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Crime Scene Investigator Trainee Jobs in Riverside, CA

City of Irvine, CA

Part-Time Police Cadet

Irvine, CA · On-site

$26.92 - $37.16/hr

... Crime Scene Investigation and Crime Prevention. This is a position that will offer flexible scheduling to accommodate college course work attendance. It is a transitional program designed to mentor ...

City of Irvine

Part-Time Police Cadet

Irvine, CA · On-site

$26.92 - $37.16/hr

... Crime Scene Investigation and Crime Prevention. This is a position that will offer flexible scheduling to accommodate college course work attendance. It is a transitional program designed to mentor ...

City of Irvine

Police Recruit

Irvine, CA · On-site

$61K - $96K/yr

... Crime Scene Investigation, Special Investigation (vice & narcotics), and the Special Weapons and Tactics Team (SWAT). Irvine is committed to a full community oriented policing concept that interfaces ...

City of Irvine, CA

Police Recruit

Irvine, CA · On-site

$61K - $96K/yr

... Crime Scene Investigation, Special Investigation (vice & narcotics), and the Special Weapons and Tactics Team (SWAT). Irvine is committed to a full community oriented policing concept that interfaces ...

City of Tustin

Police Cadet (Part-time)

Tustin, CA

$22/hr

... Crime Scene Investigation and Fleet Maintenance. Incumbents assume greater responsibilities and work with increasing independence as knowledge and experience are gained. Individuals employed as ...

City of Rialto, CA

Police Officer Lateral

Rialto, CA · On-site

$7.2K - $9.7K/mo

... crime scene control and investigation activities. 3. Patrols a designated area of the City to ensure security of life and property, observe situations and deter or prevent the commission of crimes ...

City of Rialto

Police Officer Lateral

Rialto, CA

$7.2K - $9.7K/mo

... crime scene control and investigation activities. 3. Patrols a designated area of the City to ensure security of life and property, observe situations and deter or prevent the commission of crimes ...

City of Rialto

Pre-Service Police Officer

Rialto, CA

$87K - $117K/yr

Enforces state, local and federal laws and ordinances; issues verbal warnings and citations; pursues and apprehends suspects; coordinates crime scene control and investigation activities. Patrols a ...

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All JobsCrime Scene Investigator JobsCrime Scene Investigator Trainee JobsCrime Scene Investigator Trainee Jobs in Riverside, CA

Crime Scene Investigator Trainee information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$35.5K

$62.2K

$92.3K

How much do crime scene investigator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for crime scene investigator trainee in Riverside, CA is $62,217.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,600.00 and $70,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a crime scene investigator trainee?

Crime Scene Investigator (CSI) Trainees are entry-level professionals who assist in the collection, documentation, and analysis of physical evidence at crime scenes under supervision. They learn to use specialized equipment and follow established protocols to preserve evidence such as fingerprints, biological samples, and trace materials. Trainees work closely with experienced investigators to gain practical skills and knowledge needed for advancement. Their training often includes both classroom instruction and hands-on experience at real or simulated crime scenes.

What does a crime scene investigator trainee do?

Crime scene investigator trainees work under the supervision of professional investigators to learn how to collect and process evidence. As a CSI trainee, you travel to the crime scene with your team, observe how they determine what evidence to gather and learn the proper techniques for handling and documenting the evidence. Once they are back at the office, you train on how to record, process, and store evidence properly to ensure it is not tampered with or damaged. CSI trainees may work in a law enforcement laboratory or an office setting under the guidance of senior CSIs and other professionals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a crime scene investigator trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Crime Scene Investigator Trainee, you need a background in forensic science, criminal justice, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree or law enforcement training. Familiarity with evidence collection tools, laboratory analysis equipment, and crime scene documentation software is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong communication skills help you accurately process scenes and work effectively within investigative teams. These skills are vital for ensuring evidence integrity, supporting legal processes, and contributing to successful case resolutions.

What are some typical daily responsibilities for a crime scene investigator trainee and how do they work alongside more experienced investigators?

As a Crime Scene Investigator Trainee, your daily responsibilities often include assisting with evidence collection, documenting crime scenes through photographs and sketches, and maintaining detailed logs. Trainees frequently shadow experienced investigators, learning proper procedures for handling and preserving evidence and observing the chain of custody process. Collaboration is key—trainees work closely with the investigative team, law enforcement officers, and forensic specialists to ensure accurate and thorough scene processing. Over time, trainees gradually take on more complex tasks under supervision, gaining practical experience that prepares them for advancement.

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

AspectCrime Scene Investigator TraineeCrime Scene Investigator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some agencies prefer related certificationsForensic science degree or related certification; experience preferred
Work EnvironmentUnder supervision, assisting with scene processingIndependently processing crime scenes and collecting evidence
Job RoleLearning and supporting crime scene investigationsLeading investigations and evidence collection

The main difference is that Crime Scene Investigator Trainees are in training, assisting and learning, while Crime Scene Investigators are fully qualified professionals conducting independent investigations.

How to become a crime scene investigator trainee with no experience?

To become a crime scene investigator trainee, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some agencies prefer or require post-secondary education in criminal justice, forensic science, or related fields. Gaining knowledge of crime scene procedures, evidence collection, and safety protocols through coursework or certifications can improve prospects. Entry-level positions often require passing background checks and physical fitness tests, and on-the-job training is provided after hiring.

Is it hard to get into crime scene investigation?

Becoming a crime scene investigator trainee typically requires a background in criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field, along with strong attention to detail and analytical skills. Entry can be competitive, often requiring relevant education, certifications, and sometimes prior law enforcement experience or training in evidence collection and processing.

What kind of training do you need to be a crime scene investigator trainee?

Crime Scene Investigator Trainees typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring an associate's or bachelor's degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field. They often undergo specialized training in evidence collection, photography, and crime scene documentation, sometimes through law enforcement academies or on-the-job training programs. Knowledge of forensic tools and procedures, as well as strong attention to detail, are essential for this role.
More about Crime Scene Investigator Trainee jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Crime Scene Investigator jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Crime Scene Investigator jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Crime Scene Investigator Trainee jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Crime Scene Investigator Trainee jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Crime Scene Investigator Trainee jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Crime Scene Investigator Trainee jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Crime Scene Investigator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Crime Scene Investigator Trainee job openings:

Crime Scene Investigator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Crime Scene Investigator Trainee job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,217 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Loss Prevention for Surveillance Investigator - TRAINEE

Prodigy Investigations

Irvine, CA • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

WE OFFER THE BEST TRAINING IN THE INDUSTRY!


We have been in business for over 44 years and are one of the top Private Investigation firms in the U.S. We consistently refine our training so that our investigators have the most innovative skills.


PART-TIME/FULL-TIME: There is a TON of room for growth for candidates who are trainable, follow instructions, and are motivated to get results. You will be conducting single and two-investigator covert surveillance operations to record subject's activities, tailing by foot, car, public buses, and trains. When executed properly, surveillance is a fun, dynamic, and exciting career! Every day is unpredictable.
We offer paid training, bonuses, auto allowances, and benefits!


Job Duties include: spot checks, tailing, stakeout, covert video recording, team surveillance.


HELPFUL EXPERIENCE: Security, Loss Prevention, Asset Protection, Process Serving, Criminal Justice, Sub-Rosa, Undercover, or Videography.


We will consider candidates who have:

  • 4-Year College Degree
  • Valid Driver's License
  • Owns an Automobile
  • Willing to travel
  • Capable of Prolonged Surveillance
  • Verifiable/Stable Work History

Send your current resume for consideration!