Digital Forensic Investigator

The Digital Forensics Investigator (DFI) is a non-commissioned civilian member of the Sheriff's Office who conducts standard and advanced procedures in the collection, processing, preservation, analysis, and presentation of digital evidence to assist law enforcement in criminal and community caretaking investigations. The DFI acts as a technical expert with the Sheriff’s Office regarding Digital Forensics. Works with commissioned deputies and detectives under the guidance of Local/State/Federal laws and regulations, County policies, regulations and procedures. 

Successful applicants will have the demonstrated ability to learn and work with digital devices and operating systems. Applications are being accepted for both entry-level (DFI 1) and established (DFI 2) candidates. 

Examples of Duties:

• Conduct seizures and examinations of electronic devices including cell phones, smart phones, tablets, laptops, personal computers, and electronic data storage media to secure and recover data as evidence.
• Assist in the execution of search warrants for evidence in criminal investigations including deploying into the field to assist Law Enforcement in evidence searches and collection. Conduct on-site forensic analysis previews of digital evidence.
• Prepare detailed reports of digital evidence extractions, analyses, and investigations.
• Assist prosecuting attorneys with trial preparation and the coordinated presentation of digital evidence.
• Make court appearances as required and testify about investigations.
• Make recommendations regarding items to be seized based on search warrant specifics and relevant case law.
• Conduct and participate in internet-based investigations including but not limited to online operations regarding child exploitation, child pornography, underage prostitution, and cyberstalking.
• Learn new and emerging technologies relevant to digital forensic investigations such as peer-to-peer network operations and advanced open-source intelligence techniques.
• Develop and maintain collaborative and respectful relationships with office members, outside agencies, and others.
• Present information to community organizations regarding digital forensic investigations.
• Provide training and education for Sheriff’s Office and other public safety personnel regarding digital forensics.
• Comply with relevant laws and regulations and the policies of the Sheriff’s Office and Kittitas County.
• Ensure integrity and confidentiality of evidence by properly securing and documenting data and devices to maintain a reliable chain of custody.
• Review, analyze, and recommend updates to policies, software, or tools to improve investigative capabilities.
• Work in a manner that reflects the Mission, Vision, and Values of the Sheriff’s Office.
• Complete special project as assigned.

DFI I 

DFI II

This job description is a summary of the primary functions and expectations for this position. Additional department-related duties may be assigned as required.

Digital Forensics Investigator I Minimum Qualifications: 

• High School diploma or GED equivalent.
• US citizenship or lawful permanent resident.
• Two (2) years of work experience in a professional office environment.
• Valid Washington State Driver’s License.
• Must pass all required Civil Service examinations.
• Must possess the following certifications (or equivalents as recognized by the Sheriff), or have the ability to obtain certifications within one (1) year of hire:
  1. Cellebrite Certified Operator
  2. Cellebrite Certified Physical Analyzer
  3. Magnet Forensics Certified Graykey Examiner
• A criminal history and background check will be performed on qualified applicants. Convictions may preclude candidates from employment in certain circumstances. Factors such as relativity to the position, age at time of the offense, seriousness and nature of the violation, and evidence of rehabilitation will be taken into consideration.

Digital Forensics Investigator II Minimum Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
• US citizenship or lawful permanent resident.
• Associate’s degree in computer science or related field.
• Minimum of three (3) years of professional experience in digital forensic investigations in a criminal justice setting including demonstrated capability in the extraction of digital forensic evidence and the interpretation of such evidence in the context of criminal investigations.
• An equivalent combination of education and/or experience may be considered in lieu of education and experience requirements listed above (must be approved by the Sheriff and Civil Service Commission upon review of application).
• Valid Washington State Driver’s License.
• Must pass all required Civil Service examinations.
• Successful completion of Basic Computer Evidence Recovery Training at the US Secret Service’s National Computer Forensic Institute, or equivalent at time of hire.
• A criminal history and background check will be performed on qualified applicants. Convictions may preclude candidates from employment in certain circumstances. Factors such as relativity to the position, age at time of the offense, seriousness and nature of the violation, and evidence of rehabilitation will be taken into consideration.

This position is considered open until filled with a first review after 3/20/2025. Candidates should apply as soon as possible for optimal consideration.