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Forensic Data Analyst Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Sidley

Data Collection Senior Analyst

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$98K - $150K/yr

The Data Collection Senior Analyst supports clients and matter teams by executing defensible ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Digital Forensics, or a related ...

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All JobsForensic Data Analyst JobsForensic Data Analyst Jobs in Chicago, IL

Forensic Data Analyst information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$46.4K

$89.1K

$138K

How much do forensic data analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic data analyst in Chicago, IL is $89,081.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $103,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a forensic data analyst?

Forensic data analysts are professionals who investigate digital data to uncover evidence related to crimes, disputes, or security incidents. They examine electronic records, such as emails, databases, and file systems, to identify patterns, recover deleted information, and trace the origins of suspicious activity. Their work supports law enforcement, legal proceedings, and internal organizational investigations. Forensic data analysts often use specialized software and follow strict protocols to ensure the integrity and admissibility of the evidence they collect.

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

To thrive as a Forensic Data Analyst, you need strong analytical skills, expertise in data analysis, and a relevant degree in computer science, cybersecurity, or a related field. Familiarity with forensic tools such as EnCase, FTK, and experience with programming languages like Python or SQL, as well as relevant certifications (e.g., CFCE, CFE), are typically required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting complex data and presenting findings. These competencies ensure accurate investigations, help detect and prevent fraud or cybercrime, and support legal proceedings with reliable evidence.

What are some common challenges forensic data analysts face when handling digital evidence?

Forensic Data Analysts often encounter challenges such as dealing with incomplete or corrupted data, ensuring the integrity of evidence throughout the analysis process, and maintaining strict chain-of-custody protocols. Additionally, rapidly changing technology and encryption methods can make data extraction and analysis more complex. Effective communication with legal teams and law enforcement is essential to translate technical findings into understandable reports for non-technical stakeholders.

Do forensic data analysts get paid a lot?

Forensic data analysts typically earn competitive salaries that vary by experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start around $50,000 annually, while experienced analysts with specialized skills and certifications can earn over $100,000 per year.

What qualifications do you need to be a forensic data analyst?

A forensic data analyst typically needs a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, cybersecurity, or a related field. Strong skills in data analysis, database management, and familiarity with forensic tools and techniques are essential, along with certifications such as Certified Computer Examiner (CCE) or EnCase Certified Examiner (EnCE).

What are popular job titles related to Forensic Data Analyst jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Forensic Data Analyst jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Forensic Data Analyst jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Forensic Data Analyst jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Forensic Data Analyst jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Data Analyst job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,081 per year, or $42.8 per hour.

Digital Forensic Analyst I

CGS Federal (Contact Government Services)

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
CGS Federal is a company focused on enhancing government services through technology, and they are seeking a Digital Forensic Analyst I. The role involves preserving and collecting data from mobile devices and cloud storage, coordinating with legal teams, and maintaining forensic tools, all while adhering to best practices in a fast-paced environment.
Responsibilities:
• Perform forensic data collection and basic forensic analysis in both on-site and remote capacity
• Coordinate directly with legal teams/client IT departments to understand project scope
• Maintain forensic tool set by staying current on version updates and new options in the market
• Work closely with project management and other team members on completing complex projects in a fast pace, deadline-driven environment
• Assist in developing, documenting, and refining procedures to accomplish discovery process requirements
• Manage all chain of custody best practices associated with the rules of evidence
• Consistently adhere to standard operating procedures
• Perform quality checks on work products prior to delivering to the client
• Complete additional duties assigned by the manager including general IT functions
Qualifications:
Required:
• Minimum of an undergraduate degree, preferably in Digital Forensic Science or Computer Science/Engineering
• 1+ years of relevant experience in where the analyst understands the forensic lifecycle and can properly perform scoping activities, evidence acquisitions on a range of devices, and execute forensic analysis at an intermediate level
• Experience using industry standard forensic tools such as: EnCase, Cellebrite, Oxygen, FTK Imager, MacQuisition, X1 Social Discovery, Logicube Falcon
• General understanding of Mac/Windows filesystems, mobile devices, and encryption
• Experience preserving desktops, laptops, mobile devices/tablets, servers, both cloud and on-premise email implementations, nontraditional cloud data sources, social media, etc. in a forensically sound manner
• Ability to communicate effectively and tactfully in both verbally and in written format to team members and technical/non-technical clients
• Ability to work extended hours when necessary to ensure client deadlines are met
• Ability to demonstrate superior organizational skills with acute attention to detail
• Must be willing to travel regularly on short notice; must have a valid passport for occasional international travel
• Must be an energetic self-starter who can work within a team environment but also independently as the situation requires
• Ability to document forensic workflows based on sound industry practice
• Willingness to develop/train other team members to increase the group’s overall knowledge base as well as cultivate secondary resources to assist in larger collection events
• Strong troubleshooting skills coupled with the ability to solve on the fly to solve complex problems
Preferred:
• Understanding of the electronic discovery reference model (EDRM)
• Possess at least one industry-standard certification (EnCE, CCE, CCFE, GCFE, GCFA, CCO, CCPA, CCME, etc.)
• General knowledge of litigation support applications (e.g. Relativity, Concordance, Nuix, LAW PreDiscovery, etc.)
• Experience working with structured data exported from various platforms including analysis, custom scripting, and data manipulation to develop reports for client use
• Understanding of (Robo/Rich) copy tools, BAT (PowerShell) scripting, and Active Directory
• Experience with scripting, programming/coding, and database languages (SQL, VB, HTML, Access)
Company:
Contact Government Services strives to simplify and enhance government bureaucracy through the optimization of human, technical, and financial resources. Founded in , the company is headquartered in Washington, USA, with a team of 51-200 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.

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