1

Crime Scene Photographer Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

... crime or accident scene investigations; collect evidence and impound vehicles at traffic accident scenes and gather traffic statistics. Respond to and assist with crime scenes; take photographs, lift ...

Part-Time Police Cadet

Irvine, CA · On-site

$26.92 - $37.16/hr

... crime scenes from contamination; takes photographs, and collects other related property and evidence; examines and processes evidence on scene and at the Police Department. * Transports police ...

Part-Time Police Cadet

Irvine, CA · On-site

$26.92 - $37.16/hr

... scenes; protects crime scenes from contamination; takes photographs, and collects other related property and evidence; examines and processes evidence on scene and at the Police Department.

Secures crime scenes and gathers and preserves evidence; interviews suspects, victims, complainants ... scene and witness accounts; clears scene of obstructions and wreckage; reports traffic hazards ...

Police Officer (Lateral)

Upland, CA · On-site

$94K - $120K/yr

Secures crime scenes and gathers and preserves evidence; interviews suspects, victims, complainants ... scene and witness accounts; clears scene of obstructions and wreckage; reports traffic hazards ...

Be Seen First

... criminal activity and other safety/security incidents * Observes and reports/takes immediate action ... Photographs incident scene and retains for incident follow-up - Takes photos, secures/processes ...

Secure the scene of a crime; administer first aid; conduct preliminary investigations; obtain ... Collect, process, photograph and present evidence suing scientific techniques including ...

Secure the scene of a crime; administer first aid; conduct preliminary investigations; obtain ... Collect, process, photograph and present evidence suing scientific techniques including ...

CADET - PART TIME

Irvine, CA · On-site

$26.92 - $37.16/hr

... crime scenes from contamination; take photographs, and collects other related property and evidence; examine and processe evidence on scene and at the Police Department. * Transport police vehicles ...

Crime Scene Photographer information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$10

$21

$38

How much do crime scene photographer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for crime scene photographer in Riverside, CA is $21.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $22.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a crime scene photographer do?

As a crime scene photographer, you apply forensic science principles to an investigation and collect images that may be useful to said investigation. You document and record physical evidence, ensure each photo has an item to provide scale, and coordinate with analysis labs to answer any questions. Crime scene photographers may be asked to document a site at any time of day or night and are often exposed to gruesome and tragic sites, so mental fortitude is essential to success in this field. Some crime scene photographers focus exclusively on this role while others serve in another position—often a law enforcement role—and switch to forensic photography as needed.

What does a crime scene photographer do?

A crime scene photographer is responsible for capturing detailed and accurate images of crime scenes, evidence, and sometimes victims, to support criminal investigations. Their photographs help law enforcement and legal professionals document and analyze crime scenes, preserve evidence, and present findings in court. Crime scene photographers must follow strict protocols to maintain the integrity of their images and often work closely with forensic teams to ensure all relevant details are documented.

What are some common challenges faced by crime scene photographers on the job?

Crime scene photographers often work in high-pressure environments where attention to detail is critical. Challenges can include working long or irregular hours, responding to crime scenes at short notice, and documenting scenes in difficult weather or lighting conditions. Additionally, maintaining objectivity and emotional resilience is important, as scenes may be distressing. Collaboration with law enforcement officers and forensic teams is frequent, requiring strong communication skills to ensure all necessary evidence is captured accurately.

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

To thrive as a Crime Scene Photographer, you need a solid understanding of forensic photography principles, attention to detail, and knowledge of law enforcement procedures, often supported by formal training or certification in forensic photography. Familiarity with digital cameras, photo editing software, and evidence management systems is crucial. Strong observational skills, discretion, and the ability to remain calm under pressure set top professionals apart in this field. These competencies ensure that photographic evidence is accurately captured, preserved, and admissible in court, supporting successful investigations and legal proceedings.

What is the difference between Crime Scene Photographer vs Forensic Photographer?

AspectCrime Scene PhotographerForensic Photographer
CredentialsPhotography skills, law enforcement trainingPhotography skills, forensic science knowledge
Work EnvironmentCrime scenes, law enforcement agenciesCrime labs, law enforcement agencies
Industry UsageLaw enforcement, criminal investigationsLegal cases, forensic analysis

Crime Scene Photographers focus on capturing images at crime scenes for investigative purposes, often working directly with law enforcement. Forensic Photographers have similar skills but may also have additional forensic science training, working in labs or detailed forensic documentation. Both roles are essential in criminal investigations, but their work environments and specific focus areas differ slightly.

How much money do crime scene photographers make?

Crime scene photographers typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Crime Scene Photographer job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,177 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Forensic Specialist Trainee / Forensic Specialist

City of Riverside

Riverside, CA • On-site

$54K - $89K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


City Of Riverside (California) rating

9.5

Company rating: 9.5 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 856 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

The Position Forensic Specialist Trainee $26.43 - $29.15 Hourly $54,984 - $60,624 Annually Forensic Specialist $30.60 - $43.05 Hourly $63,660 - $89,556 Annually The City of Riverside Police Department is accepting applications for the position of Forensic Specialist Trainee / Forensic Specialist. The department is looking to fill the vacancy based on experience level of the candidate and create an eligibility list for any possible upcoming vacancies within this classification for up to six (6) months. The Forensic Specialist performs routine technical crime scene investigation duties in the collection, preservation, and processing of evidence

Participates in various other criminal investigative and administrative work. This is the entry/journey level within the Forensic Specialist series. This class is distinguished from the Senior Forensic Specialist by the performance of more routine and less complex crime scene duties.

Incumbent is expected to operate under direct supervision on routine crime scenes, provide expert testimony in court, and be aware of the operating procedures and policies within the unit. Incumbents may be promoted to the next level of Senior Forensic Specialist upon satisfactory job performance and meeting the minimum qualifications. Work Performed Responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following: Locate, identify, collect, protect, preserve, and analyze materials and substances as evidence at crime scenes, other locations, and from person; use and employ a variety of techniques and specialized equipment.

Assist in the examination and processing of crime scenes; document crime scenes with photographs, video recordings, diagrams, and reports; locate and record physical or trace evidence using a variety of photographic techniques; interview victims, witnesses, and suspects when requested. Develop, lift, photograph, preserve, classify, compare and identify fingerprints, palm prints and inked prints; evaluate latent print evidence for CAL-ID computer system; conduct chemical fingerprint processing and process hazardous and drug related material for fingerprints. Preserve, compare and attempt to identify evidence such as blood, hair, fibers, cloth, wood, paint and glass fragments; collect pathological samples and evidence for later clinical examination; photograph results of autopsy for criminal investigation and prepare photos for court presentation.

Collect, photograph, preserve, identify and perform basic analysis of DNA, blood, ballistics, narcotics, tool marks and other types of physical evidence; assist in analysis and laboratory activities. Process, download, print, enlarge, and mount photographs; prepare castings of tire, foot, hand, tool, and other types of impressions. Prepare and maintain reports and records; support the preparation of information for court cases.

Assist and participate in the reconstructing of crime scenes. Operate City vehicles; transport, release, and retrieve evidence from forensic laboratories. Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications Recruitment Guidelines: Forensic Specialist Trainee: Education: High school graduation or satisfactory equivalent (GED). Experience: None A trainee in this classification serves in a training capacity and will learn to perform the duties as defined above. Forensic Specialist: Education: High school graduation or satisfactory equivalent (GED) and completion of 15 semester or 20 quarter units from an accredited college or university in criminology, administration of justice, forensic science, or a closely related field.

Experience: One (1) year of experience performing routine crime scene duties such as identifying, photographing, collecting, and preserving evidence and receiving, cataloging, and maintaining custody of evidence. Licenses, Certifications, and Necessary Requirements: Must be willing to work weekends, holidays, nights, and rotating shifts and be subject to recall as needed. Must be willing to work an "on-call" assignment.

Must be able to pass an intensive police background investigation. Possession of an appropriate, valid, Class "C" California Motor Vehicle Operator's License. Possession of, or ability to obtain, a concealed weapons permit (CCW).

Selection Process DOCUMENTS REQUIRED AT THE TIME OF APPLICATION: 1) Completed Employment Application 2)Completed Supplemental Questionnaire FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ON COMPLETING YOUR ON-LINE APPLICATION, CLICK HERE: (Application Guide). The selection process will begin with an employment application package screening, with the best qualified candidates being invited to participate further in the assessment process. This process may include any combination of written, performance, and oral assessments to evaluate job-related education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Those who successfully complete the selection process will be placed on the eligibility list for this classification. IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON SCHEDULING ASSESSMENTS: If you are selected to move forward in the assessment process, you may be required to self-schedule your appointment. You will be notified via email of your status and provided with self-scheduling instructions.

Please check your email regularly following the closing date of this recruitment. Positions that require, or may require, a California Commercial Driver's License are considered Safety Sensitive and are monitored by the U.S. Department of Transportation

Any candidate being considered for a Safety Sensitive position must submit authorization forms to the City immediately upon request to begin the pre-employment process. It is the responsibility of candidates with a disability requiring accommodation in the assessment process to contact the Human Resources Department in writing to request such accommodation prior to the closing date of this recruitment. Appointment may be subject to the successful completion of a pre-employment background investigation, drug screen, and/or medical/physical examination.

NOTE: The City reserves the right to modify selection devices and test instruments in accordance with accepted legal, ethical, and professional standards. Candidates may reapply when there is a posting to establish an eligibility list. EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Proof of education listed in your application will be requested at the time of conditional offer.

Acceptable documentation consists of transcripts or degree, if applicable, by the accredited U.S. college or university. Education obtained outside the United States (US) require one of the following options: An equivalency statement from an evaluation company certified by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) at http://www.naces.org/members.html or the Association of International Credential Evaluators Inc

(AICE) at http://aice-eval.org/members/. An advanced-level degree from an accredited US college or university. All applicants will be notified via e-mail or telephone of their application status and the assessment dates/times/locations after the closing date of this announcement

THE PROVISIONS OF THIS JOB ANNOUNCEMENT DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED CONTRACT.


What City Of Riverside (California) employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom