ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Forensics Scientist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Nwis

Cyber Host Forensic Analyst III

Sterling, VA

$99K - $206K/yr

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 ...

Nightwing

Cyber Host Forensic Analyst III

Sterling, VA · On-site

$99K - $206K/yr

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 ...

Cymertek

Forensics Scripting Developer

Reston, VA · On-site

DEGREE (Level Desired) Bachelor's Degree DEGREE (Focus) Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Digital Forensics, Information Technology, Software Engineering, Data Science, Criminal Justice with a focus ...

Cymertek

Forensics Scripting Developer

Tysons, VA · On-site

DEGREE (Level Desired) Bachelor's Degree DEGREE (Focus) Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Digital Forensics, Information Technology, Software Engineering, Data Science, Criminal Justice with a focus ...

Cymertek

Forensics Scripting Developer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

DEGREE (Level Desired) Bachelor's Degree DEGREE (Focus) Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Digital Forensics, Information Technology, Software Engineering, Data Science, Criminal Justice with a focus ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsForensics Scientist JobsForensics Scientist Jobs in Virginia

Forensics Scientist information

See Virginia salary details

$36.2K

$78.7K

$136.3K

How much do forensics scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensics scientist in Virginia is $78,726.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $92,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a forensics scientist do?

A Forensics Scientist analyzes physical evidence from crime scenes to help solve criminal cases. Their work involves collecting samples, performing laboratory tests, interpreting results, and providing expert testimony in court. They may work with biological evidence like blood or DNA, chemical substances, or trace materials such as hair and fibers. Forensics Scientists play a critical role in the criminal justice system by providing scientific support to law enforcement agencies.

What are some common challenges forensics scientists face when analyzing evidence in the lab?

Forensics Scientists often encounter challenges such as handling degraded or contaminated samples, interpreting complex data, and ensuring the chain of custody is meticulously maintained. Working under tight deadlines to deliver accurate results for ongoing investigations can add pressure, especially when court dates approach. Collaboration with law enforcement, attorneys, and other specialists is frequent, requiring clear communication and documentation to ensure findings are properly understood and utilized. Attention to detail and adherence to strict protocols are crucial to prevent errors that could impact legal outcomes.

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

To thrive as a Forensics Scientist, you need a solid background in biology, chemistry, or forensic science, often supported by at least a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, analytical instruments (like GC-MS and DNA sequencers), and forensic software is essential, and certifications such as those from the American Board of Criminalistics can be advantageous. Strong attention to detail, critical thinking, and clear communication skills are crucial for analyzing evidence and presenting findings in reports or court. These skills and qualifications ensure accurate, reliable analysis that supports criminal investigations and upholds the integrity of the justice system.

What is the difference between Forensics Scientist vs Crime Scene Investigator?

AspectForensics ScientistCrime Scene Investigator
CredentialsBachelor's or master's in forensic science, chemistry, biologyHigh school diploma or associate's; specialized training
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilitiesCrime scenes, field investigations
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, private labsPolice departments, law enforcement
Primary FocusAnalyzing evidence, lab testingCollecting evidence at crime scenes

While both roles support criminal investigations, Forensics Scientists focus on laboratory analysis of evidence, whereas Crime Scene Investigators primarily gather evidence at crime scenes. Both careers require specialized training and are essential in the forensic process, but they differ in work environment and daily tasks.

What do I do as a forensic scientist?

A forensic scientist collects, analyzes, and preserves physical evidence from crime scenes to help solve crimes. They use laboratory techniques, such as DNA analysis, fingerprinting, and chemical testing, often working with specialized tools and following strict protocols. The role requires attention to detail, knowledge of scientific methods, and often certification or training in forensic science.

What jobs can I do with forensic science?

Forensics scientists can work in crime laboratories analyzing evidence such as DNA, fingerprints, and ballistics. They may also work in law enforcement agencies, medical examiner offices, or private forensic consulting, often requiring knowledge of laboratory techniques, evidence handling, and certification in forensic disciplines.

What jobs can you get in forensic science?

Forensic scientists can work in roles such as crime scene investigators, forensic analysts, laboratory technicians, and forensic pathologists. These positions involve collecting, analyzing, and presenting evidence, often requiring knowledge of laboratory techniques, forensic tools, and relevant certifications. Employment can be found in law enforcement agencies, forensic laboratories, and medical examiner offices.

What kind of jobs do forensic scientists do?

Forensic scientists analyze physical evidence from crime scenes, such as DNA, fingerprints, and blood samples, to help solve crimes. They often work in laboratories or crime labs, using scientific techniques and tools, and may collaborate with law enforcement agencies. Their work requires attention to detail, knowledge of scientific methods, and often certification in forensic science.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Forensics Scientist jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Forensics Scientist job openings:

Forensics Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensics Scientist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,726 per year, or $37.8 per hour.

Cyber Network Defense Analyst (CNDA) IV - Cloud Forensics

Argo Cyber Systems

Arlington, VA • Hybrid

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Cyber Network Defense Analyst (CNDA) - Cloud Forensics

Location: Remote / Onsite (as required)
Clearance: Active TS/SCI (DHS EOD eligibility required)
Company: Argo Cyber Systems, LLC - A Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB)

About Argo Cyber Systems

Argo Cyber Systems delivers advanced cybersecurity and threat-hunting capabilities to safeguard federal and critical infrastructure environments. Our teams provide rapid incident response, digital forensics, proactive hunt operations, and continuous cyber defense across host-based, network-based, and cloud-based systems. We combine mission experience with innovation-empowering our customers to detect, disrupt, and defeat adversaries in real time.

Position Overview

Argo Cyber Systems is seeking Cyber Network Defense Analysts (CNDA) with deep Cloud Forensics expertise to support a high-visibility federal mission. The CNDA will lead advanced investigations into sophisticated intrusions across hybrid and multi-cloud environments, identifying attacker tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs), correlating artifacts, and driving containment and remediation actions in partnership with government cyber teams.

Key Responsibilities

  • Conduct end-to-end forensic acquisition and analysis across on-premises, cloud, and hybrid environments (Azure AD/Entra ID, M365, AWS, GCP, SaaS).

  • Investigate identity-based and credential-abuse incidents targeting cloud control planes and hybrid identity infrastructure.

  • Correlate cloud telemetry (Azure Activity Logs, AWS CloudTrail, GCP Logs, VPC Flow Logs) and network evidence to reconstruct attacker timelines and validate indicators of compromise (IOCs).

  • Develop and deploy automated detection logic, threat-hunting scripts, and analytical playbooks using Microsoft Sentinel, Defender, AWS GuardDuty, and GCP Chronicle.

  • Produce comprehensive technical and executive-level reports, integrating findings across endpoints, networks, and cloud assets to inform threat containment and strategic recommendations.

  • Support continuous improvement of incident response procedures, forensics workflows, and threat-hunting operations.

  • Collaborate with Argo and government stakeholders to triage alerts, assess risk, and strengthen enterprise detection and response posture.

Required Qualifications

  • U.S. Citizenship and active TS/SCI clearance (with ability to obtain DHS EOD Suitability).

  • Minimum 8 years of hands-on experience conducting digital forensics and incident response (DFIR).

  • Proven expertise in cloud forensics, identity security, and hybrid infrastructure defense.

  • Proficiency in M365/Azure AD, AWS IAM, and SaaS investigative methodologies.

  • Deep understanding of SaaS/PaaS/IaaS architectures, including common attack vectors and defensive measures.

  • Skilled in evidence acquisition, volatile data capture, artifact analysis, and technical reporting.

Desired Qualifications

  • Scripting and automation proficiency in PowerShell, Python, Bash, or JavaScript.

  • Familiarity with Terraform, Kubernetes, Docker, CloudFormation, or Azure Resource Manager for automation and orchestration.

  • Understanding of MITRE ATT&CK for Cloud and adversary emulation techniques.

  • Strong communication and collaboration skills for working across multidisciplinary teams.

Education

  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Computer Engineering, or a related field
    or

  • High School Diploma and 10+ years of directly relevant DFIR experience.

Preferred Certifications

  • GIAC Cloud Defender (GCLD), GCFR, GCFA, GCFE, GCIH, EnCE, CCE, CFCE, CISSP, CCSP

  • AWS and Microsoft security/cloud certifications (e.g., Azure Security Engineer, AWS Security Specialty)

Why Argo Cyber Systems

At Argo, you'll be part of a mission-driven, veteran-founded cybersecurity team protecting America's most critical systems. We combine hands-on technical excellence with operational precision to outpace the threat. Join us to defend, detect, and innovate at the cyber edge.

Apply