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Forensic Document Examiner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Certified Forensic Document Examiner

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Description SAIC is seeking a Certified Forensic Document Examiner to serve as part of a small forensic team supporting intel requirements. The position requires a current certification with the ...

U.S. Courts

Forensic Examiner

Saint Louis, MO · On-site +1

$61K - $119K/yr

Conducts forensic examinations of digital related evidence using established policies, procedures ... Prepare and maintain documentation and standard operating procedures and checklists for end users ...

US Judicial Branch

Forensic Examiner

Saint Louis, MO

$61K/yr

Able to document the steps of an examination and a detailed analysis of your findings. Three years ... Prior Forensic Examiner experience required. Law Enforcement Forensic examiner experience preferred.

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Forensic Document Examiner information

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$36.5K

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$69.5K

How much do forensic document examiner jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic document examiner in the United States is $49,378.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,500.00 and $47,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of documents might a Forensic Document Examiner analyze in their daily work?

Forensic Document Examiners analyze a wide variety of documents, including handwritten notes, signatures, contracts, identification cards, checks, wills, and even altered or counterfeit documents. Their responsibilities typically involve evaluating the authenticity of documents, identifying forgeries, detecting alterations, and comparing handwriting samples. Examiners often work closely with law enforcement, legal teams, and sometimes testify as expert witnesses in court. This diversity keeps the work dynamic and requires strong attention to detail and methodical examination skills.

How do you become a forensic document examiner?

To become a forensic document examiner, one typically needs a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as forensic science, criminal justice, or a related discipline. Many professionals gain specialized training through certification programs or on-the-job experience, and some pursue certification from organizations like the American Board of Forensic Document Examiners to enhance credibility and job prospects.

What does a Forensic Document Examiner do?

A Forensic Document Examiner (FDE) analyzes documents to determine their authenticity, origin, and potential alterations. They examine handwriting, signatures, typewritten or printed materials, ink, paper, and other document features. FDEs work with law enforcement, legal teams, and private clients to investigate forgeries, counterfeits, and document tampering. Their work often includes providing expert testimony in court cases.

How do you become a forensic examiner?

To become a forensic document examiner, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as forensic science, criminal justice, or a related discipline. Gaining specialized training through certification programs and developing skills in document analysis, handwriting comparison, and the use of forensic tools are also important steps in establishing expertise in the field.

What is the salary of a forensic document examiner?

The average salary of a forensic document examiner typically ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior examiners or those working in federal agencies may earn higher salaries, and certifications can enhance earning potential.

How much does a forensics examiner make?

Forensic document examiners typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries can increase with certification, specialized skills, and working for federal agencies or private firms.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Forensic Document Examiner position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forensic Document Examiner, you need strong attention to detail, a solid foundation in forensic science, analytical thinking skills, and typically a degree in a related field such as forensic science or chemistry. Familiarity with specialized laboratory equipment, document analysis software, and relevant certifications such as those from the American Board of Forensic Document Examiners (ABFDE) are often required. Outstanding written communication, objectivity, and the ability to present findings clearly in both written reports and courtroom testimony are crucial soft skills. These competencies are vital as they ensure accurate, unbiased examination and effective communication of complex information in legal settings.

More about Forensic Document Examiner jobs
What cities are hiring for Forensic Document Examiner jobs? Cities with the most Forensic Document Examiner job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Document Examiner jobs? The most popular types of Forensic Document Examiner jobs are:
What states have the most Forensic Document Examiner jobs? States with the most job openings for Forensic Document Examiner jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Document Examiner jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Document Examiner jobs are:
Forensic Document Examiner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Document Examiner job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,378 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
Certified Forensic Document Examiner

Certified Forensic Document Examiner

SAIC

Chantilly, VA

$160K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 210 rated it services

Job description

Job ID: 2613079

Location: Chantilly, VA, US

Date Posted: 2026-05-29

Category: Defense/Intel

Subcategory: Intel Analyst

Schedule: Full-Time

Shift: Day Job

Travel: No

Minimum Clearance Required: TS.SCI_wPoly

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: None

Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE


Description

SAIC is seeking a Certified Forensic Document Examiner to serve as part of a small forensic team supporting intel requirements. The position requires a current certification with the American Board of Forensic Document Examiners (ABFDE) and successful completion of a proficiency test in the past two years. A strong familiarity with all professional standards and requirements that pertain to handwriting and document analysis, legal concerns/cases/precedents, research and methodology principles. The position requires a security clearance with an active poly, but client is willing to consider sponsoring clearance for the right candidate with a commitment to a long-term support. The candidate will be expected to maintain necessary proficiencies, skillsets, and continuing education as defined by discipline specific guidelines.

Qualifications

Requirements:

  • 5-10 years of experience in an accredited and recognized forensic laboratory as a handwriting and document analysis/examination, for example (but not limited to) laboratories at the US Secret Service, Department of Homeland Security, or FBI
  • Demonstrated experience with comprehensive document examinations (both documents and handwriting) to include questioned to questioned; questioned to known; and known to known
  • Demonstrated expertise in the identification of document printing processes
  • Ability to document findings in clear and concise report with demonstrative illustrations
  • Demonstrated expertise in the use of the following equipment:
    • Electrostatic Detection Apparatus
    • Video Spectral Comparator
    • Scanning Electron Microscope
    • Laser Scanning Microscope
  • Perform SME support to review request on forensic document analytic products and procedures
  • Support internal training and development initiatives
  • Oversee the development and maintenance of quality assurance standards as well as Standard Operating Procedures for the Branch
  • Strong communication skills and demonstrated experience working in a collaborative small team environment

Typical Education and Experience:

  • Bachelors and nine (9) years or more experience; Masters and seven (7) years or more experience ; PhD or JD and four (4) years or more experience
    • Additional experience will be considered in lieu of a degree

Target salary range: $160,001 - $200,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.

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