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Assistant Forensic Science Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Forensic Computer Analyst

Dulles, VA ยท On-site +1

$78K - $144K/yr

Examines and analyzes evidence and interprets scientific observations and data to render ... Analyzes systems to assist with network intrusion and cybersecurity investigations to determine the ...

Support vulnerability research efforts and assist in identifying and characterizing software and ... S.) degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering ...

Support vulnerability research efforts and assist in identifying and characterizing software and ... Bachelor's (B.S.) degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering ...

Support vulnerability research efforts and assist in identifying and characterizing software and ... Bachelor's (B.S.) degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering ...

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Assistant Forensic Science information

See Washington salary details

$24.7K

$58.9K

$131K

How much do assistant forensic science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant forensic science in Washington is $58,889.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,188.00 and $62,809.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Assistant Forensic Scientists?

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.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Science jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Forensic Science jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Assistant Forensic Science jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Assistant Forensic Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Assistant Forensic Science job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,889 per year, or $28.3 per hour.
Forensic Computer Analyst

Forensic Computer Analyst

U.S. Postal Service

Dulles, VA โ€ข On-site, Remote

$78K - $144K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Summary
Come join the U.S. Postal Service!
The successful candidate conducts forensic analyses of digital and other multimedia evidence utilizing appropriate scientific methodologies, forensic techniques, and quality assurance practices in support of criminal and administrative investigations.
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Duties
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  1. Conducts forensic examinations of digital and other multimedia evidence through the application of scientific practices for the recognition, collection, analysis, and interpretation of digital evidence for criminal and civil law or regulatory purposes.
  2. Examines and analyzes evidence and interprets scientific observations and data to render conclusions, form opinions and produce reports utilizing a full range of electronic search methods and forensic examination techniques.
  3. Provides expert witness testimony; produces comprehensive reports and illustrative exhibits for federal, state, and local judicial proceedings at a level sufficient to explain evidence interpretations and conclusions from forensic examinations and scientific data to a lay audience.
  4. Serves as a subject matter expert and technical advisor in matters relating to the proper collection, preservation, packaging, and submission of digital and multimedia evidence; participates in crime scene evidence collection activities in major field investigations; ensures evidence handling requirements are met.
  5. Performs ongoing evaluation and validation of laboratory instrumentation and methods, operating protocols, and safety practices under supervision; maintains awareness of safety procedures and identifies possible physical conditions and/or laboratory procedures that may create unsafe conditions.
  6. Delivers training in laboratory services, evidence collection, crime scene processing and field examination.
  7. Conducts studies and research for improving forensic analyses, scientific methods, and resolving forensic examination problems.
  8. Acts as liaison with postal management and federal, state, and local organizations on technical developments, forensic methods, and investigative problems of common interest.
  9. Analyzes systems to assist with network intrusion and cybersecurity investigations to determine the cause and extent of a breach.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  1. Must be a determined suitable for federal employment.
  2. You will be required to obtain and maintain a MBI security clearance prior to entrance on duty. Failure to obtain and maintain the required level of clearance may result in the withdrawal of a job offer or removal.
  3. Qualified applicants must successfully pass a pre-employment drug screening to meet the U.S. Postal Service's requirement to be drug free.
  4. SPECIAL NOTE: Current career USPS and USPIS employees are ineligible to apply for this posting.

Qualifications
  1. Ability to communicate orally and in writing in order to prepare reports of examination results and conclusions, and provide testimony as an expert witness before state, federal or other judicial bodies.
  2. Ability to provide training related to laboratory services, evidence collection, and field examination.
  3. Knowledge of evidence collection, preservation, packaging and shipment procedures sufficient to serve as a technical advisor in such matters and to ensure evidence handling requirements are met.
  4. Knowledge of forensic science techniques, laboratory protocols, research methodologies, quality assurance standards and computer forensic and cyber security examination procedures, instrumentation and software sufficient to properly access, preserve, and extract appropriate evidence from a variety of media and conduct detailed and complex analyses and interpretation of the value of evidentiary items.
  5. Ability to render conclusions/opinions and make recommendations based on forensic practices of recognition, collection, and interpretation of digital and multimedia evidence related to computer forensic examinations.
  6. Ability to conduct and document scientific research related to computer forensic examinations.
  7. EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION: Bachelor's degree in computer sciences, forensic science, or a closely related field from a college or university accredited by a national or regional accreditation organization recognized and sanctioned by the U.S. Department of Education. NOTE: Employees in the Forensic Computer Analyst or Forensic Computer Analyst Sr position prior to June 27, 2015 are exempt from this requirement.

Desirable Qualifications: CERTIFICATION: International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists (IACIS) Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE) or the International Society of Forensic Computer Examiners (ISFCE) Certified Computer Examiner (CCE) or Defense Cyber Investigations Training Academy (DCITA) Digital Forensic Examiner (DFE)
Qualified applicant must successfully pass a drug screening.
Education
This job does not have an education qualification requirement.
Additional information
1 vacancy in the following location:
F & TSD Laboratory
22433 Randolph Dr
Dulles, VA 20104-9998
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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The salary will be based on previous experience, and current postal pay policies. We offer excellent benefits including health and life insurance, retirement plan, savings/investment plan with employer contribution, flexible spending, flextime scheduling of core work hours, annual and sick leave.