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Crime Lab Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Crime Lab Assistant information

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$10

$19

$29

How much do crime lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for crime lab assistant in California is $19.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a crime lab assistant?

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.

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 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 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.

How to become a crime lab assistant?

To become a crime lab assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring postsecondary education in criminal justice, biology, or chemistry. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and the ability to follow protocols; some roles may require certification or training in forensic techniques. On-the-job training is common, and a background check is usually required due to the sensitive nature of the work.

What credentials do you need to work in a crime lab assistant?

To work as a crime lab assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions prefer or require postsecondary education such as an associate's degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and the ability to follow strict protocols; certifications are not usually mandatory but can enhance prospects.

What does a crime lab assistant do?

A crime lab assistant supports forensic investigations by collecting, preserving, and analyzing evidence such as fingerprints, blood samples, and physical items. They often operate laboratory equipment, maintain detailed records, and follow safety protocols to ensure evidence integrity and assist forensic scientists in solving crimes.

What are the most commonly searched types of Crime Lab jobs in California?

The most popular types of Crime Lab jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Crime Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Crime Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Crime Lab Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,562 per year, or $20 per hour.

Laboratory Assistant II - 140849

University of California San Diego

San Diego, CA • On-site

$27.54 - $33.13/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


University Of California San Diego rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

162nd of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Payroll Title:
LAB AST 2 Department:
NEUROSCIENCES Hiring Pay Scale
$27.54 - $33.13 / Hour Worksite:
La Jolla Appointment Type:
Career Appointment Percent:
100% Union:
TX Contract Total Openings:
1 Work Schedule:
Days, 8-Hour Shifts, Monday-Friday
#140849 Laboratory Assistant II
Filing Deadline: Wed 8/19/2026
Apply Now
UC San Diego values and welcomes people from all backgrounds. If you are interested in being part of our team, possess the needed licensure and certifications, and feel that you have most of the qualifications and/or transferable skills for a job opening, we strongly encourage you to apply.
UCSD Layoff from Career Appointment : Apply by 08/07/2026for consideration with preference for rehire. All layoff applicants should contact their Employment Advisor.
Reassignment Applicants : Eligible Reassignment clients should contact their Disability Counselor for assistance.
DESCRIPTION
The Department of Neurosciences is a large department within the UCSD School of Medicine. The Department's mission is to create the synergies and define the ideas and programs that will allow us to transform the way our neurosciences community discovers, teaches and cares. We strive to conduct cutting-edge science and research and train the next generation of neurologists and researchers by fostering education at all levels and integrating the latest scientific and medical advances into the curriculum.
Under close supervision, incumbent will perform a wide variety of standard experimental techniques including tissue sectioning, immunolabeling, microscopic imaging, and quantification.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Graduation from high school or a General Education diploma and two years of laboratory experience OR one year of lab experience and two years or more of college including theoretical background in neurobiology or related field, and knowledge of basic neuroanatomy.
  • Experience performing sectioning of biological tissue, preparing scientific reagents including common staining solution and preparation of buffers and media.
  • Experience performing routine imaging and microscopy.
  • Ability to follow established lab protocols and work effectively with minimal instruction.
  • Experience with general lab maintenance and routine laboratory methods.
  • Excellent verbal, written, and electronic communication skills that facilitate professional, effective, and courteous interaction with a diverse population.
  • Knowledge of basic lab safety and EH&S procedures.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills including tact, diplomacy and flexibility with the ability to work in a team framework in conjunction with principles of community.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS
  • Must be able to work various hours and locations based on business needs. Overtime and variation of work schedule may be necessary to complete experiments/projects.
  • Employment is subject to a criminal background check.
  • Must be willing and able to work on human anatomic pathology
Pay Transparency Act
Annual Full Pay Range: $57,504 - $69,175 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)
Hourly Equivalent: $27.54 - $33.13
Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Hiring Pay Scale referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Annual Full Pay Range may be broader than what the University anticipates to pay for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).
Apply Now
If employed by the University of California, you will be required to comply with our Policy on Vaccination Programs, which may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements. If applicable, life-support certifications (BLS, NRP, ACLS, etc.) must include hands-on practice and in-person skills assessment; online-only certification is not acceptable.
UC San Diego Health Sciences is comprised of our School of Medicine, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, The Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, and our Student Health and Well-Being Department. We have long been at the forefront of translational - or "bench-to-bedside" - research, transforming patient care through discovery and innovation leading to new drugs and technologies. Translational research is carried out every day in the hundreds of clinical trials of promising new therapies offered through UC San Diego Health, and in the drive of our researchers and clinician-scientists who are committed to having a significant impact on patient care. We invite you to join our team!
Applications/Resumes are accepted for current job openings only. For full consideration on any job, applications must be received prior to the initial closing date. If a job has an extended deadline, applications/resumes will be considered during the extension period; however, a job may be filled before the extended date is reached.
To foster the best possible working and learning environment, UC San Diego strives to cultivate a rich and diverse environment, inclusive and supportive of all students, faculty, staff and visitors. For more information, please visit UC San Diego Principles of Community .
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.
For the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
UC San Diego is a smoke and tobacco free environment. Please visit smokefree.ucsd.edu for more information.
UC San Diego Health maintains a marijuana and drug free environment. Employees may be subject to drug screening.
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts an offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of substantiated misconduct with a previous employer.
a. "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies governing employee conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, or discrimination, as defined by the employer. For reference, below are UC's policies addressing some forms of misconduct:
  • UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
  • UC Anti-Discrimination Policy
  • Abusive Conduct in the Workplace

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