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Crime Lab Jobs in Modesto, CA (NOW HIRING)

Diamond Foods will consider for employment-qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements. Diamond Foods, LLC does not accept unsolicited headhunter and ...

Crime Lab information

See Modesto, CA salary details

$10

$26

$47

How much do crime lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for crime lab in Modesto, CA is $26.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.29 and $29.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get a job 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. Gaining laboratory experience, passing background checks, and obtaining certifications like the American Board of Criminalistics can improve job prospects; familiarity with lab equipment and analytical techniques is also important.

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 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 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 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.

Does CSI make good money?

Crime Lab technicians and forensic scientists, often involved in CSI-type work, typically earn salaries that vary by experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions generally start around $40,000 to $60,000 annually, with experienced professionals earning over $80,000 or more. Certifications and specialized skills can also influence earning potential.

Do you need a degree to work in a crime lab?

A degree is typically required to work in a crime lab, with many positions requiring at least a bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Advanced roles or specialized positions may require a master's degree or higher, along with relevant laboratory skills and certifications.

How much does a crime lab scientist make?

A crime lab scientist typically earns a median annual salary of around $55,000 to $75,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries can increase with specialized skills, certifications, and working in larger or federal laboratories.
What cities near Modesto, CA are hiring for Crime Lab jobs? Cities near Modesto, CA with the most Crime Lab job openings:
Infographic showing various Crime Lab job openings in Modesto, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,405 per year, or $26.6 per hour.
Lab Technician

Lab Technician

Diamond Foods, LLC

Stockton, CA

$22 - $28/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Since 1912, when it was started by a group of California walnut growers, Diamond of California was on a mission to bring the bounty from California?s Central Valley walnut orchards to America?s tables. From the beginning, we sought out the very best with the knowledge that Diamond Nuts would be used in treasured and new family recipes. Today, we bring a wider range of nuts from our growers and farms to tables worldwide. Now almost 110 years later, we are still guided by our belief that Diamond Nuts are Made for Homemade.Along with our sister company (National Pecan), Diamond of California is part of Diamond Foods, LLC, headquartered in Stockton, California. Diamond Foods is now owned by Blue Road Capital, a private equity firm based in New York, which is focused on holdings in the agricultural space. With the support of Blue Road Capital, Diamond of California is during a major transformation to create a modern growth brand participating the growing consumer desire to incorporate more plant-based products in their diets, for reasons including health and wellness, taste, texture, and variety.POSITION OVERVIEW:Conduct chemical and physical analyses pertaining to the snack processing operation and provides technical support to management.DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Perform all necessary laboratory analyses, demonstrating technical competency. Maintains general familiarity of all laboratory equipment, chemicals and reagents. Collects, prepares, and organizes samples for analyses. Accountable for raw materials inspections and sampling on each lot prior to processing. Accountable for allergen inspections of equipment in area of responsibility, after clean up and changeovers, preventing cross contamination upon start-up. Reports on checklist to the HACCP Manager. Organizes work, conducts analyses, assure analyses are performed in a timely manner, on schedule and reports in a professional manner. Performs necessary calculations, organizes and enters data generated, onto SPC charts and graphs, to form a database for decision-making. Interprets and maintains familiarity with how data is generated, providing feedback on snack processing conditions to supervision, as needed, and must possess the ability to work as a team. Makes decisions on products that are out of specification, determining the need for further sampling. Recommends to the Laboratory / Quality Services Manager when the product will need to be placed on hold. Monitors inventory of laboratory supplies, raw materials, and finished goods and reports status to the Laboratory/ Quality Services Manager and/or the Snack Processing Supervisor. Maintains a clean, neat, and organized working environment. Assures safety when working with chemicals and reagents. Follows all Good Laboratory Practices and safe work procedures. Perform other assigned duties and responsibilities, including training. Must demonstrate leadership capability by designing and providing training. Implement QA related training programs for facility.KNOWLEDGE, ABILITY AND SKILLS:Knowledge and familiarity of laboratory and quality control functions.EDUCATION AND WORK EXPERIENCE: Bachelor?s degree in biology, Chemistry, or Sciences. Minimum of one-year laboratory work experience and/or a quality related field. Must be proficient in Excel, Wod, and Outlook.Pay Rate: $22-$28 DOETarget Bonus: 5%Diamond Foods Holdings, LLC is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, status as a protected veteran, among other things, or status as a qualified individual with disability. re-employment drug testing and background check required.Diamond Foods will consider for employment-qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements. Diamond Foods, LLC does not accept unsolicited headhunter and agency resumes. Diamond Foods will not pay fees to any third-party agency or company that does not have a signed agreement with Diamond Foods, LLC.Pre-employment drug testing required. AA/EOE/M/F/D