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Forensic Software Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

KPMG

Manager, Forensic Technology

San Francisco, CA

$103K - $206K/yr

Experience with scripting, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and software engineering principles with a focus on designing and implementing automated solutions to optimize eDiscovery and forensic ...

KPMG

Manager, Forensic Technology

Los Angeles, CA

$103K - $206K/yr

Experience with scripting, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and software engineering principles with a focus on designing and implementing automated solutions to optimize eDiscovery and forensic ...

Aperture, LLC

Forensic Expert

Long Beach, CA

$80K - $100K/yr

... software, conduct testing, and collect corresponding data, including CDR from ECM of vehicles; · ... Technical Requirements · College degree in engineering, or related field · Industry experience ...

Glean

Software Engineer, Agentic Runtime

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$170K - $265K/yr

You are: * 3+ years of software engineering experience building production distributed systems or ... forensics. * Background in one or more areas is a plus: policy/guardrails, multi-tenant isolation ...

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All JobsForensic Software Engineer JobsForensic Software Engineer Jobs in California

Forensic Software Engineer information

See California salary details

$42.9K

$126.7K

$320.7K

How much do forensic software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic software engineer in California is $126,693.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,400.00 and $128,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are forensic software engineers?

Forensic software engineers are professionals who apply engineering principles and investigative techniques to analyze software systems for legal or security purposes. They often work on uncovering how software failures or breaches occurred, collecting digital evidence, and providing expert testimony in court cases. Their work is crucial in cases of intellectual property disputes, cybercrimes, and software-related accidents. Forensic software engineers must have strong technical expertise as well as an understanding of legal and ethical standards.

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

To thrive as a Forensic Software Engineer, you need strong programming expertise, knowledge of digital forensics principles, and a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with forensic analysis tools like EnCase, FTK, and proficiency in scripting languages such as Python are typically required, along with relevant certifications like GCFA or EnCE. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective written communication are crucial soft skills for documenting findings and presenting evidence. These skills are essential for accurately uncovering, analyzing, and reporting digital evidence in legal or investigative contexts.

How does a Forensic Software Engineer typically collaborate with legal teams during investigations?

Forensic Software Engineers often work closely with legal teams to gather, preserve, and present digital evidence in a way that is admissible in court. This collaboration involves translating technical findings into clear, non-technical language, preparing detailed documentation, and sometimes providing expert testimony. Engineers must ensure strict chain-of-custody protocols and communicate any technical limitations or uncertainties to the legal team. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential, as is the ability to work under tight deadlines and handle sensitive information with discretion.

What is the difference between Forensic Software Engineer vs Digital Forensics Analyst?

AspectForensic Software EngineerDigital Forensics Analyst
CredentialsComputer science degree, certifications like GCFA or EnCECriminal justice or cybersecurity degree, similar certifications
Work EnvironmentDevelops forensic tools, software testing, codingInvestigates digital crimes, analyzes evidence
Industry UsageTech companies, cybersecurity firms, law enforcement software developmentLaw enforcement agencies, cybersecurity firms, legal settings

While both roles focus on digital evidence, Forensic Software Engineers primarily develop and improve forensic tools through coding and software development. Digital Forensics Analysts focus on investigating and analyzing digital evidence in criminal or civil cases. Both require technical skills and certifications, but their daily tasks and work environments differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Forensic Software Engineer jobs in California? For Forensic Software Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Software Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Software Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Forensic Software Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Forensic Software Engineer job openings:
Forensic Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Software Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $126,693 per year, or $60.9 per hour.
Manager, Forensic Technology

Manager, Forensic Technology

KPMG

San Francisco, CA

$103K - $206K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

The KPMG Advisory practice is at the forefront of transformation, offering excellent opportunities for individuals to advance their careers and expertise with KPMG. Looking ahead, we anticipate continued evolution and success within the practice, fostering both personal and professional development, thereby creating new pathways for growth. In this ever-changing market environment, our professionals must be adaptable and thrive in a collaborative, team-driven culture. At KPMG, our people are our number one priority. With a wealth of learning and career development opportunities, a world-class training facility, and leading market tools, we help our people continue to grow both professionally and personally. If you're looking for a firm with a strong team connection where you can be your whole self, have an impact, advance your skills, deepen your experiences, and have the flexibility and access to constantly find new areas of inspiration and expand your capabilities, then consider a career in Advisory.

KPMG is currently seeking a Manager, Forensic Technology to join our Advisory Services practice.


Responsibilities:
  • Manage and advise clients through the execution of end-to-end dead-box forensic investigations across iOS, MacOS, and Windows platforms to uncover digital evidence
  • Consult with clients on complex matters involving employee misconduct, intellectual property theft, and data breaches, ensuring secure and defensible outcomes
  • Develop proficiency in and utilize industry-standard, command-line Digital Forensics and Incident Response (DFIR) tools and techniques to effectively acquire and analyze data
  • Implement and automate customized forensic workflows and data processing scripts utilizing Python, Rust, C++, C#, or Java to streamline client deliverables
  • Supervise team members and manage expectations of stakeholders to synthesize complex technical findings into clear, outcome-focused reports, both internally and externally
  • Act with integrity, professionalism, and personal responsibility to uphold KPMG's respectful and courteous work environment
Qualifications:
  • Minimum five years of recent, relevant experience in digital forensics or incident response
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, digital forensics, or equivalent from an accredited college or university is required; relevant training or certifications in the field, such as GIAC (GIME, GCFE, GCFA, GASF), IACIS (CFCE), Magnet (MCME), 13Cubed (IME Gold, ILD Gold), Cellebrite (CCME, CAAF, CAFF, CAIF), or Hexordia (HMAC)
  • Experience conducting iOS, MacOS, and Windows dead box forensic investigations, including employee, IP theft, and data breach investigations
  • Experience utilizing industry-standard command-line DFIR tools and techniques
  • Experience with scripting, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and software engineering principles with a focus on designing and implementing automated solutions to optimize eDiscovery and forensic processes
  • Programming experience with at least one of the following languages: Python, Rust, C++, C#, or Java
  • Ability to travel as needed
  • Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without the need for employment-based visa sponsorship now or in the future; KPMG LLP will not sponsor applicants for U.S. work visa status for this opportunity (no sponsorship is available for H-1B, L-1, TN, O-1, E-3, H-1B1, F-1, J-1, OPT, CPT or any other employment-based visa)
KPMG LLP and its subsidiaries (“KPMG”) complies with all local/state regulations regarding displaying salary ranges. If required, the ranges displayed below or via the URL below are specifically for those potential hires who will work in the location(s) listed. Any offered salary is determined based on relevant factors such as applicant's skills, job responsibilities, prior relevant experience, certain degrees and certifications and market considerations. In addition, KPMG is proud to offer a comprehensive, competitive benefits package, with options designed to help you make the best decisions for yourself, your family, and your lifestyle. Available benefits are based on eligibility. Our Total Rewards package includes a variety of medical and dental plans, vision coverage, disability and life insurance, 401(k) plans, and a robust suite of personal well-being benefits to support your mental health. Depending on job classification, standard work hours, and years of service, KPMG provides Personal Time Off per fiscal year. Additionally, each year KPMG publishes a calendar of holidays to be observed during the year and provides eligible employees two breaks each year where employees will not be required to use Personal Time Off; one is at year end and the other is around the July 4th holiday. Additional details about our benefits can be found towards the bottom of our KPMG US Careers site at Benefits & How We Work.

Follow this link to obtain salary ranges by city outside of CA: 
https://kpmg.com/us/en/how-we-work/pay-transparency.html/?id=M154ADV_3_26 California Salary Range: $103265 - $206540
KPMG offers a comprehensive compensation and benefits package. KPMG is an equal opportunity employer. KPMG complies with all applicable federal, state and local laws regarding recruitment and hiring. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status, disability, protected veteran status, or any other category protected by applicable federal, state or local laws. The attached link contains further information regarding KPMG's compliance with federal, state and local recruitment and hiring laws. No phone calls or agencies please.

KPMG recruits on a rolling basis. Candidates are considered as they apply, until the opportunity is filled. Candidates are encouraged to apply expeditiously to any role(s) for which they are qualified that is also of interest to them. 

Los Angeles County applicants: Material job duties for this position are listed above. Criminal history may have a direct, adverse, and negative relationship with some of the material job duties of this position. These include the duties and responsibilities listed above, as well as the abilities to adhere to company policies, exercise sound judgment, effectively manage stress and work safely and respectfully with others, exhibit trustworthiness, and safeguard business operations and company reputation. Pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act, Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

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