In my previous life, I would have hired in a network technician with a couple of years experience around the 45k figure.  With no experience, but a great interview, I would probably go about 2 years of raises lower than that (~40k).  But, I must say our IT salaries in my part of the country are pretty low, but so is our cost of living.

Ziggy,

I checked out both of the sites that you mentioned and one was helpful but the wsj.com didn't show me anything after doing a search.  Were you looking in a particular area?

The glassdoor.com was helpful the first time I went onto it but after that I got blocked until I join.  It stated that here in Colorado average pay was around 46K going all the way up to 96K.

So does have the mentioned certs mean nothing?  Having these certs is as bad as a new college student that has no certs, since I would be starting off at the same amount as college student.

I think that certs in Computer Forensics are generally respected, especially in the consulting world.  The CCE is a particularly good cert to have in the private sector because some states are starting to require it.  Another one you may want to consider is EnCE.    In my company, we definitely value certs, but not anywhere as much as experience.   

I think that the certs will get your foot in the door, but you may want to be prepared doing entry level work for a couple of years.  You would likely be imaging computers, keeping evidence paperwork, logging cases, etc.  You can also consider government work.  Former FBI, Secret Service, Customs, etc agents are highly sought after in the forensics consulting circles.  With any of these, you would likely be a regular agent before you can transition into forensics.  Still, the feds pay well at first.  Most agencies require you to in the DC area initially for training.

As far as salaries are concerned, take a look at this link for government positions:

http://www.fbijobs.gov/113.asp

For the private sector, I think that 40k to $45k is reasonable for an entry level position.   Although, considering the current economy, it may be lower.

It's funny cause I posted this same post on a different website and they are saying I will make $15 per hr entry level with all of these certs.

Why the difference of opinions?

I know a guy that graduated from a top 20 law school in the top 5 of his class that is unemployed right now. He's been looking for a job for over a year and a half. And I know a guy that just finished his college degree from a local University that is not well known at all that probably makes somewhere in the 60-75K range.

Compensation, overall, is highly dependent on the motivation and work-ethic of the employee. There are companies that are known for their aggressive compensation and there are companies that are know for their lackluster compensation. But, generally speaking those that pay well only employ those that are good, productive employees.

The long and short of it is, if you are a "go-getter" you will make good money. Your current job may not pay you what you feel is fair, but you will eventually seek out other employment. The reason why certifications and degrees tend to increase your earning potential is not because of any virtue bestowed on you by the degree or certification. Degrees and certifications are only outward symbols to those making the hiring decisions that you are a "go-getter." Therefore, they are more willing to invest in you than someone who doesn't have them. This is the reason why I said in an earlier post that you could use your certifications as a bargaining chip in salary negotiations.

Take your pick

http://www.indeed.com/salary?q1=Encase+Certified+Examiner&l1=
http://www.indeed.com/salary?q1=certified+ethical+hacker&l1=
http://www.indeed.com/salary?q1=certified+hacking+forensics+investigator&l1=

Outside of certs, experience trumps them all. To be honest with you, I've made more money WITHOUT my certs (strange but true). When I read a comment like this "Going to customers sites and doing imaging is the fun stuff.  Get to meet new people ask them questions and start to learn the in-and-outs of the trade." This is where I offer harsh criticism - and no I'm not trying to put you down... "There is nothing fun about doing forensic work that you want to admit to"

From a professional perspective, something had to have occurred for you to be there to offer your expertise. While you may find it fun to analyze it at the end of the day, forensics is not a fun job. Challenging, interesting, sure, fun is something sort of "amateurish" follow me?

As for working for the feds, they make little money Sorry would have made this more detailed, but I have to run, will follow it up some time.

Sil,

Sorry I should have thought about that and used different terminology.  I should have said interesting, but serious.

Those websites were great!  Thanks.

I agree that there is a ton of stuff at stake including my ability to make money and provide for my family.  I understand this completely.

From what I heard the Ex fed guys are snagged up pretty quick once they come to the private sector.  I will look into it a bit more than what I already have.  Who knows maybe something great will come out of it.