Digital Forensics Investigator

About the Opportunity

The position will remain open until filled, with the first review of applications beginning 4/27/2026. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office Investigations Division is recruiting a Digital Forensic Investigator to use specialized software and technical skills to forensically analyze computers and other digital/data storage devices such as smartphones, tablets, external drives, and cloud computing systems and applications.

The investigator works cooperatively with law enforcement, corrections, and criminal prosecution professionals during all phases of digital analysis and investigation.

The Digital Forensic Investigator uses a variety of highly specialized software and technical skills to forensically analyze computers and other digital / data storage devices such as smartphones, tablets, storage devices, and cloud computing systems and applications. The investigator works cooperatively with a variety of law enforcement, corrections, and criminal prosecution professionals during all phases of any digital analysis and investigation process.

• Principles, methods, procedures and operational characteristics of a wide variety of computer systems and digital evidence, including computer equipment, internal computer processes, operating systems, application software, utility programs, storage devices, electronic mail systems, Microsoft Office applications, Apple operating system applications, and intrusion tools.
• Information systems security, network architecture, general database concepts, document management, hardware and software troubleshooting.
• Computer forensic methodologies, protocols and tools.
• Accepted methods of digital evidence collection, evidence preservation, and chain of custody issues.
• Oregon criminal laws and procedures, including search and seizure law.

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field and at least 1 year of experience that includes digital forensic analysis; or
• Five (5) years of experience conducting digital forensic analysis and possession of related industry certifications such as Certified Computer Examiner (CCE), Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE), Certified Computer Forensic Professional (CCFP) or equivalent.
• Selected candidate must pass a post‑offer drug screen.

Selected finalist(s) must be able to pass a thorough background investigation conducted by the Sheriff's Office. The investigation typically takes 6‑8 weeks to complete. Information required includes employment, residential, financial, reference, family member, driving history, past/present drug use and/or controlled substances, and criminal history.

Washington County is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to using a merit‑based system in which recruiting, selecting, and advancing employees is based on knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Veterans may be considered for preference under the Veterans’ Preference Points system.

Reasonable accommodation is available to anyone whose specific disability prevents them from completing this application or participating in the selection process. Contact Human Resources for assistance at least 48 hours before any step in the recruitment and selection process.

Washington County offers an award‑winning benefits and wellness program and opportunities to serve a vibrant community.