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Computer Forensics Jobs in Oakland, CA (NOW HIRING)

Forensic Computer Analyst SR

Richmond, CA · On-site

$133K/yr

Employees in the Forensic Computer Analyst or Forensic Computer Analyst Sr position prior to June 27, 2015 are exempt from this requirement. 8. Ability to develop and implement laboratory programs ...

Managing Scientist

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

$172.50 - $220/hr

... 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 ...

Managing Scientist

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

$172.50 - $220/hr

... 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 ...

... 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 ...

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 ...

... 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 ...

Required : • Minimum five years of recent, relevant experience in digital forensics or incident response • Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, digital forensics, or equivalent ...

Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, digital forensics, or equivalent from an accredited college or university is required; relevant training or certifications in the field, such as ...

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Computer Forensics information

See Oakland, CA salary details

$27.2K

$114K

$179.7K

How much do computer forensics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer forensics in Oakland, CA is $114,006.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,782.00 and $153,652.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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?

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 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.

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.

How much do computer forensics get paid?

Computer forensics specialists typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level roles may start lower, while those with certifications or advanced skills in digital evidence analysis can earn higher salaries, especially in specialized or high-demand environments.

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 work often involves problem-solving, attention to detail, and can be performed in various environments including law enforcement, private firms, or government agencies.

What can you do with a computer forensics degree?

A computer forensics degree prepares individuals for roles in digital investigation, cybercrime analysis, and incident response. Graduates can work as digital forensic analysts, cybersecurity specialists, or law enforcement investigators, often using tools like EnCase or FTK and obtaining certifications such as GCFA or EnCE to enhance job prospects.

What job categories do people searching Computer Forensics jobs in Oakland, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Computer Forensics jobs in Oakland, CA are:

What cities near Oakland, CA are hiring for Computer Forensics jobs?

Cities near Oakland, CA with the most Computer Forensics job openings:

Infographic showing various Computer Forensics job openings in Oakland, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 76% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,006 per year, or $54.8 per hour.

Forensic Computer Analyst SR

US Postal Service

Richmond, CA • On-site

$133K/yr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 10 hours ago


Job description

Facility Location

USPIS FORENSIC LABORATORY SERVICE

SAN FRANCISCO DIGITAL EVIDENCE LAB

2501 RYDIN RD FLR 2S

RICHMOND, CA 94850

Position Information

NON-SCHEDULED DAYS: SAT-SUN

HOURS: 08:00 AM - 04:00 PM

BENEFIT INFORMATION: The salary will be based on previous experience, salary history, 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.

Functional Purpose

Conducts complex and difficult forensic analyses of digital and other multimedia evidence utilizing appropriate scientific methodologies and forensic techniques in support of criminal and administrative investigations.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Conducts complex and difficult 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 interpretation and conclusions from forensic examinations and technical data to a lay audience.

4. Maintains quality control of forensic work products by conducting ongoing technical work reviews of forensic computer analysts to ensure examinations are conducted in accordance with accepted analytical methods, scientific standards, and evidence handling requirements.

5. Designs, conducts and documents scientific research for the purpose of discovering new forensic techniques and validation methods, and resolving forensic examination problems.

6. 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; oversees and serves as a team leader for crime scene and evidence collection activities during major field investigations.

7. Develops and implements programs, policies, and procedures to ensure laboratory procedures, forensic examinations, and evidence handling processes are up-to-date and reflective of current trends and techniques within the law enforcement and scientific communities.

8. Plans, coordinates, and conducts training to inspectors and/or law enforcement officials in laboratory services, evidence collection, and field examination training.

9. Serves as an authoritative source and provides expert advice on technical developments, analytical techniques, and forensic examination issues; participates in inter-agency task groups.

10. Analyzes systems to assist with network intrusion and cybersecurity investigations to determine the cause and extent of a breach.

REQUIREMENTS

1. Knowledge of evidence collection, preservation, packaging, and shipment procedures sufficient to serve as a technical advisor in such matters, and to serve as a crime scene team leader for evidence collection activities during major field investigations.

2. 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.

3. Ability to plan, coordinate and conduct training regarding laboratory services, evidence collection, and field examination.

4. Knowledge of forensic science techniques, laboratory protocols, research methodologies, and computer forensic and cybersecurity examination procedures, instrumentation and software sufficient to properly access, preserve, and extract appropriate evidence from a variety of media and conduct complex analyses and interpret the value of evidentiary items.

5. Ability to conduct technical work reviews of analysts to ensure quality assurance and digital evidence discipline principles, procedures, and protocols have been followed.

6. 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.

7. EDUCATION/ CERTIFICATION: Applicant must possess the one of the following certifications: 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). NOTE: Employees in the Forensic Computer Analyst or Forensic

Computer Analyst Sr position prior to June 27, 2015 are exempt from this requirement.

8. Ability to develop and implement laboratory programs, policies and procedures to ensure laboratory services are reflective of current trends and techniques in the forensic document discipline.

9. Ability to conduct and document scientific research related to computer forensic examinations.

10. 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.

**Reimbursement of relocation expenses will NOT be authorized**

Qualified applicants must successfully pass a pre-employment drug screening to meet the U.S. Postal Service''s requirement to be drug free.