Digital Forensics Analyst

Under general supervision, the Digital Forensic Analyst performs complex technical duties related to the identification, analysis, preservation, and management of digital evidence. This includes utilizing forensic tools and investigative methods to find, examine, and safeguard digital data, as well as researching, classifying, retaining, downloading, converting, exporting, reviewing, sharing, redacting, and disseminating police digital records. The role ensures all handling of digital evidence adheres to lawful guidelines, established procedures, and required deadlines, including responses to requests from citizens and other law enforcement or governmental agencies.

• Manage and process digital evidence from body-worn cameras, dash cameras, surveillance systems, mobile devices, DVRs, vehicle infotainment systems, and other digital sources.
•  Research, download, convert, export, organize, and tag digital evidence according to department policies and legal requirements.
•  Prioritize and fulfill incoming digital evidence requests from internal staff, citizens, and outside agencies.
•  Ensure proper retention, categorization, and documentation of all digital media.
•  Redact audio and video files using specialized software and release digital media in compliance with applicable laws and department procedures.
•  Coordinate with the Property and Evidence Unit to obtain, duplicate, and secure evidence while maintaining chain-of-custody standards.
•  Respond to crime scenes as needed to collect, recover, and preserve digital evidence.
•  Examine and analyze digital evidence using current forensic tools in accordance with warrants, court orders, and documentation requirements.
•  Prepare clear and accurate reports summarizing forensic examinations and findings and testify in court when required.
•  Manage multiple investigations and devices simultaneously, prioritizing tasks based on urgency and complexity.
•  Enter and maintain statistical data for required monthly, quarterly, and annual reports.
•  Assist with training personnel and partner agencies in digital evidence procedures and best practices.
•  Present technical information in a clear manner for non-technical audiences.
•  Review potentially graphic digital material and analyze information to develop logical conclusions.
•  Maintain current knowledge of laws, digital forensic practices, tools, and industry standards.
• Appear in court and other legal proceedings to present and explain digital evidence collection techniques, forensic examination processes, and investigative findings.

Formal Education: Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, computer science, or closely related field.
Relatable Work Experience: 4 years of related work experience.
Training, Licenses, and Certifications: Valid Class C Texas driver’s license.
Preferred Qualifications: Certifications in current forensic software such as CelleBrite, AMPTED5, Forensic Explore, IEF, Axiom, GrayKey, DVR Examiner, or iVe Berla.

Disclaimer: Unless otherwise stated, applicants are permitted to substitute two years of related full-time experience for one year of higher education or one year of related higher education for two years of experience in order to meet the minimum requirements of the job. One year of full-time experience is defined as 30 or more hours worked per week for 12 months. One year of higher education is defined as 30 credit hours completed at an accredited college or university.Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Needed:

• Knowledge of principles and practices of emergency management and disaster preparedness.
• Intermediate to advanced working knowledge of computer technology, Microsoft Office products, various audio/video editing software and techniques.
• Knowledge of state and federal laws related to records management, Public Information Act, and Local  Government Records Retention Schedules.
• Skill in compiling and analyzing confidential reports and files. 
• Skill in performing a variety of technical duties.  
• Skill in recording and organizing data.
• Skill in applying established procedures for disseminating records.
• Skill in communicating effectively and courteously with the public, other city employees and other agencies by oral and written means.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team to accomplish common goals.
• Ability to exercise good judgment in maintaining the confidentiality of critical and sensitive information, digital evidence, records, and reports.
• Ability to use sound judgment in following and applying pertinent laws, regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Ability to produce quality, accurate work and utilize work time properly and productively.  Ability to cope with situations courteously and tactfully.

Environmental Factors and Other Physical Requirements (Work Environment):

• Subject to sitting and standing to perform essential functions in an office environment.
• Visual acuity, speech, and hearing; hand and eye coordination, and manual dexterity necessary to operate office equipment.
• Regularly scheduled for a 5-day, 40-hour workweek, Monday through Friday, required to work extended hours and attend night meetings and conferences.