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Digital Forensics Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Digital Forensics Examiner

Linthicum, MD · On-site

$112K - $179K/yr

Responsibilities Peraton is seeking a Digital Forensics Examiner in our Linthicum, MD office in ... Information Technology, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Information Systems, Software Engineering ...

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and mission-focused Digital Forensics Software Developer to join our team in Herndon, VA. Join a highly recognized and elite team of technical leaders delivering ...

Digital Forensics Lead

Reston, VA · Hybrid

$160K - $175K/yr

... engineering, and modernization initiatives. JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Leads digital forensics ... and insider-threat investigations, ensuring proper evidence handling, strict chain-of-custody, and ...

Digital Forensics Lead

Reston, VA · On-site

$160K - $175K/yr

... engineering, and modernization initiatives. JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Leads digital forensics ... and insider-threat investigations, ensuring proper evidence handling, strict chain-of-custody, and ...

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Digital Forensics Engineer information

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$80.5K

$139.4K

$182.5K

How much do digital forensics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for digital forensics engineer in the United States is $139,368.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $136,000.00 and $136,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Digital Forensics Engineer, you need expertise in computer science, cybersecurity, and forensic analysis, typically supported by a relevant degree and certifications like GCFA or EnCE. Familiarity with forensic tools such as EnCase, FTK, X-Ways, and knowledge of operating systems and evidence-handling protocols is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and clear communication skills help you effectively investigate incidents and present findings. These skills ensure accurate evidence preservation, robust investigations, and credible reporting in legal or regulatory contexts.

Is digital forensics a high paying job?

Digital forensics engineers typically earn competitive salaries due to their specialized skills in investigating cybercrimes and analyzing digital evidence. Salaries vary based on experience, certifications, and location, but the role is generally considered well-paying within the cybersecurity field.

What is the highest salary for a Forensic Engineer?

The highest salaries for forensic engineers can exceed $120,000 annually, especially for those with extensive experience, specialized skills, or working in high-demand industries. Senior forensic engineers with certifications and advanced technical expertise tend to earn the top compensation in the field.

What are some common challenges Digital Forensics Engineers face when investigating cyber incidents?

Digital Forensics Engineers often encounter challenges such as encrypted data, rapidly evolving technologies, and the need to preserve the integrity of digital evidence. Working under tight deadlines to analyze large volumes of data while ensuring chain of custody can be demanding. Additionally, collaboration with legal teams, law enforcement, and IT departments is crucial to ensure findings are admissible in court and actionable for remediation. Staying updated on new tools and cyber threats is also essential for success in this field.

How much do FBI DNA analysts make?

FBI DNA analysts are federal employees whose salaries typically range from approximately $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. They often hold specialized certifications and work in forensic laboratories, with opportunities for overtime and career advancement.

What is the difference between Digital Forensics Engineer vs Cybersecurity Analyst?

AspectDigital Forensics EngineerCybersecurity Analyst
CertificationsGCFA, GCFE, CISSPCISSP, CEH, Security+
Work EnvironmentInvestigations, incident response, legal casesNetwork monitoring, threat detection, prevention
Industry UsageLaw enforcement, legal, corporate investigationsIT security teams, corporate, government agencies

Digital Forensics Engineers focus on analyzing digital evidence, conducting investigations, and supporting legal processes. Cybersecurity Analysts primarily monitor and protect networks from threats. While both roles require security certifications and work in related environments, their core responsibilities differ: forensic analysis versus proactive security.

What does a digital forensics engineer do?

A digital forensics engineer investigates cybercrimes and security incidents by collecting, analyzing, and preserving digital evidence from computers, networks, and storage devices. They use specialized tools and techniques to uncover data breaches, recover deleted files, and support legal proceedings, often working closely with law enforcement and cybersecurity teams. Certification and knowledge of legal standards are important in this role.
More about Digital Forensics Engineer jobs
What job categories do people searching Digital Forensics Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Digital Forensics Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Digital Forensics Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $139,368 per year, or $67 per hour.
Digital Forensics Examiner

Digital Forensics Examiner

Peraton

Linthicum, MD • On-site

$112K - $179K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Peraton rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 210 rated it services


Job description

Responsibilities
Peraton is seeking a Digital Forensics Examiner in our Linthicum, MD office in support of our Department of Defense (DoD) customer as part of a highly talented, highly motivated, and high-performing team. This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of cyber investigations, digital forensics, cyber threat analysis, and mission support in a dynamic and collaborative environment. The successful candidate will contribute to protecting national security interests by leveraging technical expertise, analytical skills, and innovative problem-solving to address complex cyber challenges. Individuals who are passionate about cybersecurity, committed to excellence, and eager to make a meaningful impact are encouraged to apply.
The person in this role will analyze electronic media in support of a federal government agency, focused on sensitive on-going criminal investigations and operations. Using a wide variety of forensic tools, the Digital Forensic Analyst examines the hard drives of computers, storage devices, cell phones, PDA's, or any electronic device that may hold evidence that could be used in a court of law. Performs forensic analysis of digital information and gathers and handles evidence. Performs a variety of forensic and electronic discovery services, including digital evidence preservation, forensic analysis, data recovery, tape recovery, electronic mail extraction, and database examination. Employs forensic tools and techniques to crack files and system passwords, detect steganography and recover deleted, fragmented and corrupted data from digital media of all types. Observes proper evidence custody and control procedures, documents procedures and findings in a manner suitable for courtroom presentation and prepares comprehensive written notes and reports. May be required to testify in federal/military court as expert witnesses.
This position is fully on-site M-F in the Baltimore-Metropolitan area.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • Education: Bachelor's degree and 8+ years relevant experience, or Master's degree and 6+ years relevant experience. A degree in one of the following fields of study is highly desired: Information Technology, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Information Systems, Software Engineering, or Data Science. However, an additional 4 years of relevant experience or specialized training may be considered in lieu of Bachelor's degree.
  • Certifications: One or more of the following active forensic certification - Digital Media Collector (DMC), Digital Forensic Examiner (DFE), Cyber Crime Investigator (CCI), Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI), International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists (IACIS) certifications: Certified Computer Examiner (CCE) Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE), GIAC Certified Forensic Examiner (GCFE), GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA), Certifications related to mobile device forensic tools (e.g. Cellebrite Certified Mobile Examiner (CCME), XRY, Oxygen Forensic® Certified Examiner (OFCE)), Certifications related to computer forensic tools (e.g., EnCase Certified Examiner (EnCE), X- Ways Professional in Evidence Recovery Techniques (X-PERT), Magnet Certified Forensic Examiner (MCFE)), Data recovery or advanced data acquisition related certifications.
  • Security Clearance: Minimum active Secret.
  • At least 4 years experience conducting digital forensic analysis on a variety of media, including Windows, OS X, Linux, Android and iOS.
  • Experience in supporting criminal investigations.
  • Experience writing Technical Reports, detailing results of analysis.
  • Experience with EnCase, FTK, X-Ways, Axiom, Forensic Explorer, Cellebrite and other forensic tools.
  • Formalized training in the areas of computer science, forensics, etc.
  • Understanding of network protocols and networking concepts.
  • Knowledge of and experience with virtual environments.
  • Must pass the customer's Mentorship Program within 4 months.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Previous Law Enforcement experience.
  • Experience in performing technical reviews or peer reviews.
  • Experience mentoring other examiners.
  • Experience testifying as an expert witness in support of criminal trials.

Peraton Overview
Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can't be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure.
Target Salary Range
$112,000 - $179,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.
EEO
EEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.

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About Peraton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017