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Assistant Forensic Scientist Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Leverage deep technical knowledge and a range of forensic tools to exploit digital media and report ... Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related ...

... Assistant Professor level starting in August 2027. The successful candidate will join the ... science, chemistry, biochemistry, physics, forensic science, exercise science, public health ...

$86K - $92K/yr

Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice Apply now Job no: 559394 Work type: Instructional Faculty ... forensic science. Established in 1976, the degree program currently has over 400 students and ...

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Assistant Forensic Scientist information

See Florida salary details

$27.3K

$59.3K

$102.8K

How much do assistant forensic scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant forensic scientist in Florida is $59,341.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,000.00 and $69,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an assistant forensic scientist do?

An Assistant Forensic Scientist supports forensic investigations by performing laboratory analyses on physical evidence collected from crime scenes. Their duties often include preparing and testing samples, maintaining laboratory equipment, recording results, and assisting more senior forensic scientists with technical tasks. They may work in different forensic disciplines such as biology, chemistry, or toxicology. Attention to detail and adherence to strict protocols are crucial in this role to ensure the integrity and reliability of evidence.

What are some common challenges faced by assistant forensic scientists in their daily work?

Assistant Forensic Scientists often encounter challenges such as managing a high volume of casework while maintaining strict attention to detail and adhering to evidence handling protocols. Tight deadlines and the need for meticulous documentation can add pressure, especially when testifying in court or preparing reports. Additionally, collaborating effectively with law enforcement, attorneys, and other forensic specialists is crucial to ensure accurate and timely results. Balancing these demands requires strong organizational skills and a commitment to ongoing professional development.

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 strong background in chemistry, biology, or forensic science, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory techniques, evidence handling protocols, and analytical instruments like GC-MS or DNA sequencers is typically required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and clear written and verbal communication are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate analysis, reliable evidence handling, and effective collaboration within investigative teams.

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

AspectAssistant Forensic ScientistForensic Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in forensic science, biology, or chemistryBachelor's or master's degree in forensic science, chemistry, or biology
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, crime scenes, fieldworkLaboratories, courtrooms, field investigations
Employer & IndustryCrime labs, law enforcement agenciesCrime labs, law enforcement, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Assistant Forensic Scientist and a Forensic Scientist lies in experience and responsibilities. An Assistant Forensic Scientist typically supports forensic investigations under supervision, focusing on sample collection and preliminary analysis. A Forensic Scientist has more advanced training, handles complex analyses, and often takes lead roles in casework. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work in similar environments, but the Forensic Scientist position involves greater independence and expertise.

How easy is it to find a job as an assistant forensic scientist?

Finding a job as an assistant forensic scientist can be competitive, often requiring a relevant degree in forensic science, biology, or chemistry, along with laboratory skills and certifications. Job availability depends on the region, laboratory funding, and the demand for forensic services, but entry-level positions are generally accessible to qualified candidates with relevant education and experience.

How to become an assistant forensic scientist?

To become an assistant forensic scientist, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Relevant skills include attention to detail, laboratory techniques, and familiarity with forensic tools and procedures; some positions may require certification or experience in evidence handling. Gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level laboratory work can also improve job prospects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Scientist jobs in Florida?

The most popular types of Forensic Scientist jobs in Florida are:

What job categories do people searching Assistant Forensic Scientist jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Forensic Scientist jobs in Florida are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Assistant Forensic Scientist jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Assistant Forensic Scientist job openings:

Infographic showing various Assistant Forensic Scientist job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,341 per year, or $28.5 per hour.

Supervisory Chemist (Forensic)

Drug Enforcement Administration

Miami, FL • On-site, Remote

$133K - $174K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Summary
This position is located in the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Office of Forensic Sciences Laboratories in Miami, FL.
This position(s) primary purpose is to supervises the activities of a lab unit engaged in the analysis, interpretation and identification of seized evidence related to alleged violations of Controlled Substances laws; research and method development related to evidence analysis; technical support of criminal investigators in the enforcement of controlled substance.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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As a your typical work assignments may include:
  • Exercises supervisory and/or managerial authorities and provides occupational specific technical and administrative direction at least 35% or more of the time over subordinate employee performing the work and functions of the organization.
  • Supervises a group of employees performing work at the GS-7 to GS-13 level. Supervises general laboratory activities and analytical work of a group of forensic, clerical or technical employees in the examination and interpretation of evidence and related items and provides for the security and integrity of same.
  • Provides direct operational assistance and support in the field laboratories.
  • Oversees laboratory workflows and backlogs and implements changes to improve laboratory turnaround time. Identifies internal and external factors resulting in changes to the laboratory's workload and recommends improvements to senior leadership.
  • Provides subject matter expertise in the chemistry discipline; provides technical and scientific information relating to the chemistry discipline within the laboratory's Area of Responsibility; develops and updates discipline-specific policies and procedures; and provides DEA representation to and close liaison and cooperation with principal officials of associated and companion agencies and organizations, both domestic and international, to assist in the accomplishment of DEA forensic sciences programs.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • U.S. Citizenship is required.
  • Employment is subject to the successful completion of a background investigation. Must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
  • Incumbent is subject to random drug testing.
  • Applicant must possess and maintain a valid motor vehicle operator's license while employed in the position and will be required to operate the motor vehicle in accordance with applicable OPM regulations and related requirements of DOJ/DEA.
  • Successful completion of a one-year supervisory probationary period is required (unless already completed)

Qualifications
For more information on eligibility requirements see: DEA Employment Eligibility
Applicants must meet the required qualification requirements described below by the closing date of the announcement. If you are qualifying based on education or if there are mandatory education requirements listed below, you MUST submit a copy of your college transcripts with your application.
Basic Qualification Requirements:
Applicants must meet ONE of the following qualification requirements: (A). Degree: physical sciences, life sciences, or engineering that included 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by course work in mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at least 6 semester hours of physics. OR (B). Combination of education and experience course work equivalent to a major as shown in A above, including at least 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at least 6 semester hours of physics, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
Applicants applying for the GS-14 must meet the following requirements:
Have at least one full year of specialized experience that is at least equivalent to work performed at the GS-13 grade level. Specialized experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
In addition to meeting the basic requirements above, applicants must have one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-13 Federal grade level in applying chemical specialty area of forensic chemistry which enables the chemist to serve as a technical authority and manager to a group of forensic chemists. Knowledge of Federal laws, agency regulations, standard operating procedures, and guidelines pertaining to forensic chemistry to implement and conduct ongoing reviews of technical forensic work products.
Additional information on the position qualification requirements is located in the Office of Personnel Management's (OPM) Qualifications Standards Handbook.
Time-In-Grade Requirement: Applicants must meet time-in-grade and time after competitive appointment requirements by the closing date of this announcement.
Education
See the qualification section of this vacancy announcement for education requirements.
Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the education requirements if you can show that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying. For a list of accredited organizations recognized as specializing in interpretation of foreign education credentials, visit: www.naces.org/members.php.
If you are claiming education as any part of your qualifications for this position, you must submit an official transcript, unofficial transcript, or a list including courses, grades earned, completion dates, and quarter and semester hours earned.
Additional information
For reasonable accommodation at the Drug Enforcement Administration, please contact the Human Resources office listed in this announcement.
Current or Former Political Appointees: The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) must authorize employment offers made to current or former political appointees. If an applicant is currently, or has been within the last 5 years, a political Schedule A, Schedule C, Non-career SES or Presidential Appointee employee in the Executive Branch, applicants must disclose this information to the Human Resources Office listed in this announcement.
Multiple positions may be filled from this announcement. If eligible, applicants to this announcement may be referred to similar positions in any Division/Office listed in this announcement. Telework eligibility and security clearance requirements may vary for such similar positions.
Relocation Incentives may be considered and approved if the DEA has determined that the position is likely to be difficult to fill in the absence of an incentive and funding for such an incentive is available.
If eligible, telework agreements may be permitted with supervisory approval.
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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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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
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Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.