Digital Forensics Subject Matter Expert

About the Role and Organization

AnaVation LLC, based in Chantilly, Virginia, is a leader in tackling complex technical challenges for the U.S. Federal Intelligence Community. Committed to investing in exceptional people, AnaVation fosters innovation and a dynamic culture to deliver outstanding solutions that support national security missions.

Position Overview

As a senior Digital Forensics Subject Matter Expert (SME), you will provide advanced forensic expertise to federal law enforcement investigations, cybercrime cases, and operational missions. This role requires combining in-depth technical knowledge, investigative insight, and sound operational judgment to enhance forensic capabilities that support national security objectives.

You will serve as an integral member of a multidisciplinary investigative and cyber-operations team. Collaboration with forensic developers, cryptocurrency analysts, and mission engineers will be key in guiding technical decisions and elevating the forensic expertise within the team.

Your responsibilities include performing in-depth analyses using specialized forensic tools, conducting systems analysis, designing advanced workflows, and preparing thorough technical reports that fulfill investigative and legal requirements. You will also mentor investigators through challenging digital evidence situations, introduce innovative forensic methodologies, and influence the strategic direction of significant cases requiring novel forensic approaches.

This position commonly involves remote work, with occasional visits to customer or corporate offices in Washington, DC, or Northern Virginia. Candidates living outside commuting distance should specify how they will meet onsite attendance requirements. Remote work arrangements may be subject to change as directed by the customer, but remote status is currently anticipated to continue.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain strict compliance with chain-of-custody protocols, evidentiary handling, and court-admissible forensic standards.
• Provide expert technical forensic analysis to support complex investigations.
• Design and implement advanced forensic workflows to enhance investigative efficiency and mission preparedness.
• Lead development of innovative forensic tools and capabilities to counteract emerging threats and evolving adversary tactics.
• Research, assess, and integrate cutting-edge forensic technologies into operational settings.
• Prepare comprehensive forensic reports, visual aids, presentations, and investigative documentation suitable for legal and intelligence use.
• Train and mentor investigators, analysts, and mission collaborators in forensic techniques, digital evidence management, and best investigative practices.
• Develop and deliver formal training sessions for government agencies and inter-agency partners.
• Support forensic readiness efforts, capability improvement initiatives, and mission-driven innovation projects.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of five years' experience in digital forensics supporting federal investigations, incident response, and multi-agency operations, with thorough knowledge of field practices and procedures.
• Bachelor's degree in Digital Forensics, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or related discipline.
• Proficient hands-on experience in mobile and computer forensics.
• Experience conducting memory forensics, disk forensics, and malware analysis.
• Expertise in prominent forensic software such as EnCase, AXIOM, X-Ways, Cellebrite, or equivalent enterprise tools.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail and precision in handling evidence.
• Eligibility for TS/SCI security clearance required; candidates must meet DHS Entry on Duty suitability initially and subsequently obtain SCI clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Possession of at least one recognized digital forensics certification, including but not limited to CFCE, GCFE, or EnCE.
• Additional certifications such as CCME, GASF, or GCFA are advantageous.
• Experience with advanced investigative workflows, digital evidence handling, or exploitation techniques.
• Skills in automation or scripting languages like Python or PowerShell to improve forensic processes.
• Capability in integrating forensic tools or developing new investigative functions.
• Active DHS Entry on Duty suitability and Secret or higher security clearance.

Employee Benefits

• Substantial employer contribution toward medical insurance covering employees and their dependents.
• Fully company-paid dental insurance for employees and dependents.
• Complete coverage of long-term and short-term disability insurance paid by the company.
• Company-funded vision insurance for employees and their families.
• 401(k) retirement plan featuring a generous company match and immediate full vesting.
• Competitive salary package with paid leave and holidays.
• Tuition reimbursement and professional training support.
• Life insurance and accidental death & dismemberment coverage provided.

Additional Information

AnaVation is committed to equal employment opportunity, ensuring applicants receive fair consideration regardless of sex, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, or any protected characteristic under the law.