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Forensic Computer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Information Security, or related field. * 5 plus years of experience in digital forensics, incident response, or cybersecurity operations.

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Forensic Pathologist

Modesto, CA · On-site

$168.98 - $253.46/hr

The Forensic Pathologist is a single position assigned to the Sheriff's Office and performs related ... Operate a variety of computer programs; Multi-task, prioritize and problem solve; and Travel to ...

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Forensic Computer information

See California salary details

$112K

$115.2K

$117.4K

How much do forensic computer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic computer in California is $115,185.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $115,000.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is computer forensics in demand?

Computer forensics professionals are in increasing demand due to the rise in cybercrime and digital investigations. Employers seek individuals with skills in data recovery, analysis, and familiarity with forensic tools, often requiring certifications like EnCE or GCFA. The field offers growth opportunities in law enforcement, cybersecurity firms, and private investigation agencies.

What is a computer forensics job?

A computer forensics job involves investigating digital devices to recover, analyze, and preserve electronic evidence for legal or security purposes. Professionals in this field use specialized tools and techniques to examine computers, networks, and storage media, often requiring certifications like EnCase or CFCE. The work may involve working with law enforcement, legal teams, or private organizations to support investigations and ensure evidence integrity.

How much do computer forensics get paid?

Computer forensic analysts typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with certifications like CFCE or EnCE and advanced skills can earn higher salaries, especially in specialized or high-demand environments.

What is the difference between Forensic Computer vs Digital Forensics Analyst?

AspectForensic ComputerDigital Forensics Analyst
CertificationsEnCE, GCFAEnCE, GCFA
Work EnvironmentLaw enforcement, private labs, corporate securityLaw enforcement, consulting firms, government agencies
Industry UsageLegal cases, criminal investigations, corporate investigationsInvestigations, incident response, legal proceedings

Both roles involve analyzing digital evidence, often requiring similar certifications like EnCE or GCFA. Forensic Computers typically focus on collecting and analyzing digital evidence in legal or corporate settings, while Digital Forensics Analysts may work across various environments including law enforcement and consulting. The core skills overlap, but the context and specific responsibilities can differ based on the employer and case type.

What does a forensic computer specialist do?

A forensic computer specialist, also known as a computer forensic analyst, investigates digital devices to uncover and preserve evidence related to cybercrimes, fraud, or legal disputes. They recover deleted files, analyze data, and ensure that digital evidence is collected in a way that maintains its integrity for use in court. These specialists often work with law enforcement agencies, legal teams, or private companies to help solve cases involving computers, mobile devices, and networks.

Is digital forensics well paid?

Digital forensics professionals, including forensic computer analysts, typically earn competitive salaries that vary by experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start around $50,000 annually, while experienced analysts with certifications can earn over $100,000. The field often requires knowledge of cybersecurity tools, forensic software, and sometimes certifications like GCFA or EnCE.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Forensic Computer Analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forensic Computer Analyst, you need a solid background in computer science, cybersecurity, and digital forensics, often supported by relevant degrees and certifications like CISSP or EnCE. Familiarity with forensic imaging tools, data recovery software, and operating systems such as Windows, Linux, and MacOS is crucial. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and strong written communication skills help you interpret complex data and present findings clearly in legal contexts. These skills ensure accurate evidence collection, preservation, and reporting, which are vital for supporting investigations and legal proceedings.

What are some common challenges faced by forensic computer analysts during digital investigations?

Forensic computer analysts often encounter challenges such as dealing with encrypted or damaged data, staying updated with rapidly evolving technologies, and maintaining the integrity of digital evidence throughout the investigation. They must also ensure that all steps are carefully documented to meet legal standards for evidence admissibility in court. Additionally, working under tight deadlines and collaborating efficiently with law enforcement or legal teams can be demanding, but these elements are crucial for successful case outcomes.
What cities in California are hiring for Forensic Computer jobs? Cities in California with the most Forensic Computer job openings:
Infographic showing various Forensic Computer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 22% Full Time, 74% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 80% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,185 per year, or $55.4 per hour.

Computer Investigative Forensic Specialist (CIFA)

Criminal Investigation & Law Enforcement | IRS Careers

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$61K/yr

Other

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

WHAT IS CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION?
A description of the business units can be found at: https://www.jobs.irs.gov/about/who/business-divisions
  • Position(s) are to be filled in the following area(s):
    • CI- Digital Forensics
  • Consider each location carefully when applying. If you are selected for a location, that location will become your official post of duty.
REVIEW THE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION BELOW FOR FURTHER DETAILSQualifications:

Federal experience is not required. Experience may have been gained in the public sector, private sector or through Volunteer Service. One year of experience refers to full-time work; part-timework is considered on a prorated basis. To ensure full credit for your work experience, please indicate dates of employment by month/day/year, and indicate number of hours worked per week, on your resume.
You must meet the following requirements by the closing date of this announcement.
QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: To qualify for this position, you must meet the qualification requirements outlined below:
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE FOR GS-09:
You must have 1 year of specialized experience at a level of difficulty and responsibility equivalent to the GS-07 grade level in the Federal service. Specialized experience for this position includes: Providing basic Digital Forensic support and the analysis of electronic evidence; conducting computer and mobile forensic examinations per established standards; testing forensic software; using analytical tools on digital media; preparing comprehensive final forensic reports; assisting in the assembling of PC workstations and configuring CPU environments; troubleshooting common software problems and/or referring to higher graded specialists for assistance; planning and carrying out assignments and revising methods and approaches; working with vendors to discuss upgrade and maintenance problems; assist in initial testing of systems and programs; testifying in Grand Juries, courts of law or administrative hearings.
OR
You may substitute education for specialized experience as follows: master's or equivalent graduate degree OR two (2) full years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a master's or equivalent graduate degree OR an LL.B. or J.D., if related.
OR
COMBINATION OF EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION: At least 1 year of combined graduate education and experience as defined in paragraphs above.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE FOR GS-11:
You must have 1 year of specialized experience at a level of difficulty and responsibility equivalent to the GS-09 grade level in the Federal service. Specialized experience for this position includes: Assisting with digital forensic support and analysis of electronic evidence and conducting computer and mobile forensic examinations to ensure compliance with internal policies and operating procedures as well as organizing and summarizing data to identify trends, patterns, and profiles. Utilizing forensic software using analytical tools to analyze digital media and prepare comprehensive final forensic reports. Configuring, maintaining and troubleshooting forensic hardware/software, used in support of digital forensic investigations. Communicating technical forensic information through written documentation and briefings to technical and non-technical audiences. Supporting investigative or legal proceedings by explaining forensic processes or findings and assisting with the preparation and evaluation of digital evidence for administrative, civil or criminal proceedings.
OR
You may substitute education for specialized experience as follows a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree OR Three (3) full years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a doctoral degree OR LL.M., if related.
OR
COMBINATION OF EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION: At least 1 year of combined graduate education and experience as defined in paragraphs above.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE FOR GS-12:
You must have 1 year of specialized experience at a level of difficulty and responsibility equivalent to the GS-11 grade level in the Federal service. Specialized experience for this position includes: providing advanced digital forensic support and analysis of electronic evidence; conducting advanced computer and mobile forensic examinations per established standards; testing forensic software; using analytical tools on digital media, preparing comprehensive final forensic reports; independently assembling PC workstations and configuring CPU environments; troubleshooting software problems of moderate difficulty; designing, developing and managing forensic evidence systems; extending, enhancing, or optimizing existing forensic systems architecture; managing projects; communicating complex technical requirements to non-technical personnel; presenting briefings to senior management; interpreting IT policies, standards and guidelines and conducting analysis and making recommendations within specialty areas assigned; working with vendors to discuss upgrading and maintenance problems; assisting in initial testing of systems and programs; testifying in Grand Juries, courts of law or administrative hearings.
AND
You must also meet the following requirements:

  • MINIMUM AGE REQUIREMENT: Minimum age for federal employment is 18 years old, or at least 16 years old and have:
    • Graduated from high school or been awarded a certificate equivalent to graduating from high school; or
    • Completed a formal vocational training program; or
    • Received a statement from school authorities agreeing with your preference for employment rather than continuing your education.

For more information on qualifications please refer to OPM's Qualifications Standards.

Education:A college or university degree generally must be from an accredited (or pre-accredited) college or university recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. For a list of schools which meet these criteria, please refer to Department of Education Accreditation page.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying. Click here (Section 3, Explanation of Terms) or here for Foreign Education Credentialing instructions.
We recommend choosing an evaluator from a member organization of one of the following national associations of credential evaluation services: National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) or Association of International Credentials Evaluators (AICE).Employment Type: OTHER