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Apprentice Forensic Science Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Iowa Department of Public Safety is seeking to fill a Forensic Science Technician position specializing in Drug Chemistry within the Division of Criminal Investigation's Criminalistics Laboratory.

Make sound scientific decisions with respect to screening results obtained based on validated ... Incumbent must meet the forensic technician requirements specified by the Texas Forensic Science ...

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Apprentice Forensic Science Technician information

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How much do apprentice forensic science technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice forensic science technician in the United States is $19.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an apprentice forensic science technician?

An Apprentice Forensic Science Technician assists forensic experts in collecting, analyzing, and processing evidence from crime scenes. They receive on-the-job training to develop skills in lab procedures, documentation, and evidence handling. Apprentices often work under supervision while gaining experience with forensic tools and techniques. This role is a stepping stone toward becoming a certified forensic science technician.

What does an apprentice forensic science technician do?

As an Apprentice Forensic Science Technician, your typical day may involve preparing and analyzing evidence samples, maintaining lab equipment, documenting findings, and assisting senior forensic staff with casework. You’ll work closely with experienced technicians and scientists, often as part of a collaborative team that may include law enforcement or legal professionals. Attention to safety and strict adherence to evidence-handling protocols are essential throughout your shifts. This dynamic environment provides valuable hands-on experience and helps you develop the specialized skills needed for future advancement in forensic science.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an apprentice forensic science technician?

To thrive as an Apprentice Forensic Science Technician, you need a solid grounding in biology, chemistry, or a related science, often gained through coursework or a relevant associate degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, evidence-handling protocols, and basic forensic software like LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems) is highly beneficial. Excellent attention to detail, strong analytical thinking, and the ability to communicate findings clearly will set you apart in this role. These skills are critical for ensuring the integrity of evidence and supporting accurate investigations within a forensic laboratory environment.

Are apprentice forensic science technicians in demand?

Apprentice forensic science technicians are in steady demand as law enforcement agencies and forensic laboratories seek skilled personnel to assist with crime scene analysis, evidence processing, and laboratory work. Entry-level positions often require relevant certifications and technical skills, and employment prospects are generally favorable due to ongoing needs for forensic expertise in criminal investigations.

How to get a job as an apprentice forensic science technician?

To become an apprentice forensic science technician, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some programs preferring coursework in biology, chemistry, or criminal justice. Gaining relevant skills through internships, volunteering, or related coursework can improve chances, and applying to programs offered by law enforcement agencies, forensic laboratories, or educational institutions is essential. Some positions may require background checks and the ability to work in a laboratory or crime scene environment.
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Infographic showing various Apprentice Forensic Science Technician job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,268 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Forensic Science Technician

State of Iowa

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$47K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • prepare reagents and stock solutions for routine tests

  • conduct quality assurance checks of reagents, balances, instrumentation, and safety equipment

  • perform routine instrument maintenance and maintain inventory of chemicals and laboratory consumables


State Of Iowa rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 87 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Description This is not a remote position. The Iowa Department of Public Safety is seeking to fill a Forensic Science Technician position specializing in Drug Chemistry within the Division of Criminal Investigation's Criminalistics Laboratory. Organization Background The Iowa Department of Public Safety (DPS) is a statewide law enforcement agency committed to serving the people of Iowa with leadership, integrity, and professionalism.

We uphold the core values of courtesy, service, and protection, and collaborate with federal, state, and local jurisdictions within the criminal justice community to provide for the safety of people living in or traveling through the State of Iowa. DPS is comprised of the following divisions: - Iowa State Patrol - Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) - Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement - Iowa State Fire Marshal - Division of Professional Development and Support Services - Division of Intelligence and Fusion Center - Administrative Services Division Job Description The Forensic Science Technician position performs a variety of routine tasks in direct support of forensic laboratory analysts, primarily in the Drug Chemistry section. These tasks include, but are not limited to; - preparing reagents and stock solutions by predetermined procedures for use in routine tests - conducting quality assurance checks of reagents, balances, instrumentation, and safety equipment, - maintaining inventory of chemicals and laboratory consumables - performing routine instrument maintenance - opening suspected cannabis cases under the direct supervision of case working analysts.

- serve on the laboratory crime scene response team in collecting, documenting, and photographing potential items of evidence (optional). Travel across the state of Iowa may be required for crime scene duties or continuing education, with the potential to be away from the Des Moines area overnight on occasion. General work hours will be Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m., however crime scene responsibilities may require hours outside of these times

Special Requirements Must possess, at minimum, an associate's degree with an emphasis in laboratory technology, chemistry, biology, forensic science, physics or a closely related physical or natural laboratory science. A bachelor's or advanced degree in one of these scientific discipline's will also be accepted. Additional Requirements - The State of Iowa is an E-Verify Employer.

- Candidates must successfully pass a comprehensive background investigation conducted by the Iowa Department of Public Safety investigators before a final letter of employment offer is delivered. - Applicants must be able to travel and may be occasionally required to stay away from home overnight during assignments. - Applicants are encouraged to attach a cover letter, transcripts, and resume with the NEOGOV application.

- This is not a remote position. Benefits At the State of Iowa, we value our employees' talents and backgrounds, and we are committed to your well-being beyond the paycheck. As a valued team member, you will enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes: Paid Time Off: - Vacation accruals that begin on day one and rollover on a yearly basis - Unlimited sick leave accrual - Nine (9) paid holidays per year Insurance Options: - Health - Affordable plans with the state paying more than 90% of premiums - Dental - Free for single coverage and affordable family coverage with access to a vision discount program - Life* - $20,000 in life insurance free, with an option to purchase additional coverage (*depending upon Collective Bargaining Agreements) - Long-Term Disability Insurance - Available at no cost Retirement: - IPERS Retirement package offering a lifetime monthly financial benefit for vested employees.

For every $1 an employee contributes, the state matches with $1.50 - Retirement Investors' Club (RIC) offering a voluntary savings program including a State match of up to $75/month Flexibility: Flexible Spending Accounts for medical and dependent care Support: Employee Assistance Programs and Employee Discount Programs To learn more about the benefits of working with the State of Iowa, visit our benefits webpage: Benefits at a Glance | Iowa Department of Administrative Services E-Verify and Right to Work The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization

For more information, please visit www.e-verify.gov. Minimum Qualification Requirements Applicants must possess an associate's degree with an emphasis in laboratory technology, chemistry, biology, physics, or a related field to qualify for positions in this job classification. For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description

Additional Qualification Requirements Applicants for this job class must be able to pass a thorough background investigation conducted by the Division of Criminal Investigation.


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About State of Iowa

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Iowa is not a company but the governmental structure of the U.S. state of Iowa, stationed in the capital city, Des Moines. The official website, iowa.gov, is a platform dedicated to providing information and services related to the state's governance. As a governmental establishment, the State of Iowa's 'industry' primarily involves social governance, policy-making, and public administration, overseeing sectors like education, health, transportation, agriculture, and other public services.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1939