Digital Media Forensics SME

Description

Digital Media Forensics Subject Matter Expert (SME)

Leidos - Defense Sector

Location - Fort Meade MD

Leidos is seeking an accomplished Digital Media Forensics SME to join our high‑performing team supporting critical national security missions. In this role, you will apply deep technical expertise, investigative acumen, and operational judgment to drive complex forensic examinations and strengthen the nation's cyber defense posture. This position is ideal for a seasoned professional who thrives at the intersection of digital forensics, cyber operations, and mission‑focused innovation.

• Conduct full‑spectrum digital media forensic examinations, including onsite and offsite evidence acquisition, imaging, analysis, and reporting.
• Ensure strict adherence to chain‑of‑custody procedures and all applicable rules of evidence.
• Provide expert operational security assessments and support cyber forensic and cybersecurity activities across diverse mission environments.

• Research, evaluate, and integrate emerging forensic technologies, tools, and methodologies.
• Design and deploy advanced forensic workflows to enhance investigative effectiveness and mission readiness.
• Lead the development of new capabilities to address evolving threats and digital exploitation challenges.

• Develop, deliver, and lead training events for government and mission partners.
• Mentor junior analysts and contribute to the growth of organizational forensic expertise.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to support complex investigations and multi‑agency operations.

Candidates must meet one of the following experience pathways, with recent experience (within the last 2 years) in digital forensics:

• High School Diploma +
  20 years of relevant experience
• Associate's Degree +
  17 years of relevant experience
• Bachelor's or Master's Degree +
  15 years of relevant experience

To be considered, candidates must possess:

• DoD Certified Digital Forensic Examiner (DFE)
• Minimum 2 years of host‑based forensic experience
• At least one additional digital forensic certification, such as:
  • Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE)
  • GIAC Certified Forensic Examiner (GCFE)
  • EnCase Certified Examiner
• Minimum 2 years of mobile device forensics experience

• Current Top Secret SCI security clearance.
• If required; successful pass a polygraph after being hired.

• Proven ability to perform complex forensic examinations in high‑stakes environments
• Strong understanding of digital evidence handling, exploitation techniques, and investigative workflows
• Ability to communicate technical findings clearly to both technical and nontechnical audiences
• Commitment to mission, integrity, and excellence in support of national security operations

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo – because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail.

Leidos is an industry and technology leader serving government and commercial customers with smarter, more efficient digital and mission innovations. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, with 47,000 global employees, Leidos reported annual revenues of approximately $16.7 billion for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2025. For more information, visit

Pay and benefits are fundamental to any career decision. That's why we craft compensation packages that reflect the importance of the work we do for our customers. Employment benefits include competitive compensation, Health and Wellness programs, Income Protection, Paid Leave and Retirement. More details are available at

Beware of fake employment opportunities using Leidos' name. Leidos will never ask you to provide payment‑related information during any part of the employment application process (i.e., ask you for money), nor will Leidos ever advance money as part of the hiring process (i.e., send you a…