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Forensic Tech Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

CIF's digital forensics laboratory processes and examines a wide range of digital media using advanced technologies, decryption methods, and forensic tools to support the DSS mission. In this role ...

Digital Forensic Technician

Lorton, VA · On-site

$57K - $62K/yr

Providing guidance and training on emerging technology and new techniques to forensic personnel as needed. * Performing method validation/verification (review of forensic tools). * Performing ...

CIF's digital forensics laboratory processes and examines a wide range of digital media using advanced technologies, decryption methods, and forensic tools to support the DSS mission. In this role ...

Digital Forensic Examiner

Lorton, VA · On-site

$68K - $80K/yr

Providing guidance and training on emerging technology and new techniques to forensic personnel as needed. * Performing method validation/verification (review of forensic tools) * Performing ...

Providing guidance and training on emerging technology and new techniques to forensic personnel as needed. * Performing method validation/verification (review of forensic tools) * Performing ...

Conduct forensic examinations of digital data from cellphones, tablets, computers, removable media ... Strong knowledge of Windows, MacOS, Apple iOS, Android, and their associated backup technologies.

Conduct forensic examinations of digital data from cellphones, tablets, computers, removable media ... Strong knowledge of Windows, MacOS, Apple iOS, Android, and their associated backup technologies.

Digital Forensic Technician

Lorton, VA · On-site

$57K - $62K/yr

Providing guidance and training on emerging technology and new techniques to forensic personnel as needed. * Performing method validation/verification (review of forensic tools). * Performing ...

Stay abreast of new developments and trends in digital forensics, cybersecurity, forensic law, mobile devices, social media tools, mobile applications, and encryption technologies. Qualifications ...

Showing results 41-60

Forensic Tech information

See Virginia salary details

$25.3K

$60.6K

$93.7K

How much do forensic tech jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic tech 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 a forensic tech?

Forensic techs, also known as forensic science technicians, are professionals who assist in criminal investigations by collecting, analyzing, and preserving physical evidence from crime scenes. They work closely with law enforcement to document and process evidence such as fingerprints, biological samples, and digital data. Their work is crucial in helping to solve crimes, ensure the integrity of evidence, and sometimes testify in court regarding their findings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forensic tech?

To thrive as a Forensic Tech, you need a solid background in laboratory sciences, evidence handling, and crime scene investigation, often supported by a degree in forensic science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, forensic software, and chain-of-custody protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong written communication help you excel when documenting evidence and testifying in legal settings. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the integrity and admissibility of forensic evidence in criminal investigations.

What are some common challenges faced by forensic techs when processing crime scenes?

Forensic Techs often encounter challenges such as working in high-pressure environments, preserving the integrity of evidence, and meticulously documenting every step to ensure legal admissibility. They must be detail-oriented to avoid contamination and aware of chain-of-custody procedures. Additionally, Forensic Techs frequently collaborate with law enforcement and other specialists, requiring strong communication skills and adaptability to various crime scene conditions.

What is the difference between Forensic Tech vs Crime Scene Investigator?

AspectForensic TechCrime Scene Investigator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's degree; certifications like ASQ or FEPBachelor's degree often preferred; certifications like CSCSA
Work EnvironmentLaboratory settings, processing evidenceOn-site at crime scenes, outdoor and indoor environments
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, forensic labsPolice departments, law enforcement agencies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for evidence processing rolesFocuses on scene investigation

Forensic Techs primarily work in laboratories, analyzing evidence collected from crime scenes, while Crime Scene Investigators are responsible for visiting crime scenes, collecting evidence, and documenting the scene. Both roles are essential in forensic investigations but differ in work environment and specific duties.

How to get a job as a forensic tech?

To become a forensic tech, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required, with many positions favoring candidates with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, biology, or a related field. Relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory procedures, and proficiency with forensic tools and software; certifications such as the American Board of Criminalistics can enhance job prospects. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level laboratory work is also beneficial.

What degree do I need to be a forensic tech?

To become a forensic technician, a high school diploma or equivalent is the minimum requirement, but most employers prefer candidates with an associate's or bachelor's degree in forensic science, criminal justice, biology, chemistry, or a related field. Relevant skills include laboratory techniques, attention to detail, and familiarity with forensic tools and procedures.

What is the average pay for a forensic technician?

The average salary for a forensic technician in the United States is around $50,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced technicians or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Salaries can also vary based on the employer and the complexity of the cases handled.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Forensic Tech jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Forensic Tech job openings:

Infographic showing various Forensic Tech job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 10% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,631 per year, or $29.1 per hour.

Junior Digital Forensic Analyst

Arlington, VA

Peraton
IT Services • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Peraton rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

52nd of 226 rated it services


Job description

Responsibilities

Peraton is currently seeking to hire a Junior Digital Forensic Analyst to join our Federal Strategic Cyber program in the Cyber & Intelligence sector.

Location: On-site, Arlington, VA 

Role: 

  • The programs' Computer Investigations and Forensics Division (CIF) recovers and analyzes digital evidence in support of Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) criminal, cyber, and administrative investigations.
  • CIF's digital forensics laboratory processes and examines a wide range of digital media using advanced technologies, decryption methods, and forensic tools to support the DSS mission. 

In this role, you will: 

  • Solve complex investigative challenges and ensures digital evidence meets Department of Justice court-admissibility standards.
  • Conduct forensic examinations of digital data from cellphones, tablets, computers, removable media, cloud sources, and other platforms. 
  • Apply recognized scientific practices to identify, analyze, interpret, and present digital evidence for criminal, civil, and administrative matters. 
  • Perform detailed, targeted examinations in line with investigative objectives, legal process, and search warrant limitations. 
  • Use industry-standard forensic tools-such as Cellebrite (including Inseyets), Oxygen Forensic Detective, Magnet Forensics GrayKey and Axiom, Nuix, X-Ways, and similar for extraction and examination. 
  • Analyze data from various operating systems and applications, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, cloud services, and common backup formats. 
  • Produce clear, comprehensive reports that explain findings for investigators, prosecutors, and other stakeholders. 
  • Provide expert witness testimony, explaining examination procedures and technical findings to non-technical audiences in federal, state, and local proceedings. 
  • Provide on-site support during search warrant executions by identifying, collecting, packaging, documenting, and preserving digital evidence while maintaining strict chain of custody. 
  • Work closely with program leadership and peers to maintain forensically sound procedures and best practices for acquisition, analysis, and presentation of digital evidence. 
  • Conduct quality checks of artifacts to ensure accuracy, completeness, and clarity before customer delivery. 
  • Share lessons learned and emerging techniques with colleagues to enhance collective expertise. 
  • Stay current on developments in digital forensics, cybersecurity, forensic law, mobile devices and applications, social media platforms, and encryption/decryption methods.
Work environment: 
  • On-site role based in Arlington, VA.
  • Collaborative, mission-focused team environment.
  • Work may include support during time-sensitive investigative activities.
Qualifications

Minimum qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree and 1+ year of relevant experience. An additional 4 years of relevant experience without a degree. 
  • One of the following certifications, with continued certification required as a condition of employment:  
    • GIAC: GCFE or GASF 
    • IACIS: CFCE or ICMDE 
    • NCFI: BCERT or MDE 
    • DoD: CDFE 
    • OpenText: EnCE 
    • Cellebrite: CCO+CCPA or CCME 
    • Oxygen Forensics: OFC 
    • Magnet Forensics: MCFE 
    • X-Ways: XPERT 
  • Demonstrated proficiency with mobile and non-mobile forensic software tools such as Magnet Axiom, Cellebrite, and Oxygen, as well as advanced mobile extraction hardware and software. 
  • Working knowledge of Windows and macOS, Apple iOS, Android, and their associated backup technologies. 
  • Experience writing detailed, technically accurate reports that clearly communicate complex digital forensic findings to non-technical audiences. 
  • Demonstrated strong critical thinking, creativity, sound judgment, and awareness to recognize when to seek leadership guidance. 
  • Ability to collaborate effectively and professionally with leadership, peers, forensic analysts, law enforcement, prosecutors, CIF customers, and other stakeholders at all levels to deliver high quality forensic products. 
  • Willingness and ability to travel for on-scene evidence seizures, training, and/or testimony. 
  • Commitment to staying current on advancements in digital forensics, cybersecurity, forensic law, mobile technologies, social media, applications, and encryption. 
  • U.S. citizenship required. 
  • Ability to obtain an interim Secret clearance before starting.
    • Ability to obtain and maintain a final Top-Secret security clearance. 

#DSCM

Peraton Overview

Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can't be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure.

Target Salary Range$66,000 - $106,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.EEOEEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Peraton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017