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Assistant Forensic Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

FORENSIC TECHNICIAN

Little Rock, AR · On-site

$47K - $70K/yr

Assist forensic scientists by preparing materials, solutions, and equipment for laboratory testing.Operate and maintain specialized forensic instruments used in evidence examination.Follow safety ...

Institute of Forensic Sciences Division: Pathology Services Opening Date: 07/07/2026 Closing Date ... Provides gross neuropathology consultation to Assistant Medical Examiners during forensic autopsies ...

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Assistant Forensic Scientist information

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$36.5K

$79.4K

$137.5K

How much do assistant forensic scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant forensic scientist in the United States is $79,408.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,500.00 and $93,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.
More about Assistant Forensic Scientist jobs
What cities are hiring for Assistant Forensic Scientist jobs? Cities with the most Assistant Forensic Scientist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Scientist jobs? The most popular types of Forensic Scientist jobs are:
What states have the most Assistant Forensic Scientist jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Forensic Scientist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Forensic Scientist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Forensic Scientist jobs are:
Infographic showing various Assistant Forensic Scientist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,408 per year, or $38.2 per hour.
Criminalist IB (Forensic Biology)

Criminalist IB (Forensic Biology)

City of New York

Manhattan, NY • On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


City Of New York rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

527th of 700 rated public administrative organizations


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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