Forensics Engineer

Mackin Talent; Fremont (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Mackin Talent is seeking a Senior Lab Engineer to lead hands-on forensic analysis, hardware testing, and lab operations in Fremont. The role blends deep electronics expertise with forensic methodology, AI-augmented workflows, and quality systems.

You will mentor engineers, drive investigations end-to-end, and contribute to automation tool development, with strong documentation and cross-functional collaboration.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or closely related field.
• 5+ years hands-on lab/bench experience with electronic test equipment.
• Proficiency with oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, RSA, power supplies, multimeters, X-ray systems.
• Forensic teardown, debugging, and root-cause analysis experience.
• Strong technical writing for SOPs and investigation reports.
• Forensic methodology and chain-of-custody knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Lead known and unknown device investigations from intake through final resolution.
• Document teardown procedures, chain-of-custody, and findings with precision.
• Operate and maintain a range of test and characterization equipment.
• Collaborate on AI/ML tool development to enhance workflows.
• Mentor junior engineers and train lab technicians.
• Present findings clearly to stakeholders and cross-functional teams.

Skills

Hands-on lab/bench work

Technical writing

Cross-functional collaboration

Mentoring/leadership

Forensic methodology

Automation scripting

Education

Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering

PhD candidates favored

Forensic Science related degree

Tools

Oscilloscopes

Spectrum analyzers

RSA (Real-Time Spectrum Analyzers)

X-ray systems

JetEdge

PyVISA

Job description

We are seeking a Senior Lab Engineer to lead hands-on forensic analysis, hardware testing, and lab operations. This role combines deep electronics expertise with forensic investigation methodology, AI-augmented workflows, and quality management systems. The ideal candidate brings senior-level bench skills, can mentor junior engineers, drive end-to-end investigations, and contribute to automation/AI tool development.

Key Responsibilities

Forensic Investigation & Device Analysis

• Lead known and unknown device investigations from intake through final resolution.
• Perform device teardown, disassembly/reassembly, component identification, and root-cause/failure analysis.
• Conduct chip decapping and die-level inspection using chemical and mechanical methods.
• Document teardown procedures, chain-of-custody, and findings with forensic-grade precision.
• Support brand protection investigations and threat assessments.

Hardware Testing & Characterization

• Operate and maintain oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, Real-Time Spectrum Analyzers (RSA), X-ray systems, and specialized forensic instruments (e.g., JetEdge).
• Perform I-V characterization, RF testing, signal integrity analysis, and power measurement on electronic devices.
• Conduct board-level and system-level analysis using cutting-edge test and characterization techniques.
• Manage device baselining activities for new and emerging hardware platforms.

Lab Operations & Quality

• Maintain : SOPs, calibration schedules, document control, and audit readiness.
• Track test devices and evidence from initial intake through final disposition.
• Manage lab inventory, procurement of supplies/equipment, and EHS compliance (fume hood operations, chemical handling).
• Configure, calibrate, and maintain electronic test instruments to manufacturer specifications.

Automation & AI Integration

• Collaborate on AI/ML tool development to enhance forensic workflows (image recognition, IC identification, device classification).
• Train and provide technical guidance to lab technicians and junior team members.
• Support cross-functional teams with forensic expertise.
• Assist software teams by locating critical data within device file systems.
• Present findings and recommendations to stakeholders clearly and concisely.

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering (PhD candidates are favorable), Electronics, Forensic Science, or closely related field.
• 5+ years hands-on lab/bench experience with electronic test equipment ( 3+ plus year for Phd candidates).
• Proficiency with oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, RSA, power supplies, multimeters, X-ray systems.
• Demonstrated ability to perform device teardowns, component-level debugging, and root-cause analysis.
• Strong technical writing — SOPs, investigation reports, test procedures.
• Forensic Methodology: Understanding of evidence handling, chain-of-custody, and forensic lab investigation principles.
• Excellent verbal and written skills; ability to explain technical findings to non-technical stakeholders.
• Proven ability to work in collaborative, cross-functional environments.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in EE, Computer Science, or Forensic Science (PhD candidates are favorable).
• Python/Automation: 3+ years scripting for lab automation (PyVISA, instrument control, data analysis).
• Familiarity with AI/ML frameworks (training, inference, evaluation) or willingness to learn
• Experience with RF testing, antenna characterization, or wireless protocol analysis
• Chemical Processes.
• Familiarity with chip decapping (acid/base processes), proper PPE and fume hood protocols.
• End-to-end project management of technical investigations.