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Digital Forensics Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Arete

Forensic Analyst

Northridge, CA · On-site

Associate's degree and 4+ years of incident response or digital forensics experience or Bachelor's Degree in Information Security, Computer Science, Digital Forensics, Cyber Security or related field

KPMG US

Senior Associate, Forensic Technology

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$87K - $108K/yr

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

Arete

Forensic Lead

Northridge, CA · On-site

Bachelor's Degree and 8+ years of incident response or digital forensics experience or Master's Degree and 6+ years related experience or J.D. and 4+ years related experience * Consulting experience ...

Arete

Forensic Lead

Northridge, CA · On-site

Bachelor's Degree and 8+ years of incident response or digital forensics experience or Master's Degree and 6+ years related experience or J.D. and 4+ years related experience * Consulting experience ...

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All JobsDigital Forensics JobsDigital Forensics Jobs in California

Digital Forensics information

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$65

How much do digital forensics jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for digital forensics in California is $28.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $30.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is digital forensics?

Digital forensics is the process of identifying, preserving, analyzing, and presenting digital evidence found on electronic devices such as computers, smartphones, and networks. This field is crucial in both criminal investigations and civil litigation, helping uncover evidence of cybercrimes, data breaches, or unauthorized activities. Digital forensic experts use specialized tools and techniques to recover deleted or hidden data while ensuring the integrity of the evidence is maintained for legal proceedings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a digital forensics professional?

To thrive as a Digital Forensics professional, you need expertise in computer science, investigative techniques, and a solid understanding of cybersecurity principles, often supported by a relevant degree or certifications like GCFA or EnCE. Familiarity with forensic tools such as EnCase, FTK, and X-Ways, as well as experience handling various operating systems and data recovery procedures, is essential. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong written and verbal communication skills set top professionals apart in this field. These skills ensure accurate evidence collection, thorough analysis, and effective collaboration with legal and law enforcement teams in complex investigations.

What are some common challenges faced by digital forensics professionals during investigations?

Digital forensics professionals often encounter challenges such as encrypted data, rapidly evolving technology, and the need to maintain a strict chain of custody for evidence. They must stay current with new digital devices and platforms, as cybercriminals frequently use advanced techniques to hide or delete data. Additionally, collaborating with law enforcement, legal teams, and IT departments requires clear communication and adherence to legal protocols to ensure evidence is admissible in court.

What is the difference between Digital Forensics vs Cybersecurity Analyst?

AspectDigital ForensicsCybersecurity Analyst
CertificationsGCFA, GCFE, EnCECISSP, Security+, CEH
Work EnvironmentInvestigations, labs, legal settingsNetwork monitoring, threat analysis, incident response
Industry UsageLegal cases, law enforcement, corporate investigationsProtecting networks, preventing attacks, risk management

Digital Forensics focuses on collecting and analyzing digital evidence for legal or investigative purposes, often working in labs or legal settings. Cybersecurity Analysts primarily defend networks and systems from cyber threats, monitoring for vulnerabilities and responding to incidents. While both roles require technical skills and certifications, their work environments and objectives differ significantly.

How do you become a digital forensics specialist?

To become a digital forensics specialist, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science, cybersecurity, or a related field. Gaining experience with digital investigation tools, developing strong analytical skills, and obtaining certifications such as Certified Computer Examiner (CCE) or GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA) can enhance job prospects.

How much do digital forensics get paid?

Digital forensics specialists typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, education, and certifications such as Certified Computer Examiner (CCE). Entry-level roles may start lower, while experienced professionals with advanced skills can earn higher salaries, especially in government or private sectors. Salaries can also vary based on geographic location and the complexity of cases handled.

Is digital forensics a good career?

Digital forensics is a growing field that involves investigating cybercrimes and analyzing digital evidence using specialized tools and techniques. It offers opportunities in law enforcement, cybersecurity firms, and private sector organizations, often requiring certifications like GCFA or EnCE. The career can be rewarding for those interested in technology, problem-solving, and legal processes, with steady demand and potential for advancement.

What are the most commonly searched types of Digital Forensics jobs in California?

The most popular types of Digital Forensics jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Digital Forensics jobs in California?

For Digital Forensics jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Digital Forensics jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Digital Forensics jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Digital Forensics jobs?

Cities in California with the most Digital Forensics job openings:

Digital Forensics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Digital Forensics job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,943 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Managing Director, Digital Investigations & Cyber Risk

Nardello

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

THE POSITION:

Reporting to the Managing Director & Head of Digital Investigations & Cyber Risk, the Managing Director will be responsible for helping to drive the expansion of the firm’s Digital Investigations and Cyber Risk practice, which provides a diverse range of investigative and forensic capabilities to clients. The qualified candidate will work with senior management on new business development and project execution, overseeing multidisciplinary teams, ensuring work quality and managing client relationships at the highest levels.


WHAT THE JOB ENTAILS:

  • Develop and execute a business development plan while working closely with Nardello & Co. senior management and staff.
  • Actively grow the firm’s client base by generating significant new business and managing client relationships. The ideal candidate will have an active book of business that can be integrated into Nardello & Co.
  • Direct overall case management process from proposal to delivery of technical support including digital forensics/incident response, security assessment and advice, incident preparedness, etc.,  to report production, including client relationships, staffing, budgeting, and quality control.
  • In addition to managing the overall team, the candidate will be expected to be an active practitioner and have the ability to execute digital forensic analysis, including expert testimony.  The ideal candidate will have prior expert witness experience.
  • Participate in the training and development of more junior practice professionals.
  • Assure the firm’s continued growth and expansion by helping to shape the firm’s overall strategy.


YOUR BACKGROUND

  • Minimum 12 years of experience in digital forensic and cyber response services practice, including in senior management-level roles.
  • A proven track record of developing a book of business.
  • Deep experience in conducting complex, confidential investigations in both an investigative and advisory capacity.
  • Experience in preparing, delivering, and defending expert analysis and testimony in litigation support and/or regulatory matters.
  • Willingness and ability to actively support a broad range of engagement types in a hands-on capacity.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • High degree of attention to detail and work product quality.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to motivate and support high performing teams.
  • A track record of demonstrating credibility, trust, enthusiasm, integrity, and ethics.
  • Other skills of interest include business valuation, internal controls assessment and advisory, and high-volume forensic data analysis. Sector experience in financial services, technology, health care & life sciences also a plus.


PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS:

  • One or more digital forensics and incident response certifications, such as GCIH, GCFE, GCFA, CFCE, CCME or equivalent government forensic certifications.


 ENVIRONMENT DETAILS          

  • Some travel is required.
  • Hybrid working arrangement.


Nardello & Co. offers employees a competitive compensation and set of benefits.

Nardello & Co. is an equal opportunity employer.


WHO WE ARE:

With offices in New York, London, Paris, Washington DC, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Dubai, Nardello & Co. is a global investigations firm whose experienced professionals handle a broad range of matters including due diligence, anti-corruption and fraud investigations, civil and white collar criminal litigation and arbitration support, asset tracing, activist defense, political risk and strategic intelligence, digital investigations and cyber defense, monitorships and independent investigations, and compliance.


Nardello & Co. enjoys a reputation as the best kept secret of leading law firms and financial institutions, Fortune 500 and FTSE 100 companies, high-net-worth individuals and family offices, governments, NGOs, sports organizations and academic institutions who know that managing risk effectively requires choosing the best investigative partner.


We believe that excellence starts with having the right people. Our professionals have spent their entire careers building and enhancing their expertise. Our professional team includes former US federal prosecutors, US and international lawyers, former law enforcement personnel and intelligence operatives, licensed investigators, research analysts, former journalists, financial crimes specialists, forensic accountants, and computer forensic experts. Our team is composed of proven performers who think creatively and strategically, adhere to the highest ethical standards, and are committed to excellence.