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Entry Level Crime Lab Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

County of Alameda

Deputy Sheriff's Recruit

Dublin, CA · On-site

$50.15/hr

... its Crime Lab; the Bomb Squad Commanders Advisory Board for its Explosive Ordinance Unit ... THE POSITION Deputy Sheriff Recruit is the entry-level law enforcement position for Alameda County.

Klinger Moving Company

Tech I

San Leandro, CA

$21.25 - $23.75/hr

The Technician I is an entry level position and will receive appropriate training to ensure he/she ... Must be familiar with laboratory moving including packing of lab equipment, fine tune and detail ...

Corovan

Tech I

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$21.25 - $23.75/hr

The Technician I is an entry level position and will receive appropriate training to ensure he/she ... Must be familiar with laboratory moving including packing of lab equipment, fine tune and detail ...

Corovan

Tech I

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$21.25 - $23.75/hr

The Technician I is an entry level position and will receive appropriate training to ensure he/she ... Must be familiar with laboratory moving including packing of lab equipment, fine tune and detail ...

Via Care

Medical Assistant - Pharmacy

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$24 - $28.09/hr

This entry-level position is ideal for candidates with a passion for healthcare who are looking to ... Electronic lab ordering and processing lab test results per clinic policy. * Assist in glucometer ...

Via Care

Medical Assistant

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$24 - $28.09/hr

This entry-level position is ideal for candidates with a passion for healthcare who are looking to ... Electronic lab ordering and processing lab test results per clinic policy. * Assist in glucometer ...

City of Culver City

Lifeguard

Culver City, CA · On-site

$21.84 - $23.93/hr

Program activities include homework assistance, computer lab, crafts and games, special events and ... Provides entry-level participants the knowledge and skills to prevent, recognize and respond to ...

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All JobsEntry Level Crime Lab JobsEntry Level Crime Lab Jobs in California

Entry Level Crime Lab information

See California salary details

$13

$23

$49

How much do entry level crime lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level crime lab in California is $23.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $25.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level crime lab jobs?

Entry level crime lab jobs are positions within forensic laboratories that typically require a bachelor's degree in a science-related field, such as biology, chemistry, or forensic science. These roles involve assisting more experienced forensic scientists and technicians in processing evidence, conducting laboratory tests, and maintaining records. Common entry level positions include forensic lab technician, evidence technician, and laboratory assistant. These jobs provide hands-on experience in collecting, analyzing, and documenting evidence that is used in criminal investigations. Entry level employees often receive on-the-job training and may eventually specialize in areas like DNA analysis, toxicology, or fingerprint analysis.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Crime Lab Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Crime Lab Technician, you generally need a bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field, along with a solid understanding of laboratory procedures. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), analytical instruments like spectrometers or chromatographs, and proper evidence handling protocols is expected. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate analysis and reporting, maintaining the integrity of evidence and supporting the justice system.

What is the difference between Entry Level Crime Lab vs Forensic Technician?

AspectEntry Level Crime LabForensic Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's; some roles prefer relevant certificationsHigh school diploma or associate's; certifications may enhance prospects
Work EnvironmentCrime laboratories, police departments, forensic labsCrime labs, medical examiner offices, law enforcement agencies
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement agencies, government labsLaw enforcement, medical examiner offices, private labs
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Crime Lab roles typically involve basic forensic analysis and support tasks within law enforcement laboratories. Forensic Technicians often perform similar duties but may have a broader scope, including evidence collection and processing. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments, making them closely related and often compared by job seekers.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level professionals in a crime lab, and how can new hires overcome them?

Entry-level professionals in a crime lab often encounter challenges such as adapting to strict evidence-handling protocols, learning to use specialized laboratory equipment, and managing a high volume of detailed casework under tight deadlines. New hires can overcome these challenges by actively seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues, participating in all available training sessions, and maintaining meticulous organization and documentation. Developing strong communication skills is also essential, as collaboration with law enforcement officers and other forensic experts is a regular part of the job.
What are the most commonly searched types of Crime Lab jobs in California? The most popular types of Crime Lab jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Crime Lab jobs in California? For Entry Level Crime Lab jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Crime Lab jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Crime Lab jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Crime Lab jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Crime Lab job openings:
Entry Level Crime Lab jobs near you
Private Investigator

Private Investigator

Digistream Investigations

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

DigiStream Investigations, a fast-growing, national private investigation firm, seeks a talented addition to our investigation team in the Sacramento, CA Region.
This isn’t your average desk job - being a Private Investigator means you’ll have a career with excitement, travel, autonomy, and purpose. This role is meant for an individual with an adventurous and curious spirit, and the drive to provide our clients with the evidence they need to defend their cases for potentially fraudulent worker's compensation claims.

Work Schedule: Full-time, 40-55 hours per week average, 10-11 hours per day average, depending on travel distance to the case and back to your home (commute time in the company vehicle is "on the clock")
Starting Hourly Pay Rate: $20 hourly (entry-level), frequent overtime
Employee Benefits: Health, Dental, Vision, and Life insurance offered, and 401(k) retirement plan with 4% Company Match offered


What you’ll get:

  • A foot in the door to the investigations/security/law enforcement fields
  • Experience conducting covert investigations
  • A job you’ll love going to - no one day is the same
  • Opportunities for growth within the company via our Private Investigator Promotion Track
  • Unlike most PI companies, DigiStream provides full benefits, a company vehicle, and paid travel
  • Professional, hands-on training program developed over the course of 25 years
  • Team-building events and comradery with fellow team members

Sky is the limit! The skills you learn here can lead to jobs in:

  • FBI / Law Enforcement
  • ATF / US Border Patrol / State Crime Lab
  • Law / Paralegal / Legal Assistant
  • Security / Corporate Investigations
  • Investigative Journalism

What a day in the life of an investigator looks like:

  • Monitoring, following, and videotaping subjects as they conduct their day-to-day activities
  • Vehicle and foot pursuit of subjects while maintaining cover
  • Activity varies from filming someone at a grocery store or restaurant to filming them at a sporting event or a casino
  • Crafting pre-surveillance strategies based on the setup location and case details
  • Detailed report writing on the activities observed/captured and submission of video evidence
  • Regular communication with team leader on setup positions, activity and tactics

What you’ll need to apply:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Must be 21 years or older
  • 50 hours per week on average (includes commute & drive time)
  • Willingness to travel and stay overnight on remote assignments (as needed)
  • Availability to work any day of the week, including weekends and holidays
  • Ability to start work as early as 5:00 am daily with occasional work into the evenings
  • Must currently live in the Sacramento, CA area
  • Ability to pass DMV check & background check
  • Confident driving skills

Compensation/benefits/promotions:

  • Starting pay: $20.00 per hour
  • Employee Benefits: Health, dental, vision, life insurance, and 401(k) with up to 4% company match
  • Performance incentives
  • Paid travel to and from local and remote assignments
  • Cellphone reimbursement
  • Equipment provided including video camera, laptop, tripod, fuel & maintenance card
  • Company-provided surveillance vehicle
  • We hire at the entry level and promote from within based on performance

Note: Position does not require daily commute to an office or motor pool as your surveillance vehicle is entrusted to you and is kept at your residence on a daily basis. Travel to and from assignments will begin and end at your residence.

**Only apply if you have availability to work any of the 7 days of the week, and only if you can work a 5 day per week schedule with an average of 10-12 hours per day, including weekends and holidays**