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Crime Lab Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Clerk Typist - Lab

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$35K - $44K/yr

Louis Metropolitan Police Department Crime Lab. They are responsible for receiving evidence, typing reports, entering case information, and maintaining departmental files. FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB ...

... lab equipment and supplies in a state of readiness Prepares and submits items of evidence to the ... officers and crime scene investigators for sufficient ridge detail Performs latent print ...

Processes evidence in the laboratory and maintains lab equipment and supplies in a state of ... Gives expert testimony in criminal court cases. This testimony must not only follow the rules of ...

Responsibilities Paralegals are the central liaison for local police departments, the Massachusetts State Police (MSP), the MSP Crime Lab and other state and federal agencies. Paralegals support ...

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Crime Lab information

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$25

$45

How much do crime lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for crime lab in the United States is $25.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $27.88 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 bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory techniques, and familiarity with forensic tools and software; some positions may require certification or experience in evidence analysis. Applying through government agencies or law enforcement departments is common, and background checks are standard due to the sensitive nature of the work.

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.

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, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while specialized roles with certifications and advanced skills can earn higher salaries.

What qualifications do I need to work in a crime lab?

To work in a crime lab, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Laboratory skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of forensic techniques and tools are essential; some positions may require certification or advanced degrees for specialized roles.

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.

More about Crime Lab jobs
What cities are hiring for Crime Lab jobs? Cities with the most Crime Lab job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Crime Lab jobs? The most popular types of Crime Lab jobs are:
What states have the most Crime Lab jobs? States with the most job openings for Crime Lab jobs include:
Infographic showing various Crime Lab job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,516 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Investigator - G120 Solicitor General

Columbus Consolidated Government

Columbus, GA • On-site

$43K/yr

Other

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Major Duties and Responsibilities This position is responsible for initiating misdemeanor criminal prosecution, preparing and assembling files, and researching, preparing, and drawing accusations. An incumbent in this position may be designated "Senior Investigator - Solicitor General." Attends and monitors preliminary probable cause hearings in Recorder's and Municipal Courts. Records testimony and personal observations from probable cause or preliminary hearings

Investigates additional facts relevant to criminal charges. Prepares and assembles case files, including gathering all relevant arrest, incident, accident, and supplemental law enforcement reports, criminal histories and records, driving histories, warrants, affidavits and witness statements, crime lab reports, and other relevant information and evidence. Locates, communicates with, and interviews victims and witnesses.

Prepares criminal accusations (formal charging documents) and witness lists. Prepares written reports or case summaries for staff attorneys and confers with attorneys about case. Obtains photographs, videos, crime lab reports, or other documentary or physical evidence necessary for the case presentation or trial.

Prepares and issues subpoenas. Assists at arraignment, bond revocation hearings, violation of probation hearings, or trial, as necessary. Monitors changes in criminal laws and local court rules.

Performs other related duties as assigned. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Knowledge of state and local criminal laws and procedures. Knowledge of the principles of supervision, training, and performance evaluation.

Skill in the operation of standard office equipment. Skill in the operation of computers and various software programs. Skill in defining problems, collecting data, establishing facts, and drawing valid conclusions.

Skill in gathering, analyzing, evaluating, and disseminating evidence and other information. Skill in oral and written communication. Ability to work independently and with minimal supervision.

Ability to operate a motor vehicle. Minimum Educational and Training Requirements Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice or related field is required. Experience sufficient to thoroughly understand the work of subordinate positions and to be able to answer questions and resolve problems, usually associated with one to three years experience or service.

Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver's license issued by the State of Georgia for the type of vehicle or equipment operated. Physical Requirements The work is typically performed while intermittently sitting, standing, stooping, walking, bending, or crouching. The employee frequently lifts light objects and occasionally lifts heavy objects.

Additionally, the following physical abilities are required: Balancing - maintain equilibrium to prevent falling while walking, standing, or crouching. Crouching - bending body forward by bending leg, spine. Feeling - perceiving attributes of objects by touch with skin, fingertips.

Grasping - applying pressure to object with fingers, palm. Handling - picking, holding, or working with whole hand. Hearing 1 - perceiving sounds at normal speaking levels, receive information.

Kneeling - bending legs at knee to come to rest at knees. Lifting - raising objects from lower to higher position, moving objects side to side, using upper extremities, back. Manual Dexterity - picking, pinching, typing, working with fingers rather than hand.

Mental Acuity - ability to make rational decisions through sound logic, deductive reasoning. Pulling - use upper extremities to exert force, haul or tug. Pushing - use upper extremities to press against objects with force, or thrust forward, downward, outward.

Reaching - extending hands or arms in any direction. Repetitive Motion - substantial movements of wrists, hands, fingers. Speaking - expressing ideas with spoken word, convey detailed, important instructions accurately, concisely.

Standing - for sustained periods of time. Stooping - bending body downward, forward at waist, with full motion of lower extremities and back. Talking 1- expressing ideas by spoken word Visual Acuity 1 - prepare, analyze data, transcribing, computer terminal, extensive reading.

Visual Acuity 4 - operate motor vehicles/heavy equipment. Walking - on foot to accomplish tasks, long distances, or site to site. The work is typically performed in an office, library, or computer room.