Digital Forensic Technician

Lexington County Sheriff's Department•Lexington, SC

20h

About The Position

The Digital Forensic Technician performs specialized technical work to collect, preserve, extract, examine, and analyze digital evidence from electronic devices and storage media in support of criminal investigations. The role uses industry-standard forensic hardware and software to recover, process, and document digital evidence while maintaining strict chain-of-custody procedures to protect the integrity and admissibility of evidence in court. This is a civilian, non-sworn position that provides technical forensic support and does not exercise sworn law enforcement authority. The technician works with investigators and prosecutors, prepares reports and evidence for investigative or court use, and may provide court testimony within established qualifications. The role also includes managing examinations and case records, maintaining forensic equipment and software, protecting confidential information, and completing required training and certifications.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Valid driver’s license.
Ability to meet departmental employment, background, confidentiality, and system-access requirements.
Ability and willingness to complete department-provided technical training and obtain and maintain required certifications within departmental timelines.

Nice To Haves

Experience using, troubleshooting, repairing, or supporting computers, mobile devices, software, or other technology; experience with data management or information technology.
Strong attention to detail, organization, dependability, integrity, and ability to handle sensitive information accurately and confidentially.
Analytical thinking, problem-solving, willingness to learn technical concepts, and ability to follow detailed procedures.
Effective written and verbal communication skills, sound time management, and ability to work independently and with a team.
Associate’s degree or higher in digital forensics, computer science, cybersecurity, information technology, criminal justice, or a related field.
Prior digital forensic training or relevant certifications, such as Cellebrite Certified Operator (CCO), Cellebrite Certified Physical Analyst (CCPA), Magnet Certified Forensic Examiner (MCFE), or comparable credentials.

Responsibilities

Receive, inventory, safeguard, and preserve electronic evidence, maintaining complete chain-of-custody and examination records.
Acquire, extract, examine, and analyze data from computers, mobile phones, tablets, storage media, gaming consoles, GPS units, smart watches, vehicle systems, and other digital devices.
Use authorized forensic hardware and software to identify and recover relevant data, including deleted or concealed information when technically feasible.
Prepare accurate, objective forensic reports documenting examination methods, findings, and limitations.
Work with investigators and prosecutors to clarify examination requests, explain findings, and prepare digital evidence for investigative or court use.
Provide court testimony regarding evidence handling, examination methods, and findings as required and within established qualifications.
Maintain assigned forensic equipment and software; protect confidential information and follow applicable legal, security, and departmental procedures.
Manage assigned examinations and case records; keep the supervisor informed of progress, technical issues, and deadlines.
Participate in department-provided training, obtain required digital forensic certifications, and maintain job-related proficiency.
Perform other related duties as assigned, consistent with the civilian responsibilities of the position.