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Crime Lab Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Lab Aide

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$14.75 - $20.25/hr

Details Open Date 07/15/2026 Requisition Number PRN17237N Job Title Lab Aide Working Title Lab Aide ... This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug ...

Lab Specialist

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$55 - $85/hr

The Lab Specialist assists in the development of research protocols and designs. Modifies and ... This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug ...

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Crime Lab information

See Utah salary details

$8

$22

$41

How much do crime lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for crime lab in Utah is $22.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.50 and $25.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a crime lab?

A crime lab, short for crime laboratory, is a scientific facility where forensic scientists analyze evidence collected from crime scenes. These laboratories use various techniques and technologies to examine physical evidence such as DNA, fingerprints, drugs, firearms, and other trace materials. The results from crime lab analyses help law enforcement agencies solve crimes, identify suspects, and support criminal prosecutions in court. Crime labs can be operated by local, state, or federal agencies, and often play a crucial role in the criminal justice system.

What are some of the common challenges faced by professionals working in a crime lab environment?

Working in a crime lab often involves handling sensitive evidence under strict protocols, meeting tight deadlines, and ensuring that all analyses are both accurate and legally admissible. Professionals must be detail-oriented and able to manage stress, as errors can have significant legal implications. Collaboration with law enforcement, attorneys, and other scientists is common, requiring strong communication skills and the ability to explain complex findings to non-experts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a crime lab technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Crime Lab Technician, you need a solid background in chemistry, biology, or forensic science, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory instruments, forensic analysis software, and evidence management systems is essential. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and clear communication are crucial soft skills for accurate analysis and reporting. These skills ensure reliable forensic results, support criminal investigations, and maintain the integrity of the justice process.

What is the difference between Crime Lab vs Forensic Technician?

AspectCrime LabForensic Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in forensic science, criminal justice, or a related field; certifications may enhance prospectsRequires a degree in forensic science, biology, chemistry, or related fields; certifications can be beneficial
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, crime scenes, courtroomsCrime scenes, laboratories, law enforcement agencies
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, government labsPolice departments, forensic labs, government agencies

Both Crime Lab professionals and Forensic Technicians work in forensic science, often within law enforcement settings. Crime Lab roles tend to involve more advanced analysis and testing, while Forensic Technicians often assist in collecting evidence and preparing samples. The roles are closely related, with overlapping credentials and work environments, making them common choices for those interested in forensic careers.

How much do you make in a crime lab?

Crime lab technicians and forensic scientists typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, education, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals or those with specialized skills can earn higher salaries.

What do you need to work in a crime lab?

To work in a crime lab, candidates typically need a relevant degree such as a bachelor's or master's in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and proficiency with laboratory equipment and techniques are essential; some positions may also require certification or security clearances.

What does a crime lab scientist do?

A crime lab scientist analyzes physical evidence collected from crime scenes, such as fingerprints, blood, and DNA, using specialized tools and techniques. They prepare reports, testify in court, and ensure evidence integrity while working in a laboratory environment that requires attention to detail and knowledge of forensic science methods.

What are popular job titles related to Crime Lab jobs in Utah?

For Crime Lab jobs in Utah, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Utah are hiring for Crime Lab jobs?

Cities in Utah with the most Crime Lab job openings:

Infographic showing various Crime Lab job openings in Utah as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 12% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,809 per year, or $23 per hour.

Activity Security Police Officer

Granite School District

Salt Lake City, UT • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Granite School District (Utah) rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

442nd of 643 rated elementary and secondary schools


Job description

Please note that this posting closes at 3:00 pm on the date listed above.
If you have questions regarding this position, please contact Josh Bates at jgbates@graniteschools.org 




Job Title  Activity Security Police Officer Department  Schools Supervisor Principal Salary Schedule  Stipend Activity Stipend Lane Placement  XVII Contract Length  Stipend Only FLSA Classification  Non-exempt Last Review Date  March 2023


To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily, with or without reasonable accommodations.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, training, education, responsibilities, abilities; the machines, tools and equipment used; background; and any licenses or certifications required.  Physical, punctual, reliable, and predictable regular attendance is an essential job function to perform the essential duties and responsibilities of the position.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.
Job Summary
Activity Security Police Officers monitor various extracurricular events as assigned by school administrators.  Maintains a clean, safe, healthy, and secure educational environment for the Granite School District.  Attendance, physical presence, and timeliness are required and are essential functions of this position.
Essential Functions
Routinely inspects district facilities to prevent and/or detect acts of vandalism, burglary, arson, theft, assault, trespass, alcohol, tobacco and illicit drug consumption, weapons offenses, gang violence and various other unusual or unlawful activities.
Responds to emergency calls for service, including crimes-in-progress, and various bodily injury situations.
Responds to all dispatched, silent burglar alarms located on all district facilities in assigned patrol area.
Inspects the facility for evidence of forced entry and assesses the need to call for additional officers and/or K-9 units, to assist in searching the building for suspects.
Responds to all fire alarms, located on district facilities with-in assigned patrol area, along with the appropriate city and/or county fire departments.
Apprehends and arrests suspects involved in all types of criminal activities and, where applicable, transports same to appropriate incarceration facilities for formal booking.
Enforces all city, county, state and federal laws and ordinances, as well as district rules and policies, pertaining to school district properties and personnel.
Responds to after-hour and weekend or holiday emergency calls for district maintenance services in assigned patrol area.
Assesses the nature of the problem and has dispatch call out appropriate maintenance personnel and equipment.
Actively patrols district facilities, school grounds and parking lots, as well as neighboring businesses and subdivisions, in search of truants, trespassers and lost or missing persons.
Works with school staff to either return the truant to assigned school or class, or transports chronic truants to appropriate youth service facility.
When appropriate takes custody of students and transports them to appropriate youth service or detention facilities.
Counsels with disruptive/problem students.
Performs routine warrant/juvenile pickup order checks on suspects in custody and persons stopped for traffic violations, trespassing etc.
Books suspects into jail or youth detention if they have outstanding warrants or active pickup orders.
Submit daily written or computer-generated reports on all activities occurring during each shift.
Submits supplemental reports to various other law enforcement agencies upon request or when appropriate.
Prepares own case file packet to be used by police department investigator when screening criminal cases with city/county prosecutors and makes appropriate court appearances.
Packages, tags or photographs own evidence to be stored in department evidence room or submitted to crime lab, according to the requirements of state law, as well as department policy and procedure standards.
Routinely works with highly confidential material such as criminal background information, confidential law enforcement reports and intelligence bulletins, personnel files, financial records, etc.
Transports evidence to state crime lab for processing. 
Interviews suspects, locates and interviews witnesses and serves arrest warrants on suspects already booked in jail.
Monitors and may participate in District School Board Meetings and other meetings at the request of the Chief or other administrators.
Non-Essential Functions






























  • Other duties as assigned

Required Education and Qualifications
Must be POST certified.  Applicant will be required to provide copy of Police Department ID to Human Resources at point of hire.  
Ongoing Training and Assessment Requirements:
Gun assessments and certification.
Physical and endurance assessments.
Attend conventions, seminars, and professional workshops throughout the year to receive formal training related to various facets of law enforcement
Required Prior Experience
No prior work experience required.
Must have references as to dependability, integrity, and ability to remain calm and objective in emotionally charged situations.
Required Knowledge and Skills











  • Must certify at the police shooting range.
  • Must certify with less-lethal weapon relevant to the job.
  • The officer must be familiar with two-way radio systems, along with the proper procedures and regulations governing the use of same.
  • Must be familiar with emergency vehicle equipment and be skilled in the operation of the police vehicle under emergency conditions.
  • Must be familiar with self-defense tactics and equipment.
  • Must be well skilled in police investigation procedures, as well as the techniques and art of investigation and interrogation.
  • Must have skills in interpersonal relations, oral and written communication, and language and grammar skills.
  • Must be able to give and follow directions and be assertive enough to take charge when placed in volatile or potentially volatile situations.
  • Must be skilled in report writing, patrol tactics, basic emergency first-aid, surveillance techniques, pursuit driving, preservation of crime scenes and evidence, as well as proper court room demeanor and procedures.
  • Must possess basic computer skills, including word processing, in order to be able to effectively operate in-car lap-top computers.
  • Must have a good working knowledge and some technical knowledge of the district's burglar and fire alarm systems and be somewhat skilled in troubleshooting and making minor repairs and/or adjustments on same.

Assigned Decision Making
Officers will respond to situations involving threats to public safety and make emergency decisions affecting the lives and health of others, including in circumstances and at times when personal life or personal safety may be at risk.
Interactions with Others
Police officers shoulder an extraordinary responsibility to our students, employees, and visitors to our facilities; our actions are far reaching and our services critical.  Public perception is a culmination of every employee's daily behavior, appearance, speech, and demeanor.  Every employee must be professional, sensitive, and above reproach.  Employees must report any misconduct or behavior that reflects negatively on the district or the department.  All employees must welcome the responsibility of fostering positive relationships, treating one another and our citizens as we ourselves desire to be treated.
Supervisory Responsibility
NA
Budget Responsibility
NA
Working Environment
Exposure to stress as a result of increased responsibility and human behavior.  Exposure to disagreeable elements such as cold, damp, heat, and noise. Intermittent exposure to infections, disease, disturbed or emotionally unbalanced individuals. Subject to traffic hazards during emergency responses through heavy traffic. May be subject to shift work or assignments which require non-traditional work schedules.  Ability to be recalled and respond to critical incidents as required. Willingness and ability to work overtime as workload dictates.
Physical Requirements Not limited to the following:














  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to speak and/or hear.  Frequently required to stand, walk, reach with hands and arms and stoop, kneel, and crouch.  Occasionally required to use hands to handle or feel and must occasionally climb or balance.
  • Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, and depth perception.
  • Must pass the physical fitness test at the Police Academy
    • Vertical Jump - 17.5 inches
    • Sit-ups 29 reps in one minute
    • Push-ups 21 reps (maximum repetitions with no time constraint and no rest during this phase of the test
    • 1.5 Mile Run 14:46 minutes
  • Must be able to stand/sit for long periods of time.

Note:  The list of essential and marginal functions and of physical requirements is not exhaustive and may be supplemented in accordance with the requirements of the job.





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