collaborative teamwork and breakthrough insights. Plus, we help you grow your career through mentoring, sponsorship, and a culture of learning. Thanks for your interest in joining our team!

Key statistics:

  • 950+ Consultants
  • 640+ Ph.D.s
  • 90+ Disciplines
  • 30+ Offices globally
Our Opportunity

Managing Scientist (Menlo Park, CA) (multiple positions). Lead and execute projects that require computer science and electrical engineering skills. Prepare technical proposals, develop business opportunities, and manage projects focused on computer science and electrical engineering. Perform analysis/consulting for a variety of scientific/engineering problems and related to a variety of electrical/electronic components, products, and systems. Perform technical analysis of software and hardware through code review, static or dynamic testing or reverse engineering. Conduct electronic and computer laboratory testing. Produce reports that clearly illustrate and explain results to both technical and business audiences. Present work and lead tutorials and workshops at conferences and other venues. Prepare marketing materials to promote Exponent capabilities. Develop business by bringing in one or more consulting projects. Leverage existing network of contacts coupled with Exponent's depth and breadth to generate new business leads and expand offerings and value to Exponent's current clients. Identify new clients, business domains and generate new business leads beyond Exponent's current clients. 10% domestic travel required to client sites to perform work and collect data.

You will have the following skills and qualifications
  • Requires a Doctorate (Ph.D.) or foreign equivalent in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering or a related field, and 3 years (36 months) of experience in the job offered or as a researcher, software engineer, computer engineer or electrical engineer
  • 1 year of experience in software development using programming languages including HTML, C, C++, Python, and MATLAB for microcontroller based embedded systems, desktops, mobile devices, and the web
  • 1 year of experience in smartphone and computer forensics software such as Cellebrite or EnCase
  • 1 year of experience in analysis and investigations of consumer electronics, medical devices and automotive vehicles for root cause analysis, litigative fact finding and regulatory support
  • 1 year of experience in development and execution of protocols for data collection from human subjects for training machine learning models for wearable devices
  • 1 year of experience in analysis of mobile phone communications, computer networks and network traffic using network analysis tools including MITM Proxy, Wireshark, Chanalyzer, and Kali Linux

Send resume with cover letter to Exponent, Inc. at https://www.exponent.com/careers, ref#2026-2513. No calls. EOE

Life @ Exponent

To learn more about life at Exponent and our impact, please visit the following links:https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponenthttps://www.exponent.com/company/our-impact

Attracting, inspiring, developing, and rewarding exceptional people with diverse backgrounds and expertise are central to our corporate culture. Our diverse team allows us to provide better value to our clients and enjoy an enriched work environment.

Our firm is committed to offering a variety of programs and resources to support health and well-being. We believe that providing competitive benefits as well as compensation and recognition programs empowers our staff to do work that makes a difference.

Work Environment

At Exponent, we have found that in-person interactions deepen employee engagement and are crucial for development, for realizing the full potential of our talented and diverse teams, and for building a more inclusive workplace where all have a sense of belonging. In our offices, you can expect a supportive culture and a collaborative, dynamic, multi-disciplinary work environment. Our consultants engage in-person in the office unless they are traveling for client work or other business activities.

We value the rich lives our colleagues enjoy outside of work and understand that work/life balance is critical to our employees and their well-being. Consultants have the autonomy to balance their work and personal schedules so you can meet with clients, visit inspection sites, attend conferences, and make time for priorities outside of work, too. It is this flexible, agile work style and working hours that allow our teams to drive innovation and results in their own ways, while meeting the needs of clients. #LI-Onsite

Compensation

Our consultants are rewarded for their technical and business contributions and have an opportunity to plan for future success and career growth. Exponent's total compensation plan is consistent with its expectations of the quality and quantity of work performed and with the professional standards set by Exponent. At the Manager level and above total compensation includes base salary, annual bonus, and 401(k) employer contribution of 7% of base salary.

The base salary range for this position is dependent on experience and capabilities which will be assessed during the interview process.

Salary RangeUSD $172,500.00 - USD $220,000.00 /Yr.Benefits you will enjoy

Access benefits information on our Life@Exponent page:  https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponent 

 Exponent is a proud equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status. 

 If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, you may email us at HR-Accommodations@exponent.com. 

Job LocationsUS-CA-Menlo ParkEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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