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Forensics Analyst Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

CME Group

Cyber Defense Response Analyst II

Chicago, IL

$93K - $156K/yr

Digital Forensics and Incident Response: Drive the full incident response lifecycle from initial ... SIEM/Data Analysis : 2+ years of experience with Q Radar, Sentinel, Splunk, Chronicle, ArcSight, or ...

CME Group

Cyber Defense Response Analyst II

Chicago, IL · On-site

$93K - $156K/yr

Digital Forensics and Incident Response: Drive the full incident response lifecycle from initial ... SIEM/Data Analysis : 2+ years of experience with Q Radar, Sentinel, Splunk, Chronicle, ArcSight, or ...

CME Group

Cyber Defense Response Analyst II

Chicago, IL · On-site

$93K - $156K/yr

Digital Forensics and Incident Response: Drive the full incident response lifecycle from initial ... SIEM/Data Analysis : 2+ years of experience with Q Radar, Sentinel, Splunk, Chronicle, ArcSight, or ...

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All JobsForensics Analyst JobsForensics Analyst Jobs in Illinois

Forensics Analyst information

See Illinois salary details

$43.6K

$83.8K

$129.8K

How much do forensics analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensics analyst in Illinois is $83,796.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,000.00 and $97,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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.

Do forensic analysts get paid a lot?

Forensic analysts typically earn a competitive salary that varies based on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start around $50,000 annually, while experienced analysts with specialized skills or certifications can earn over $80,000 or more per year.

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 qualifications do I need to be a forensic analyst?

To become a forensic analyst, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in forensic science, criminal justice, biology, chemistry, or a related field. Relevant skills include attention to detail, analytical thinking, and proficiency with laboratory equipment and digital forensics tools; some roles may require certifications such as Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE) or similar credentials.

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Forensics Analyst jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Forensics Analyst job openings:

Forensics Analyst jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensics Analyst job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,796 per year, or $40.3 per hour.

Consultative Offerings - Analyst - Forensic Analytics

Deloitte

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Deloitte rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 93 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 152 rated financial services

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