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Computer Forensics Investigator Jobs in Riverside, CA

U.S. Postal Service

Forensic Computer Analyst

Anaheim, CA · On-site +1

$78K - $144K/yr

Analyzes systems to assist with network intrusion and cybersecurity investigations to determine the ... Bachelor's degree in computer sciences, forensic science, or a closely related field from a college ...

City of Redlands, CA

Forensic Specialist

Redlands, CA · On-site

$76K - $95K/yr

Conducts and properly documents crime scene investigations to recognize, search for, collect and ... computer or other office equipment or supplies and operation of a motor vehicle; must be able to ...

City of Redlands

Forensic Specialist

Redlands, CA

$76K - $95K/yr

Conducts and properly documents crime scene investigations to recognize, search for, collect and ... computer or other office equipment or supplies and operation of a motor vehicle; must be able to ...

Jensen Hughes

Fire Alarm Consultant/Designer

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$102K - $149K/yr

... forensic investigations, security risk consulting, emergency management, digital innovation and ... Utilize CAD, Revit, or other design software to produce accurate, code-compliant drawings and ...

All JobsComputer Forensics Investigator JobsComputer Forensics Investigator Jobs in Riverside, CA

Computer Forensics Investigator information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$31.8K

$73.2K

$118.9K

How much do computer forensics investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer forensics investigator in Riverside, CA is $73,157.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,200.00 and $88,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 forensics tools, such as EnCase or FTK, and obtaining certifications like the Certified Computer Forensics Examiner (CCFE) or GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA) can improve job prospects. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of legal procedures are also important for success in this role.

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 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 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.

Is IT easy to get hired as a CSI?

Becoming a computer forensics investigator typically requires relevant education, such as a degree in cybersecurity, computer science, or criminal justice, along with specialized training in digital forensics tools and techniques. Entry into the field can be competitive, and obtaining certifications like EnCE or CFCE can improve job prospects. Experience with law enforcement or cybersecurity environments also enhances employability.

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. Entry-level roles may start lower, while those with specialized skills or advanced certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in government or private sectors with complex cases.

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 are popular job titles related to Computer Forensics Investigator jobs in Riverside, CA? For Computer Forensics Investigator jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Computer Forensics Investigator jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Forensics Investigator jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Computer Forensics Investigator jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Computer Forensics Investigator job openings:
Computer Forensics Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Forensics Investigator job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,157 per year, or $35.2 per hour.
Forensic Computer Analyst

Forensic Computer Analyst

U.S. Postal Service

Anaheim, CA • On-site, Remote

$78K - $144K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Summary
Come join the U.S. Postal Service!
The successful candidate conducts forensic analyses of digital and other multimedia evidence utilizing appropriate scientific methodologies, forensic techniques, and quality assurance practices in support of criminal and administrative investigations.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
Help
  1. Conducts forensic examinations of digital and other multimedia evidence through the application of scientific practices for the recognition, collection, analysis, and interpretation of digital evidence for criminal and civil law or regulatory purposes.
  2. Examines and analyzes evidence and interprets scientific observations and data to render conclusions, form opinions and produce reports utilizing a full range of electronic search methods and forensic examination techniques.
  3. Provides expert witness testimony; produces comprehensive reports and illustrative exhibits for federal, state, and local judicial proceedings at a level sufficient to explain evidence interpretations and conclusions from forensic examinations and scientific data to a lay audience.
  4. Serves as a subject matter expert and technical advisor in matters relating to the proper collection, preservation, packaging, and submission of digital and multimedia evidence; participates in crime scene evidence collection activities in major field investigations; ensures evidence handling requirements are met.
  5. Performs ongoing evaluation and validation of laboratory instrumentation and methods, operating protocols, and safety practices under supervision; maintains awareness of safety procedures and identifies possible physical conditions and/or laboratory procedures that may create unsafe conditions.
  6. Delivers training in laboratory services, evidence collection, crime scene processing and field examination.
  7. Conducts studies and research for improving forensic analyses, scientific methods, and resolving forensic examination problems.
  8. Acts as liaison with postal management and federal, state, and local organizations on technical developments, forensic methods, and investigative problems of common interest.
  9. Analyzes systems to assist with network intrusion and cybersecurity investigations to determine the cause and extent of a breach.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  1. Must be a determined suitable for federal employment.
  2. You will be required to obtain and maintain a MBI security clearance prior to entrance on duty. Failure to obtain and maintain the required level of clearance may result in the withdrawal of a job offer or removal.
  3. Qualified applicants must successfully pass a pre-employment drug screening to meet the U.S. Postal Service's requirement to be drug free.
  4. SPECIAL NOTE: Current career USPS and USPIS employees are ineligible to apply for this posting.

Qualifications
  1. Ability to communicate orally and in writing in order to prepare reports of examination results and conclusions, and provide testimony as an expert witness before state, federal or other judicial bodies.
  2. Ability to provide training related to laboratory services, evidence collection, and field examination.
  3. Knowledge of evidence collection, preservation, packaging and shipment procedures sufficient to serve as a technical advisor in such matters and to ensure evidence handling requirements are met.
  4. Knowledge of forensic science techniques, laboratory protocols, research methodologies, quality assurance standards and computer forensic and cyber security examination procedures, instrumentation and software sufficient to properly access, preserve, and extract appropriate evidence from a variety of media and conduct detailed and complex analyses and interpretation of the value of evidentiary items.
  5. Ability to render conclusions/opinions and make recommendations based on forensic practices of recognition, collection, and interpretation of digital and multimedia evidence related to computer forensic examinations.
  6. Ability to conduct and document scientific research related to computer forensic examinations.
  7. EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION: Bachelor's degree in computer sciences, forensic science, or a closely related field from a college or university accredited by a national or regional accreditation organization recognized and sanctioned by the U.S. Department of Education. NOTE: Employees in the Forensic Computer Analyst or Forensic Computer Analyst Sr position prior to June 27, 2015 are exempt from this requirement.

Desirable Qualifications: CERTIFICATION: International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists (IACIS) Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE) or the International Society of Forensic Computer Examiners (ISFCE) Certified Computer Examiner (CCE) or Defense Cyber Investigations Training Academy (DCITA) Digital Forensic Examiner (DFE)
Qualified applicant must successfully pass a drug screening.
Education
This job does not have an education qualification requirement.
Additional information
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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The salary will be based on previous experience, and current postal pay policies. We offer excellent benefits including health and life insurance, retirement plan, savings/investment plan with employer contribution, flexible spending, flextime scheduling of core work hours, annual and sick leave.

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