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Entry Level Digital Forensics Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Digital Forensics information

See Virginia salary details

$32.7K

$76K

$128.9K

How much do entry level digital forensics jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level digital forensics in Virginia is $75,981.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,100.00 and $128,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the easiest forensic job to get?

Entry-level digital forensics positions are generally considered the easiest to obtain, especially those that require basic knowledge of computer systems, file recovery, and forensic tools like EnCase or FTK. Candidates often need relevant certifications such as the Certified Computer Examiner (CCE) or EnCase Certified Examiner (EnCE) and some hands-on experience, which can be gained through internships or training programs.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level digital forensics professionals, and how can they be addressed?

Entry-level digital forensics professionals often encounter challenges such as managing large volumes of digital evidence, staying current with rapidly evolving technologies, and maintaining the integrity of evidence throughout the investigative process. Navigating strict chain-of-custody protocols and understanding various file systems can also be demanding. To address these challenges, new professionals should seek mentorship from experienced team members, participate in ongoing training, and utilize industry-standard tools to streamline evidence analysis and documentation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Digital Forensics professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Digital Forensics professional, you need a foundational knowledge of computer systems, networking, cybersecurity principles, and a relevant degree or certification in digital forensics or information security. Familiarity with forensic tools such as EnCase, FTK, and Cellebrite, as well as experience using operating systems like Windows and Linux, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set candidates apart in this field. These skills and qualifications are crucial for accurately collecting, analyzing, and presenting digital evidence, which supports investigations and legal proceedings.

What is the difference between Entry Level Digital Forensics vs Entry Level Cybersecurity Analyst?

AspectEntry Level Digital ForensicsEntry Level Cybersecurity Analyst
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, EnCE (optional)CompTIA Security+, CISSP (entry-level)
Work EnvironmentInvestigations, labs, law enforcement or legal settingsNetwork monitoring, threat analysis, security operations centers
Industry UsageLegal cases, law enforcement, corporate investigationsIT security, corporate, government agencies

Entry Level Digital Forensics focuses on investigating digital crimes and analyzing digital evidence, often within legal or law enforcement contexts. Entry Level Cybersecurity Analysts primarily protect networks and systems from threats. While both roles require security certifications and involve technical skills, digital forensics emphasizes evidence collection and legal procedures, whereas cybersecurity focuses on proactive defense and threat mitigation.

How much do FBI DNA analysts make?

FBI DNA analysts are federal employees who typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level analysts may start at lower salaries, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. The role often requires knowledge of forensic science, DNA analysis techniques, and security clearance.

How hard is IT to get a job in digital forensics?

Entry level digital forensics jobs typically require a strong understanding of computer systems, networking, and digital evidence analysis, often supported by relevant certifications like GCFA or EnCE. While competition can be moderate, having technical skills, hands-on experience, and a relevant degree can improve job prospects; however, the field can be competitive due to specialized knowledge requirements.

What are entry level digital forensics jobs?

Entry level digital forensics jobs involve assisting in the identification, analysis, and preservation of digital evidence from computers, mobile devices, and networks. Professionals in these roles typically support investigations into cybercrimes, data breaches, and other incidents involving digital data. They may work under the supervision of senior analysts, using specialized tools to recover, analyze, and document electronic evidence. These positions often require a foundational knowledge of computer systems, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn new investigative techniques. Entry level roles are a great starting point for a career in cybersecurity and digital investigations.

Will AI replace digital forensics?

Digital forensics professionals analyze digital evidence to support investigations, and AI tools are increasingly used to assist in data analysis and pattern recognition. However, human expertise remains essential for interpreting complex cases, making decisions, and ensuring legal compliance, so AI is more of a supplement than a replacement in this field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Digital Forensics jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Digital Forensics jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Digital Forensics jobs in Virginia? For Entry Level Digital Forensics jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Digital Forensics jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Digital Forensics jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Digital Forensics jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Digital Forensics job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Digital Forensics job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 88% In-person, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,981 per year, or $36.5 per hour.
Project Scheduler (Entry Level to SME) TS/SCI with Poly REQUIRED

Project Scheduler (Entry Level to SME) TS/SCI with Poly REQUIRED

CGI Inc.

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


CGI rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

152nd of 230 rated it services


Job description

Project Scheduler (Entry Level to SME) TS/SCI with Poly REQUIRED
Category: Business Consulting, Strategy and Digital Transformation
Main location: United States, Virginia, Arlington
Position ID:J0726-1996
Employment Type: Full Time
Position Description:
CGI Federal has an exciting opportunity for Project Schedulers within our Intel sector advancing the national security mission through cutting edge technology. You must have a passion for keeping pace with rapidly evolving technology advancements and leveraging your knowledge on a highly collaborative team to deliver state-of-the-art capabilities.
The Project Scheduler assists project managers by creating, updating, and maintaining basic project timelines. They help track daily tasks, monitor progress, and coordinate with team members to ensure deliverables are met on schedule, typically using entry-level scheduling software or spreadsheets.
CGI Federal is growing its high-performance team whose members share a passion for building high-quality, scalable, advanced IT solutions in a collaborative, fast-paced, outcome-driven mission.
This position is located in our Arlington office; however, a hybrid working model is acceptable.
Your future duties and responsibilities:
Key Responsibilities (Entry Level)
• Schedule Updates: Input task durations, dependencies, and milestones into project tracking tools.
• Progress Tracking: Collect updates from the team and monitor daily progress against the established timeline.
• Communication: Notify the Project Manager and team members of upcoming deadlines and schedule changes.
• Reporting: Assist in drafting routine progress reports and compiling schedule-related documentation.
• Risk Identification: Flag potential delays or scheduling conflicts early on so the team can address them.
Key Responsibilities (Junior Level)
• Schedule Development: Draft, update, and maintain baseline project schedules and Work Breakdown Structures (WBS) using software like Microsoft Project or Primavera P6.
• Timeline Tracking: Routinely monitor daily and weekly progress, ensuring individual team tasks are completed on time.
• Risk & Delay Management: Analyze the schedule to identify bottlenecks, warn stakeholders of potential delays, and help determine the critical path.
• Reporting: Prepare status updates, performance evaluation reports, and schedule variance data for management and project teams.
• Stakeholder Coordination: Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align project goals and adjust timelines as changes occur.
Key Responsibilities (Mid-Level)
• Schedule Development: Build and maintain detailed Critical Path Method (CPM) project schedules, integrating engineering, procurement, manufacturing, and construction phases.
• Baseline Management: Establish and monitor the schedule performance baseline, ensuring all milestones, deliverables, and dependencies are clearly defined.
• Progress Tracking: Regularly update the schedule with actual progress, assess schedule variance, and track Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) against initial targets.
• Risk & Issue Mitigation: Identify potential schedule delays and critical path constraints, proactively developing mitigation strategies and "what-if" scenarios.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Facilitate planning meetings and communicate schedule health, four- to six-week lookahead schedules, and impacts to project managers, contractors, and leadership.
Key Responsibilities (Senior Level)
Advanced Scheduling & Integration
• Build, maintain, and own the Integrated Master Schedule (IMS) and detailed baseline schedules using advanced project management software (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project).
• Lead horizontal and vertical schedule integration, ensuring alignment across engineering, procurement, manufacturing, construction, and commissioning.
• Apply Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) principles to develop detailed, logic-driven networks with precise interdependencies, lags, and leads.
Risk Analysis & Critical Path Management
• Conduct rigorous Critical Path Method (CPM) analysis to isolate schedule vulnerabilities and high-risk activities.
• Perform forensic schedule analysis, delay impact assessments, and "what-if" scenario modeling to guide strategic executive decision-making.
• Maintain the project Risk Register, continuously strategizing workarounds and mitigation contingencies.
Resource & Cost Integration
• Actively resource-load and cost-load the schedule to establish a definitive Performance Measurement Baseline (PMB).
• Execute Earned Value Management (EVM) metrics (e.g., SPI, CPI, ETC) to accurately measure real-time progress versus the baseline.
• Forecast labor and material allocation to prevent over-allocation and ensure optimal resource utilization across the enterprise.
Leadership, Communication & Governance
• Facilitate interactive planning sessions (e.g., Last Planner System, pull planning) to secure stakeholder buy-in and align execution teams.
• Draft executive-level schedule narratives and KPI dashboards to report precise project health to leadership, owners, and stakeholders.
• Mentor and provide technical oversight to Level 1/2 Schedulers and project controls teams, championing best practices.
Key Responsibilities (SME Level)
Integrated Master Schedule (IMS) Development: Build and maintain resource-loaded and cost-loaded master schedules from conceptual design through commissioning using advanced software like Primavera P6 or MS Project.
Critical Path & Float Management: Execute expert-level critical path analyses, network logic audits, forward/backward passes, and float path evaluations to spot early warning signs of delays.
Forensic Delay & Time Impact Analysis (TIA): Objectively evaluate contractor baseline submissions, perform Time Impact Analyses (TIA) for change orders, and assist teams in delay negotiations and mitigation plans.
Stakeholder & Vendor Integration: Work directly with project managers, procurement, trade partners, and engineers to define Work Breakdown Structures (WBS) and align on constraints, logic ties, and material lead times.
Risk Management: Maintain project risk registers and develop risk curves to forecast scenarios and minimize impacts on the final completion date.
Leadership & Mentorship: Lead interactive planning sessions (such as Last Planner System / Pull Planning). Mentor junior scheduling staff and develop standardized project controls procedures.
Required qualifications to be successful in this role:
All roles require an active TS/SCI with Poly
Entry Level:
• Education:
o High School Diploma/GED with 4 years of relevant experience,
o Associates Degree with 2 years of relevant experience,
o or Bachelor's Degree with 0 years of relevant experience
• Organization & Detail: Strong ability to keep track of multiple moving parts and maintain accurate records.
• Technical Proficiency: Basic understanding of scheduling software (such as Microsoft Project or Primavera P6) and spreadsheet tools like Excel.
• Communication: Clear, professional verbal and written skills to coordinate with different departments.
• Time Management: Capable of meeting strict deadlines and prioritizing daily administrative support tasks.
Junior Level:
• Education:
o High School Diploma/GED with 6 years of relevant experience,
o Associates Degree with 4 years of relevant experience,
o Bachelor's Degree with 2 years of relevant experience,
o or Masters Degree with 0 years of relevant experience
• Software Proficiency: Strong working knowledge of MS Project, Primavera P6, or similar project controls software.
• Analytical Skills: Foundational understanding of the Critical Path Method (CPM).
• Soft Skills: Exceptional organizational skills, problem-solving abilities, and strong written and verbal communication.
Mid-Level:
• Education:
o High School Diploma/GED with 8 years of relevant experience,
o Associates Degree with 6 years of relevant experience,
o Bachelor's Degree with 4 years of relevant experience,
o or Masters Degree with 2 years of relevant experience,
o or PhD with 0 years of relevant experience
• Software Proficiency: Advanced working knowledge of industry-standard project management software such as Primavera P6 and Microsoft Project.
• Analytical Skills: Strong understanding of project management methodologies, including Work Breakdown Structure (WBS), earned value management (EVM), and critical path logic.
Senior Level:
• Education:
o High School Diploma/GED with 10 years of relevant experience,
o Associates Degree with 8 years of relevant experience,
o Bachelor's Degree with 6 years of relevant experience,
o or Masters Degree with 4 years of relevant experience,
o or PhD with 2 years of relevant experience
• Technical Mastery: Expert-level proficiency in Primavera P6 is strictly required. Familiarity with MS Project, Deltek Open Plan, or risk-simulation software (e.g., Primavera Risk Analysis) is highly preferred.
• Methodology: Deep understanding of CPM principles, EVM principles, and Lean Construction principles like Takt Planning.
• Certifications: PMP (Project Management Professional) or PMI-SP (Scheduling Professional) highly preferred.
SME Level:
• Education:
o High School Diploma/GED with 12 years of relevant experience,
o Associates Degree with 10 years of relevant experience,
o Bachelor's Degree with 8 years of relevant experience,
o or Masters Degree with 6 years of relevant experience,
o or PhD with 4 years of relevant experience
• Certifications: Preferred credentials include the AACE Planning & Scheduling Professional (PSP) or PMI Scheduling Professional (PMI-SP).
• Technical Mastery: Advanced proficiency in Primavera P6, MS Project, and Schedule Risk Assessment tools (e.g., Primavera Risk Analysis or Safran Risk).
• Analytical Mindset: High-level problem-solving ability, business acumen, and the capability to present complex schedule data in executive-level dashboards.
CGI is required by law in some jurisdictions to include a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role. The determination of this range includes various factors not limited to skill set, level, experience, relevant training, and licensure and certifications. To support the ability to reward for merit-based performance, CGI typically does not hire individuals at or near the top of the range for their role. Compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the current range for this role in the U.S. is $89,600.00 - $204,000.00.
CGI Federal's benefits are offered to eligible professionals on their first day of employment to include:
. Competitive compensation
. Comprehensive insurance options
. Matching contributions through the 401(k) plan and the share purchase plan
. Paid time off for vacation, holidays, and sick time
. Paid parental leave
. Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
. Wellness and Well-being programs
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What you can expect from us:
Together, as owners, let's turn meaningful insights into action.
Life at CGI is rooted in ownership, teamwork, respect and belonging. Here, you'll reach your full potential because...
You are invited to be an owner from day 1 as we work together to bring our Dream to life. That's why we call ourselves CGI Partners rather than employees. We benefit from our collective success and actively shape our company's strategy and direction.
Your work creates value. You'll develop innovative solutions and build relationships with teammates and clients while accessing global capabilities to scale your ideas, embrace new opportunities, and benefit from expansive industry and technology expertise.
You'll shape your career by joining a company built to grow and last. You'll be supported by leaders who care about your health and well-being and provide you with opportunities to deepen your skills and broaden your horizons.
Come join our team-one of the largest IT and business consulting services firms in the world.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, ethnicity, ancestry, color, sex, religion, creed, age, national origin, citizenship status, disability, pregnancy, medical condition, military and veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation or perceived sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, and gender expression, familial status or responsibilities, reproductive health decisions, political affiliation, genetic information, height, weight, or any other legally protected status or characteristics to the extent required by applicable federal, state, and/or local laws where we do business.
CGI provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you need an accommodation to apply for a job in the U.S., please email the CGI U.S. Employment Compliance mailbox at US_Employment_Compliance@cgi.com. You will need to reference the Position ID of the position in which you are interested. Your message will be routed to the appropriate recruiter who will assist you. Please note, this email address is only to be used for those individuals who need an accommodation to apply for a job. Emails for any other reason or those that do not include a Position ID will not be returned.
We make it easy to translate military experience and skills! Click here to be directed to our site that is dedicated to veterans and transitioning service members.
All CGI offers of employment in the U.S. are contingent upon the ability to successfully complete a background investigation. Background investigation components can vary dependent upon specific assignment and/or level of US government security clearance held. Dependent upon role and/or federal government security clearance requirements, and in accordance with applicable laws, some background investigations may include a credit check. CGI will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrests and conviction records in accordance with all

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