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Crime Laboratory Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

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Crime Laboratory information

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$10

$26

$54

How much do crime laboratory jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for crime laboratory in Indiana is $26.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.90 and $32.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a crime laboratory?

Crime laboratories, also known as forensic laboratories, are specialized facilities where scientific analysis is conducted on physical evidence collected from crime scenes. These labs employ forensic scientists and technicians who use various techniques to examine evidence such as DNA, fingerprints, drugs, firearms, and trace materials. The primary goal is to assist law enforcement agencies in solving crimes by providing objective, scientifically-based results that can be used in investigations and court proceedings. Crime laboratories play a crucial role in the criminal justice system by helping to identify suspects, exonerate the innocent, and support legal processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a crime laboratory technician?

To thrive as a Crime Laboratory Technician, you need a strong background in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field, often supported by a bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, forensic analysis software, and adherence to quality control procedures is essential. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help you accurately analyze evidence and collaborate with law enforcement. These abilities are crucial for delivering reliable forensic results that support criminal investigations and ensure justice.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a crime laboratory?

Professionals in crime laboratories often encounter challenges such as managing high caseloads, meeting tight deadlines for evidence processing, and ensuring the accuracy and integrity of test results. They must also stay up to date with evolving forensic technologies and adhere to strict chain-of-custody procedures. Additionally, effective collaboration with law enforcement and legal teams is essential to clearly communicate findings and support the judicial process.

What is the difference between Crime Laboratory vs Crime Scene Investigator?

AspectCrime LaboratoryCrime Scene Investigator
CredentialsForensic science degree, certifications in forensic analysisLaw enforcement training, crime scene processing certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, controlled settingsCrime scenes, outdoor and indoor environments
Employer & IndustryForensic labs, law enforcement agenciesPolice departments, law enforcement agencies

While both roles are essential in criminal investigations, a Crime Laboratory focuses on analyzing evidence in a lab setting, requiring specialized forensic credentials. In contrast, a Crime Scene Investigator works at crime scenes, collecting evidence and documenting the scene. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in forensic science and law enforcement.

How to get a job in a crime laboratory?

To work in a crime laboratory, 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 and gaining laboratory experience can improve job prospects.

What do you do in a crime laboratory?

A crime laboratory professional analyzes physical evidence collected from crime scenes, such as fingerprints, blood, hair, and chemicals, using specialized tools and techniques. They may perform tests, document findings, and prepare reports to assist law enforcement in investigations, often working with microscopes, chromatography, and DNA analysis equipment.

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

To work in a crime laboratory, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Relevant skills include laboratory techniques, attention to detail, and knowledge of forensic tools and procedures; some positions may require advanced degrees or certifications such as the ASCLD-LAB accreditation or specialized training.

What are popular job titles related to Crime Laboratory jobs in Indiana?

For Crime Laboratory jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Crime Laboratory jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Crime Laboratory job openings:

Infographic showing various Crime Laboratory job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,599 per year, or $26.7 per hour.

Crime Scene Specialist

City of Indianapolis and Marion County

Indianapolis, IN โ€ข On-site

$59K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Overview Position is responsible for providing crime scene specialist and investigation activities for public safety agencies throughout Marion County. Assists in the development and implementation of crime scene scientific programs; confers with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to coordinate work activities at scenes and/or in the laboratory. Provides preliminary analysis of collected crime scene evidence.

Provides testimony as an expert in court as needed. Ensures that the total work product meets all appropriate scientific, legal and accreditation requirements. Trains new employees as assigned.

Incumbent must exercise independent judgment in the performance of their duties and receive minimal supervision. Independent judgment must be exercised with assessing crime scenes and in the course or performing one's duty. Position reports to the Crime Scene Specialist Supervisor.

Agency Summary The purpose and mission of the Indianapolis-Marion County Forensic Services Agency is to serve the Marion County Community and supports the needs of the Criminal Justice System by providing services in Crime Scene Processing, Forensic Document Examinations, Latent Print Processing and Examination, Blood Alcohol Analysis, Fire Debris Analysis, Seized Drugs Analysis, Firearms Examinations and NIBIN, DNA and Serology Analysis and Forensic Evidence Technician (Morgue Liaison) services. The agency cultivates a productive, collaborative, and compliant work environment to meet the needs of the constituents of Indianapolis and Marion County. Equal Employment Opportunity The City of Indianapolis Marion County is an equal opportunity employer.

All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.We value diversity in perspectives and experiences among colleagues and the residents of this city of whom we serve. Position Responsibilities Responsible for forensic support in the identification, preservation, and collection of forensic evidence at crime scenes, providing a wide variety of crime scene activities involving crimes against persons homicides, suicides, rapes, aggravated assaults, etc. to include fingerprint processing, DNA collection/swabbing, and firearm evidence Ensures that appropriate quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC) methodologies are employed throughout their section of the laboratory, per accreditation guidelines Provides expert testimony in court Assists supervisors to develop, implement, and provide technical guidance to all employees within the laboratory to include QA/QC Implements newly developed forensic and crime scene technologies Reviews statistical data and ensures compliance with appropriate scientific, legal and government regulations Recommends modification of practices to the section supervisor, as required, for operation of section Serves as liaison between IMCFSA and local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to ensure that scientific and administrative support is provided Conducts training, as directed, for local agencies to include basic evidence technician courses, crime scene courses and specialized forensic applications courses for the proper collection of evidence in the forensic disciplines of drug chemistry, trace chemistry, questions documents, latent prints, DNA, serology, and firearms and/or toolmarks

Attends seminars, meetings, and conferences to incorporate new developments into laboratory case work Presents results of laboratory research at conferences and/or publish results in scientific journals Must maintain confidentiality at all times This list of duties and responsibilities is not intended to be all-inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties or responsibilities that management may deem necessary from time to time Qualifications Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Chemistry, Forensic Science, Criminology, or related science courses. Five (5) years' experience in crime scene processing or five (5) years law enforcement experience from a certified law enforcement academy, and experience in digital photography and alternative light sources may be used as a degree equivalent. Incumbent must be willing and capable of completing an internal/external training program determined by the Crime Scene Specialist Supervisor and the Quality Assurance Program, and capable of completing additional and specialized training, as required or available, from Federal, State and Local agencies, and other organizations.

Incumbent shall maintain proficiency through annual proficiency testing. Should have knowledge of the criminal justice system and familiarity with the sensitive and confidential nature of evidence managing and examination. Must be able to establish and set priorities according to time sensitive information in order to have continued success in this position.

Must be able to communicate effectively in oral, verbal, and written formats. Must be able to attain Crime Scene Certification through the Indiana Law Enforcement Training Board within one year after completion of training. Preferred Job Requirements and Qualifications Master's Degree in Biology, Chemistry, Forensic Science, Criminology, or related science courses, including minimum qualifications listed.

Working Conditions Majority of work is performed in the field and a variety of weather conditions and locations. Some time may be performed in a standard office environment.