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Entry Forensic Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Citizenship - Active TS/SCI clearance - Ability to obtain Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Entry on Duty (EOD) Suitability - 10 years of direct relevant experience in cyber forensic ...

Citizenship - Active TS/SCI clearance - Ability to obtain Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Entry on Duty (EOD) Suitability - 10 years of direct relevant experience in cyber forensic ...

ARSIEM is looking for a Host Forensics Analyst. This position will support one of our Government ... Entry on Duty (EOD) Suitability. Candidate Referral : Do you know someone who would be GREAT at ...

ARSIEM is looking for a Host Forensics Analyst. This position will support one of our Government ... Entry on Duty (EOD) Suitability. Candidate Referral : Do you know someone who would be GREAT at ...

ARSIEM is looking for a Host Forensics Analyst. This position will support one of our Government ... Entry on Duty (EOD) Suitability. Candidate Referral : Do you know someone who would be GREAT at ...

Supporting forensic analysis and mentoring/providing guidance to others on data collection ... Entry on Duty (EOD) Suitability. Candidate Referral : Do you know someone who would be GREAT at ...

Supporting forensic analysis and mentoring/providing guidance to others on data collection ... Entry on Duty (EOD) Suitability. Candidate Referral : Do you know someone who would be GREAT at ...

Supporting forensic analysis and mentoring/providing guidance to others on data collection ... Entry on Duty (EOD) Suitability. Candidate Referral : Do you know someone who would be GREAT at ...

Forensics Lead

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$148K - $263K/yr

Thwart Advanced Persistent Threats (APT) using forensic "kill chain" processes. Minimum ... Must be able to obtain and maintain an ICE Entry on Duty (EOD) Suitability. Physical Requirements:

Conduct forensic analysis of compromised network-edge devices and embedded systems * Perform ... Entry on Duty (EOD) Suitability. Candidate Referral : Do you know someone who would be GREAT at ...

Conduct forensic analysis of compromised network-edge devices and embedded systems * Perform ... Entry on Duty (EOD) Suitability. Candidate Referral : Do you know someone who would be GREAT at ...

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Entry Forensic information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry-Level Forensic Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry-Level Forensic Scientist, you need a strong background in chemistry, biology, or forensic science, generally supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, evidence analysis software, and adherence to chain-of-custody protocols are commonly required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective written and verbal communication are critical soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate evidence processing, reliable results, and clear reporting essential for supporting criminal investigations.

What are the entry requirements for forensics?

Entry-level forensic jobs typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with many positions preferring or requiring a bachelor's degree in forensic science, criminal justice, biology, or a related field. Relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory techniques, and familiarity with forensic tools and procedures; certifications can also enhance job prospects.

What is the easiest forensic job to get?

Entry-level forensic jobs such as forensic technician or evidence technician are generally the easiest to obtain, often requiring a high school diploma or an associate degree in forensic science or a related field. These roles typically involve processing evidence and supporting investigations, with some positions offering on-the-job training and requiring basic knowledge of lab procedures and tools.

How to begin a career in forensics?

To start a career as an entry-level forensic professional, obtain a relevant bachelor's degree such as criminal justice, forensic science, or biology. Gaining laboratory skills, understanding legal procedures, and earning certifications like the Certified Forensic Science Technician (CFST) can improve job prospects; internships or entry-level positions in crime labs or law enforcement agencies are valuable for experience.

Can I be a CSI without being a cop?

A Crime Scene Investigator (CSI) is a specialized forensic professional who collects and analyzes evidence from crime scenes. While some CSIs are law enforcement officers, many agencies hire civilian forensic specialists who do not have police authority, often requiring relevant education, training, and certifications in forensic science or related fields.

What are some typical challenges an entry-level forensic professional might face during their first year on the job?

As an entry-level forensic professional, you may encounter challenges such as managing tight deadlines for evidence analysis, adapting to rigorous documentation standards, and learning to use specialized forensic tools or software. You'll also need to become comfortable testifying in legal proceedings or communicating findings to law enforcement, which can be daunting at first. Supportive teams and ongoing training often help new forensic analysts adjust and grow, but it's important to be proactive in seeking feedback and continually improving your technical and communication skills.

What is the difference between Entry Forensic vs Entry Criminal Investigator?

AspectEntry ForensicEntry Criminal Investigator
Required CredentialsForensic science degree, certifications in forensic analysisCriminal justice degree, law enforcement training
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, crime scene labs, forensic facilitiesFieldwork at crime scenes, police stations
Employer & IndustryForensic labs, crime laboratories, law enforcement agenciesPolice departments, law enforcement agencies

Entry Forensic roles focus on analyzing physical evidence in labs, requiring forensic science credentials. Entry Criminal Investigators typically conduct field investigations, requiring law enforcement training. Both roles are essential in criminal justice but differ mainly in work environment and specific qualifications.

What are entry-level forensic jobs?

Entry-level forensic jobs are positions in the forensic science field that typically require minimal prior experience and are ideal for recent graduates or those new to the profession. These jobs may include roles such as forensic laboratory technician, evidence technician, or forensic analyst trainee. Entry-level forensic professionals assist with collecting, processing, and analyzing evidence related to criminal investigations under the supervision of more experienced scientists. They often work in crime labs, law enforcement agencies, or medical examiner offices. A degree in forensic science, biology, chemistry, or a related field is usually required.
Infographic showing various Entry Forensic job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Cloud Forensic Analyst IV

Nwis

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.


Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.
Nightwing is supporting a U.S. Government customer to provide support for onsite incident response to civilian Government agencies and critical asset owners who experience cyber-attacks, providing immediate investigation and resolution. Contract personnel perform investigations to characterize the severity of breaches, develop mitigation plans, and assist with the restoration of services. Nightwing is seeking a Cloud Forensics Analyst to support this critical customer mission.
The CFA is a recently identified position for the HIRT and affords ample opportunities for training and career growth within the Cloud Forensics field.
The Desired Skills/CERTs/Education are not required and will be used to develop training plans for candidates/team members that demonstrate a cyber aptitude, desire to learn and strong work ethic.
Responsibilities:

- Acquire/collect computer artifacts (e.g., malware, user activity, link files) in support of onsite engagements

- Triage electronic devices and assess evidentiary value

- Correlate forensic findings to network events in support of developing an intrusion narrative

- Collect and document system state information (e.g. running processes, network connections) prior to imaging, as required

- Perform forensic triage of an incident to include determining scope, urgency and potential impact

- Track and document forensic analysis from initial participation through resolution

- Collect, process, preserve, analyze and present computer related evidence

- Coordinate with Government staff and customer personnel to validate/investigate alerts or additional preliminary findings

- Conduct analysis of forensic images, and available evidence in support of forensic write-ups for inclusion in reports and written products

- Assist with documenting and publishing Computer Network Defense (CND) guidance and reports pertaining to incident findings

Required Skills/Clearances:

- U.S. Citizenship

- Active TS/SCI clearance

- Ability to obtain Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Entry on Duty (EOD) Suitability

- 10 years of direct relevant experience in cyber forensic investigations using leading edge technologies and industry standard forensic tools

- In depth understanding of SaaS, PaaS and IaaS in the Cloud Environment

- Ability to create forensically sound duplicates of evidence (forensic images)

- Ability to author cyber investigative reports documenting digital forensics findings

- Proficiency with analysis and characterization of cyber attacks

- Proficiency with proper evidence handing procedures and chain of custody protocols

- Skilled in identifying different classes of attacks and attack stages

- Understanding of system and application security threats and vulnerabilities

- Understanding of proactive analysis of systems and networks, to include creating trust levels of critical resources- Able to work collaboratively across physical locations

- Action-oriented and have a proactive approach to problem solving

- Proficiency with common operating systems (e,g, Linux/Unix, Windows)

Desired Skills:

- Ability to provide knowledge of strategies/architectures involved in implementing M365/Azure authentication, how these hook to a federated identity solution and a fundamental understanding of how threat actors would target identity to compromise an environment

- Advanced experience and proficiency across various aspects of IT operations (e.g. networking, virtualization, identity, security, business continuity, disaster recovery, data management, governance)

- Experience and understanding in acquisition, processing and analysis of digital evidence from onsite enterprises and cloud native platforms

- Fundamental understanding of APIs and proficiency with PowerShell/PowerShell modules leveraged to conduct API queries as they relate to Azure/M365

- Proficiency with scripting languages (e.g. Bash, Python, Powershell, JS) for automation of hunt tools used in commercial cloud environments- Ability to develop tools, architecture and configurations in Azure environment to support identifying threat activity.

- Understanding of Azure administration, M365 administration and/or development/DevOps, with advanced level skills in at least one of these domains

- Understand of how Azure/M365 platform protection is implemented and security operations available

Required Education:

BS Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Computer Engineering or related degree; or HS Diploma 10 years of host or digital forensics experience.

Desired Certifications/Education:

- One or more of the following certifications:
GCFA, GCFE, GCIH, EnCE, CCE, CFCE, CISSP, AWS Practitioner, AWS Certified Developer, AWS Certified SysOps Administrator, AWS Certified Architect, Kubernetes Security SpecialistMS-500: Microsoft 365 Security AdministrationAZ-900:Azure FundamentalsAZ-500: Azure Security TechnologiesAZ-303: Azure Architect TechnologiesAZ-304: Azure Architect DesignMS-100: Microsoft 365 Identity and ServicesMS-101: Microsoft 365 Mobility and SecurityAZ-104: Azure Administrator SANS SEC 510, Public Cloud Security: AWS, Azure, and GCPSANS FOR509: Enterprise Cloud Forensics and Incident Response (BETA)SEC 541: Cloud Monitoring and Threat DetectionSEC584: Cloud Native Security: Defending Containers and KubernetesSEC588: Cloud Penetration testing AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner AWS Certified SysOps Administrator Associate or AWS Certified Developer Associate or AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate AWS Certified Solutions Architect Professional or AWS Certified DevOps Engineer Professional


Salary & Benefits

The salary associated with this position ($122,000-$253,000) is commensurate with the selected candidate's qualifications, years of relevant experience, and demonstrated level of expertise. Compensation will be determined based on these factors to ensure alignment with skills, responsibilities, and market standards.


Nightwingoffers medical, vision and dental insurance coverage in addition to a 401k plan, PTO, Holidays, and additional insurances.


Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class.