ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Dna Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Ideal Innovations

DNA Examiner

Quantico, VA · On-site

Conduct DNA examinations on items of evidence. * Calibrate instruments used for forensic examinations and analysis. * Maintain proper chain-of-custody of all forensic material under examination

Elite DNA Behavioral Health

Psychiatrist

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$285 - $300/hr

Elite DNA Behavioral Health has an immediate need for a Board Certified Psychiatrist We are a physician-run leader Telepsychiatry, providing quality therapy and psychiatric services for children ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDna JobsDna Jobs in Virginia

Dna information

See Virginia salary details

$35.2K

$79.2K

$111.5K

How much do dna jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for dna in Virginia is $79,160.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,400.00 and $88,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What careers involve working with DNA?

Careers involving working with DNA include geneticists, molecular biologists, forensic scientists, and biomedical researchers. These roles often require skills in laboratory techniques, DNA analysis, and understanding of genetics, with work typically conducted in research labs, hospitals, or forensic laboratories.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a DNA analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as a DNA analyst, you need a strong background in molecular biology, genetics, and laboratory techniques, typically supported by a degree in biology or forensic science. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), PCR machines, and DNA sequencing tools is essential. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong written communication are vital soft skills for interpreting results and compiling clear reports. These skills ensure the accuracy and reliability of DNA analysis, which is critical for research, clinical, or forensic applications.

What is a DNA analyst?

DNA analysts are professionals who specialize in examining and interpreting DNA evidence, often in forensic laboratories. Their main responsibility is to extract, analyze, and compare genetic material from biological samples such as blood, hair, or saliva. DNA analysts play a crucial role in criminal investigations, paternity testing, and identifying remains. They use advanced laboratory equipment and techniques to ensure accurate results, and their findings can be used as evidence in legal cases.

What is the difference between Dna vs Genetic Counselor?

AspectDnaGenetic Counselor
Required CredentialsTypically a degree in biology, genetics, or related field; certifications varyMaster's degree in genetics, counseling, or related field; certification (e.g., ABGC)
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, hospitalsClinics, hospitals, counseling centers
Industry UsageResearch, diagnostics, biotechHealthcare, patient counseling
Common Search/ComparisonOften compared for roles in genetics and researchCompared for patient interaction and counseling roles

While Dna professionals focus on genetic research, analysis, and laboratory work, Genetic Counselors specialize in communicating genetic information to patients and providing counseling. Both roles require a background in genetics but differ in work environment and responsibilities.

Is it hard to get a job as a DNA analyst?

Securing a job as a DNA analyst typically requires a relevant degree in biology, genetics, or a related field, along with laboratory skills and experience with DNA analysis techniques such as PCR and sequencing. Competition can be high, and certifications or advanced training may improve job prospects, but opportunities exist in forensic labs, research institutions, and healthcare settings.

What are some common challenges faced by DNA analysts when working in a forensic laboratory setting?

DNA analysts in forensic laboratories often encounter challenges such as handling degraded or limited biological samples, maintaining strict chain-of-custody protocols, and adhering to rigorous quality assurance standards. They must also stay updated with rapidly evolving technologies and ensure that their findings are communicated clearly to law enforcement and, occasionally, in court. Collaboration with other forensic experts and law enforcement professionals is frequent, requiring strong teamwork and communication skills.

What are careers that work with DNA?

Careers that work with deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) typically fall into two categories: research and manufacturing. Research jobs often focus on studies like how genetics impact vulnerability to diseases while manufacturing roles help to create samples for testing and examining how changes to DNA impact organisms. In this field, your responsibilities may include working to analyze samples from humans, animals, or plants, testing a variety of chemicals and medicines, or helping people understand their ancestry and biological relationships. DNA jobs also include adhering to a professional code of ethics and confidentiality. Many DNA-focused positions are found in the criminal justice field, such as victim identification, and the industry in which you work has a significant impact on how you use DNA on a day-to-day basis.

More about Dna jobs

What are popular job titles related to Dna jobs in Virginia?

For Dna jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Dna jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Dna jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Dna jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Dna job openings:

Dna jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dna job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $79,160 per year, or $38.1 per hour.

DNA Examiner

Ideal Innovations

Quantico, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Highlights:
You'll be...
  • Joining a dynamic forensics team with many opportunities to grow professionally
  • Working with other forensic experts in various fields to support the FBI and TEDAC missions
  • Experiencing a unique opportunity to work with the FBI laboratory
  • Obtaining some or enhancing your experience working in a fully functional government laboratory working closely with other forensics experts

Typical Day:
Working in a fully operational forensic laboratory. Receiving evidence, examining evidence, processing evidence, analyzing results and documenting findings.
Tasks:
  • Receive and account for boxes of evidence and related materials from contributors.
  • Visually inspect and process evidence and related materials for mitochondrial and / or nuclear DNA as appropriate; isolate and collect materials for analysis from appropriate areas of various evidentiary materials; prepare samples for instrumental analysis; and associate samples with other existing submissions (as appropriate).
  • Make an initial determination of the types of samples suitable for analysis and select appropriate protocols for conducting the examination of materials.
  • Conduct DNA examinations on items of evidence.
  • Calibrate instruments used for forensic examinations and analysis.
  • Maintain proper chain-of-custody of all forensic material under examination
  • Follow all QA/QC procedures, protocols and adhere to policies and procedures related to its accreditation and safety standards.
  • Conduct DNA analysis and comparisons of profiles or sequences as appropriate.
  • Author forensic reports to include all laboratory notes and supporting documentation.
  • Provide all generated profiles or sequences in a format necessary for inclusion, storage, and searching of the appropriate DNA databases.
  • Conduct technical and administrative reviews of all work.

Required Qualifications:
Education:
  • BA in Biology, Chemistry, or related field of biological science from an accredited university/college.
  • Successfully completed coursework in the following subject areas: nine (9) semester hours in the fields of biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology as well as coursework and/or training in statistics and/or population genetics as it applies to forensic DNA analysis.

Experience:
  • At least one (1) year as a DNA Examiner in an accredited forensic laboratory.

Skills:
  • Basic computer skills, to include use of Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, Access, and Outlook); organization skills; flexibility and adaptability to changing priorities; demonstrated ability to study and pass training, examination, and testing assessments; verbal and written communication skills

Clearance: Ability to obtain US Top Secret Clearance (US citizenship required)
Shift: Normal day shift
Location: Quantico, VA
Ideal Innovations, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer:
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or veteran status.
Ideal Innovations, Inc. is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

Apply