Wright County Sheriff’s Office – Buffalo, Minnesota

Computer Forensic Investigator

Performs intermediate skilled technical work investigating routine and complex crimes in which computers or electronic media are used as the primary means to commit offenses or as an aid in the commission of a wide range of crimes. Work is performed under the limited supervision of the CID Sergeant.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable an individual with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
 
Conducts forensic examination of computers, cell phones, or other data storage devices seized with a search warrant or voluntarily surrendered.
Examines computers and media generated by computers to develop evidence and expert testimony for court.
Utilizes computerized forensic or analytical tools to prepare reports, document evidence, create charts, timelines, and link diagrams for the purpose of demonstrating illicit criminal activity or analytical findings, target relationships, time sequence events and criminal hierarchy.
Researches case backgrounds and communicates with supervisor, detectives, or other investigators to ensure case requirements are completed.
Provides expert testimony in criminal or civil court or provides deposition required on results of seizures and handling of evidence and results of analysis conducted based on detailed report findings.
Researches and studies new methods and techniques of forensics to keep up on current trends and technological advances.
Performs other duties and activities as assigned.

Education and Experience
Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information systems, computer programming, or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience equal to four years.

Special Requirements
Current certifications with TestOut,  PC Pro or  A+ are preferred.
Cellebrite Certified Operator and Cellebrite Mobile Forensics Fundamentals experience is preferred.
Continued forensic software training and collaboration with other governmental agencies to keep up with latest technology and techniques.
Must be able to pass a BCA background check.
A valid driver’s license or evidence of equivalent mobility is also required upon hire.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Extensive knowledge of computers and electronics media including experience using various forensic software packages, as well as different versions of Windows, Mac and other operating systems; working knowledge of Windows Registry and Command Line; knowledge of the processes and procedures involved in installing, configuring and testing hardware and software on workstations, peripherals and the software in a network environment; effective written and oral communication skills; verbal and written communication skills sufficient to effectively present information, prepare reports and respond to questions from a wide variety of audiences, and reading comprehension skills sufficient to read and interpret technical documents; interpersonal skills sufficient to exchange and or convey information, receive work direction, and maintain effective working relationships; ability to prepare concise and effective verbal and written reports and testimony; ability to evaluate and maintain hardware and software necessary for the performance of computer related investigations; ability to examine various operating and file systems and network communications found in diverse technology and  recover deleted, encrypted and damaged file information; ability to maintain the confidentiality of law enforcement and investigatory records and other confidential information; ability to research and study new technology and industry standards to develop operating procedures to determine techniques for acquiring and examining digital evidence stored within it; ability to work cooperatively with other staff; ability to perform all job duties in compliance with safety guidelines and with an ongoing awareness of safety practices; ability to communicate courteously and professionally while maintaining positive working relationships with others when carrying out all job functions.

This work requires the occasional exertion of up to 50 pounds of force; work regularly requires sitting and using hands to finger, handle or feel, frequently requires speaking or hearing and repetitive motions and occasionally requires standing, walking, stooping, kneeling, crouching or crawling, reaching with hands and arms and lifting; work has standard vision requirements; vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word; hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels and to receive detailed information through oral communications and/or to make fine distinctions in sound; work requires preparing and analyzing written or computer data, visual inspection involving small defects and/or small parts, using of measuring devices, assembly or fabrication of parts within arm’s length, operating machines, operating motor vehicles or equipment and observing general surroundings and activities; work occasionally requires exposure to outdoor weather conditions; work is generally in a moderately noisy location (e.g. business office, light traffic).