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Crime Lab Intern Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Crime Lab Intern information

What types of projects or tasks can a Crime Lab Intern expect to work on during their internship?

As a Crime Lab Intern, you can expect to assist with a variety of laboratory tasks such as preparing evidence for analysis, documenting chain of custody, and supporting forensic scientists with routine procedures like fingerprint analysis or DNA extraction. Interns often observe and sometimes participate in quality control checks, equipment maintenance, and data entry in accordance with strict lab protocols. While direct handling of sensitive evidence may be limited, you'll gain hands-on exposure to the workflows and challenges of a professional forensic lab, collaborating closely with experienced analysts and technicians.

What is the difference between Crime Lab Intern vs Crime Scene Technician?

AspectCrime Lab InternCrime Scene Technician
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding a degree in forensic science, criminal justice, or related fieldHigh school diploma or associate degree; specialized training in crime scene processing
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, assisting with analysis and researchOn-site at crime scenes, collecting evidence and documenting
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement agencies, forensic labs, research institutionsLaw enforcement agencies, crime scene units
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in forensic labsDifferences in fieldwork vs lab work in crime scene investigation

While both roles support criminal investigations, a Crime Lab Intern primarily works in laboratories assisting with forensic analysis, often as a student or trainee. In contrast, a Crime Scene Technician actively processes crime scenes, collecting evidence and documenting findings. Both positions are essential in the forensic process but differ in work environment and responsibilities.

What does a Crime Lab Intern do?

A Crime Lab Intern assists forensic scientists and lab technicians in analyzing evidence related to criminal investigations. Their duties may include preparing and organizing samples, conducting basic laboratory tests, maintaining lab equipment, and assisting with documentation and data entry. Interns gain hands-on experience with forensic procedures, learn about different types of evidence analysis (such as DNA, toxicology, or ballistics), and observe how scientific findings contribute to solving crimes. This role is typically designed for students or recent graduates pursuing a career in forensic science or criminal justice.

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

To thrive as a Crime Lab Intern, you should have a background in forensic science or a related field, strong analytical abilities, and a keen attention to detail, often supported by current enrollment in or completion of relevant coursework. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, evidence handling protocols, and software such as LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems) is typically required. Excellent observation skills, integrity, and the ability to communicate clearly make candidates stand out in this role. These skills ensure accurate evidence processing, uphold legal standards, and support effective teamwork in a scientific and legal environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Crime Lab jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Crime Lab jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Crime Lab Intern jobs in Washington? For Crime Lab Intern jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Crime Lab Intern jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Crime Lab Intern job openings:
Infographic showing various Crime Lab Intern job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Part-Time Research Assistant - SEAREC Intern I - Grab Lab

The Pennsylvania State University

Washington, DC

$17.31/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The Grab lab in the Department of Entomology is looking for undergraduate research assistants to help us conduct studies on the ecology of insects in agricultural systems. This position is based at the Southeast Agricultural Research and Extension Center in Manheim, PA. Projects include investigating ecologically based pest management strategies for vegetable crops and developing smart traps for monitoring and mapping sweet corn pests. Undergraduate research assistants will work directly with graduate students, senior researchers, extension educators and growers. Applicants should have a car and be able to travel between the extension center and grower farms across the region.

Duties and responsibilities

  • Collaboratively design experimental protocols
  • Collect and curate data
  • Learn data analysis techniques in R and conduct analyses
  • Share results of research work with the public, scientific and stakeholder audiences through presentations, written and online communications

Compensation:

The starting rate for this job is $17.31/hour.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver's license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.

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About Pennsylvania State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pennsylvania State University, often referred to as Penn State, is a major, public, research-intensive university located in University Park, PA, US. This esteemed institution serves as an important player within the education industry, offering a plethora of academic programs across various disciplines. The university was founded in 1855 with the mission to provide quality education, advanced research, and service to society. Penn State holds firmly to values of integrity, respect, and excellence, fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The university is renowned for its research productivity and its high-ranking programs in areas like engineering, business, and education. One notable achievement of the institution is its designation as a "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," demonstrating its commitment to scholarship and discovery.

Industry

Education

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

University Park, PA, US

Year founded

1855

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