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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 - Pre-Analytics - Per Diem 8 Hour Rotating Shift (Non-Exempt) (Union)

USC Gould School of Law

Los Angeles, CA

$23 - $39.10/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

The Laboratory Assistant is the department's primary support system and is responsible for procuring blood samples from patients, for preserving the integrity of specimens and for proper transporting, processing and preparation of all samples. Support from Laboratory Assistants also includes clerical functions such as answering telephone inquiries from other departments of the facility, dissemination of laboratory reports and communicating with referral laboratories utilized by the department.

Essential Duties:

  • Obtains blood sample specimens by venipuncture or capillary methods in response to requests for testing by clinicians, with appropriate consideration for the age of the patient.
  • Receives and screens specimens with regard to acceptability as defined by established guidelines.
  • Delivers of blood products to Surgery and for the delivery of surgical specimens to the appropriate sections of the Laboratory.
  • Processes, distributes or packages all specimens received (except Anatomic Pathology samples).
  • Responsible for handling all inquiries for lab results, specimen status and general information regarding the Department and it's functions.
  • Communicates and interacts effectively and professionally with patients, co-workers and guests of the institution, with appropriate consideration for the age of the patient.
  • Adheres to established Hospital and Departmental policies and procedures.
  • Carries out additional clinical and clerical duties to meet the needs of the Department.
  • Maintains professional growth and development. Actively participates in Department's Quality Improvement program.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

  • Req High school or equivalent
  • Req Specialized/technical training Graduate from an accredited Phlebotomy Program
  • Req 1 year Experience in Phlebotomy (preferably in an acute care facility setting).
  • Req Computer skills in Microsoft Office programs including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
  • Req Excellent analytical and organizational skills
  • Req Excellent written and verbal communication skills


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Pref Experience in Phlebotomy (preferably in an acute care facility setting).


Required Licenses/Certifications:

  • Req Certified Phlebotomy Technician - CPT (CA DPH)
  • Req Fire Life Safety Training (LA City) If no card upon hire, one must be obtained within 30 days of hire and maintained by renewal before expiration date. (Required within LA City only)
The hourly rate range for this position is $23.00 - $39.10. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

USC 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, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to theBackground Screening Policy Appendix Dfor specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email atuschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

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