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Contractual Forensic Speech Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Contractual Forensic Speech Science information

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$41K

$87.9K

$137K

How much do contractual forensic speech science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for contractual forensic speech science in the United States is $87,877.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,500.00 and $111,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contractual forensic speech scientist?

A Contractual Forensic Speech Scientist is a specialist who analyzes speech recordings for legal and investigative purposes, typically working on a contract basis rather than as a full-time employee. Their work involves tasks such as speaker identification, authentication of audio evidence, transcription, and enhancement of recordings for court cases. They often collaborate with law enforcement, lawyers, and courts to provide expert testimony and technical reports. Because they work contractually, their assignments may vary in duration and complexity based on clients’ needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contractual forensic speech scientist?

To excel as a Contractual Forensic Speech Scientist, you need a solid background in linguistics, phonetics, and forensic audio analysis, typically supported by an advanced degree in speech science or a related field. Familiarity with audio analysis software, spectrographic tools, and relevant certifications in forensic audio examination are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help professionals interpret complex data and present findings clearly in legal contexts. These skills are crucial to ensure accurate, unbiased analysis and reliable expert testimony in forensic investigations.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in contractual forensic speech science roles?

Professionals in contractual forensic speech science often encounter challenges such as managing variable caseloads and adapting quickly to different types of legal cases. Since the work is contract-based, you may need to balance multiple projects simultaneously and meet tight deadlines imposed by courts or law enforcement agencies. Additionally, clear communication with legal teams and maintaining objectivity in your analyses are crucial, as your findings can significantly impact case outcomes. Building strong organizational skills and staying current with advances in forensic technology can help you succeed in this dynamic environment.

What is the difference between Contractual Forensic Speech Science vs Forensic Speech-Language Pathologist?

AspectContractual Forensic Speech ScienceForensic Speech-Language Pathologist
CredentialsTypically requires forensic certification, speech science background, and sometimes legal trainingRequires speech-language pathology license and clinical certification (e.g., ASHA certification)
Work EnvironmentLegal settings, laboratories, or consulting firms, often on a contractual basisHospitals, clinics, or legal settings, primarily in clinical or educational environments
Employer & Industry UsageLegal firms, forensic labs, government agencies, consulting firmsHospitals, schools, legal cases involving speech or language issues

Contractual Forensic Speech Science focuses on analyzing speech for legal cases, often on a contractual basis, while Forensic Speech-Language Pathologists provide clinical assessments and therapy related to speech and language in forensic contexts. Both roles require specialized knowledge, but their work environments and credentials differ significantly.

More about Contractual Forensic Speech Science jobs

What cities are hiring for Contractual Forensic Speech Science jobs?

Cities with the most Contractual Forensic Speech Science job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Speech Science jobs?

The most popular types of Forensic Speech Science jobs are:

What states have the most Contractual Forensic Speech Science jobs?

States with the most job openings for Contractual Forensic Speech Science jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Contractual Forensic Speech Science jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Contractual Forensic Speech Science jobs are:

Infographic showing various Contractual Forensic Speech Science job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $87,877 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Forensic Scientist Trainee

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Harrisburg, PA • Hybrid

$53K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

THE POSITION Step into an exciting role as a Forensic Scientist Trainee with the Bureau of Forensic Services, Bethlehem Regional Laboratory. This position gives you the chance to learn hands-on forensic skills that support important investigative work. You will have the opportunity to train with experts, analyze evidence, and gain experience that helps build a strong foundation for your career.

Join a team that supports justice through careful scientific work. DESCRIPTION OF WORK This position participates in structured forensic training that builds skills in biological evidence testing, hair identification, documentation, and courtroom procedures. It supports laboratory operations while developing the technical abilities needed for future independent work.

As a Forensic Scientist Trainee, you will perform the following duties: Serology Testing: Perform biological fluid testing under supervision and prepare reports based on examination results Training Participation: Develop skills in analyzing fluids and hairs and in preparing clear reports for court use Case Documentation: Maintain detailed and accurate records of testing procedures and results Hair Identification: Conduct supervised examinations of hairs and report findings to requesting agencies Evidence Handling: Learn correct techniques for collecting, preserving, and managing physical evidence Competency Development: Complete required testing and take part in mock trial activities to demonstrate proficiency Interested in learning more. Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description. Work Schedule and Additional Information: Full-time employment Work hours are 8:15 AM to 4:15 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.

Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position. Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable. You will receive further communication regarding this position via email.

Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices. REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY QUALIFICATIONS Minimum Experience and Training Requirements: A bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, forensic science, or a closely related physical or natural science, which includes or is supplemented by 16 college credits in chemistry. Applicants will be considered to have met the educational requirements once they are within 3 months of graduating with a qualifying degree.

Other Requirements: You must meet the PA residency requirement. For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link and click on Residency Guidelines. You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Legal Requirements: This job title has been identified as performing critical duties. Prior to placement in this job title, the selected candidate regardless of their current job, must submit a Report of Medications for screening by the State Police Medical Officer. You must pass a background investigation and meet Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) compliance requirements.

How to Apply: Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education). If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements

Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.

Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position. All application materials and interview responses must reflect the applicant's own experience, qualifications, and work. Applicants may use generative AI tools for preparation purposes only.

Use of AI to misrepresent or falsify information, or to assist during interviews, is not permitted. Review the Guidance for Generative AI Tools & Job Seekers for additional information. Veterans: Pennsylvania law (51 Pa.

C.S. 7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS): 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals). If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date. The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce.

The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.

EXAMINATION INFORMATION Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, serves as your exam for this position. No additional exam is required at a test center (also referred to as a written exam). Your score is based on the detailed information you provide on your application and in response to the supplemental questions.

Your score is valid for this specific posting only. You must provide complete and accurate information or: your score may be lower than deserved. you may be disqualified.

You may only apply/test once for this posting. Your results will be provided via email.


Commonwealth of Pennsylvania logo

About Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is not a traditional company but rather a state government entity headquartered in Middletown, Pennsylvania, United States. Through its official website pa.gov, the government provides a broad range of services to its residents, including but not limited to, health services, education, transportation, and regulatory functions. Founded in 1787, the Commonwealth holds a rich history dating back to the foundation of the United States itself. The government's core mission is to serve and improve the lives of Pennsylvanians, fostering a more prosperous, informed, and secure state.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Harrisburg, PA, US

Year founded

1787