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Biology Forensic Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

S. in Forensic Science, Chemistry, Biology or a related field from an accredited university by the date of appointment. The field of expertise and experience must include forensic science. Experience ...

D. in forensic science, biology, chemistry, or forensic psychology or a closely related eld is required at the time of appointment. Employee will consider sponsorship for those qualified at the ...

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Biology Forensic Science information

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$35.5K

$52.4K

$78.5K

How much do biology forensic science jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for biology forensic science in the United States is $52,397.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,500.00 and $55,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Biology Forensic Science, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Biology Forensic Science often face challenges such as handling degraded or limited biological samples, maintaining chain of custody, and staying current with rapidly evolving laboratory technologies. Addressing these challenges involves strict adherence to evidence handling protocols, continuous professional development, and collaboration with law enforcement and legal teams to ensure accurate and reliable results. Being detail-oriented and adaptable is key, as is working closely with colleagues and external partners to solve complex cases.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Biology Forensic Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Biology Forensic Scientist, you need a solid background in biology, chemistry, and forensic science, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, DNA analysis software, and forensic databases is essential, along with certifications from organizations like the American Board of Criminalistics. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong written and verbal communication skills help professionals excel when handling evidence and presenting findings. These skills and qualifications ensure accurate analysis, reliable results, and clear communication in legal and investigative contexts.

What is the difference between Biology Forensic Science vs Forensic Biology?

AspectBiology Forensic ScienceForensic Biology
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in biology, forensic science, or related field; certifications like ASQ FFL or IAIBachelor's or master's in biology, forensic science; certifications often include ASQ FFL or IAI
Work EnvironmentCrime labs, forensic laboratories, law enforcement agenciesCrime labs, forensic laboratories, law enforcement agencies
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement, government agencies, private labsLaw enforcement, government agencies, private labs

Biology Forensic Science and Forensic Biology share similar credentials and work environments, focusing on analyzing biological evidence in criminal investigations. The main difference lies in terminology; Forensic Biology is often used interchangeably but may emphasize biological evidence analysis specifically, while Biology Forensic Science encompasses a broader scope of forensic applications involving biological sciences.

What is Biology Forensic Science?

Biology Forensic Science is a branch of forensic science that applies biological principles and techniques to analyze evidence from crime scenes, such as blood, hair, bodily fluids, and other biological materials. Forensic biologists use methods like DNA profiling, serology, and microscopic analysis to help identify suspects or victims and to reconstruct events related to crimes. Their work is crucial in criminal investigations, often providing key evidence used in court cases. This field requires a strong background in biology, laboratory skills, and an understanding of legal procedures.
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What cities are hiring for Biology Forensic Science jobs? Cities with the most Biology Forensic Science job openings:
What states have the most Biology Forensic Science jobs? States with the most job openings for Biology Forensic Science jobs include:
Criminalist IV (Forensic Biology)

Criminalist IV (Forensic Biology)

City of New York

Manhattan, NY • On-site

Full-time

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


City Of New York rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 77 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

483rd of 645 rated public administrative organizations


Job 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 Forensic Biology Department and in addition to the duties and responsibilities of Criminalist III, performs professional and complex work in collection of evidence on site and in chemical, biological and physical laboratory analysis of evidentiary material. Typical tasks include but are not limited to the following:
- Will supervise and train less experienced Criminalists
- Supervise a POD of Criminalists involved in evidence collection on site and in complex scientific analyses of evidentiary material and specimens.
- Schedules and conducts training of subordinates Criminalists in new methods and techniques regarding evidence collection, preservation and analyses.
- Reviews subordinates laboratory reports, implements and maintains the quality control program within the laboratory; directs the maintenance of laboratory equipment and/or calibrates analytical instruments.
- Liaisons with other agency units, other governmental agencies, investigators, and outside representative regarding laboratory results and reports.
- Evaluates testimony of subordinates at court trials; serves as specific representative and testifies in court as a qualified expert witness.
- Monitors technical developments and trends in the forensic field.
- 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 SUBJECT TO OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT & BUDGET APPROVAL.***
Please submit resume and cover letter to nyc.gov/ocmecareers Job ID# 776162
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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