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Forensic Computer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Georgia

Digital Forensic Investigator 1

Decatur, IL · On-site

$63K/yr

Must be proficient with the use of a computer. * Mostly sedentary work. Routinely work in an office ... Forensic certifications such as CFCE, GCFE, or experience working with Magnet Axiom, Cellebrite ...

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Donan

Forensic Engineer Contractor

Chicago, IL · On-site

Proficient with general computer skills (Microsoft Word, Google Chrome, etc.). * Must have superior ... Must have or obtain necessary equipment to perform assigned and accepted forensic projects.

KPMG

Senior Associate, Forensic Technology

Chicago, IL

$88K - $162K/yr

Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, digital forensics, or equivalent from an accredited college or university is required; relevant training or certifications in the field, such as ...

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Forensic Computer information

See Illinois salary details

$110K

$113.1K

$115.3K

How much do forensic computer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic computer in Illinois is $113,098.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $112,900.00 and $112,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 can you do with a forensic computer degree?

A forensic computer degree prepares individuals for roles in digital forensics, cybersecurity, and incident response. Graduates can work as digital forensic analysts, investigating cybercrimes, recovering data, and analyzing digital evidence using tools like EnCase or FTK. Certification and strong technical skills are often required for advancement in this field.

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 computer forensics a good career?

Computer forensics is a growing field that involves investigating cybercrimes and digital evidence using specialized tools and techniques. It offers opportunities in law enforcement, cybersecurity firms, and private investigation, often requiring certifications like EnCE or CFCE. The career can be rewarding for those interested in technology, problem-solving, and legal processes, with a demand for skilled professionals increasing as cyber threats expand.

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.

How do I get into forensic computer forensics?

To become a forensic computer specialist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science, cybersecurity, or a related field. Gaining experience with digital forensics tools like EnCase or FTK, obtaining certifications such as Certified Computer Forensics Examiner (CCFE) or EnCase Certified Examiner (EnCE), and developing strong analytical and technical skills are essential steps in entering the field.
Forensic Computer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Computer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,098 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Chief Computer Forensic Specialist

Department of Justice

Chicago, IL

$133K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

The Office of the Inspector General is one of the best places to work in the Department of Justice and is one of the premier inspector general offices in federal government. The Investigations Division (INV) investigates alleged criminal violations and misconduct that govern DOJ employees, operations, grantees, and contractors. Annually INV receives more than 13,000 complaints, opens approximately 250 investigations, and makes an average of over 90 arrests.Qualifications:To qualify for this position at the GS-14 grade level, you must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 grade level obtained in the public sector. (Specialized experience is paid or unpaid experience which has equipped you with the specific knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position.) Examples of specialized experience include such duties as: supervising a team engaged in conducting comprehensive investigations encompassing allegations of criminal misconduct using a computer, mobile, or other electronic device, serious administrative infractions or integrity violations involving individuals, groups, or large organizations. Types of investigations include violations of Title 18, United States Code, including fraud, bribery, larceny, embezzlement, collusion, conflict of interest, civil rights violations, contract fraud, and other Federal criminal violations.
REQUIRED TRAINING INCLUDE:
Seized Computer Evidence Recovery Specialist (SCERS). Equivalent training courses include:
  • Electronic Crimes Special Agent Program (ECSAP) offered at USSS
  • Computer Analysis Response Team (CART) offered at FBI
  • Defense Cyber Investigations Training Academy (DCITA)
  • National White Collar Crime Center (NW3C) (for this NW3C training - you must have successfully completed and passed both courses below)
- Basic Data Recovery and Acquisition (BDRA)
- Intermediate Data Recovery and Analysis (IDRA)
Additional Qualifications:
1. Have training and experience conducting forensic examinations of mobile devices.
2. Have earned at least one advanced certification, such as the EnCase Certified Examiner (EnCE), AccessData Certified Examiner (ACE), DCITA Digital Forensic Examiner (DFE), Certified Computer Examiner (CCE)- International Society of Forensic Computer Examiners, or Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE)- International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists
CERTIFICATIONS MUST BE INCLUDED IN YOUR APPLICATION PACKAGE BY THE CLOSING DATE OF THIS VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT OR YOUR APPLICATION MAY NOT BE CONSIDERED.
Time in Grade Requirement: Applicants who have held a General Schedule (GS) position within the last 52 weeks must have 52 weeks of Federal service at the next lower grade level (or equivalent).Education:There are no education requirements for this position.Employment Type: OTHER

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