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Dna Forensic Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

To establish an academic environment for training in the field of Forensic Science. The Serology / DNA Operations Technician is an entry-level position that performs serological examination of ...

To establish an academic environment for training in the field of Forensic Science. The Serology / DNA Operations Technician is an entry-level position that performs serological examination of ...

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Dna Forensic Scientist information

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$36.5K

$79.4K

$137.5K

How much do dna forensic scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for dna forensic scientist in the United States is $79,408.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,500.00 and $93,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a DNA forensic scientist?

To thrive as a DNA Forensic Scientist, you need a strong background in molecular biology, genetics, and chemistry, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant scientific field. Experience with laboratory equipment, DNA analysis software, and certifications such as those from the American Board of Criminalistics are highly valued. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and clear written and verbal communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies are essential for accurately analyzing evidence, maintaining chain of custody, and effectively presenting findings in legal contexts.

What is the difference between Dna Forensic Scientist vs Crime Scene Investigator?

AspectDna Forensic ScientistCrime Scene Investigator
CredentialsDegree in forensic science, biology, or chemistry; certification often preferredDegree in criminal justice, forensic science, or related field; training in evidence collection
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, analyzing DNA samplesCrime scenes, collecting evidence and documenting findings
Employer & IndustryForensic labs, law enforcement agenciesPolice departments, law enforcement agencies
Primary FocusDNA analysis and interpretationEvidence collection and scene documentation

While both roles support criminal investigations, Dna Forensic Scientists focus on analyzing DNA evidence in labs, whereas Crime Scene Investigators gather evidence at crime scenes. Their skills complement each other to solve cases efficiently.

What are some common challenges DNA forensic scientists face when handling casework, and how can these be managed?

DNA Forensic Scientists often encounter challenges such as degraded or limited biological samples, contamination risks, and maintaining strict chain-of-custody protocols. Managing these issues requires meticulous attention to detail, rigorous adherence to laboratory procedures, and continuous training in new technologies. Collaboration with law enforcement and legal professionals is also crucial to ensure accurate interpretation and communication of results. Staying current with advancements in forensic techniques and quality assurance standards helps scientists effectively address these challenges and maintain the integrity of their findings.

What does a DNA forensic scientist do?

A DNA forensic scientist analyzes biological samples, such as blood, hair, or saliva, to identify individuals involved in criminal investigations. They extract, amplify, and compare DNA profiles from evidence and reference samples to determine matches or exclusions. Their work supports law enforcement by providing scientific evidence that can link a suspect to a crime scene or exonerate innocent individuals. DNA forensic scientists also write reports, testify in court, and maintain strict laboratory protocols to ensure the accuracy and integrity of their findings.
More about Dna Forensic Scientist jobs
What cities are hiring for Dna Forensic Scientist jobs? Cities with the most Dna Forensic Scientist job openings:
What states have the most Dna Forensic Scientist jobs? States with the most job openings for Dna Forensic Scientist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Dna Forensic Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,408 per year, or $38.2 per hour.

Criminalist IB (Forensic Biology)

City of New York

Manhattan, NY • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


City Of New York rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

620th of 844 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Job Description

The Office of Chief Medical Examiner investigates cases of persons who die within New York City from criminal violence, by accident, by suicide, suddenly when in apparent health, when unattended by a physician, in a correctional facility or in any suspicious or unusual manner or where an application is made pursuant to law for a permit to cremate a body of a person.
Our core purpose is to protect public health and serve impartial justice through forensic science and medicine. We exist to provide answers in support of families and communities during times of profound need.
The core values of CARES guide our work for communities and inform our behavior toward each other and all those we serve.
- Commitment: Dedicated to the mission at all times
- Accountability: Responsible to each other and the community
- Resilience: Adapt in the face of adversity
- Excellence: Achieve and maintain the highest quality
- Service: Innovate to meet evolving needs
Under the general direction of the Assistant Directors of the Department of Forensic Biology and specifically under the supervision of a Criminalist, level IV, the selected candidate will be responsible for assisting in conducting scientific analyses performed on biological specimens brought to the Forensic Biology Department of the Office of Chief Medical Examiner for the City of New York. Duties will include but are not limited to:
- Assists in the DNA analyses of evidentiary material such as hairs, body fluids and other biological evidence, using state-of-the-art molecular techniques.
- Receives comprehensive training and instruction in the various techniques used in the collection, preservation, handling and receipt of evidentiary materials.
- Attends and participates in staff meetings, conference and other training and development activities
- Received training in the routine preventive maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment and analytical instruments.
- Other duties as assigned.
SPECIAL NOTE
- Candidates must submit college transcripts proving successfully passing (grade C or greater) the following course requirements: Graduate or undergraduate level courses covering the subject areas of biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology (molecular genetics, recombinant DNA technology) or other subjects which provide a basic understanding of the foundation of forensic DNA analysis for a total of nine credit hours. These course requirements will be audited by the DNA Technical Leader.
- Selected candidates will be required to provide a DNA sample by swabbing.
This position has been identified as essential. During emergency events, essential positions may require 24-hour availability.
WORK AUTHORIZATION:
Authorization to work in the United States is required for this position. Office of Chief Medical Examiner does not provide sponsorship for international employees for visa applications, extensions, or status changes, including STEM/OPT visas. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that they meet all qualifying requirements for this position at the time of application.
***Please note that only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted for this position. FINAL APPOINTMENTS ARE SUBJECT TO OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT & BUDGET APPROVAL.***
CRIMINALIST - 21849

Qualifications

1. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college, with specialization in criminalistics, forensic science, chemistry, biology, physics, molecular genetics, genetics, biochemistry, molecular biology, entomology, anthropology, ecology or a closely related scientific or engineering field.
2. For Assignment to Assignment Level I - B
In addition to meeting the "Qualification Requirements For All Assignment Levels" above, to be assigned to Assignment Level I-B individuals must have at least one year of satisfactory full-time experience in criminalistics, forensic science or analytic chemistry, or a satisfactory equivalent combination of education and experience.
3. In addition to meeting the "Qualification Requirements" above, to be assigned to Assignment Level II, individuals must have one of the following:
1. One year of experience gained as a Criminalist at Assignment Level I-B; or 2. One additional year of qualifying experience in criminalistics or forensic science, for a total of two years of such experience; or 3. A satisfactory combination of education and experience totaling two years of experience as described above.
4. In addition to meeting the "Qualification Requirements" for Assignment Level I-B above, to be assigned to Assignment Level III, individuals must have one of the following:
1. Two years of experience gained as a Criminalist at Assignment Level I-B and/or II; or 2. Two additional years of qualifying experience in criminalistics or forensic science, for a total of three years of such experience; or 3. A satisfactory combination of education and experience totaling three years of experience as described above.
5. For Assignment to Assignment Level IV
In addition to meeting the "Qualification Requirements" for Assignment Level I-B above, to be assigned to Assignment Level IV, individuals must have one of the following:
1. Three years of experience gained as a Criminalist at Assignment Level I-B, II, and /or III; or 2. Three additional years of experience in criminalistics or forensic science, for a total of four years of such experience; or
3. A satisfactory combination of education and experience totaling four years of experience, as described above.

Additional Information

The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.


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