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Forensics Analyst Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

$86 - $171/hr

This position combines handsโ€‘on forensic analysis, client-facing responsibilities, project leadership, and continuous professional growth to deliver highโ€‘quality investigative outcomes in ...

Security Engineer

Burbank, CA ยท On-site

$70 - $80/hr

GIAC Network Forensics Analyst (GNFA) * Offensive Security certifications (OSCP, OSCE, or similar) * Other relevant cybersecurity certification #SNIT

... forensic specialists and technical consultants who clarify complex events, strengthen business ... You will collect and analyze scientific findings, including principal directions of force, changes ...

Forensics Accounting Director

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$180K - $380K/yr

Applies results of data analysis processes with knowledge of financial and emerging management ... years of forensic accounting/fraud investigation and contract compliance experience required ...

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Showing results 21-40

Forensics Analyst information

See California salary details

$44.4K

$85.3K

$132.2K

How much do forensics analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensics analyst in California is $85,342.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,100.00 and $99,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do forensic analysts get paid a lot?

Forensic analysts typically earn a median salary that is competitive within the criminal justice and cybersecurity fields, with salaries varying based on experience, education, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced analysts with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Overall, the salary reflects the technical expertise and analytical skills required for the role.

What are some common challenges a forensics analyst faces when collecting digital evidence, and how can these be managed?

Forensics Analysts often encounter obstacles such as encrypted files, damaged storage devices, or anti-forensic techniques used to hide or alter evidence. Managing these challenges involves staying current with forensic tools and methodologies, collaborating with IT and legal teams, and following strict chain-of-custody protocols to preserve evidence integrity. Analysts must also document every step meticulously to ensure findings are admissible in legal proceedings.

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

To thrive as a Forensics Analyst, you need a strong background in computer science, digital investigations, and evidence handling, often supported by a relevant degree and industry certifications like GCFA or EnCE. Proficiency with forensic tools such as EnCase, FTK, and Cellebrite, as well as knowledge of operating systems and network protocols, is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are essential soft skills for interpreting complex data and presenting findings. These skills are crucial to accurately uncover digital evidence, ensure legal compliance, and support criminal or corporate investigations.

How do you become a forensic analyst?

To become a forensic analyst, typically a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field is required. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in laboratory techniques and evidence analysis, and obtaining certifications such as the Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE) can enhance job prospects.

What is the difference between Forensics Analyst vs Cybersecurity Analyst?

AspectForensics AnalystCybersecurity Analyst
Required CredentialsCertifications like GCFA, GCFE, EnCECertifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEH
Work EnvironmentInvestigative labs, law enforcement agencies, legal settingsIT departments, security operations centers, corporate networks
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement, legal firms, government agenciesPrivate companies, tech firms, financial institutions
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding investigative roles in digital forensicsUnderstanding cybersecurity roles in protecting digital assets

While both roles focus on digital security, Forensics Analysts specialize in investigating cybercrimes and analyzing digital evidence, often working with law enforcement. Cybersecurity Analysts focus on protecting systems from attacks and vulnerabilities, working primarily within IT security teams. The roles overlap in technical skills and certifications but differ in their primary objectives and work environments.

What does a forensics analyst do?

A Forensics Analyst is a professional who investigates and analyzes evidence from crime scenes or digital sources to help solve criminal cases. They may work with physical evidence, such as fingerprints and biological samples, or digital evidence, like data from computers and mobile devices. Their work involves collecting, preserving, and interpreting evidence to support law enforcement investigations and court proceedings. Forensic analysts often prepare reports and may testify as expert witnesses in court. Their expertise is crucial in ensuring that evidence is handled properly and can be used effectively in legal cases.

Is a forensic analyst a good career?

A forensic analyst is a career that involves analyzing evidence from crime scenes using scientific methods and tools. It offers opportunities in law enforcement, private labs, and cybersecurity, often requiring certifications and strong attention to detail. The field can be stable and rewarding for those interested in criminal justice and scientific investigation.
Infographic showing various Forensics Analyst job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $85,342 per year, or $41 per hour.

Computer Specialist Network and Digital Forensics Examiner (San Diego)

Longeviti LLC

San Diego, CA โ€ข On-site

$145K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Longeviti LLC is searching for a Digital Forensic Examiner with an active TS clearance and SCI eligibility to support NCIS in Camp Pendleton, CA. Candidates must have certification in DCITA DoD Digital Forensic Examiner or FBI Computer Analysis Response Team (CART) and five (5) or more years of experience using Cellebrite UFED4PC/Physical Analyzer, proficiency in FTK, and/or OSForensics.

DESCRIPTION:

Provide detailed forensic examinations for NCIS cases when computers or other digital media are instruments of crime, DoN computer networks are victims, or when computers or other digital media is used to store data of evidentiary or intelligence value. Additionally, serve as SME and testify in court proceedings, test new network-based investigative tools and network monitoring technologies, and provide informal on-the-job training to government staff as needed.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Conduct complex and high-profile, non-destructive evaluations of target computer systems to determine operating and file systems, stored information, user and program logs, ownership, and access methodology, as well as security features and usage
  • Provide detailed forensic examinations for NCIS cases
  • Document artifacts and deliverables according to standardized formats and approved templates created through collaboration with NCIS Divisions
  • Follow NCIS organizational policies and procedures
  • Work in a team environment to provide forensic support via active engagement with Cyber-Referent agents
  • Liaison between NCIS agents in the field and NCIS analysts at NCISHQ
  • Collect and preserve critical evidence from large data sets
  • Conduct intrusion identification
  • Write SQL queries to verify/retrieve data
  • Perform log analysis in support of NCIS investigations
  • Conduct forensic extraction and analysis of data and electronic evidence from seized digital media
  • Analyze computer network security settings, server, system, router, firewall, intrusion detection system (IDS) and intrusion prevention system (IPS) logs and packet capture data
  • Assist the NCIS Special Agent as a technical consultant, ensuring that the data is seized in compliance with computer forensic standards and in compliance with chain of custody guidelines
  • Serve as a subject matter expert (SME) and testify in court proceedings regarding forensic procedures utilized to acquire evidence and the description of any evidence obtained
  • Analyze and test network monitoring technologies
  • Test and assess new commercial and government-developed network-based investigative tools for reviewing and improving NCIS' current collection platforms
  • Evaluate and implement new technologies to support the improvement and modernization of the NCIS criminal and intelligence capabilities regarding the gathering digital evidence
  • Provide emergent forensic response support to internal and external surge requirements
  • Configure, install, and maintain Network Intrusion Detection systems and Network Forensic Analysis Tools on locally configured networks

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES, COMPETENCIES:

  • Minimum of five years digital forensics experience using Cellebrite UFED4PC/Physical Analyzer. Proficiency with FTK, and/or OSForensics.
  • Expertise with various computer operating systems to include Windows, Linux/Unix, and Macintosh OS.
  • Expertise with a variety of computer hardware to include servers, workstations, desktops, laptops, networking equipment, tablets and cellphones.
  • Full understanding of proper forensic data collection procedures, chain of custody, and documentation procedures in a law enforcement environment.
  • SANS FOR 500 and SANS FOR 585
  • Cellebrite CCO and CCPA.
  • Strong documentation skills.
  • Ability to testify as an expert witness in judicial proceedings.
  • Proficient in information security, information assurance, information technology, and cyber defense best practices and principles.

CERTIFICATIONS OR TRAINING REQUIRED:

  • DCITA DoD Digital Forensic Examiner or FBI Computer Analysis Response Team (CART) certification.

SECURITY CLEARANCE:

  • This position requires the person(s) to be eligible AND adjudicated to Top Secret (TS SCI) clearance level at contract start.

EDUCATION:

  • Minimum of a Bachelor's Degree in a Computer Science-related field or five years of equivalent work experience.

SALARY RANGE:

  • $135,0000 USD - $145,000 USD. However, Longeviti considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidates work experience, education/training, and key skills.

SAFETY and HEALTH
Longeviti, LLC, as the employer, herein notifies each employee candidate and hired employee of the enterprise-wide employee requirement to follow and adhere to all Longeviti Occupational Safety, Health, and Environmental (LOSH)-E controls, policies, procedures, standards, rules, regulations, orders, and guidelines as a condition of employment (herein referred to as safety controls) as directed by Longeviti, LLC supervision, management, and administration.

BENEFITS
Longeviti offers a comprehensive and generous benefits package. The Longeviti benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision insurance for the employee and/or their families. Longeviti also includes basic life insurance which includes AD&D plus short- and long-term disability for the employee. Employees may elect to enroll in our companys 401k plan. Employees will also accrue paid time off and holidays. Additional voluntary elections include legal coverage, supplemental accident, critical illness and hospital insurance plans, and commuter benefits.

ABOUT LONGEVITI
Longeviti, LLC is a government contractor specializing in providing professional support services in the fields of information technology, program management, agency administration, and intelligence analysis.

We are a certified 8(a) and small disadvantaged business that excels in the market having earned our status as an ISO 9001 certified provider of services and are rated as CMMI Level 3 Services. Quality and continuous improvement are basic tenets of the organization and giving our staff the tools to make it happen are a trademark. Customer satisfaction is paramount.

Longeviti, LLC is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. Longeviti is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.