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Police Computer Forensics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Digital Forensics Analyst

Hickory, NC · On-site

$53K - $69K/yr

Description The Hickory Police Department seeks a skilled Digital Forensics Analyst to join our ... The ideal candidate will possess strong technical skills in mobile and computer forensics, with ...

Police Officer

Huntersville, NC · On-site

$62K - $93K/yr

Police Full Time Job Number: 202600186 Department: HUNTERSVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT Opening Date: 07 ... computer forensics, crime scene technology, and other specialized investigations. * Executes ...

POLICE DETECTIVE

Hobbs, NM

$38.52 - $51.62/hr

Knowledge and experience in working with computer forensics, ballistic comparisons, shooting ... However, a Police Officer needs to be able to actively respond to any situation in which the public ...

$62K - $93K/yr

Patrols streets in a police vehicle or on foot; develops and maintains working rapport with ... computer forensics, crime scene technology, and other specialized investigations. Executes warrants ...

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Police Computer Forensics information

See salary details

$23.5K

$94.6K

$155.5K

How much do police computer forensics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for police computer forensics in the United States is $94,574.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,000.00 and $134,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by police computer forensics professionals when handling digital evidence?

Police Computer Forensics professionals often encounter challenges such as encrypted or deleted data, rapidly evolving technology, and maintaining the integrity of digital evidence throughout the investigation. They must stay up to date with the latest tools and techniques to extract and analyze data from a variety of devices while strictly following chain-of-custody protocols. Collaborating closely with detectives, lawyers, and sometimes external agencies, they ensure that the digital evidence they uncover can be used effectively in court.

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

To thrive as a Police Computer Forensics Specialist, you need a solid background in computer science, cybersecurity, and digital evidence handling, often supported by relevant degrees and certifications like CFCE or EnCE. Familiarity with forensic analysis tools such as EnCase, FTK, and Cellebrite, as well as knowledge of legal protocols for evidence collection, is crucial. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong communication skills distinguish top professionals in this field. These skills ensure the accurate recovery and preservation of digital evidence, supporting law enforcement investigations and legal proceedings.

What is the difference between Police Computer Forensics vs Digital Forensics Specialist?

AspectPolice Computer ForensicsDigital Forensics Specialist
CredentialsCertifications like GCFA, CFCE, or EnCE often preferredSimilar certifications such as GCFA, CFCE, EnCE are common
Work EnvironmentLaw enforcement agencies, crime labs, police departmentsPrivate firms, consulting companies, law firms, government agencies
Employer & IndustryPrimarily law enforcement and criminal investigationsCorporate security, legal cases, civil investigations
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for investigative roles in law enforcementCompared for cybersecurity and civil case investigations

Police Computer Forensics focuses on criminal investigations within law enforcement, analyzing digital evidence to support criminal cases. Digital Forensics Specialist has a broader scope, including civil and corporate investigations across various industries. Both roles require similar certifications and technical skills, but their work environments and primary objectives differ.

How to get into police computer forensics for law enforcement?

To become a police computer forensics specialist, candidates typically need a background in criminal justice, cybersecurity, or computer science, along with knowledge of digital evidence handling and forensic tools like EnCase or FTK. Relevant certifications such as Certified Computer Forensics Examiner (CCFE) or EnCase Certified Examiner (EnCE) can improve job prospects. Law enforcement agencies often require applicants to pass background checks and complete specialized training in digital forensics.

What is police computer forensics?

Police Computer Forensics refers to the specialized field within law enforcement that involves recovering, analyzing, and preserving digital evidence from computers and electronic devices. Forensic analysts in this role help investigate crimes such as cybercrimes, fraud, and data breaches by examining digital footprints and recovering deleted or encrypted information. Their findings are often used to support criminal investigations and can be presented as evidence in court. Police computer forensic experts must follow strict protocols to ensure the integrity and admissibility of digital evidence.
More about Police Computer Forensics jobs
What cities are hiring for Police Computer Forensics jobs? Cities with the most Police Computer Forensics job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Police Computer Forensics jobs? The most popular types of Police Computer Forensics jobs are:
What states have the most Police Computer Forensics jobs? States with the most job openings for Police Computer Forensics jobs include:
Infographic showing various Police Computer Forensics job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,574 per year, or $45.5 per hour.

Digital Forensics Analyst

City of Hickory

Hickory, NC • On-site

$53K - $69K/yr

Other

Posted 20 days ago


City Of Hickory rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

309th of 841 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description The Hickory Police Department seeks a skilled Digital Forensics Analyst to join our established forensics unit. Working under the guidance of the Digital Forensics Unit Manager, this position will support criminal investigations through digital evidence acquisition, preservation, analysis, and reporting. The ideal candidate will possess strong technical skills in mobile and computer forensics, with additional knowledge in call data record analysis and video forensics being highly desirable.

PLEASE NOTE: Applicants must meet the City criteria for an acceptable driving record. Salary depends on experience Major Duties Assist in the acquisition, preservation, and analysis of digital evidence from computers, mobile devices, storage media, and other digital sources. Maintain proper chain of custody documentation for all digital evidence.

Process and analyze digital evidence using industry-standard forensic tools and methodologies. Prepare detailed technical reports documenting findings for investigators and court proceedings. Support testimony preparation for court cases when required.

Participate in on-scene digital evidence collection when necessary. Keep current with emerging technologies, tools, and methodologies in digital forensics. Assist in maintaining forensic workstations and laboratory equipment.

Support training initiatives for law enforcement personnel on proper digital evidence handling procedures. Maintain digital evidence storage systems and adhere to standard operating procedures. Knowledge and Qualifications Associate's degree or higher in Computer Science, Digital Forensics, Cybersecurity, or related field.

One or more entry industry certifications such as ACE, CCPA, CCO, CASA, A+, Network+, or similar. Strong understanding of computer hardware, operating systems (Windows, Linux), and file systems (FAT, NTFS, EXT). Proficiency with digital forensic tools including one or more of the following: Forensic Toolkit (FTK), X-Ways, Axiom, PRTK, or similar tools.

Experience with mobile forensic tools such as Cellebrite/Inseyets/Premium, or similar platforms. Knowledge of proper evidence handling procedures and chain of custody requirements. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with ability to explain technical concepts clearly. Ability to work in a team environment and handle sensitive information with discretion. Preferred Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Digital Forensics, Cybersecurity, or related field.

One or more advanced industry certifications such as GASF, CCE, GCFE, CCME or similar. Experience with call data record analysis tools such as TraX by ZetX. Knowledge of video forensics software (Axon Investigate, Amped 5, Ocean Systems dTective).

Experience with Axon Body Worn Camera systems and evidence.com platform management. Experience with law enforcement operations or criminal investigations. Previous experience testifying in court as a technical witness

Military or security clearance background. Physical Requirements Ability to lift up to 50 pounds (computer equipment and evidence). May require occasional travel for on-scene evidence collection.

Ability to work extended hours during critical investigations and be on-call for emergency responses. Ability to work in various environmental conditions during field evidence collection. Supplemental Information Special Requirements Must pass extensive background check suitable for federal task force assignment.

Security clearance eligibility required; active clearance preferred. Valid driver's license with clean driving record. Availability for after-hours and weekend emergency responses.

The Hickory Police Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in our workforce.


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