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Entry Level Crime Lab Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Crime Lab information

See Reston, VA salary details

$13

$25

$52

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

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level crime lab in Reston, VA is $25.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.50 and $27.02 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 popular job titles related to Entry Level Crime Lab jobs in Reston, VA? For Entry Level Crime Lab jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Engineer or Physicist in Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (Su with Security Clearance

Engineer or Physicist in Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (Su with Security Clearance

MITRE Corporation

Fairfax, VA • Hybrid

$89K - $111K/yr

Other

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Why choose between doing meaningful work and having a fulfilling life? At MITRE, you can have both. That's because MITRE people are committed to tackling our nation's toughest challenges-and we're committed to the long-term well-being of our employees. MITRE is different from most technology companies. We are a not-for-profit corporation chartered to work for the public interest, with no commercial conflicts to influence what we do. The R&D centers we operate for the government create lasting impact in fields as diverse as cybersecurity, healthcare, aviation, defense, and enterprise transformation. We're making a difference every day-working for a safer, healthier, and more secure nation and world. Our workplace reflects our values. We offer competitive benefits, exceptional professional development opportunities for career growth, and a culture of innovation that embraces adaptability, collaboration, technical excellence, and people in partnership. If this sounds like the choice you want to make, then choose MITRE - and make a difference with us. Department Summary: MITRE is at the leading edge in solving problems in Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT). PNT systems, such as GPS, atomic clocks, and inertial guidance, provide vital services to humanity in a wide array of fields, including emergency services, power grids, trade, and more. This entry-level position for an engineer or physicist with a desire to learn at a world respected PNT leader can be the first step on your PNT journey. Come join us at MITRE, a not-for-profit company dedicated to solving problems for a safer world. Typical projects include: * Performing detailed modeling and simulation of navigation system performance
* Prototyping waveforms or algorithms in software defined radios
* Testing and evaluating leading edge hardware in PNT, both in the lab and in the field Roles & Responsibilities: * Modeling, simulation, and analysis of PNT technologies
* Testing of PNT technologies and data analysis of experimental results
* Play a key technical role on one or more projects within MITRE's existing PNT work program Basic Qualifications: * Typically requires less than 1 year of related experience with a related Bachelor's degree, or equivalent combination of related education and work experience
* Currently pursuing (or recently received) a degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Systems Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Mathematics, Physics or similar fields
* Experience with MATLAB, Python, C++, or other modeling and data analysis software tools
* Ability to obtain and maintain a US Secret security clearance
* Per the U.S. Government's eligibility requirements, you must be a U.S Citizen to be considered for a security clearance * Strong technical background with experience in technologies related to PNT such as:
* detection and estimation theory
* waveform design, modulation theory, error control coding, information theory
* stochastic processes, propagation, channel estimation and equalization
* receiver design, interference cancellation, algorithm development
* guidance, navigation, and control (GNC)
* This position requires a minimum of 50% hybrid on-site Preferred Qualifications: * Advanced degree (MS, PhD) in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Systems Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Mathematics, Physics or similar fields.
* Experience with data analysis, and field or lab testing equipment
* Experience using software development tools like Docker and Git
* Experience with laboratory testing and experimentation and working with and programming software defined radios (SDRs) using C/C++ or GNURadio
* Experience developing technical reports, presentations, and/or code
* Ability to obtain a Top Secret or higher clearance This requisition requires the candidate to have a minimum of the following clearance(s):
Secret This requisition requires the hired candidate to have or obtain, within one year from the date of hire, the following clearance(s):
None Salary compensation range and midpoint:
$89,200 - $111,500 - $133,800 Annual Work Location Type:
Hybrid It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Commitment to Non-Discrimination All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, local or international law. MITRE intends to maintain a website that is fully accessible to all individuals. If you are unable to search or apply for jobs and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of MITRE's employment process, please email for general support and for intern positions. This service is for individuals requiring reasonable accommodation requests. Please note that vendor solicitations will not receive a reply. Benefits information may be found here . Copyright © 1997-2026, The MITRE Corporation. All rights reserved. MITRE is a registered trademark of The MITRE Corporation. Material on this site may be copied and distributed with permission only.

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About MITRE

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Why choose between doing meaningful work and having a fulfilling life? At MITRE, you can have both. That's because MITRE people are committed to tackling our nation's toughest challenges-and we're committed to the long-term well-being of our employees. MITRE is different from most technology companies. We are a not-for-profit corporation chartered to work for the public interest, with no commercial conflicts to influence what we do. The R&D centers we operate for the government create lasting impact in fields as diverse as cybersecurity, healthcare, aviation, defense, and enterprise transformation. We're making a difference every day-working for a safer, healthier, and more secure nation and world. Our workplace reflects our values. We offer competitive benefits, exceptional professional development opportunities, and a culture of innovation that embraces diversity, inclusion, flexibility, collaboration, and career growth. If this sounds like the choice you want to make, then choose MITRE-and make a difference with us. MITRE is a trusted operator of federally funded research and development centers and we're on a mission to make the world a safer place-for all of humanity, today and in the future. To deliver on our mission, we need the world's best talent and leaders-groundbreakers and partnership-builders on a global scale in areas like healthcare, artificial intelligence, critical infrastructure resiliency, pandemic management, and cybersecurity. In return, we have the privilege of backing you with thousands of technical experts in diverse fields, a culture of innovation and knowledge sharing, access to data and resources uniquely available to MITRE through our wide-ranging partnerships across government, industry and academia.

Industry

It services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

McLean, VA, US

Year founded

1958

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