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Forensic Computer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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.

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Forensic Computer information

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$110K

$113.1K

$115.3K

How much do forensic computer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 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 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.

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 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.

How do I get into forensic computer?

To become a forensic computer analyst, you typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science, cybersecurity, or a related field. Gaining skills in digital forensics tools, such as EnCase or FTK, and obtaining certifications like the Certified Computer Forensics Examiner (CCFE) or GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA) can improve job prospects. Experience with operating systems, networking, and legal procedures is also valuable in this field.

Is computer forensics a good career?

Computer forensics is a specialized field within cybersecurity that involves investigating digital crimes and analyzing electronic evidence. It offers strong job growth, competitive salaries, and requires skills in digital tools, programming, and certifications like GCFA or EnCE. The work often involves detailed analysis, report writing, and collaboration with law enforcement or legal teams.

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, analyzing digital evidence, and using tools like EnCase or FTK. Certification and strong technical skills are often required for advancement in this 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% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 73% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,098 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Senior Associate, Digital Forensics and Incident Response (DFIR)

Prescient

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Job Requisition


POSITION TITLE: Senior Associate

PRACTICE/CORPORATE: Digital Forensics & Incident Response

LOCATION: TBD

REPORTS TO: Managing Director

FLSA: Exempt

DATE COMPLETED/REVISED: 06-2026


WHO IS PRESCIENT?

Prescient is a tech-enabled digital intelligence, investigation, and risk advisory firm. Our team helps multinational corporations, law firms, investors, and private clients mitigate risk and discover actionable intelligence using next generation technology and tradecraft. We operate at the intersection of cybersecurity, corporate security, disputes, and intelligence, and support clients around the world from offices in the United States and Europe.


POSITION SUMMARY

Prescient is seeking a dynamic new team member to help grow our Digital Forensics & Incident Response (DFIR) services. Prescient has built a world class DFIR capability over the past several years and is looking to hire a Senior Associate with experience from the public and/or private sector to build on our success and help us innovate.


Final title decisions will be made based on years of experience and candidate expertise.


ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

The team member will generally be responsible for:

  • Leading and/or supporting investigations into cybersecurity incidents, including ransomware, data breaches, and insider threats.
  • Performing incident triage, forensic analysis, malware examination, and log review to identify the root cause and scope of compromise.
  • Conducting forensic imaging and analysis of endpoints, servers, cloud environments, and mobile devices.
  • Preserving and analyzing digital evidence in line with legal and regulatory requirements.
  • Extracting, correlating, and interpreting data from multiple sources to reconstruct attack timelines.
  • Documenting methodologies and findings to support potential litigation, regulatory inquiries, or internal reviews.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Experience: Candidates will have approximately three (3) to five (5) years of experience in digital forensics, incident response, or a related field.

Technical Skills:

  • Strong technical background in digital forensics tools (e.g., Magnet Axiom, EnCase, FTK, Cellebrite, XWays, etc.) and incident response, EDR, and cybersecurity platforms, as well as cloud-based environments (M365, G-Suite, AWS, etc.).
  • Proficiency in handling a variety of operating systems (e.g., Linux, Windows, Mac, iOS, virtual machines, etc.) and file systems (e.g., FAT, NTFS, EXT, etc.). Must be familiar with digital evidence collection from a variety of sources.
  • Proficiency in data and log file analysis and analytics tools such as SQL, Python, Tableau, Splunk, and Excel.

Leadership Abilities: Candidates must have exceptional communication, analytical, and interpersonal skills.

Certifications (Optional):

  • Certified Computer Examiner (CCE)
  • Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
  • Certified Incident Handler (GCIH)
  • Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE)
  • Other relevant certifications in DFIR or cybersecurity.

Education (Optional): Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field.

Prescientprovides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants. Please note this job requisition is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change.

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