University of Southern Mississippi

Digital Forensics Laboratory Manager

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Digital Forensics Laboratory Manager.

Position DetailsLocation Hattiesburg

118 College Drive

Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001

United States DivisionCriminal Justice, Forensic Science, and SecurityPosition TypeStaffEmployment StatusFull TimeGrant FundedYesSalary Range64,124.00 - 75,000.00Pay GradeE13

Posting Close DateOpen Until Filled

Job Summary

The Digital Forensics Laboratory Manager will lead the operations of the Rural Digital Forensics Initiative (RDFI) Laboratory and support the Rural Digital Forensics Initiative (RDFI) Studio, a three-year, grant-funded project with potential for extension, aimed at enhancing digital forensics capabilities in rural communities. This role will provide critical support to law enforcement partners, contribute to the development of digital forensics training materials, and engage with students through various educational initiatives. The Manager will ensure the efficient operation of the laboratory, assist in evidence analysis, and work with students in various capacities. Additionally, the Manager may provide expert witness testimony.

Primary Job Duties and Responsibilities

1. Oversee daily operations of the RDFI Laboratory, including assisting law enforcement partners with equipment and procedures, and developing and enforcing standard operating protocols. This includes ensuring legal procedures are followed, maintaining chain of custody protocols, assisting law enforcement with data extraction, and facilitating data analysis in time-sensitive, active investigations.
2. Procure, maintain, and utilize digital forensics hardware and software, and stay current with advancements in the field through ongoing training and certification. This includes obtaining and maintaining certifications for all utilized technologies.
3. Provide expertise for the development of RDFI Studio training materials.
4. Participate in laboratory, school, college, and university events, including guest lecturing, internship supervision, and research project support.
5. Generate reports and statistics for submission to the Department of Justice, as required by grant-related responsibilities.
6. Serve as a liaison between the RDFI Lab and various law enforcement agencies.
7. Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Three years of experience analyzing digital evidence for criminal investigations and hold a current Law Enforcement Officer state certification. Must be able to complete the following certifications within twelve (12) months of employment:

• Current law enforcement officer state certification
• Basic Computer Evidence Recovery Training (BCERT)
• Advanced Forensics Training Course
• Magnet Forensics GrayKey Qualified Investigator

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA)

• Knowledge of and a demonstrated record of compliance with legal and ethical guidelines related to investigations, rules of evidence, and expert testimony.
• Familiarity with current digital forensics technologies (e.g., Cellebrite, EnCase, Magnet AXIOM, or similar tools).
• Ability to critically analyze and interpret digital evidence in complex criminal investigations.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to provide expert witness testimony in court.
• Demonstrated ability to lead, as evidenced by supervisory, mentorship, and/or teaching experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field (e.g., Digital Forensics, Cybersecurity, Criminal Justice, Computer Science).
• Five years of experience analyzing digital evidence for criminal investigations.
• Currently holds one or more current certifications in digital forensic methods or technologies (e.g., Basic Computer Evidence Recovery Training (BCERT), Advanced Forensics Training Course, Magnet Forensics GrayKey Qualified Investigator).
• Proficiency with current digital forensics tools and technologies (e.g., Cellebrite, EnCase, Magnet AXIOM, or similar platforms).
• At least one year of demonstrated experience in teaching, training, or mentoring.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Graduate Assistant - 1

About The University of Southern Mississippi

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu. 

As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer/Americans with Disabilities Act institution, The University of Southern Mississippi encourages minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities to apply.