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Computer Forensics Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Forensic Analyst

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$32.04/hr

Working knowledge of computer and phone forensics and analysis. * Strong background in IT, networking, computer management and maintenance. * Ability to multitask, performing forensic exams while ...

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required Working knowledge of computer and phone forensics and analysis. Strong background in IT, networking ...

Advanced Security Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$104K - $156K/yr

Bachelor's Degree (or equivalent professional/military experience) * 3+ years of experience in Incident Response, Incident Analysis, or Computer Forensics * Familiarity with industry standard ...

Manager, Cyber Defense

Chicago, IL · On-site

$114K - $154K/yr

Cyber Threat Analysis, Digital Computer Forensics, Incident Response, Application Security, Operating Systems Security, Cryptographic Controls, Networking, Programming languages, Incident Response.

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Computer Forensics information

What can you do with a computer forensics degree?

A computer forensics degree prepares individuals for roles in investigating cybercrimes, analyzing digital evidence, and supporting legal proceedings. Graduates often work as digital forensic analysts, incident responders, or cybersecurity specialists, utilizing tools like EnCase or FTK and obtaining certifications such as GCFA or EnCE to enhance job prospects.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in computer forensics and how can they be addressed?

Computer forensics professionals often encounter challenges such as dealing with encrypted data, rapidly evolving technology, and maintaining the integrity of digital evidence. Staying current with emerging tools and techniques is crucial, as is meticulous documentation to ensure evidence is admissible in court. Collaboration with law enforcement, legal teams, and IT departments is also essential to overcome technical hurdles and ensure a thorough investigation.

Will AI take over digital forensics?

Computer forensics professionals use AI tools to assist in analyzing large volumes of digital evidence more efficiently. While AI can automate certain tasks, human expertise remains essential for interpretation, decision-making, and handling complex cases in digital forensics.

What is computer forensics?

Computer forensics, also known as digital forensics, is the practice of collecting, analyzing, and preserving digital evidence from computers and other electronic devices. Professionals in this field investigate cybercrimes, recover lost data, and provide evidence for legal cases involving digital information. They use specialized tools and techniques to ensure that the evidence remains authentic and admissible in court. Computer forensics experts often work with law enforcement, government agencies, or private companies to uncover digital footprints and solve technology-related crimes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Computer Forensics Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Computer Forensics Specialist, you need expertise in digital evidence collection, data analysis, and a strong understanding of cybersecurity concepts, often supported by a degree in computer science, cybersecurity, or a related field. Familiarity with forensic tools like EnCase, FTK, and certification such as Certified Computer Examiner (CCE) or GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA) is typically required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and strong written communication are essential soft skills for accurately interpreting and reporting findings. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring digital evidence is preserved, analyzed, and presented effectively in legal or investigative contexts.

What is the difference between Computer Forensics vs Digital Forensics?

AspectComputer ForensicsDigital Forensics
CertificationsEnCE, GCFAEnCE, GCFA
Work EnvironmentLaw enforcement, corporate security, consultingLaw enforcement, legal, corporate investigations
Industry UsagePrimarily in cybersecurity and law enforcementBroader, including digital crime, legal cases, and incident response

Computer Forensics and Digital Forensics are closely related fields that often overlap. Computer Forensics focuses on analyzing computers and storage devices, while Digital Forensics covers a wider range of digital media and devices. Both roles require similar certifications and are used in law enforcement and corporate settings. The main difference lies in scope: Computer Forensics is more specific to computers, whereas Digital Forensics includes all digital evidence.

Is computer forensics a good career?

Computer forensics is a specialized field within cybersecurity that involves investigating digital crimes and analyzing electronic evidence. It offers strong job growth, competitive salaries, and requires skills in digital tools, programming, and certifications like GCFA or EnCE. The role often involves detailed analysis, report writing, and collaboration with law enforcement or legal teams.

What does a computer forensic do?

A computer forensic professional investigates digital devices to recover, analyze, and preserve electronic evidence for legal or security purposes. They use specialized tools and techniques to examine data, often working closely with law enforcement or legal teams to support investigations and ensure evidence integrity.
What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Forensics jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Computer Forensics jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Computer Forensics jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Computer Forensics job openings:
Infographic showing various Computer Forensics job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.
Principal Cyber Defense / Incident Response

Principal Cyber Defense / Incident Response

Request Technology, LLC

Chicago, IL • On-site

Other

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Lead Associate Principal, Cyber Defense - Incident Response

SALARY: $150k - $185k plus 15% bonus

LOCATION: CHICAGO, IL

HYBRID 3 DAYS ONSITE

Looking for a candidate to drive threats and vulnerabilities, incident management and security analysis, cyber threat analysis, digital computer forensics. 24/7 on-call support

Incident Management and Security Analysis:

Security Monitoring & Analysis:

Security Device Administration

  • Subject matter expert on security tools including appliances, hosted systems, and SaaS including health checks, version updates, and content development.
  • Validate content changes to security tools are appropriate from other analysts and teams.
  • Report on and enhance current metrics surrounding security tool capabilities and efficacy.
  • Subject matter expert in the systems lifecycle --- performing upgrades, implementation of new technologies, and enhancement identification.

Qualifications:

  • Implementation and maintenance of security platforms (Splunk, Crowdstrike, Symantec DLP) and vulnerability assessment tools (Qualys, Nessus, nmap), including incident response playbook development and remediation management.
  • Proficiency with network sniffers/packet tracing tools (Ethereal, tcpdump, etc.), preventative/detective technologies (EDR, network-based analysis), and Web Application Firewalls.
  • Strong background in encryption technologies (PGP, PKI, X.509) and directory services/LDAP security (Active Directory, CA Directory).
  • Experience across client/server platforms (Solaris, Windows, Linux) and OS hardening procedures, plus proxy/caching services.
  • Knowledge of LAN/WAN routing and high availability protocols (OSPF, BGP4/iBGP, EIGRP, NSRP), cloud security tools (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud Platform), and SOAR tools/concepts.
  • Some experience scripting and leveraging APIs to integrate security monitoring tools, with knowledge of Generative and Prompt AI.

Education and/or Experience:

  • Minimum five years hands-on security operations experience including interdisciplinary experience with four or more of the following: Cyber Threat Analysis, Digital Computer Forensics, Incident Response, Application Security, Operating Systems Security, Cryptographic Controls, Networking, Programming languages, Incident Response.
  • Technical experience and comprehensive knowledge of threat actor capabilities, intentions, methodologies, and motives.
  • Familiarity with computer network exploitation and network attack methodologies while maintaining an understanding of the relationship these activities have with the financial services industry and critical infrastructure.
  • Industry knowledge of leading-edge security technologies and methods.
  • Shift work and working in an on-call response capacity is required including availability for 24 x 7 on-call support responsibilities.
  • Previous people/project management experience is a plus.