Digital Forensics Investigator

Duties:

Examples of Duties

• Conducts forensic examinations of electronic evidence, including computer-related equipment, cell phones, network devices, information systems, and digital software.
• Use forensic software applications to analyze various forms of digital evidence.
• Collect, transport, label and secure evidence from crime scenes or during forensic processing.
• Works with Investigators and prosecutors in handling digital evidence and safeguarding data from potential contamination or exposure during extraction or transport.
• Prepares written reports and court presentations of forensic examination findings, and provide expert testimony as requested on the handling of digital evidence.
• Disassembles and examine computers, other hardware and related peripherals.
• Prepares and maintains needed statistical and operational logs, records, databases and other files according to agency protocols.
• Constructs computers and peripheral devices as needed to support digital forensic duties.

THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE Will have a proven track record demonstrating the following knowledge, skills and abilities:

Thorough knowledge of:

• Principles, techniques, and procedures of conducting forensic examinations of electronic devices and software.
• Design and operation of computers, other digital technology hardware and peripherals, operating system, networks, firewalls, and systems security.
• Written and spoken English.

Working knowledge of:

• Forensic software applications and utilities, and authentication technologies and processes
• Laws of arrest, search and seizure, service of legal process and the legal rights of citizens
• Evidence and court procedures
• Microsoft Office Suite software and standard office equipment.

Some knowledge of:

• Statistics, research methods, record-keeping, and databases.

Skill and Ability to:

• Work independently as a specialist in the field of digital forensics.
• Maintain cooperative relationships with co-workers, members of the public and others contacted through the course of work to include law enforcement, prosecutors and investigators with other specialties participating in investigations; respond appropriately to supervision and direction; and attend and perform duties on a regular, reliable and consistent basis.
• Work professionally at crime scenes, which may be unpleasant.
• Organize and manage time as needed to maintain well-organized files and materials according to agency protocols, and to complete projects according to agreed timelines.
• Work different hours of the day, shift work and possible on-call assignments.
• View objectionable, explicit or graphic materials.

Requirements:

Any combination of training, education and/or experience which provides the knowledge, skills and abilities and required conditions of employment is qualifying. An example of a way these requirements might be acquired is:

• Two years of comparable experience with another agency,
OR
• Associate degree (or higher), or its equivalent, in computer science or a related field from an accredited college, AND two years’ experience as a computer technician with A+ certification (industry standard certification),
OR
• Five years of experience as a computer technician, programmer or computer network technician/administrator with experience in software applications, operating systems and advanced Internet operations.


• Previous law enforcement experience preferred.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

The required conditions of employment include, but are not limited to the following:

• Possess and maintain a valid California Class C driver license at the time of appointment.
• Successfully pass and complete a thorough background investigation, which includes a polygraph examination or a voice stress analysis.
• Provide a telephone number or means by which employee can be reached.
• Perform tasks outdoors or work on uneven ground or floor surfaces while working at crime scenes.
• Be available to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and during times of disaster and/or emergency.

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