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Cyber Investigation Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Cyber Investigation information

See California salary details

$67.6K

$127.2K

$159.9K

How much do cyber investigation jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for cyber investigation in California is $127,194.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,500.00 and $144,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is cyber investigation?

Cyber investigation is the process of identifying, analyzing, and resolving cybercrimes, security breaches, or incidents that involve digital devices and networks. Professionals in this field use specialized tools and techniques to collect digital evidence, track unauthorized activities, and attribute cyberattacks to their sources. They often work with law enforcement, private organizations, or government agencies to uncover cyber threats and support legal proceedings. The role requires knowledge of computer systems, networks, forensic analysis, and current cyber threats.

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

To thrive as a Cyber Investigator, you need a solid understanding of digital forensics, cybersecurity principles, and investigative techniques, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with forensic tools such as EnCase, FTK, and SIEM systems, as well as relevant certifications like CISSP or GCFA, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you interpret complex data and present findings clearly. These skills are essential for uncovering digital evidence, ensuring legal compliance, and successfully resolving cybercrime cases.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in cyber investigation roles, and how can they be addressed?

Cyber investigators often encounter challenges such as rapidly evolving cyber threats, handling large volumes of digital evidence, and maintaining data integrity throughout the investigation process. Staying updated with the latest cybercrime tactics and using advanced forensic tools can help address these challenges. Effective communication and collaboration with other departments, such as IT and legal teams, are also crucial for a successful investigation. Continuous training and certification in digital forensics and cybersecurity best practices can further enhance effectiveness in this role.

What is the difference between Cyber Investigation vs Cyber Security Analyst?

AspectCyber InvestigationCyber Security Analyst
Required CredentialsCertifications like GCFA, GCIH, CISSP often preferredCertifications like Security+, CISSP, CEH common
Work EnvironmentInvestigative settings, law enforcement agencies, cybersecurity firmsCorporate IT departments, security teams, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in law enforcement, cybersecurity incident responseUsed in private sector, government agencies, and enterprises

While both roles focus on cybersecurity, Cyber Investigation primarily involves analyzing cybercrimes, conducting forensic analysis, and working with law enforcement. Cyber Security Analysts focus on protecting systems proactively, monitoring networks, and preventing attacks. Both roles require technical skills and certifications but differ in their primary objectives and work environments.

How do you become a cyber investigation?

To become a cyber investigator, individuals typically pursue a degree in cybersecurity, computer science, or a related field, and gain experience with digital forensics, network security, and investigative tools. Certifications such as Certified Cyber Forensics Professional (CCFP) or GIAC certifications can enhance job prospects, and strong analytical skills are essential for success in this role.

What does a cyber investigation do?

A cyber investigation involves analyzing digital evidence to identify, prevent, and respond to cyber threats, cybercrimes, or security breaches. Cyber investigators use tools like forensic software and network analysis techniques to uncover malicious activity and support legal or security measures.

What job categories do people searching Cyber Investigation jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Cyber Investigation jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Cyber Investigation job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,194 per year, or $61.2 per hour.

Lead Cyber Mission Threat Analyst - Clearance Required

Cydecor, Inc

Port Hueneme Cbc Base, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Cydecor is a premier Federal Government solutions provider, delivering differentiated innovations in mission systems and business platforms. We leverage leading-edge secure systems and software development, backed by industry-leading subject matter expertise, and business intelligence to enable decision-support and remain ahead of ever-evolving national security challenges. Our success rests squarely on three bedrock principles: People, our center of gravity; Mission, what inspires us; and an unyielding commitment to Excellence, what separates us.

Job Description:
We are seeking a highly skilled Lead Cyber Mission Threat Analyst to serve as the senior technical authority for cyber threat detection, threat hunting, digital forensics, and incident response supporting critical U.S. Navy cybersecurity operations. As designated Key Personnel, this individual will lead proactive cyber defense activities designed to identify, investigate, and mitigate advanced threats targeting enterprise and mission systems.

This role is ideal for an experienced cyber operations professional with a background in Security Operations Centers (SOC), incident response, threat intelligence, or digital forensics who enjoys solving complex cybersecurity challenges in support of national defense missions.

Responsibilities include:

The Lead Cyber Mission Threat Analyst provides advanced technical leadership across cyber threat hunting, enterprise monitoring, incident investigation, forensic analysis, and operational cyber defense. Working alongside Government cybersecurity professionals, this individual identifies indicators of compromise (IOCs), analyzes adversary tactics, conducts complex investigations, and develops actionable recommendations to strengthen the Navy's cybersecurity posture.

The successful candidate will possess deep knowledge of enterprise networking, modern cyber threats, digital forensics, malware analysis, and Security Operations Center (SOC) operations while serving as a trusted advisor during cyber incidents and mission-impact assessments.

  • Serve as the senior technical authority for cyber threat analysis and operational cyber defense.
  • Plan, coordinate, and execute proactive enterprise threat hunting missions.
  • Conduct advanced network-based and host-based forensic investigations.
  • Analyze:
    • Security events
    • Indicators of Compromise (IOCs)
    • Malicious activity
    • Suspicious behaviors
    • Intrusion attempts
  • Perform root cause analysis of cybersecurity incidents.
  • Assess operational impacts of cyber events affecting mission systems.
  • Conduct system critical path analysis supporting enterprise cybersecurity.
  • Evaluate complex enterprise environments including:
    • Routing and switching infrastructure
    • Firewalls
    • Proxy servers
    • Load balancers
    • Endpoint security platforms
  • Develop technical findings and investigative reports.
  • Recommend containment, remediation, and long-term mitigation strategies.
  • Coordinate closely with Government cybersecurity personnel during incident response activities.
  • Support continuous monitoring and cybersecurity compliance activities.
  • Assist in improving enterprise detection capabilities and threat hunting methodologies.
  • Provide technical expertise during cyber investigations and operational planning.

Here's what you need (Required Qualifications):

  • Minimum 8 years of experience supporting the operation and sustainment of major Department of Defense systems.
  • Demonstrated experience as either:
    • Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst, or
    • Incident Responder supporting DoD or comparable enterprise environments.
  • Experience planning and executing proactive threat hunting operations.
  • Experience performing:
    • Network traffic analysis
    • Host-based forensic analysis
    • Log correlation
    • Security event investigation
  • Strong understanding of enterprise network architecture including:
    • Routing
    • Switching
    • Firewalls
    • Proxy technologies
    • Load balancing
  • Interim or Active Top Secret Security Clearance.
  • DoD 8570/8140 certification(s)

Bonus Points If You Have (Desired Qualifications):

  • Experience supporting Navy Cyber Defense Operations.
  • Experience with SIEM platforms such as Splunk, Elastic, Microsoft Sentinel, QRadar, or ArcSight.
  • Experience with Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR) solutions such as CrowdStrike, Microsoft Defender, or Carbon Black.
  • Experience with MITRE ATT&CK Framework mapping.
  • Malware analysis experience.
  • Threat intelligence platform experience.
  • Digital forensic tool expertise (EnCase, FTK, Velociraptor, Autopsy, Volatility, etc.).
  • Experience supporting RMF continuous monitoring programs.
  • GIAC certifications (GCIA, GCIH, GCFA, GNFA, GCFE) or CISSP.

Security Clearance:

  • Interim or Active Top Secret Security Clearance

Education:

  • Bachelor's degree in Project Management, Business, Engineering, Computer Science, Political Science, Human Resources, or a closely related field desired.

Work Schedule:

  • Monday-Friday, Standard Business Hours. Primary work location is on-site in Point Hueneme, California.

Compensation and Benefits:
The projected compensation range for this position is $180,000-218,000. There are numerous factors that can impact a final salary/hourly rate including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills and competencies that align to the role, work location, education/certifications, and a contract's Labor Categories.

Cydecor offers a comprehensive compensation package including Health and Dental Insurance, Vision and Life Insurance, Short-Term & Long-Term Disability, 401(K) + company match, Paid Time Off (PTO), Paid Company Holidays, Tuition and Professional Development Assistance and more.

What We Believe
We have an unwavering commitment to diversity with the aim that every one of our people has a full sense of belonging within our organization. As a business imperative, every person at Cydecor has the responsibility to create and sustain an inclusive environment.

Tags: Lead Cyber Mission Threat Analyst, Threat Hunter, Cyber Threat Hunter, Cyber Threat Analyst, SOC Analyst, Senior SOC Analyst, Incident Responder, Digital Forensics, DFIR, Cyber Defense, Threat Intelligence, Network Security Monitoring, SIEM, Splunk, Elastic, Microsoft Sentinel, QRadar, ArcSight, Endpoint Detection and Response, EDR, CrowdStrike, Microsoft Defender, Carbon Black, Indicators of Compromise, IOC Analysis, Malware Analysis, Log Analysis, Incident Response, Enterprise Security, MITRE ATT&CK, Cybersecurity Operations, DoD Cyber, Navy Cybersecurity, Point Hueneme, Cleared Cyber Jobs, Top Secret, Security Operations Center, Network Forensics, Continuous Monitoring

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Cydecor is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer (EEO/AA). All employment and hiring decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs without regard to race, religion, color, sexual orientation, nationality, gender, ethnic origin, disability, age, sex, gender identity & expression, veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability and/or a disabled veteran, you may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to access job openings or apply for a job on this site because of your disability. You can request assistance by contacting HR@cydecor.com or calling 703-884-2105.

Employment Type: Full-Time