Forensic Computer Specialist 1

Overview

The Ohio Narcotics Intelligence Center (ONIC) is a division of the Ohio Department of Public Safety that operates in four locations across Ohio, in Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Toledo. The ONIC offices are comprised of criminal intelligence analysts and forensic computer specialists that assist law enforcement agencies and drug task forces by providing investigative and case support and information-sharing networks that bridge traditional law enforcement and criminal justice with stakeholders across industries. ONIC leverages cutting-edge technologies and analytical techniques to detect, identify, and intercept dangerous drugs, supporting investigations in large drug seizures, organized crime, drug poisoning deaths, firearms trafficking, cryptocurrency seizures, drug-related violent crimes, and online illicit drug markets.

Responsibilities

• Utilize state vehicle to handle and transport digital evidence related to narcotics cases to law enforcement agencies and forensic labs for analysis.
• Receive, maintain, and release evidence in accordance with evidence handling procedures.
• Collect information from investigators and / or prosecutors and confer with higher-level forensic computer specialists to determine best forensic analysis strategy.
• Test computer programs according to procedural specifications, configure and maintain computer hardware for use in case work and program development.
• Resolve technical issues involving equipment connectivity and communication.
• Execute verification tests of forensic software and methods to independently validate functionality and respond to routine inquiries from staff, other agency divisions, sections, or units regarding pertinent research activities.
• Prepare reports of findings for presentation in criminal case proceedings and testify as required, including composing written findings reports, providing verbal or written testimony in court, and maintaining electronic and hard copies of evidence transfers.
• Develop and maintain records or reports documenting actions and observations to ensure proper chain of custody of physical evidence.
• Assist other forensic computer specialists with dark web and criminal activity research, analysis, and investigations, such as recovering deleted or corrupted files, password-protected or encrypted files, hidden data, preparing duplicate images of files as backup copies, and implementing tracking mechanisms pertaining to internet and network communications.
• Assist intelligence analysts and other ONIC staff in developing intelligence products, trend analysis, presentations, and other related materials.
• Attend seminars and classes for training in specialized forensic software applications, forensic analysis techniques, and other specialized areas to keep abreast of significant changes in forensic technology, search and seizure rules, software licensing agreements, and criminal or administrative law.
• Participate in federal, state, county, and local law enforcement task forces and partnerships.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Minimum of 24 months experience in computer forensic processing or a related specialty area (e.g., systems administration; network security; internet protocol), OR completion of an associate core program in computer forensics (e.g., information technology or related scientific discipline), OR equivalent of the Minimum Class Qualifications for Employment noted above. A valid driver's license is required.

Application Tips

Contact

Agency Contact Name and Information : Alison Granger / argranger@dps.ohio.gov

Compensation

$33.52 per hour

Schedule

Full-time. Work Hours : 8 : 00 AM to 5 : 00 PM

Location

Charles D Shipley Building, 1970 W. Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43223 (United States of America – OHIO – Franklin County – Columbus)

Unposting Date

October 27, 2025, 11 : 59 : 00 PM

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