Job Posting – Digital Forensic Examiner
Sherwood Park, AB and Calgary, AB | Full-time, Continuous
Use your technical expertise to uncover digital evidence that supports investigations into serious and organized crime.
At Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams (ALERT), specialized teams are tackling some of the most complex criminal investigations in the province, including organized crime and internet child exploitation. Behind those investigations are highly skilled forensic professionals who help transform digital evidence into actionable intelligence and court-ready findings.
We’re looking to hire four (4) full-time Digital Forensic Examiners to support ALERT investigative teams in our Greater Edmonton Area, Regional, and Calgary offices. This role offers the opportunity to work alongside investigators, other forensic specialists, and Crown Counsel on complex and impactful investigations where your technical expertise can directly support public safety and successful prosecutions.
This is more than a traditional IT or forensic role. You’ll work hands-on with digital evidence, support active investigations, periodically attend search locations, and provide expert analysis that contributes to meaningful outcomes in high-priority cases. If you’re analytical, technically curious, and thrive in complex investigative environments, this role offers a unique opportunity to apply your skills with purpose.
WHAT YOU’LL DO
Reporting to the Forensic Supervisor, you’ll work as part of an investigative team supporting forensic examinations and digital evidence analysis.
- Acquire and verify data from computers, mobile devices, storage media, and other digital systems;
- Conduct forensic analysis to identify and preserve evidence in support of criminal investigations;
- Prepare detailed forensic reports and documentation suitable for investigative and court purposes;
- Provide expert testimony in criminal court relating to forensic examinations and evidentiary findings;
- Conduct examinations of mobile devices and other technology capable of storing digital evidence;
- Provide technical advice and support to investigators during active investigations;
- Periodically attend search locations throughout Alberta to assist with the lawful seizure and preservation of digital evidence;
- Support investigations involving organized crime and internet child exploitation;
- May include categorization of child sexual abuse material for investigative and court purposes;
- Collaborate with investigators, forensic specialists, and Crown Counsel throughout investigative and judicial processes;
- Perform additional duties as required in support of operational priorities.
This position offers a starting salary of $109,990.40 for a Certified Digital Forensic Examiner, with progression up to $130,000.00 per year based on experience and performance.
Candidates hired as an Understudy will receive a starting salary of $90,001.60, with progression up to $104,998.40 per year.
All positions are based on-site (in-person work arrangement). The Regional position may be based in either our Sherwood Park or Calgary office, depending on the successful candidate’s preference.
WHAT YOU BRING
We’re focused on your technical expertise, investigative mindset, and ability to work in complex, high-stakes environments.
Required Qualifications
- Degree, diploma, or certificate from a recognized post-secondary institution in computer science, digital forensics, information technology, or a related field;
- Equivalent combinations of self-directed learning, technical certifications, and relevant experience may also be considered;
- Strong knowledge of computer hardware, including the ability to identify components and disassemble/reassemble computer systems;
- Strong understanding of computer software and operating systems, including the ability to learn and explain technical functionality;
- Knowledge of file systems, data storage, and file management processes;
- Understanding of internet technologies, online communications platforms, file-sharing systems, and related technologies;
- Knowledge of networking fundamentals and common networking components;
- Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills;
- Ability to communicate technical findings clearly through written reports and verbal testimony;
- Strong attention to detail and ability to manage sensitive information with professionalism and discretion;
- Valid Driver’s license.
Assets
- Experience with digital forensic procedures and best practices;
- Experience using forensic software such as EnCase, X-Ways Forensics, or similar tools;
- Training or experience in mobile device evidence recovery;
- Experience conducting forensic examinations in a law enforcement or investigative environment;
- Experience preparing evidence for court proceedings and/or providing expert testimony.
WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE (FIRST 6 MONTHS)
- Digital evidence is being processed accurately, efficiently, and in accordance with forensic best practices;
- You’re confidently conducting examinations and preparing detailed forensic reports;
- Investigators rely on your technical expertise and support during active investigations;
- You’ve developed strong working relationships with investigative teams and Crown Counsel;
- Court-ready documentation is consistently thorough, accurate, and defensible;
- You’re effectively balancing operational priorities while maintaining attention to detail and evidentiary integrity.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Able to sit and work at a computer for extended periods of time;
- Able to work in high-volume, detail-oriented investigative environments;
- Exposure to sensitive, explicit, or disturbing digital material, including child sexual abuse material;
- Required travel within Alberta to support search warrants and investigative operations;
- Work may occasionally extend beyond regular business hours depending on operational requirements;
- Required participation in psychological screening and ongoing wellness assessments due to the nature of the work.
WHY THIS ROLE IS DIFFERENT
This isn’t traditional IT work. Every examination has the potential to uncover critical evidence, support victims, and strengthen investigations into serious criminal activity. Your technical expertise will directly contribute to investigations that have real impact across Alberta communities.
You’ll work alongside highly specialized teams in an environment that values collaboration, professionalism, and continuous learning—while applying advanced forensic techniques in support of meaningful investigative work.
BENEFITS OF WORKING WITH ALERT
ALERT provides meaningful work in an organization committed to making Alberta safer. As part of our specialized support teams, you’ll benefit from:
- Employer Paid Group Life and Disability Insurance.
- Employer Paid Extended Health & Dental Benefits.
- Virtual Health Care, Employee Assistance & Wellness Programs (including access to on-site gym).
- Annual Employer Contributions to Health Care Spending Account and/or Lifestyle Spending Account.
- Employer Matching Contributions to a Group RSP Program.
- Educational Assistance and Training Opportunities.
- Paid Vacation starting at Three (3) Weeks.
- ALERT observes 13 provincial and national holidays.
APPLICATION DETAILS
This competition closes on June 5, 2026, but may remain active at the discretion of ALERT.
The successful candidate will be required to submit to and pass an RCMP enhanced security screening process and undergo psychological screening both pre-employment and throughout tenure.
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
ALERT is committed to equitable hiring and inclusive practices, and we encourage all candidates who meet the qualifications to apply.
Pay: From $109,990.40 per year
Benefits:
- Dental care
- Disability insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- Flexible schedule
- Life insurance
- On-site gym
- Paid time off
- RRSP match
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision care
- Wellness program
Application question(s):
- Do you understand this role requires the successful applicant to work in-person (not remote nor hybrid)?
- The required RCMP enhanced security clearance requires that the successful applicant hold Canadian Citizenship or be a Canadian Permanent Resident. Are you a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident?
- Due to the nature of this position, the successful applicant may be exposed to traumatic files and/or disturbing images, including child sexual abuse material. ALERT requires the successful candidate to undergo pre-employment psychological screening and ongoing confidential wellness assessments. Do you agree to this process?
- Please confirm that you are able to commute daily to either the Sherwood Park or Calgary office for work and understand that relocation support is not offered.
Work Location: In person
