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Crime Lab Assistant Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

Crime Lab Assistant information

Is it easy to get hired as a CSI?

Getting hired as a Crime Scene Investigator (CSI) can be competitive and typically requires a background in criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field, along with relevant experience or training. Employers often look for strong attention to detail, knowledge of crime scene protocols, and certification in forensic techniques, which can influence the ease of employment. The hiring process may also involve background checks and physical assessments.

What are some common challenges faced by Crime Lab Assistants, and how can they be addressed?

Crime Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing a high volume of evidence, maintaining strict chain-of-custody protocols, and working under tight deadlines. Attention to detail and organizational skills are crucial to prevent errors that could compromise cases. To address these challenges, assistants typically follow standardized procedures, utilize evidence management software, and participate in ongoing training to stay updated on best practices. Collaboration with forensic scientists and law enforcement officers also helps ensure accuracy and efficiency in laboratory operations.

What qualifications do you need to work in a crime lab?

Crime lab assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with many positions preferring or requiring an associate's or bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Strong attention to detail, analytical skills, and familiarity with laboratory equipment and safety protocols are also important qualifications.

What does a forensic lab assistant do?

A forensic lab assistant supports crime scene investigations by collecting, preserving, and analyzing physical evidence such as fingerprints, blood samples, and trace materials. They prepare samples for testing, operate laboratory equipment, and document findings to assist forensic scientists in solving cases. Attention to detail, knowledge of lab procedures, and adherence to safety protocols are essential in this role.

What is the difference between Crime Lab Assistant vs Forensic Technician?

AspectCrime Lab AssistantForensic Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require associate's degreeAssociate's or bachelor's degree in forensic science, biology, or chemistry
Work EnvironmentLaboratory settings, crime scenes, law enforcement agenciesLaboratories, crime scenes, fieldwork, law enforcement agencies
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, crime labsCrime labs, forensic laboratories, law enforcement agencies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles in crime labsMore specialized, requiring higher education

Crime Lab Assistants typically support forensic work with basic lab tasks and may have less formal education, while Forensic Technicians usually hold higher degrees and perform more complex analyses. Both roles work closely within crime labs and law enforcement, but Forensic Technicians often have more advanced responsibilities.

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

To excel as a Crime Lab Assistant, you typically need a background in forensic science, biology, or chemistry, along with strong analytical skills and attention to detail. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, evidence management systems, and safety protocols—sometimes supported by certifications like crime scene technician training—is essential. Excellent organizational skills, the ability to follow strict procedures, and clear written communication help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure accurate evidence handling, maintain chain of custody, and support the integrity of criminal investigations.

What are Crime Lab Assistants?

Crime Lab Assistants are support professionals who work in forensic laboratories, helping scientists and analysts process evidence related to criminal investigations. Their duties often include preparing and maintaining lab equipment, organizing and cataloging evidence, and assisting with basic laboratory tests under supervision. They ensure that the lab operates smoothly and that evidence is handled with care to maintain its integrity for legal proceedings. Crime Lab Assistants play a crucial role in supporting the work of forensic scientists and law enforcement.

How much does a CSI lab technician make?

A Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) lab technician typically earns between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced technicians with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries. The role often requires knowledge of forensic analysis tools and laboratory procedures.
Infographic showing various Crime Lab Assistant job openings in Alberta as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Co-op Student Lab Technician

Gibson Energy

Edmonton, AB

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Co-op Student Lab Technician
Location: Edmonton 
Job status: Full Time Fixed Term
Department:Lab - Edmonton 

Is this position safety sensitive: Yes 

Start Date: Immediate

Term Length: 4, 8 or 12 months 

At Gibson, we believe our competitive advantage lies in the strength and talents of our employees. That means connecting our employees to rewarding careers, building a high-performance culture where collaboration and creativity are rewarded, and providing real growth opportunities for employees to take on new challenges.  

The Role 

This exciting Co-op opportunity is designed for a student who is looking to gasin hands-on experience in a terminal laboratory environment. As a Lab Co-op Student, you will work with experienced lab personnel to support sample handling, routine testing, equipment care, documentation, and safe day-to-day lab operations. This role provides practical exposure to industrial laboratory work while helping you build technical skills, confidence, and an understanding of how accurate lab data supports terminal operations and product quality. 

What You'll Do 

  • Assists with routine laboratory testing and analysis of terminal products under supervision and in accordance with approved procedures. 

  • Assists with sample receiving, preparation, labelling, documentation, retention, and disposal as required. 

  • Collects or assists with collecting samples within the terminal as required, following applicable safety and site procedures. 

  • Maintains accurate records of testing, observations, and assigned lab activities. 

  • Assists with routine housekeeping, inventory checks, and organization of laboratory supplies and consumables. 

  • Assists with preventative maintenance activities by completing basic cleaning, setup, and documentation tasks as directed. 

  • Follows safe work procedures and contributes to a safe and organized lab environment in accordance with Gibson Safety and Environmental policies. 

  • Demonstrates a personal commitment to Environment, Health & Safety (EH&S) by participating in applicable EH&S programs, reporting hazards, and following all Company EH&S policies and procedures. 

  • May assist with special projects, data entry, procedure reviews, or other duties as assigned. 

What You Bring to the Role 

  • Currently enrolled in a chemistry, laboratory technology, chemical technology, environmental science, engineering technology, or related post-secondary co-op program. 

  • Ability to work 12-hour day shifts on a regular rotation, including weekends, with some 8-hour shifts scheduled based on lab needs. 

  • Strong oral and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate clearly by radio when required. 

  • Valid Class 5 Driver's License, or ability to obtain or meet site requirements, as required for site sampling duties. 

  • Interest in laboratory operations, petroleum testing, quality control, or industrial laboratory environments. 

  • Basic understanding of chemistry, laboratory safety, sample handling, and accurate record keeping. 

  • Experience with laboratory instruments, analytical testing, or gas chromatography would be considered an asset but is not required. 

  • Strong attention to detail with the ability to follow written procedures and ask questions when clarification is needed. 

  • Demonstrates proficiency with MS Outlook, Excel, and Word. 

Working Conditions 

  • Work is performed in a laboratory and terminal environment with exposure to routine laboratory chemicals, petroleum products, field sampling areas, and active operational areas. 

  • Worker must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as required by the company's safety policies and as required for weather conditions. 

  • This job is subject to background checks as outlined in Gibson Energy's Background Checks policy. Background checks may include: pre-employment drug & alcohol testing, pre-employment functional fitness testing, reference checks, education verification, driver's license verification and a criminal history check. 

About the Company

Gibson Energy Inc. ("Gibson" or the "Company") is a diversified North American energy infrastructure company headquartered in Calgary, Alberta. They have significant terminal assets, including 25 million barrels of storage and over 300 miles (500 kilometres) of crude pipelines across North America. The company has been providing market access to the oil and gas industry for over 70 years and is publicly traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX:GEI) with a market capitalization of approximately $4 billion. 

Gibson Energy operates through two main segments: 

  1. Infrastructure: This includes terminals, marine loading, rail loading and unloading facilities, gathering pipelines, a diluent recovery unit, and a crude oil processing facility. Key facilities within this segment include the Hardisty, Edmonton, and Ingleside Terminals, as well as gathering pipelines in the United States and a crude oil processing facility in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. 
  2. Marketing: This involves the purchasing, selling, storing, and optimizing of hydrocarbon products. 

Gibson Energy has a strong presence in the United States, due to the acquisition of the Gateway Terminal in Ingleside, Texas. This terminal is a world-class liquids terminal and export facility with very large crude carrier (VLCC) capabilities and direct pipeline connections to key basins like the Permian and Eagle Ford. The acquisition strengthens Gibson's cash flow with over 95% of the revenue under take-or-pay contracts with high-quality counterparties. 

Our Values, The Gibson Way 

The Gibson Way is how we succeed together. We believe in the power of both 'We' (collectively working together) and "I" (contributing individually) to achieve our shared goals. 

The 'We & I' play a very important role in our success! 

  • Contribute & Add Value Everyday 
  • Keep Our Edge & Be Resilient 
  • Stay Focused & Open-Minded 
  • Work it Out & Do it Together 

This is what we are all about and we encourage you to learn more! Click Here:The Gibson Way Â