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Data Recovery Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead Consultant Data Engineer (DHS)

Arlington, VA · On-site

$131K - $158K/yr

Overview Lead Data Engineers at Excella play a key role in designing and building modern data ... Identify and mitigate risks to data while ensuring data recovery plans. * Build and maintain data ...

Showing results 41-60

Data Recovery Engineer information

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$44.5K

$129.7K

$177.5K

How much do data recovery engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for data recovery engineer in the United States is $129,716.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,500.00 and $137,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a data recovery engineer do?

A Data Recovery Engineer specializes in retrieving lost, corrupted, or inaccessible data from various storage devices such as hard drives, SSDs, USB drives, and servers. They use advanced tools and techniques to recover data after accidental deletion, hardware failure, software corruption, or cyberattacks. These professionals may also provide advice on best practices for data backup and protection to prevent future data loss. Their work is essential for businesses and individuals who need to recover important files quickly and securely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a data recovery engineer?

To thrive as a Data Recovery Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science, data storage systems, and file system architecture, often supported by a degree in IT or related certifications. Familiarity with data recovery software, hardware imaging tools, and disk forensics platforms is typically required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and strong problem-solving abilities are valuable soft skills for success in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for accurately diagnosing data loss issues and ensuring the safe and effective recovery of critical information for clients.

What are some common challenges a data recovery engineer faces during the recovery process?

Data Recovery Engineers often encounter challenges such as dealing with physically damaged storage devices, working with proprietary or outdated file systems, and ensuring data integrity throughout the recovery process. They must use specialized tools in cleanroom environments to prevent further damage to sensitive hardware. Additionally, engineers frequently collaborate with clients and IT teams to understand data priorities and provide clear communication about what data can realistically be recovered. Staying updated with evolving storage technologies and encryption methods is also crucial for success in this role.

What is the difference between Data Recovery Engineer vs Data Storage Technician?

AspectData Recovery EngineerData Storage Technician
CredentialsCertifications like CDFA, CompTIA Storage+Certifications like CompTIA Storage+ or vendor-specific
Work EnvironmentData recovery labs, IT departments, forensic labsData centers, server rooms, IT support environments
Industry UsageIT, cybersecurity, forensic analysisIT, enterprise storage management
Search/Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles related to data recovery and repairManaging and maintaining data storage systems

While both roles involve working with data systems, Data Recovery Engineers focus on retrieving lost or damaged data from storage devices, often requiring forensic skills. Data Storage Technicians manage and maintain storage hardware and systems. The roles overlap in certifications and work environments but differ in primary responsibilities.

How do you become a data recovery engineer?

To become a data recovery engineer, you typically need a background in computer science, information technology, or a related field, along with knowledge of file systems, storage devices, and data recovery tools. Gaining experience through internships or certifications such as Certified Data Recovery Professional (CDRP) can also be beneficial, and strong problem-solving skills are essential for diagnosing and repairing data loss issues.
More about Data Recovery Engineer jobs

What states have the most Data Recovery Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Data Recovery Engineer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Data Recovery Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,716 per year, or $62.4 per hour.

Sr. System Engineer (Forensics Engineer) - Reston, VA

Beyond SOF

Reston, VA • On-site

$108K - $149K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Sr. System Engineer (Forensics Engineer) - Reston, VA
Salary: between 120-165K
Clearance: (TS/SCI CI poly)

Duties
  • Min requirement is 10 years and a STEM Degree
  • Conduct hard drive imaging and data recovery
  • Extract on board chips and diagnose chip activity separate from operating systems or boards
  • Identify security vulnerabilities in chip functionality based on diagnosis
  • Extract firmware from on board chips or from chips that have been removed and analyzed
  • Conduct and apply proper techniques for non-heat chip removal
  • Conduct pros and cons of physical manipulation caused by heat or friction removal techniques
Experience
  • Bachelors degree or equivalent experience in STEM field
  • Experience with newest BGA chip pinout layouts
  • Experience with tools and techniques for chip off extraction; ISP/Chip off; JTAG Chip off
  • Experience with SSD, 3D Flash Technology, PC-3000 Flash/Monolith data recovery
  • Experience with advanced data recovery and drone forensic analysis