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Crime Lab Assistant Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Laboratory Assistant Description The lab assistant is preparing the testing that is then performed ... An employer who violates this lawshall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of ...

Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment. About University of Minnesota The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC) The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities ...

... lab reports, photographs, attendance reports, video/audio tape, * court calendar, child support ... criminal complaints, juvenile petitions, commitment petitions, jail list, probation reports, etc.

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Crime Lab Assistant information

See Minnesota salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do crime lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for crime lab assistant in Minnesota is $19.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $22.60 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.

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Crime Lab Assistant job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,246 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Lab Assistant

Actalent

Saint Paul, MN

$18.50 - $20/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Laboratory Assistant

Description

The lab assistant is preparing the testing that is then performed by the technologists. This includes organizing the samples, sample prep, and preparing reagents that are used in extractions as well as in the instruments. There is a lot of liquid chromotography based testing used in their field of work so this requires heavy amounts of buffer/reagent preperation work

The workflow is very fluid so someone needs to be comfortable changing tasks throughout the day based on business needs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Locate and retrieve specimens (urine, blood, serum, plasma, oral fluid) for testing, aliquoting as needed; evaluate specimens and test orders; determine priority of work and batches to maintain acceptable turn around time

• Recognize unacceptable and unusual specimens and handle appropriately

• Adhere to SOP when preparing materials and specimens for both pre and post extraction

• Use GDP in all documentation

• Maintain a clean, well-stocked, organized work area

• Maintain clean glassware and extraction materials

• Maintain accurate records and documentation for all laboratory tests and equipment including, but not limited to, maintenance logs, temperature logs, disinfection logs and assay SOPs

• Support the preparation of laboratory reagents according to established department standard operating procedures and established time frames, as needed

• Deliver accurate high quality patient care while maintaining efficiency

• Participate in the instruction and training of others; demonstrate and/or explain the testing process to others or observe the testing process as performed by others

Additional Skills & Qualifications

HIgh school diploma- Ideally is working towards or has completed a Bachelors degree in science as this is a chemistry focused role

Ability to work in a fast paced environment

6+ months of laboratory experience (can be from school)

Multi-tasking skills are important (verified by references)

Experience Level

Entry Level

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of SAINT PAUL, MN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $18.50 - $20.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in SAINT PAUL,MN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 31, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications withoutregard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability,sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protectedby law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification oradjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability,please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in thecity and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicantswith arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as acondition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this lawshall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process,including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applicationsand qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, youacknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


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About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

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