Director, Digital Forensic Laboratory

Queens District Attorney's Office; New York (NY); On-site; USD 165,000 - 175,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading law enforcement agency in New York is seeking a Digital Forensic Laboratory Director to manage forensic operations and ensure the integrity of digital evidence handling. The Director will conduct forensic analyses, oversee staff, and represent the office in court. Ideal candidates will have significant experience in law enforcement and digital forensics, possessing strong leadership skills and a relevant degree. Offers competitive salary and a mission-driven work environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum ten years in law enforcement with five years in computer crime.
• Managerial experience in a relevant field is required.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the digital forensic laboratory.
• Conduct forensic examinations of digital devices.
• Provide expert testimony in court regarding forensic findings.
• Lead training programs on digital forensics and evidence handling.
• Develop and manage the laboratory’s budget and resources.

Skills

In-depth understanding of digital forensics

Strong knowledge of legal standards

Proven expertise in forensic examination

Experience managing forensic laboratories

Excellent leadership skills

Strong communication skills

Ability to manage multiple projects

Strong problem-solving abilities

Education

Baccalaureate degree in Computer Science, Criminal Justice or related field

At least ten years full-time experience in law enforcement

Two years managerial experience in Criminal Justice

Tools

Forensic software such as Cellebrite

Job description

The Office of the Queens County District Attorney (QDA) is seeking a Digital Forensic Laboratory Director to oversee the daily operations of QDA’s digital forensic laboratory, ensuring the effective, secure, and legally compliant handling of digital evidence. The Director will lead the laboratory team in providing forensic analysis, technical expertise, and specialized services in criminal investigations, cybercrime cases, and other related matters. The Director is responsible for maintaining high standards in forensic practices, ensuring adherence to legal procedures, and promoting a culture of professionalism and accountability.

The Director’s duties will include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Laboratory Management:
  • Oversee and manage the digital forensic laboratory’s operations.
  • Supervise forensic examiners, technicians, and other laboratory staff, providing guidance, training, and performance evaluations.
  • Develop and maintain laboratory policies and procedures for the processing, storage, and analysis of digital evidence.
  • Ensure the laboratory’s compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and accreditation standards.
• Forensic Analysis:
  • Conduct and oversee forensic examinations of digital devices, including computers, smartphones, and tablets.
  • Lead or consult on complex digital investigations related to cybercrimes, fraud, identity theft, child exploitation, and other criminal activities.
  • Prepare and maintain detailed reports on forensic findings, including chain of custody documentation, evidence handling procedures, and analysis results.
• Case Support and Testimony:
  • Provide expert testimony in court regarding forensic findings and the methods used in investigations, as needed.
  • Serve as a subject matter expert on digital forensics during criminal investigations and collaborate with law enforcement agencies and prosecutors to advance cases.
• Training and Development:
  • Lead training programs for laboratory staff, and other law enforcement personnel about emerging trends in digital forensics, evidence handling, and best practices.
  • Stay up to date with advancements in digital forensic tools, techniques, and legal considerations, and ensure the laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art technology.
• Budget and Resource Management:
  • Develop and manage the laboratory’s budget, ensuring the efficient allocation of resources for personnel, equipment, and technology.
  • Assess and recommend new forensic tools, software, and hardware to maintain laboratory capabilities.
• Collaboration and Reporting:
  • Foster strong working relationships with other law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and external forensic specialists to ensure the successful completion of investigations.
  • Provide regular status reports to Chief Investigator on laboratory activities, case progress, and emerging trends in digital crime.

Preferred Education and Qualification Requirements:

1. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university in Computer Science, Criminal Justice or related field and at least ten years of full-time experience in law enforcement, including at least five years of full-time experience in computer crime and two years of administrative or managerial experience in Criminal Justice or a related field.
2. Education and/or experience equivalent to “1” above. However, all candidates must have the two years of administrative or managerial experience in Criminal Justice or a related field as described in “1” above.

Certifications (Preferred):

• Certified Computer Examiner (CCE), Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE), or similar certification.

Skills:

• In-depth understanding of digital forensics, including data recovery, analysis, and reporting methodologies.
• Strong knowledge of relevant legal standards, such as evidence handling, chain of custody, and courtroom procedures.
• Proven expertise in forensic examination of computers, and mobile devices including experience with forensic software such as Cellebrite.
• Experience in managing or overseeing forensic laboratories, including knowledge of industry accreditation processes.
• Excellent leadership and personnel management skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate complex technical findings to non-technical stakeholders.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize competing demands in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.

Work Environment:

The Director will work primarily in a laboratory environment, with occasional fieldwork as needed. The position may require on-call availability for urgent investigations or case support.

Application Information:

Salary: $165,000 - $175,000; commensurate with experience.

The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual\'s sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.

To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume, by clicking the link below: