Forensic Computer Analyst Job Description
Forensic computer analysts investigate computer-based crimes, and help other law enforcement professionals gather evidence for investigations. While there are formal education and training programs in computer forensics, many forensic computer analysts learn the necessary skills on the job. It can be a highly stressful career, but employment opportunities for forensic computer analysts were seen growing as computer-based crime becomes more prevalent.
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Duties
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Forensic computer analysts recover and analyze computer data for use as evidence in investigations. This may include determining how computer systems are hacked, recovering data from encrypted or deleted files and recovering email. Forensic computer analysts may aid in various types of computer-based investigations, including hacking and online scams, but they can also be helpful in murder or financial fraud investigations as well. They also help uncover terrorist communications or illegal pornography. In some cases, forensic computer analysts serve as technical or expert witnesses in court.
Education
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A degree in computer science is usually more useful for forensic computer analysts than a criminal justice degree. Many colleges and universities offer certificate programs in computer forensics, but some offer bachelor's or master's degrees in the field. The majority of forensic computer analysts learn the necessary skills while working for a law enforcement agency as either a sworn officer or a civilian computer analyst. The agencies provide training in computer forensics, so many people will begin their careers in law enforcement to learn their trade, and then move into the private sector. Forensic computer analysts must participate in continuing education courses because technology is constantly changing, and they must keep up to date on new software programs, operating systems and the latest methods of fraud detection.
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Environment
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Forensic computer analysts spend most of their time working in an office. They must attend meetings with investigators who are working the case, and are sometimes required to appear in court. Depending on the urgency of the case, forensic computer analysts may have to work irregular hours or overtime. The pressure and sensitive nature of the work can make computer forensics a stressful field.
Salary
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According to PayScale.com, a salary data website, forensic computer analysts with less than a year of experience earn an annual income between $36,641 and $54,244 as of April 2010. Those who have worked one to four years earn between $44,113 and $72,305, while those with five to nine years of experience are paid between $54,302 and $74,104 annually. Experts in the computer forensics field with more than 20 years of experience can earn up to $106,385 each year.
Employment Outlook
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The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated that employment for private detective and investigators such as forensic computer analysts would grow 22 percent from 2008 to 2018, which is a much faster rate than the average for all occupations. As online criminal activity, such as identity theft and email harassment, rises, forensic computer analysts will be needed to investigate and provide evidence for prosecution. Forensic computer analysts with advanced training should enjoy especially good job prospects.
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References
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