The Augusta County Sheriff's Office (ACSO) is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Sheriff IT Specialist to join our team. This position plays a critical role in supporting the technological infrastructure of the ACSO, ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of law enforcement data and digital evidence.
The IT Specialist will be responsible for overseeing digital evidence such as body-worn and fleet camera systems, managing system maintenance, digital images, assist with FOIA requests involving digital evidence, and serving as a liaison with the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office to ensure video and digital evidence is readily available for legal proceedings.
Additionally, this position will conduct computer and mobile phone forensic examinations involving child exploitation, computer crimes, financial crimes, and other criminal activity investigated by the Augusta County Sheriff’s Office. The IT Specialist will receive appropriate forensic training and work closely with deputies, investigators, prosecutors, and internet service providers. Completed examinations will be provided to the assigned deputy or investigator for review. The IT Specialist may be required to testify in court regarding forensic examination procedures and findings and assist investigators and prosecutors with court preparation.
This position will also be responsible for onboarding and training new hires on the proper use, maintenance, and policies regarding body-worn, fleet cameras, cell phones, mobile data terminals, and other applicable technology.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Administer, maintain, and troubleshoot ACSO body-worn and fleet camera systems.
• Perform routine system maintenance, updates, and troubleshooting of IT-related issues within the Sheriff’s Office.
• Oversee video and digital evidence management, ensuring proper storage, retention, classification, and retrieval in accordance with legal and departmental policies.
• Process materials for Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests involving video and digital evidence in accordance with applicable laws.
• Act as a liaison between ACSO and the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office to ensure timely access to video and digital evidence for court proceedings.
• Conduct computer and mobile phone forensic examinations involving child exploitation, computer crimes, financial crimes, and other criminal investigations.
• Complete appropriate computer and mobile forensic training and maintain knowledge of current forensic technology and procedures.
• Work with deputies, investigators, prosecutors, internet service providers, and other agencies or organizations as necessary in support of criminal investigations.
• Document forensic examinations and provide completed examinations to assigned deputies or investigators for review and follow-up.
• Testify in court regarding forensic examination procedures, evidence handling, and findings and assist investigators and prosecutors with court preparation.
• Provide IT support for ACSO personnel, including software, hardware, and network troubleshooting.
• Assist in cybersecurity measures and data protection strategies to safeguard sensitive law enforcement information.
• Support ACSO administration in evaluating and implementing new technologies.
• Provide training and guidance to ACSO staff on IT systems, policies, and best practices.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Digital Forensics, or a related field (or equivalent work experience).
• Experience in law enforcement IT support, digital evidence management, computer/mobile forensics, or public safety technology is preferred, not required.
• Ability to obtain appropriate training in computer and mobile phone forensic examination.
• Ability to learn body-worn and in-car camera systems, digital evidence retention policies, and FOIA compliance.
• Strong troubleshooting skills and the ability to diagnose and resolve technical issues efficiently.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Windows environments, networking principles, cloud storage, data security, and video management software.
• Ability to work with law enforcement personnel and legal professionals in a high-security, confidential environment.
• Strong communication, organizational, analytical, and report-writing skills.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
• Must pass a criminal background check and drug screening.
• Must possess a valid Virginia driver’s license.
• Monday through Friday, 0800 to 1630, with availability for on-call support as needed.
• Must be willing to obtain and maintain required computer and mobile forensic training and certifications.
BENEFITS
• Competitive salary starting at $66,959
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement benefits through VRS
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Opportunities for professional development, specialized training, and certification
HOW TO APPLY
Join our team and play a crucial role in supporting law enforcement technology, digital evidence, and criminal investigations at the Augusta County Sheriff's Office. If you have the technical expertise and a passion for public service, we encourage you to apply today. We look forward to welcoming you to the ACSO team!
To apply for this position, applicants must complete a county application and Personal History Questionnaire which can be downloaded from our website at www.co.augusta.va.us . Completed county application and Personal History Questionnaire must be returned to the Augusta County Sheriff’s Office, 127 Lee Highway, Verona, VA 24482. Position will be open until filled. Only candidates who are selected for an interview will be contacted.
Augusta County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
