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Assistant Forensic Science Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

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Assistant Forensic Science information

What is an assistant forensic scientist?

Assistant Forensic Scientists are professionals who support the analysis and investigation of evidence in criminal and civil cases. They work under the supervision of senior forensic scientists, helping to process evidence from crime scenes, conduct laboratory tests, and maintain accurate records. Their work is crucial in ensuring that evidence is properly handled and results are reliable, which can aid law enforcement and the justice system. Assistant Forensic Scientists often specialize in areas such as biology, chemistry, or digital forensics, depending on the needs of their laboratory.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant forensic scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Forensic Scientist, you need a solid background in biology, chemistry, or forensic science, typically with a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, chain-of-custody procedures, and specialized analysis software (such as DNA or toxicology analysis programs) is essential. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective written and verbal communication are vital soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure the accurate collection, analysis, and reporting of forensic evidence, which is crucial for supporting criminal investigations and upholding justice.

How to become a forensic science assistant?

To become a forensic science assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring an associate degree or bachelor's in forensic science, biology, chemistry, or a related field. Relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory procedures, and familiarity with forensic tools and techniques; certifications are not always required but can enhance job prospects. On-the-job training is common, and understanding legal procedures and maintaining chain of custody are important in this role.

What is the difference between Assistant Forensic Science vs Forensic Scientist?

AspectAssistant Forensic ScienceForensic Scientist
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or relevant certificationBachelor's or master's degree in forensic science or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, crime labs, field collection supportLaboratories, crime scenes, research settings
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, forensic labsLaw enforcement, government agencies, private labs
Common Search & ComparisonAssisting forensic tasks, entry-level roleConducting analyses, casework responsibility

In summary, Assistant Forensic Science roles typically require less advanced education and focus on supporting forensic investigations, while Forensic Scientists perform detailed analyses and casework with higher credentials. Both roles are essential in forensic labs but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What jobs can I get with an associate in forensic science?

An associate degree in forensic science can qualify you for entry-level positions such as forensic technician, crime scene investigator, evidence technician, or laboratory assistant. These roles often involve collecting, analyzing, and documenting evidence, and may require knowledge of lab equipment and safety protocols.

What are some typical challenges faced by an assistant forensic scientist during evidence analysis, and how are they addressed?

Assistant Forensic Scientists often encounter challenges such as handling contaminated or degraded samples, managing large caseloads, and maintaining strict chain-of-custody protocols. To address these, they follow rigorous laboratory procedures, utilize advanced analytical instruments, and work closely with senior forensic scientists and law enforcement officials. Ongoing training and adherence to quality assurance standards help ensure that evidence analysis is accurate and reliable, even under demanding conditions.

What does a forensic assistant do?

A forensic assistant supports forensic scientists by collecting, preserving, and analyzing physical evidence from crime scenes. They may prepare reports, operate laboratory equipment, and ensure proper documentation, often working in a laboratory or crime scene environment. Attention to detail and knowledge of forensic procedures are essential for this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Science jobs in New York? The most popular types of Forensic Science jobs in New York are:
What cities in New York are hiring for Assistant Forensic Science jobs? Cities in New York with the most Assistant Forensic Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Assistant Forensic Science job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Criminalist IB (Forensic Biology)

City of New York

Manhattan, NY • On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


City Of New York rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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Job description

Company Description
Job Description
The Office of Chief Medical Examiner investigates cases of persons who die within New York City from criminal violence, by accident, by suicide, suddenly when in apparent health, when unattended by a physician, in a correctional facility or in any suspicious or unusual manner or where an application is made pursuant to law for a permit to cremate a body of a person.
Our core purpose is to protect public health and serve impartial justice through forensic science and medicine. We exist to provide answers in support of families and communities during times of profound need.
The core values of CARES guide our work for communities and inform our behavior toward each other and all those we serve.
-Commitment: Dedicated to the mission at all times
-Accountability: Responsible to each other and the community
-Resilience: Adapt in the face of adversity
-Excellence: Achieve and maintain the highest quality
-Service: Innovate to meet evolving needs
Under the general direction of the Assistant Directors of the Department of Forensic Biology and specifically under the supervision of a Criminalist, level IV, the selected candidate will be responsible for assisting in conducting scientific analyses performed on biological specimens brought to the Forensic Biology Department of the Office of Chief Medical Examiner for the City of New York. Duties will include but are not limited to:
- Assists in the DNA analysis of evidentiary material such as hairs, body fluids, and other biological evidence, using state-of-the-art molecular techniques.
- Performs administrative review on case files for casework.
- Receives comprehensive training and instruction in the various techniques used in the collection, preservation, handling, and receipt of evidentiary materials.
- Attends and participates in staff meetings, conferences, and other training and development activities
- Receives training in the routine preventative maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment and analytical instruments.
- Other duties as assigned.
SPECIAL NOTE
- Selected candidates will be required to provide a DNA sample by swabbing.
- This position has been identified as essential. During emergency events, essential positions may require 24-hour availability.
WORK AUTHORIZATION:
Authorization to work in the United States is required for this position. Office of Chief Medical Examiner does not provide sponsorship for international employees for visa applications, extensions, or status changes, including STEM/OPT visas. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that they meet all qualifying requirements for this position at the time of application.
***Please note that only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted for this position. FINAL APPOINTMENTS ARE SUBJECCT TO OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT & BUDGET APPROVAL.***
CRIMINALIST - 21849
Qualifications
1. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college, with specialization in criminalistics, forensic science, chemistry, biology, physics, molecular genetics, genetics, biochemistry, molecular biology, entomology, anthropology, ecology or a closely related scientific or engineering field.
2. For Assignment to Assignment Level I - B
In addition to meeting the "Qualification Requirements For All Assignment Levels" above, to be assigned to Assignment Level I-B individuals must have at least one year of satisfactory full-time experience in criminalistics, forensic science or analytic chemistry, or a satisfactory equivalent combination of education and experience.
3. In addition to meeting the "Qualification Requirements" above, to be assigned to Assignment Level II, individuals must have one of the following:
1. One year of experience gained as a Criminalist at Assignment Level I-B; or 2. One additional year of qualifying experience in criminalistics or forensic science, for a total of two years of such experience; or 3. A satisfactory combination of education and experience totaling two years of experience as described above.
4. In addition to meeting the "Qualification Requirements" for Assignment Level I-B above, to be assigned to Assignment Level III, individuals must have one of the following:
1. Two years of experience gained as a Criminalist at Assignment Level I-B and/or II; or 2. Two additional years of qualifying experience in criminalistics or forensic science, for a total of three years of such experience; or 3. A satisfactory combination of education and experience totaling three years of experience as described above.
5. For Assignment to Assignment Level IV
In addition to meeting the "Qualification Requirements" for Assignment Level I-B above, to be assigned to Assignment Level IV, individuals must have one of the following:
1. Three years of experience gained as a Criminalist at Assignment Level I-B, II, and /or III; or 2. Three additional years of experience in criminalistics or forensic science, for a total of four years of such experience; or
3. A satisfactory combination of education and experience totaling four years of experience, as described above.
Additional Information
The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.

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