Associate, Digital Forensics & Cyber Risk – Disputes, Claims & Investigations

Stout • Chicago, IL

3d

About The Position

As an Associate in Stout’s Digital Forensics & Cyber Risk practice, you will conduct forensic acquisition and analysis of digital devices and data in support of investigations, incident response, and legal matters. You will work with limited supervision, produce defensible findings, and help mentor junior team members as the practice grows.

The role calls for integrity and sound judgment when handling sensitive and confidential matters, clear communication and collaboration across disciplines, and the ability to respond effectively to changing priorities. You will bring curiosity, analytical rigor, and a solutions-oriented approach to complex issues while delivering careful analysis, responsive client service, and dependable follow-through.

Stout describes its culture as grounded in Relentless Excellence® and the values of being Positive and Team-Oriented, Accountable, Committed, Relationship-Focused, Super-Responsive, and Great Communicators. The firm offers a comprehensive Total Rewards program, inclusion and belonging initiatives, professional-growth resources, flexible work schedules, and discretionary time off. The estimated annual compensation range is $74,000–$135,000, and the role is anticipated to be eligible for an annual bonus plan.

Requirements

• 2–4 years of hands-on digital forensics or incident response experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, computer science, digital forensics, or equivalent experience.
• Proficiency with at least one major forensic suite: EnCase, FTK, Magnet AXIOM, Cellebrite, or X-Ways.
• Working knowledge of Windows, macOS, and Linux file systems and artifacts.
• Understanding of evidence handling, forensic imaging, and write-blocking.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple cases.
• Integrity and sound judgment when handling sensitive, confidential matters.
• Ability to communicate clearly, collaborate across disciplines, and respond effectively to evolving priorities.

Nice To Haves

• Certifications such as GCFE, GCFA, CFCE, EnCE, ACE, or CCE.
• Mobile forensics and cloud forensics experience, including M365, Google Workspace, or AWS.
• Basic scripting skills in Python or PowerShell.
• Familiarity with memory forensics and malware triage.
• Prior experience writing expert or court-ready reports.

Responsibilities

• Acquire and preserve evidence from computers, mobile devices, cloud accounts, and removable media using forensically sound methods.
• Analyze file systems, registry artifacts, browser and email data, logs, and application data to reconstruct user activity.
• Maintain chain of custody and detailed case documentation.
• Write clear, accurate reports and summaries for technical and non-technical audiences.
• Support incident response, insider threat, fraud, and eDiscovery matters.
• Provide testimony or technical declarations when required.
• Assist in reviewing junior examiners’ work and validating tools and methods.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Total Rewards program with competitive compensation, benefits, and wellness options.
• Ongoing training and mentorship.
• Employee resource groups and clear performance feedback.
• Flexible work schedules.
• Discretionary time off policy.
• Anticipated eligibility to participate in an annual bonus plan.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level