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Forensic Analyst Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cyber Host Forensic Analyst III

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$99K - $206K/yr

Nightwing is seeking a Host Forensics Analyst to support this critical customer mission ... The salary associated with this position ($99,000-$206,000) is commensurate with the selected ...

Cyber Host Forensic Analyst III

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$99K - $206K/yr

Nightwing is seeking a Host Forensics Analyst to support this critical customer mission ... The salary associated with this position ($99,000-$206,000) is commensurate with the selected ...

Cyber Host Forensic Analyst III

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$99K - $206K/yr

Nightwing is seeking a Host Forensics Analyst to support this critical customer mission ... The salary associated with this position ($99,000-$206,000) is commensurate with the selected ...

Perform forensic multimedia analysis: Enhance audio, validate media authenticity, and extract ... Target salary range: $120,001 - $160,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary ...

Forensic Multimedia Intel Analyst

Bethesda, MD ยท On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Perform forensic multimedia analysis: Enhance audio, validate media authenticity, and extract ... Target salary range: $120,001 - $160,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary ...

Conduct forensic acquisition and analysis on computer, mobile, IOT, digital media devices, AWS ... Target salary range: $160,001 - $200,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary ...

Showing results 21-40

Forensic Analyst Salary information

See salary details

$45K

$86.5K

$134K

How much do forensic analyst salary jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic analyst salary in the United States is $86,474.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,000.00 and $100,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a forensic analyst a good job?

A forensic analyst is a specialized role that involves analyzing evidence to support criminal investigations, often requiring knowledge of laboratory techniques and forensic software. The job offers steady employment, opportunities for advancement, and typically requires relevant certifications and attention to detail.

What is the average salary of a forensic analyst?

The average salary of a forensic analyst in the United States typically ranges from $50,000 to $90,000 per year, depending on factors such as experience, education, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end of this range, while experienced analysts or those in specialized roles can earn higher salaries. Certain regions and federal agencies may offer additional compensation or benefits.

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

To thrive as a Forensic Analyst, you need a strong background in criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with evidence processing tools, digital forensics software, and laboratory information management systems is essential. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective written and verbal communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure accurate evidence analysis, clear reporting, and successful collaboration with law enforcement and legal teams.

What is the difference between Forensic Analyst Salary vs Crime Scene Investigator Salary?

AspectForensic Analyst SalaryCrime Scene Investigator Salary
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in forensic science, criminal justice, or related field; certification often preferredBachelor's degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or related field; on-the-job training common
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, offices, courtroomsCrime scenes, fieldwork, laboratories
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, forensic labs, governmentPolice departments, law enforcement agencies

Forensic analysts typically work in labs analyzing evidence, earning a median salary around $60,000, while crime scene investigators often work in the field at crime scenes, earning approximately $50,000. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but differ mainly in work environment and daily tasks.

What does a forensic analyst do?

A forensic analyst examines digital or physical evidence related to crimes, such as computers, hard drives, or other materials, to identify, recover, and analyze data. They often use specialized tools and follow legal procedures to ensure evidence integrity for investigations or court cases.

Do forensic analysts get paid a lot?

Forensic analysts typically earn a median salary that is competitive within the criminal justice and cybersecurity fields, with salaries varying based on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced analysts with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Overall, the salary is considered moderate compared to other technical roles in law enforcement and digital forensics.

What are some typical career advancement opportunities for forensic analysts within law enforcement or private sector organizations?

Forensic analysts often begin their careers in entry-level laboratory roles, but with experience and continued education, they can progress to senior analyst, team lead, or supervisory positions. Many organizations also offer opportunities to specialize in areas like digital forensics, toxicology, or trace evidence analysis. Advancement may involve additional certifications or training, and some analysts transition into roles such as forensic laboratory managers or consultants. Regular collaboration with law enforcement, attorneys, and other specialists can also open doors to interdisciplinary career paths within the criminal justice system.

Is it hard to become a forensic analyst?

Becoming a forensic analyst typically requires a relevant bachelor's degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field, along with strong analytical skills and attention to detail. Some positions may also require certifications or experience with laboratory tools and techniques, making the process moderately challenging for those without a background in science or law enforcement.
More about Forensic Analyst Salary jobs
What cities are hiring for Forensic Analyst Salary jobs? Cities with the most Forensic Analyst Salary job openings:
What states have the most Forensic Analyst Salary jobs? States with the most job openings for Forensic Analyst Salary jobs include:
Infographic showing various Forensic Analyst Salary job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,474 per year, or $41.6 per hour.

Forensic Analyst (Junior - Senior)

Clear Ridge Defense

Fort George G Meade, MD โ€ข On-site

$95K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Clear Ridge Defense is seeking TS/SCI w/poly cleared professionals to serve as Forensic Analysts in Fort Meade, MD.

Roles and Responsibilities

You will...

  • Exploit captured media.
  • Investigate computer security incidents in order to derive useful intelligence.
  • Enable mitigation of network vulnerabilities.

Must-Haves

You possess...

  • Excellent interpersonal communication skills.
  • A Top Secret clearance with polygraph.
  • Years (2+) of relevant experience in vulnerability analysis, penetration testing, or computer forensics.
  • An ability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic workplace with unique TTPs.

Nice-To-Haves

  • Leadership experience.
  • Completion of Joint Cyber Analysis Course.
  • Information Assurance Certification.

Additional Information

Ranking #5 in Maryland and #7 in Government Services! And see how we were ranked a 2025 Top Workplace by the Baltimore Sun!

Clear Ridge Defense is the premier service solutions provider supporting the Service and Joint cyberspace operations and intelligence community in three core areas of expertise:

  • Cyber Systems & Software Engineering

  • Cyber Intelligence & Operations Planning

  • Security Risk Analysis, Mitigation & Training

All delivered by highly talented and focused team members that are supported by an unmatched professional and family-oriented culture that leverages and builds on sound, proven principles.

Benefits Snapshot:

  • 100% Fully-Covered Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

  • 100% Fully-Covered Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance

  • 100% Fully-Covered Life and AD&D Insurance

  • Unique Flexible PTO

  • 11 Paid Federal Holidays

  • $500 New Uniform Bonus for Transitioning Military

  • Monthly Tax-Free Cell Phone Stipend

  • Monthly Tax-Free Gym Wellness / Streaming Subscription Stipend to include Amazon Prime, Netflix, Audible, etc.

  • Competitive 401k Matching to plan for retirement

  • Free financial advising from qualified experts

  • Annual $5,000 Training Allotment

  • One-of-a-kind Referral Program: $250/mo indefinitely per successful referral, with no limit to number of referrals

  • Business Development and Client Expansion Bonuses

  • Monthly Company-Paid Socials and Events

  • Access to our Company Swag Store

CRD fully supports Maryland's Equal Pay for Equal Work - Wage Range Transparency law, which mandates employers to provide detailed wage and benefits information in all job postings. The salary range for this position is:

$95,000 - $200,000/ year

ย 
Salary ranges provided are subject to the following variables and circumstances, which may impact whether the actual paid salary falls within the range:

  • The contract the employee is assigned to support. For example, this advertised position may support multiple contracts.
  • The negotiated rates between CRD and our client.
  • The option year of the contract the employee is assigned to.
  • Annual performance of the employee and/or the company.
  • If the employee takes on additional company responsibilities.
  • If the company makes a strategic hiring decision (e.g., investment in the employee) for growth opportunities.
  • If the employee does not meet the qualifications fully but a waiver is provided by CRD or our clients.
  • If the employee is assigned a lower-level labor category due to external circumstances than they actually qualify for.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.ย