Senior Associate/Digital Forensics (Forensic Services practice)

Charles River Associates; Oakland (CA); Hybrid; USD 130,000 - 152,500; Full time

Job summary

Charles River Associates (CRA) is seeking a Senior Associate for our Forensic Services practice to lead data collection, forensic analysis, and investigations across MacOS, Windows, and Linux environments.

The role requires 5–7+ years in digital forensics, a related degree, strong leadership, and willingness to travel. You will supervise teams, support business development, and ensure high-quality results for clients.

Qualifications

• 5-7+ years in digital forensics, cyber intrusion investigation, or incident response.
• Degree(s) in a related field (Bachelor’s or Master’s).
• Experience investigating MacOS artifacts and other platforms.
• Proven leadership of project teams and data analytics engagements.
• Knowledge of computer hardware, networks, and IT security.

Responsibilities

• Perform onsite data collection and triage of devices.
• Document chain of custody and data intake procedures.
• Perform forensic analysis of MacOS artifacts and related data.
• Investigate misappropriation across OS, including iCloud data and cloud storage.
• Remediate data by securely removing it from file systems and data platforms.
• Conduct mobile device extractions and examinations to identify user actions.
• Use forensic tools to examine file systems (APFS, HFS+, NTFS, etc.).
• Serve as primary client contact for data collection activities.
• Lead quality assurance and oversee team work product.
• Assist with recruitment and training efforts.

Skills

Digital forensics

Incident response

Team leadership

Data analytics

MacOS forensics

Windows/Linux forensics

Networking knowledge

Travel willingness

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a related field

Tools

Forensic software knowledge

APFS/HFS+ analysis

iOS/macOS data extraction tools

Job description

About Charles River Associates

CRA is a leading global consulting firm that provides independent economic and financial analysis behind litigation matters, guides businesses through critical strategy and operational issues to become more profitable, and advises governments on the economic impact of policies and regulations. Our two main services – economic and management consulting – are delivered by practice groups that focus on specific areas of expertise or industries. Click here to learn how CRA can help youlaunchyour career.

Position Overview

CRA’sForensic Servicespractice supports companies’ commitment to integrity by assisting them and their counsel in independently responding to allegations of fraud, waste, abuse, misconduct, and non-compliance. We are noted for deploying cross-trained teams of forensic professionals to assist our clients in gaining deeper insights and greater value more quickly. We provide accounting and forensic services as well as cybercrime investigation services.

As an experienced leader in the forensic & cyber investigations space, your responsibilities as a Senior Associate may include (but are not limited to):

• Performing onsite data collection and/or triage of MacOS, iOS, Android, Windows, and Linux devices;
• Executing chain of custody documentation and performing other data intake procedures;
• Performing forensic analysis MacOS related artifacts such as plists, unified logs, FS Events, spotlight metadata, etc.;
• Conducting misappropriation of trade secret investigations across operating systems, but particularly with regards to MacOS system, by investigating the retention or exfiltration of data through iCloud (and other cloud-based storage), AirDrop, USB devices, or other means.
• Remediating data by securely removing it from multiple file systems and data platforms;
• Conducting mobile device extractions (including full file system extractions) and associated forensic examinations to identify user actions including the deletion of text messages;
• Use open-source and commercial tools to examine APFS, HFS+ FAT, NTFS, and other file systems.
• Serving as primary point of contact for clients on data collection activities;
• Supervising project team execution by leading quality assurance efforts and overseeing work product;
• Improving the ability of the team to conduct investigations by writing code, evaluating commercial software, and implementing new processes;
• Creating, leading, and maintaining leveraged team environment that is positioned for continued success and expansion by actively recruiting and retaining employees, and managing team morale;
• Participating in and leading business development efforts by building relationships with current and potential clients, drafting and presenting proposals, participating in pitches, and demonstrating firm capabilities to potential clients;
• Assist with team recruiting and training efforts as needed.

Desired Qualifications

• 5-7+ years of experience in digital forensics, cyber intrusion investigation, or incident response analysis.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a related field.
• Training, certifications, or working experience investigating MacOS forensic artifacts such as plists, unified logs, FS Events, spotlight metadata, etc.
• Deep knowledge of Mac OS, Windows, and Linux operating systems, and APFS, HFS+, FAT, and NTFS file systems.
• Working knowledge of open-source and commercial forensic software products, particularly those focused on MacOS and iOS analysis.
• Ability to effectively lead teams, prioritize multiple projects and meet timely deadlines.
• Experience leading data analytics engagements and managing the execution of technology-based best practices.
• Working knowledge of computer hardware components, operating systems, file systems, computer networks, e-mail systems, mobile devices, IT security or incident response.
• Deep knowledge of networking (TCP/IP, design, traffic flow, protocols, sessions), operating systems (Windows / *nix) and web technologies.
• Willing and able to travel for client projects.

Work Location Flexibility

CRA creates a work environment that enables our colleagues to benefit from being together in the office to best deliver on our promise of career growth, mentorship and inclusivity. At the same time, we recognize that individuals realize a range of benefits when working from home periodically. We currently expect that individuals spend at least 3 to 4 days a week working in the office (which may include traveling to another CRA office or to client meetings), with specific days determined in coordination with your practice or team.

Our Commitment to Equal Employment Opportunity

Charles River Associates is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

Salary and other compensation

A good-faith estimate of the annual base salary range for this position is $130,000 - $152,500. Stating pay within this range may vary based on factors such as education level, experience, skills, geographic location, market conditions, and other qualifications of the successful candidate. This position may be eligible for additional bonus incentive compensation.

CRA offers a comprehensive benefits package, subject to eligibility requirements, which may include: medical, dental, and vision insurance; 401(k) retirement plan with employer match; life and disability insurance; paid time off (vacation, sick leave, holidays); paid parental leave; wellness programs and employee assistance resources; and commuter benefits.