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Police Computer Forensics Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

... Managers, Forensic Case Managers, MCD Case Managers, Analytical Services Division, Team Adam ... Verify existence of police report and NCIC entry concerning missing children cases and provide ...

... Managers, Forensic Case Managers, MCD Case Managers, Analytical Services Division, Team Adam ... Verify existence of police report and NCIC entry concerning missing children cases and provide ...

Police Computer Forensics information

See Virginia salary details

$22.9K

$92K

$151.2K

How much do police computer forensics jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for police computer forensics in Virginia is $91,976.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,571.00 and $130,319.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Police Computer Forensics jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Police Computer Forensics jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Police Computer Forensics jobs in Virginia? For Police Computer Forensics jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Police Computer Forensics jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Police Computer Forensics jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Police Computer Forensics job openings in Virginia as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 5% As Needed, 58% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 23% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,976 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Investigative Assistant Intern (Unpaid)

Arlington County, VA

Arlington, VA โ€ข On-site

$43.20K - $43.80K/yr

Part-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Job Description
IMPORTANT NOTICE: Arlington County requires all applicants to thoroughly complete each section of the application, including prior job responsibilities, duties, and supplemental questions. While you may attach a resume, it will not replace a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
This is an Unpaid internship with the Police Department geared at students who have an interest in the field of Criminal Justice.
The Arlington County Police Department (ACPD) is seeking motivated, and service minded undergraduate and graduate students interested in an internship opportunity to join our team of over 460 employees who serve a diverse and engaged community by upholding the core principles of the department. A primary function of the ACPD family is the Criminal Investigation Division (CID). Our internship program consists of students who participate as Investigative Assistant Interns who provide support for the CID detectives and engage with members of the community of Arlington to provide guidance in navigating the criminal justice system. Investigative Assistant Interns will directly interact with members of CID and with Arlington County citizens.
Individuals accepted for this assignment will be immersed in a true investigative experience. The intern will work closely with the Detectives throughout the investigative process. The intern will develop strategies and make recommendations to the Detective. The Detectives will involve the intern in all phases of the investigation and treat them as colleagues.
Responsibilities
Major Job Duties:
  • Assisting detectives with investigative processes involving cases such as larcenies, harassment, assaults, and other criminal investigations;
  • Interviewing victims and witnesses and documenting investigative information in supplemental reports;
  • Assisting detectives with identifying suspects and supporting case preparation for prosecution;
  • Supporting special investigative projects and related research activities as assigned; and
  • Accompanying detectives into the field to assist at crime scenes and other investigative locations.

Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0;
  • 18 years of age or above;
  • US Citizen; and
  • Enrollment as an undergraduate or graduate student for the duration of the internship.

Desirable Qualifications: Preference may be given to applicants with one or more of the following:
  • Major: Criminal Justice, Criminology, Forensic Psychology, Forensic Science, any Law-Enforcement related programs;
  • Skills: Writing, communication, time-management/organization, computer systems (Microsoft), critical thinking;
  • Experience working with law enforcement/government; and/or
  • Desire to work in law enforcement or similar field.

Special Requirements
Background Check/Polygraph: A pre-employment criminal records check will be conducted. It will include checks of the following: criminal record, driving record, education, professional licensure, and credit history. Due to the sensitive nature of this position, candidates receiving consideration will be required to undergo a pre-employment polygraph examination. You will be required to sign a release authorizing the County to obtain your background information.
Please complete each section of the application. A resume may be attached; however, it will not substitute for a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Please do not write "see resume" as a response any section.
Additional Information
Work hours: 20 hours per week minimum, Monday - Friday, between the hours of 6:00am-10:00pm depending on scheduling and availability.
Arlington County is committed to advancing diversity, equity, access, and inclusion across all our services, activities, and programs. Learn more about our commitment.
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