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Forensic Investigation Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Contract personnel perform investigations to characterize of the severity of breaches, develop mitigation plans, and assist with the restoration of services. Nightwing is seeking a Host Forensics ...

Cloud Forensic Analyst IV

Arlington, VA · On-site

$134K/yr

They are seeking a Cloud Forensic Analyst IV to support onsite incident response for government agencies experiencing cyber-attacks, involving investigation and resolution of incidents.

Providing technical assistance on digital evidence matters and forensic investigative techniques to appropriate personnel when necessary * Writing in-depth reports, supports peer reviews, and ...

Showing results 41-60

Forensic Investigation information

See Virginia salary details

$25.3K

$60.6K

$93.7K

How much do forensic investigation jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic investigation in Virginia is $60,631.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,500.00 and $68,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is forensic investigation?

Forensic investigation is the process of collecting, preserving, and analyzing evidence from crime scenes to help solve criminal cases. It combines scientific methods with legal standards to uncover facts and identify suspects. Forensic investigators may analyze fingerprints, DNA, digital data, or other physical evidence. Their work is crucial in supporting law enforcement and ensuring justice in the legal system.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in forensic investigation, and how can they be managed?

Forensic investigators often encounter challenges such as working under tight deadlines, handling sensitive or disturbing evidence, and maintaining objectivity when analyzing complex crime scenes. Effective time management and strong attention to detail are crucial for meeting case deadlines and ensuring the integrity of evidence. Many organizations provide training and support systems to help investigators cope with the emotional demands of the role, and teamwork is essential for cross-verifying findings and upholding professional standards throughout the investigative process.

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

To thrive as a Forensic Investigator, you need a solid background in criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory analysis techniques, crime scene investigation tools, and evidence management systems is essential, and certifications like Certified Forensic Investigator (CFI) can be advantageous. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help investigators accurately process evidence and present findings. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring thorough, unbiased investigations and supporting the integrity of the legal process.

What is the difference between Forensic Investigation vs Forensic Science Technician?

AspectForensic InvestigationForensic Science Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or related fieldRequires an associate's or bachelor's degree in forensic science or chemistry
Work EnvironmentFieldwork at crime scenes and labsLaboratory analysis and evidence processing
Industry UsageLaw enforcement agencies, crime labsCrime labs, forensic laboratories
Common Search IntentInvestigating crimes, collecting evidenceAnalyzing evidence, preparing reports

Forensic Investigation involves active crime scene work and evidence collection, often requiring fieldwork and a criminal justice background. Forensic Science Technicians focus on laboratory analysis of evidence, typically with a science degree. Both roles are essential in criminal justice but differ in work environment and responsibilities.

How do you become a forensic investigation?

To become a forensic investigator, you typically need a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in evidence collection and analysis, and obtaining certifications such as the Certified Forensic Science Technician can enhance job prospects. Some roles may require specialized training or advanced degrees depending on the complexity of investigations.

How much do you make as a forensic investigation?

Forensic investigators typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries can increase with specialized skills, certifications, and working in high-demand environments such as law enforcement or private labs.

What jobs can you get with a forensic investigation degree?

A forensic investigation degree can lead to careers such as forensic scientist, crime scene investigator, forensic analyst, or forensic technician. These roles typically involve collecting and analyzing evidence, working in labs or crime scenes, and may require knowledge of laboratory tools, evidence handling procedures, and relevant certifications.

What qualifications do you need for a forensic investigation?

Forensic investigators typically need a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field. Relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory techniques, and proficiency with forensic tools and software; some roles may require certification such as the Certified Forensic Science Technician (CFST).

What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Investigation jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Forensic Investigation jobs in Virginia are:

What job categories do people searching Forensic Investigation jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Forensic Investigation jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Forensic Investigation job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,631 per year, or $29.1 per hour.

Cyber Host Forensic Analyst III

Nightwing

Sterling, VA • On-site

$99K - $206K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.
Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.
Nightwing is supporting a U.S. Government customer to provide support for onsite incident response to civilian Government agencies and critical asset owners who experience cyber-attacks, providing immediate investigation and resolution. Contract personnel perform investigations to characterize of the severity of breaches, develop mitigation plans, and assist with the restoration of services. Nightwing is seeking a Host Forensics Analyst to support this critical customer mission.
Responsibilities:- Assisting Federal leads with overseeing and leading forensic teams at onsite engagements by coordinating evidence collection operations- Providing technical assistance on digital evidence matters and forensic investigative techniques to appropriate personnel when necessary- Writing in-depth reports, supports with peer reviews and provides quality assurance reviews for junior personnel- Supporting forensic analysis and mentoring/providing guidance to others on data collection, analysis and reporting in support of onsite engagements.- Assisting with leading and coordinating forensic teams in preliminary investigation- Planning, coordinating and directing the inventory, examination and comprehensive technical analysis of computer related evidence- Distilling analytic findings into executive summaries and in-depth technical reports- Serving as technical forensics liaison to stakeholders and explaining investigation details to include forensic methodologies and protocols- Tracking and documenting on-site incident response activities and providing updates to leadership throughout the engagement- Evaluating, extracting and analyzing suspected malicious codeRequired Skills:- U.S. Citizenship- Must have an active TS/SCI clearance- Must be able to obtain DHS Suitability- 8+ years of directly relevant experience in cyber forensic investigations using leading edge technologies and industry standard forensic tools- Ability to create forensically sound duplicates of evidence (forensic images)- Able to write cyber investigative reports documenting digital forensics findings- Experience with the analysis and characterization of cyber attacks- Experience with proper evidence handing procedures and chain of custody protocols- Skilled in identifying different classes of attacks and attack stages- Knowledge of system and application security threats and vulnerabilities- Knowledgeable in proactive analysis of systems and networks, to include creating trust levels of critical resources- Must be able to work collaboratively across physical locations.Desired Skills:- Experience with or knowledge of two or more of the following tools:--- EnCase--- FTK--- SIFT--- X-Ways--- Volatility--- WireShark--- Sleuth Kit/Autopsy--- Splunk--- Snort--- Other EDR Tools (Crowdstrike, Carbon Black, Etc)- Proficiency with conducting all-source research.Required Education:BS Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Computer Engineering or related degree; or HS Diploma and 10+ years of host or digital forensics experienceDesired Certifications:- GCFA, GCFE, EnCE, CCE, CFCE, CISSP
Arlington, VA
Salary & Benefits
The salary associated with this position ($99,000-$206,000) is commensurate with the selected candidate's qualifications, years of relevant experience, and demonstrated level of expertise. Compensation will be determined based on these factors to ensure alignment with skills, responsibilities, and market standards.
Nightwing offers medical, vision and dental insurance coverage in addition to a 401k plan, PTO, Holidays, and additional insurances.
Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class.