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Crime Lab Analyst Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

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Crime Lab Analyst information

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$8

$20

$35

How much do crime lab analyst jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for crime lab analyst in Florida is $20.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $24.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Crime Lab Analyst vs Forensic Scientist?

AspectCrime Lab AnalystForensic Scientist
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or a related fieldUsually holds a bachelor's or master's degree in forensic science, chemistry, or biology
Work EnvironmentWorks primarily in crime laboratories analyzing physical evidenceWorks in labs, research facilities, or court settings, often involved in research and casework
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, crime labsFederal, state, or private forensic laboratories, research institutions
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for entry-level forensic rolesCompared for advanced forensic research and case analysis

While both Crime Lab Analysts and Forensic Scientists work in forensic laboratories analyzing evidence, Crime Lab Analysts typically focus on processing and examining physical evidence under the supervision of forensic scientists. Forensic Scientists often have broader research responsibilities and advanced degrees, making them suitable for more complex casework and research roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Crime Lab Analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Crime Lab Analyst, you need a solid background in forensic science, chemistry, or biology, often supported by a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with laboratory instruments, evidence management systems, and certifications like those from the American Board of Criminalistics are typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and clear communication are essential soft skills for interpreting results and presenting findings in legal settings. These competencies ensure reliable evidence analysis, support criminal investigations, and uphold the integrity of the justice process.

What are some common challenges Crime Lab Analysts face when handling evidence and how are these addressed?

Crime Lab Analysts often encounter challenges related to maintaining the integrity and chain of custody of evidence, as even minor contamination or mislabeling can compromise an investigation. To address these issues, analysts follow strict protocols for evidence handling, documentation, and storage, and regularly participate in training to stay updated on best practices. Additionally, they work closely with law enforcement and other forensic specialists to ensure clear communication and accurate results, which helps minimize errors and ensures the reliability of their findings.

What are crime lab analysts?

Crime lab analysts are specialized scientists who work in forensic laboratories, examining evidence collected from crime scenes. They analyze physical materials such as DNA, fingerprints, blood samples, fibers, and other trace evidence to help law enforcement agencies solve crimes. Their analyses provide crucial information that can link suspects to crimes, support investigations, and assist in court proceedings. Crime lab analysts often specialize in areas like toxicology, ballistics, or DNA analysis and must follow strict protocols to ensure the integrity of their findings.

How much does a crime lab scientist make?

The average salary for a crime lab scientist typically ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced analysts with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries. Many crime lab analysts also receive benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

How to become a crime lab analyst?

To become a crime lab analyst, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Relevant skills include attention to detail, proficiency with laboratory equipment, and knowledge of forensic techniques; some positions may require certification or specialized training. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level laboratory work can also improve job prospects.

Can I be a CSI without being a cop?

Crime Lab Analysts are specialized forensic professionals who analyze evidence in laboratories and do not need to be police officers. They typically require a background in science, such as chemistry or biology, and may need certification or training in forensic methods. Unlike crime scene investigators, they do not perform fieldwork or arrests.

What do crime lab analysts do?

Crime lab analysts examine physical evidence collected from crime scenes, such as fingerprints, blood, and DNA, using scientific techniques and laboratory equipment. They analyze and interpret data to help solve crimes, often preparing detailed reports and testifying in court. Strong attention to detail, knowledge of forensic methods, and certification in forensic science are important for this role.
Infographic showing various Crime Lab Analyst job openings in Florida as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,719 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Forensic Scientist III OR Forensic Scientist II

Broward County Sheriff's Office

Fort Lauderdale, FL • On-site

$72K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


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Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

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Job description

Salary: $72,301.92 - $129,781.54 Annually
Location : Crime Lab 201 SE 6th Street, Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Job Type: Permanent Full Time
Job Number: 26123A
Department: Law Enforcement
Division: Crime Lab
Opening Date: 01/20/2026
Closing Date: 12/18/2026 4:30 PM Eastern
Minimum Requirements
Current vacancy is for Forensic Scientist IIICandidates who meet the qualifications for a Forensic Scientist II may also be considered if the position is not filled after processing all of the Forensic Scientist III candidates.
The vacancy exists within the Crime Lab, specifically in the Latent Print Unit.
ACADEMIC TRANSCRIPTS
Unofficial college transcripts are required at the time of application and must be attached to your on-line application. Applications cannot be submitted without attached transcripts.
Forensic Scientist III Requirements:
Salary: $79,674.92 - $129,781.54
  1. Must be a United States Citizen at time of application.
  2. Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in the natural or physical sciences, forensic science, criminalistics, or closely related field. Master's degree preferred. Additional coursework may be necessary.
  3. Minimum three (3) years at the Forensic Scientist II level; or five (5) years journey level experience in latent print examination with exposure to the administrative aspects of the work.
  4. An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered. Such must be clearly demonstrated on the application for consideration.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
  1. Must possess and maintain certification by the governing board of the forensic discipline e.g., International Association for Identification (IAI). Successful completion of the ANAB Internal Auditor Training Course, or ANAB Assessor Training Course for Testing Laboratories or equivalent as determined by the Crime Lab Director.
  2. Successful completion of science-related coursework; per the Organization of Scientific Area Committees (OSAC), or NIST equivalent, to include General Biology and Advanced Latent Print Comparison Courses. Knowledge and experience of principles, methods and current techniques utilized in the forensic analysis of latent print evidence is required.

Forensic Scientist II Requirements:
Salary: $72,301.92 - $118,898.75
  1. Must be a United States Citizen at time of application.
  2. Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in the natural or physical sciences, forensic science, or closely related field; Additional coursework may be necessary.
  3. Successful completion of an in-house training program as a Forensic Scientist I, as determined by Crime Lab Command, that incorporates progressively responsible journey level experience in area of assignment; or a minimum of two (2) years journey level experience in latent print examination, with exposure to the administrative aspects of the work.
  4. An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered. Such must be clearly demonstrated on the application for consideration.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
  1. Successful completion of science-related coursework; per the Organization of Scientific Area Committees (OSAC), or NIST equivalent, to include General Biology and basic Fingerprint Classification and Comparison Courses or equivalent. Knowledge and experience of principles, methods and current techniques utilized in the forensic examination of latent print evidence is required.

Nature of Work
Forensic Scientist III:
Under administrative direction, the purpose of the position is to prepare and analyze chemical and evidentiary samples in criminal identification and investigations in the Crime Laboratory of the Broward Sheriff's Office. As an ISO 17025 accredited laboratory employees in this position must adhere to accreditation standards encompassing extensive case documentation, validation of procedures, technical and administrative review of reports and case notes, etc. In addition, employees are required to participate in external proficiency testing, courtroom testimony monitoring, continued technical training, quality audits, and accreditation inspections by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB), or other accrediting bodies. Employees function in a senior level status performing advanced laboratory techniques for the most complex cases. Position exercises considerable initiative and independent judgment in the conduct of duties, referring unique or unusual, situations to the Crime Lab Technical Leader/Crime Lab Unit Manager for review and advisement. Employees in this classification may perform lead worker duties within the area of assignment under the supervision of the Crime Lab Unit Manager. Position is responsible for the formal reporting of and testifying to the findings of such analysis. Performs related work as directed.
Forensic Scientist II:
Under administrative direction, the purpose of the position is to prepare and analyze chemical and evidentiary samples in criminal identification and investigations in the Crime Laboratory of the Broward Sheriff's Office. As an ISO 17025 accredited laboratory, employees in this position must adhere to accreditation standards encompassing extensive case documentation, validation of procedures, technical and administrative review of reports and case notes, etc. In addition, employees are required to participate in external proficiency testing, courtroom testimony monitoring, continued technical training, quality audits, and accreditation inspections by ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB), or other accrediting bodies. Employees function in a journey level status performing moderately complex casework under the supervision of the Crime Lab Unit Manager. Position is responsible for the formal reporting of and testifying to the findings of such analysis. Performs related work as directed.
Essential Functions/Physical Requirements
Forensic Scientist III:
The list of essential functions, as outlined herein, is intended to be representative of the tasks performed within this classification. It is not necessarily descriptive of any one position in the class. The omission of an essential function does not preclude management from assigning duties not listed herein if such functions are a logical assignment to the position.
Involves the examination of latent print evidence; performing all work related to the analysis, comparison and evaluation of latent prints recovered from crime scenes.
Conducts preliminary testing and preparation of evidence for analysis in one or more assigned areas.
Participates in the preparation of unit equipment and materials used for testing and analytical tasks.
Examines materials collected for adherence to established procedures concerning collection and identification of chemical and evidentiary samples.
Conducts laboratory examinations utilizing procedures applicable to the analytical task(s) assigned.
Isolates, collects, and analyzes evidentiary items as applicable.
Generates data from laboratory examination and testing; reviews such for the purpose of determining findings; compiles such for reporting purposes and judicial process as applicable.
Conducts administrative and/or technical review of casework.
Testifies to analytical results in depositions and court.
Performs validations, routine maintenance, and troubleshooting of specialized unit equipment, to include performance checks, calibration, and sterilization procedures.
Maintains current knowledge of trends and developments in the field through training, workshops, seminars, science periodicals, and other information sources; participates in annual proficiency examinations.
Provides training, guidance, and assistance to other unit personnel in procedures, methods, and unit standards.
May assist in conducting internal audits within the Crime Laboratory as directed.
May act in the Crime Lab Technical Leader's or Crime Lab Unit Manager's absence as directed.
Performs related duties as directed.
Tasks involve the ability to exert light physical effort in sedentary to light work, but which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of moderate weight (up to 25 pounds). Tasks may involve extended periods of time at a keyboard or workstation. Tasks are performed in a laboratory/forensics analysis environment where proper provisions are in place in terms of employee security and protection. Due to the nature and location of the work environment, tasks include potential for intermittent exposure to disagreeable elements consistent with routine conditions in a laboratory/forensics analysis environment, e.g., toxic agents, pathogens, chemicals, organic/inorganic agents. Spends at least 65% of time performing duties that involve the collection, examination, preservation, documentation, preparation, or analysis of human tissues or fluids or physical evidence having potential biological, chemical, or radiological hazard or contamination, or use chemicals, processes, or materials that may have carcinogenic or health-damaging properties in the analysis of evidence.
Broward Sheriff's Office is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Broward Sheriff's Office will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.
Forensic Scientist II:
Involves the examination of latent print evidence; performing all work related to the analysis, comparison and evaluation of latten prints recovered from crime scenes.
The list of essential functions, as outlined herein, is intended to be representative of the tasks performed within this classification. It is not necessarily descriptive of any one position in the class. The omission of an essential function does not preclude management from assigning duties not listed herein if such functions are a logical assignment to the position.
Conducts preliminary testing and preparation of evidence for analysis in one or more assigned areas.
Participates in the preparation of unit equipment and materials used for testing and analytical tasks.
Examines materials collected for adherence to established procedures concerning collection and identification of chemical and evidentiary samples.
Conducts laboratory examinations utilizing procedures applicable to the analytical task(s) assigned.
Isolates, collects, and analyzes evidentiary items as applicable.
Generates data from laboratory examination and testing; reviews such for the purpose of determining findings; compiles such for reporting purposes and judicial process as applicable.
Conducts administrative and/or technical review of casework.
Testifies to analytical results in depositions and court.
Performs routine maintenance and troubleshooting of specialized unit equipment, to include performance checks, calibration, and sterilization procedures.
Maintains current knowledge of trends and developments in the field through training, workshops, seminars, science periodicals, and other information sources; participates in annual proficiency examinations.
May provide training, guidance, and assistance to other unit personnel in procedures, methods, and unit standards.
Performs related duties as directed.
Tasks involve the ability to exert light physical effort in sedentary to light work, but which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of moderate weight (up to 25 pounds). Tasks may involve extended periods of time at a keyboard or workstation. Tasks are performed in a laboratory/forensics analysis environment where proper provisions are in place in terms of employee security and protection. Due to the nature and location of the work environment, tasks include potential for intermittent exposure to disagreeable elements consistent with routine conditions in a laboratory/forensics analysis environment, e.g., toxic agents, pathogens, chemicals, organic/inorganic agents. Spends at least 65% of time performing duties that involve the collection, examination, preservation, documentation, preparation, or analysis of human tissues or fluids or physical evidence having potential biological, chemical or radiological hazard or contamination, or use chemicals, processes, or materials that may have carcinogenic or health-damaging properties in the analysis of evidence.
Broward Sheriff's Office is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Broward Sheriff's Office will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.
Recruitment Information
Applicants who qualify will be subject to an extensive selection process and screening program, which may include, but not be limited to evaluation of training and experience; written test; computer based test; interview; polygraph examination; psychological evaluation; employment record, fingerprint and background check; medical examination; and drug screen. The expected duration of the selection process varies by position and could last 10 to 12 weeks. Reapplication will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
BSO is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, citizenship status, color, disability, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. Veterans' preference per Florida law.
If you encounter issues with your application and need technical assistance, please contact Applicant Support (GovernmentJobs.com) from 9 am to 9 pm EST, Monday - Friday. You can re

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