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Forensic Examiner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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, and precedent techniques. Examination can include, but are not limited to: financial, terrorist, and ...

US Judicial Branch

Forensic Examiner

Saint Louis, MO

$61K/yr

Thorough knowledge of the latest forensic examination techniques technology hardware and software tools and their design. Knowledge of telephone and wireless systems. Skilled with various digital ...

Marathon TS

Digital Forensic Examiner

Lorton, VA · On-site

Marathon TS is seeking a Digital Forensics Examiner in their Lorton, VA office to support their Department of Defense (DoD) customer. This role involves conducting cyber investigations and digital ...

Infotrend Inc

Digital Forensic Examiner

Lorton, VA · On-site

$56K - $77K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description The Forensic Examiner supports the laboratory's quality program by performing method validation & verification (review of forensic tools), performing instrument ...

Infotrend

Digital Forensic Examiner

Lorton, VA · On-site

$56K - $77K/yr

Description The Forensic Examiner supports the laboratory's quality program by performing method validation & verification (review of forensic tools), performing instrument maintenance and testing ...

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Forensic Examiner information

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How much do forensic examiner jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic examiner in the United States is $61,011.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,500.00 and $72,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you become a forensic examiner?

To become a forensic examiner, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in forensic science, criminal justice, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions, developing skills in evidence analysis and laboratory techniques, and obtaining relevant certifications such as those from the American Board of Criminalistics can enhance job prospects.

Can I be a CSI without being a cop?

A forensic examiner, including crime scene investigators (CSIs), is typically a specialized role that does not require being a police officer. Instead, CSIs focus on collecting and analyzing evidence using scientific methods and often have backgrounds in forensic science, biology, or chemistry; certification and training in crime scene processing are also common requirements.

What are forensic examiners?

Forensic examiners are professionals who collect, analyze, and interpret physical evidence from crime scenes to aid in criminal investigations. Their work often involves examining fingerprints, DNA, digital evidence, firearms, and other materials to help law enforcement agencies solve crimes. Forensic examiners may also testify in court as expert witnesses to explain their findings. They work in various settings, including police departments, crime laboratories, and government agencies.

What is the difference between Forensic Examiner vs Forensic Analyst?

AspectForensic ExaminerForensic Analyst
Required CredentialsForensic science degree, certification (e.g., ASCLD-LAB)Forensic science or related degree, certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentCrime labs, law enforcement agencies, courtroomsCrime labs, law enforcement, private labs
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement, government agenciesLaw enforcement, government, private sector
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both forensic examiners and forensic analysts work in crime labs and law enforcement settings, often requiring similar credentials and certifications. While forensic examiners typically focus on collecting and analyzing physical evidence for court cases, forensic analysts may have a broader role in data interpretation and report writing. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in forensic science.

What qualifications do you need to be a forensic examiner?

To become a forensic examiner, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in forensic science, criminal justice, or a related field. Relevant skills include knowledge of laboratory procedures, evidence handling, and often certification such as the Certified Forensic Examiner (CFE) or similar credentials. Experience in law enforcement, crime scene investigation, or laboratory work is also valuable.

What are the typical challenges faced by a Forensic Examiner when handling digital evidence?

One of the primary challenges Forensic Examiners face is ensuring the integrity and chain of custody of digital evidence throughout the investigation process. Digital data is easily altered or corrupted, so Examiners must follow strict protocols to prevent contamination. Additionally, rapidly evolving technology means Examiners must continually update their skills to analyze new types of devices and data formats. Collaborating with law enforcement, legal teams, and sometimes testifying in court also requires strong communication and documentation skills.

How much does a forensics examiner make?

Forensic examiners typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Those with specialized skills or certifications, such as in digital forensics, can earn higher salaries, and employment often involves working in crime labs or law enforcement agencies.

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

To thrive as a Forensic Examiner, you need a solid background in forensic science, criminal justice, or a related field, often backed by a bachelor's degree and relevant certifications. Familiarity with laboratory analysis tools, evidence handling protocols, and digital forensics software is typically required. Strong attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective written and verbal communication are important soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring the integrity of evidence, delivering accurate results, and supporting the justice system.
More about Forensic Examiner jobs
What cities are hiring for Forensic Examiner jobs? Cities with the most Forensic Examiner job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Examiner jobs? The most popular types of Forensic Examiner jobs are:
What states have the most Forensic Examiner jobs? States with the most job openings for Forensic Examiner jobs include:
Forensic Examiner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Examiner job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,011 per year, or $29.3 per hour.

Forensic Examiner

U.S. Courts

Saint Louis, MO • On-site, Remote

$61K - $119K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Summary
The United States Probation Office, United States District Court, Eastern District of Missouri is accepting applications for the position of Forensic Examiner. The position(s) may be located in the St. Louis office with full responsibility to the divisional office as well. Multiple positions may be filled from this announcement.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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  • Conducts forensic examinations of digital related evidence using established policies, procedures, and precedent techniques. Examination can include, but are not limited to: financial, terrorist, and sexually explicit material cases. Confers with the Supervisory Probation Officer about policies and procedures in relation to digital related evidence.
  • Responsible for training employees in this Court and across the nation on forensic related procedures. This includes the proper evidence collection, handling, and chain of custody methods either via video, teleconference, or in-person.
  • Receives evidence from other districts, checking items into custody, logging the items received, and initiating the case within the case management software. This would include data entry into SIRS and PACTS to ensure proper credit is received for each examination.
  • Collects and prepares digital evidence for forensic examination.
  • May be required to testify in legal proceedings as to the procedures and methods used to obtain data, as well as to the findings of the examination.
  • Develops, prepares, and presents reports of findings of forensic examinations.
  • Responsible for verification of forensics tools validation.
  • Coordinates the maintenance, security and troubleshooting on all hardware and software for forensic tools.
  • Identifies, diagnoses, and corrects errors and problems.
  • Assists in developing new procedures and policies for the forensic lab and the districts served.
  • Responsible for initial scan and installation of monitoring software on offender's electronic devices.
  • Prepare and maintain documentation and standard operating procedures and checklists for end users and other technicians.
  • Conducts the semi-annual inventories on all evidence maintained in the forensic lab. Tracks evidence to determine if the forensic lab needs to maintain it for evidentiary reasons.
  • Responsible for the disposing of all evidence which is no longer needed for evidentiary reasons.
  • Responsible for ensuring the evidence is appropriately removed from the evidence tracking software.
  • Maintains contact with the forensic community for the purpose of keeping abreast of developments, techniques, and user programs.
  • Recommend hardware, equipment, and software updates.
  • Provide related duties, as assigned.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
All applicants considered for the position will be required to undergo a background investigation which includes an FBI fingerprint check, as the position involves handling of confidential or highly sensitive information. The selectee may be appointed provisionally, and retention will depend upon favorable suitability determination of the background investigation.
Qualifications
Thorough knowledge of the latest forensic examination techniques technology hardware and software tools and their design. Knowledge of telephone and wireless systems. Skilled with various digital technologies, including mobile phones, tablets, computers, digital storage devices, GPS, IoT and gaming systems. Be able to perform basic routine disassembly of desktop and laptop computer, phones, and tablets. Ability to image digital equipment in a forensically sound manner. Ability to conduct thorough investigations into possible criminal conduct and document findings. Able to document the steps of an examination and a detailed analysis of your findings.
Three years specialized experience, and completion of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in a field of academic study, such as digital forensics, computer science and criminal justice, which provides evidence of the capacity to understand and apply the legal requirements and investigative skills involved in the position. Prior Forensic Examiner experience required. Law Enforcement Forensic examiner experience preferred. Certifications from the FBI CART, US Postal Service, National White-Collar Crimes, Secret Service is also preferred.
Education
This job does not have an education qualification requirement.
Additional information
  • Applicants must be United States citizens or eligible to work in the United States. Appointment is contingent upon providing proof of United States citizenship or proof of authorization to work in the United States as required by the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. Applicants selected for interviews must travel at their own expense and relocation expenses will not be reimbursed.
  • Applicants may be asked to participate in proficiency tests.
  • Citizenship-Requirements-Employment-Judiciary https://www.moed.uscourts.gov/sites/moed/files/Citizenship-Requirements-Employment-Judiciary.pdf
  • Learn More About Judiciary Policies, https://www.uscourts.gov/administration-policies/judiciary-policies
  • The organization reserves the right to assign and/or reassign an employee to any location within the district based on the needs of the organization.

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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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  • Paid Annual Leave
  • Paid Sick Leave
  • Paid Holidays (11)
  • Flexible Work Schedule
  • Pre-tax Benefit Programs
  • Health Insurance
  • Vision/Dental Insurance
  • Group Life Insurance
  • Defined contribution retirement benefits (FERS)
  • Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)- 401 (k)-styled program with up to 5% match
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Parking/Commuter Benefit Program
  • Virtual Judiciary Online University

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