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Computer Forensics Jobs in Pasadena, CA (NOW HIRING)

Structural Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$135K - $165K/yr

... forensic team in the greater Los Angeles area - this is a work from home role when you're not doing field investigations - If you want the opportunity to escape the the Computer Screen, this role is ...

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Computer Forensics information

See Pasadena, CA salary details

$25.1K

$105.5K

$166.3K

How much do computer forensics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer forensics in Pasadena, CA is $105,477.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,637.00 and $142,157.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 CFCE or GCFA. The field requires attention to detail, knowledge of computer systems, and adherence to legal standards.

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 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 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 EnCE or GCFA. The role often involves detailed analysis, report writing, and collaboration with law enforcement or legal teams.

How much do computer forensics get paid?

Computer forensics specialists typically earn between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and certifications such as Certified Computer Forensics Examiner (CCFE). Entry-level roles may start lower, while experienced professionals with advanced skills and security clearances can earn higher salaries, especially in government or private sectors with complex investigations. Salary also varies by geographic location and the size of the organization.
What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Forensics jobs in Pasadena, CA? The most popular types of Computer Forensics jobs in Pasadena, CA are:
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What cities near Pasadena, CA are hiring for Computer Forensics jobs? Cities near Pasadena, CA with the most Computer Forensics job openings:
Infographic showing various Computer Forensics job openings in Pasadena, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,477 per year, or $50.7 per hour.

Chief Computer Forensic Specialist

Department of Justice

Los Angeles, CA

$133K/yr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

The Office of the Inspector General is one of the best places to work in the Department of Justice and is one of the premier inspector general offices in federal government. The Investigations Division (INV) investigates alleged criminal violations and misconduct that govern DOJ employees, operations, grantees, and contractors. Annually INV receives more than 13,000 complaints, opens approximately 250 investigations, and makes an average of over 90 arrests.Qualifications:To qualify for this position at the GS-14 grade level, you must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 grade level obtained in the public sector. (Specialized experience is paid or unpaid experience which has equipped you with the specific knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position.) Examples of specialized experience include such duties as: supervising a team engaged in conducting comprehensive investigations encompassing allegations of criminal misconduct using a computer, mobile, or other electronic device, serious administrative infractions or integrity violations involving individuals, groups, or large organizations. Types of investigations include violations of Title 18, United States Code, including fraud, bribery, larceny, embezzlement, collusion, conflict of interest, civil rights violations, contract fraud, and other Federal criminal violations.
REQUIRED TRAINING INCLUDE:
Seized Computer Evidence Recovery Specialist (SCERS). Equivalent training courses include:
  • Electronic Crimes Special Agent Program (ECSAP) offered at USSS
  • Computer Analysis Response Team (CART) offered at FBI
  • Defense Cyber Investigations Training Academy (DCITA)
  • National White Collar Crime Center (NW3C) (for this NW3C training - you must have successfully completed and passed both courses below)
- Basic Data Recovery and Acquisition (BDRA)
- Intermediate Data Recovery and Analysis (IDRA)
Additional Qualifications:
1. Have training and experience conducting forensic examinations of mobile devices.
2. Have earned at least one advanced certification, such as the EnCase Certified Examiner (EnCE), AccessData Certified Examiner (ACE), DCITA Digital Forensic Examiner (DFE), Certified Computer Examiner (CCE)- International Society of Forensic Computer Examiners, or Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE)- International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists
CERTIFICATIONS MUST BE INCLUDED IN YOUR APPLICATION PACKAGE BY THE CLOSING DATE OF THIS VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT OR YOUR APPLICATION MAY NOT BE CONSIDERED.
Time in Grade Requirement: Applicants who have held a General Schedule (GS) position within the last 52 weeks must have 52 weeks of Federal service at the next lower grade level (or equivalent).Education:There are no education requirements for this position.Employment Type: OTHER