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Document Examiner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Description SAIC is seeking a Certified Forensic Document Examiner to serve as part of a small forensic team supporting intel requirements. The position requires a current certification with the ...

Description SAIC is seeking a Certified Forensic Document Examiner to serve as part of a small forensic team supporting intel requirements. The position requires a current certification with the ...

Documentation & Reporting * Document examination results, prepare required reports, and submit completed work product to the Lead Polygraph Examiner for quality review. * Maintain strict ...

Examiner

West Point, NE · On-site

$19.72/hr

JR2026-00027315 Examiner (Open) Applications No Longer Accepted On (If no date is displayed, job is ... Verifies identity, citizenship, residency, and other required documentation; conducts automobile ...

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Document Examiner information

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$33.5K

$61.4K

$99K

How much do document examiner jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for document examiner in the United States is $61,362.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,000.00 and $69,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Document Examiner vs Forensic Document Examiner?

AspectDocument ExaminerForensic Document Examiner
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or related field; certification from organizations like the American Board of Forensic Document Examiners (ABFDE) is common.Same as Document Examiner, often with additional specialized forensic certifications.
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, law enforcement agencies, or private firms analyzing documents for authenticity.Similar environments, often working on legal cases involving forgery, alterations, or disputed documents.
Industry UsageUsed in legal, law enforcement, and forensic contexts to verify documents.Primarily in forensic investigations, court cases, and criminal justice settings.

Both roles involve analyzing documents to determine authenticity, but Forensic Document Examiners typically work within forensic science contexts and may have additional forensic training. The terms are often used interchangeably, but Forensic Document Examiner emphasizes the forensic aspect of the work.

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

To thrive as a Document Examiner, you need expertise in forensic document analysis, a background in criminal justice or forensic science, and often specialized training or certification in questioned document examination. Familiarity with microscopes, spectral imaging devices, and forensic analysis software is common in the field. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong written communication skills help professionals excel in evaluating evidence and presenting findings. These competencies ensure the integrity and reliability of document analysis in legal and investigative contexts.

What is the average salary of a forensic document examiner?

The average salary of a forensic document examiner in the United States typically ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Experienced examiners with certifications and advanced skills can earn higher salaries, especially in government or private forensic laboratories.

What are Document Examiners?

Document Examiners are forensic specialists who analyze and authenticate documents to determine their origin, validity, and any alterations. They examine handwriting, signatures, inks, papers, and printing processes to detect forgery or tampering. Often working with law enforcement, legal teams, or private organizations, Document Examiners play a critical role in investigations involving questioned documents. Their expertise is frequently used in court cases, insurance claims, and historical document verification.

What is the role of a Document Examiner?

A Document Examiner analyzes and compares documents to verify their authenticity, often examining handwriting, signatures, and printed materials. They use specialized tools and techniques to detect forgeries, alterations, or fraud, typically working in forensic laboratories or law enforcement settings.

How many years of schooling does a forensic document examiner need?

A forensic document examiner typically needs a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as forensic science, criminal justice, or a related discipline, which usually requires about four years of post-secondary education. Additional specialized training or certification in document examination may be necessary, and some examiners pursue advanced degrees or professional certifications to enhance their qualifications.

How do you become a Document Examiner?

To become a document examiner, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in forensic science, criminal justice, or a related field, along with specialized training in document analysis. Certification from professional organizations, such as the American Board of Forensic Document Examiners, can enhance job prospects. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions in forensic laboratories is also common.

What are some common challenges faced by Document Examiners when analyzing questioned documents?

Document Examiners often encounter challenges such as dealing with low-quality or degraded documents, distinguishing between genuine and forged handwriting, and analyzing documents that have been intentionally altered or disguised. They must remain meticulous and objective, using specialized tools and techniques to identify subtle differences and similarities. Collaboration with law enforcement, attorneys, and other forensic experts is also typical, especially when preparing detailed reports or providing expert testimony in court.
More about Document Examiner jobs
What cities are hiring for Document Examiner jobs? Cities with the most Document Examiner job openings:
What states have the most Document Examiner jobs? States with the most job openings for Document Examiner jobs include:
Infographic showing various Document Examiner job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,362 per year, or $29.5 per hour.
Certified Forensic Document Examiner

Certified Forensic Document Examiner

Science Applications International Corporation

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$48K - $48K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 207 rated it services


Job description


SAIC is seeking a Certified Forensic Document Examiner to serve as part of a small forensic team supporting intel requirements. The position requires a current certification with the American Board of Forensic Document Examiners (ABFDE) and successful completion of a proficiency test in the past two years. A strong familiarity with all professional standards and requirements that pertain to handwriting and document analysis, legal concerns/cases/precedents, research and methodology principles. The position requires a security clearance with an active poly, but client is willing to consider sponsoring clearance for the right candidate with a commitment to a long-term support. The candidate will be expected to maintain necessary proficiencies, skillsets, and continuing education as defined by discipline specific guidelines.
Qualifications
Requirements:
  • 5-10 years of experience in an accredited and recognized forensic laboratory as a handwriting and document analysis/examination, for example (but not limited to) laboratories at the US Secret Service, Department of Homeland Security, or FBI
  • Demonstrated experience with comprehensive document examinations (both documents and handwriting) to include questioned to questioned; questioned to known; and known to known
  • Demonstrated expertise in the identification of document printing processes
  • Ability to document findings in clear and concise report with demonstrative illustrations
  • Demonstrated expertise in the use of the following equipment:
    • Electrostatic Detection Apparatus
    • Video Spectral Comparator
    • Scanning Electron Microscope
    • Laser Scanning Microscope
  • Perform SME support to review request on forensic document analytic products and procedures
  • Support internal training and development initiatives
  • Oversee the development and maintenance of quality assurance standards as well as Standard Operating Procedures for the Branch
  • Strong communication skills and demonstrated experience working in a collaborative small team environment

Typical Education and Experience:
  • Bachelors and nine (9) years or more experience; Masters and seven (7) years or more experience ; PhD or JD and four (4) years or more experience
    • Additional experience will be considered in lieu of a degree

About Us
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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