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Entry Level Crime Scene Investigator Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

City of Albuquerque, NM

Police Cadet

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$65K/yr

Conduct complete investigations of crimes. * Interview victims, witnesses and suspects. * Control ... Must pass the Police Entry-Level Written Examination and other required examinations and ...

City of Albuquerque

Police Cadet

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$65K/yr

Conduct complete investigations of crimes. Interview victims, witnesses and suspects. Control or ... Must pass the Police Entry-Level Written Examination and other required examinations and ...

City of Albuquerque

APD Transport Officer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$43K - $58K/yr

Must pass the Entry-Level Written Examination and departmental oral board examinations. Must pass ... a criminal conviction or a military disciplinary action. Must not have committed multiple DWIs ...

University of New Mexico

Accessioning Tech

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$19 - $24.77/hr

... Investigator (OMI) investigates any death occurring across the state of New Mexico that is sudden ... If you are looking for a great entry level position with great benefits on a great team, this is ...

University of New Mexico

Accessioning Tech

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$19 - $24.77/hr

... Investigator (OMI) investigates any death occurring across the state of New Mexico that is sudden ... If you are looking for a great entry level position with great benefits on a great team, this is ...

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All JobsCrime Scene Investigator JobsEntry Level Crime Scene Investigator JobsEntry Level Crime Scene Investigator Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Entry Level Crime Scene Investigator information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$32.2K

$56.4K

$83.7K

How much do entry level crime scene investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level crime scene investigator in Rio Rancho, NM is $56,433.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,900.00 and $63,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level crime scene investigator do?

An entry-level crime scene investigator (CSI) identifies and collects evidence at a crime scene. In this role, your job is to document everything in the area of suspected criminal activity by taking pictures, recording measurements, and gathering information that may not be captured by images, such as weather conditions. As an entry-level employee, you undergo on-the-job training and work under the supervision of senior crime scene staff members and investigators. You may shadow veteran investigators for a while, observing how they extract and process evidence at the crime scene and back at the office; it is crucial to preserve evidence properly to ensure it does not become tainted.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level crime scene investigator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Crime Scene Investigator, you generally need a background in forensic science, criminal justice, or a related field, often supported by a bachelor's degree. Familiarity with evidence collection tools, digital photography, and crime scene documentation software is typically required, and specialized training or certification in crime scene investigation can be advantageous. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help you accurately process scenes and collaborate with law enforcement teams. These skills and qualifications are critical for ensuring the integrity and reliability of evidence, which directly impacts criminal investigations and prosecutions.

What are some typical challenges an entry level crime scene investigator might face in their first year on the job?

As an entry level crime scene investigator, you may encounter challenges such as adapting to irregular hours, handling emotionally intense scenes, and learning to meticulously document and preserve evidence under pressure. You'll also need to quickly become proficient with specialized equipment and follow strict protocols while working alongside law enforcement and forensic teams. Building confidence in your technical skills and maintaining attention to detail, even during long or overnight shifts, is key to success in this role.

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

AspectEntry Level Crime Scene InvestigatorForensic Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's; some roles prefer criminal justice or forensic science degreesHigh school diploma; some roles require associate's or bachelor's in forensic science or related fields
Work EnvironmentCrime scenes, outdoor and indoor locations, often in unpredictable conditionsLaboratories, crime labs, or field sites; more controlled environment
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement agencies, crime labs, forensic unitsCrime labs, forensic laboratories, law enforcement support units

While both roles support forensic investigations, Entry Level Crime Scene Investigators primarily collect evidence at crime scenes, whereas Forensic Technicians analyze evidence in labs. The roles often overlap in credentials and work environment, but their focus differs—fieldwork versus laboratory analysis.

How to become a crime scene investigator entry level?

To become an entry-level crime scene investigator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring or requiring an associate's or bachelor's degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field. Relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of evidence collection, and familiarity with forensic tools; obtaining certifications such as the Crime Scene Certification can enhance prospects. Prior law enforcement or forensic experience may also be beneficial, and applicants often undergo background checks and physical fitness assessments.

How to get hired as a crime scene investigator?

To get hired as a crime scene investigator, candidates typically need a relevant degree such as criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field, along with experience in law enforcement or forensic work. Certification in crime scene investigation and proficiency with tools like fingerprint analysis and evidence collection are also valuable. Applying to law enforcement agencies or forensic laboratories and demonstrating strong attention to detail and analytical skills are essential steps in the hiring process.

Is it easy to get hired as a Crime Scene Investigator Entry Level?

Getting hired as an entry-level Crime Scene Investigator typically requires relevant education such as a degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field, along with some experience or training in crime scene processing. Competition can be high, and employers often seek candidates with strong attention to detail, good communication skills, and familiarity with forensic tools and procedures.

Is it hard to get into crime scene investigation?

Crime Scene Investigator entry-level positions typically require relevant education such as a degree in criminal justice or forensic science, along with training in evidence collection and processing. Competition can be high, and candidates often need to demonstrate strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and sometimes certification or experience in law enforcement or forensic techniques.
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Entry Level Crime Scene Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Crime Scene Investigator job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,433 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Crime Scene Technician PO

Rio Rancho, NM • On-site

City of Rio Rancho
Public Administration • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about City of Rio Ranchoexternal

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

City Of Rio Rancho rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Crime Scene Technician

Crime Scene Technician performs technical work photographing, measuring and diagramming crime scenes, collecting and classifying evidence and latent prints, and preparing detailed reports in support of law enforcement activities.

Education, Training, Experience, Certifications, Licenses and Registrations

Education / higher education: AA Degree

For required college degrees, applicable field(s) of study: Criminal justice, forensic science, chemistry, biology, physical science or a related field.

Minimum number of years of related experience: One (1) year of experience in photography, digital and video camera operation, fingerprint classification, public safety/crime scene investigation or crime scene evidence collection. In lieu of the required education, a qualified candidate may possess a HS diploma and three (3) years of related experience.

Education and/or experience preferences: Associates degree in criminology.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Driver's License requirement: Infrequent Driver -- Regular Driver's License Required Endorsements: None

Note -- For any driver, driving record must always meet City driving and insurability standards.

Required certifications, licenses or registrations: Basic fingerprint and photography training.

Time given after hire/promotion to obtain certification or licenses: One (1) year

Preferred certifications, licenses or registrations: Advanced training in equivocal death, crime scene processing, blood spatter analysis, or firearms reconstruction.

Essential Functions

Knowledge: Methods and techniques of crime scene investigations Fingerprinting processes and classification; rules of evidence, police procedures, and photo taking; DNA processing methods and evidence collection procedures. Knowledge of personal computers and proficient in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Adobe Photoshop and any other computer software for fingerprinting, digital and video camera operations, photographic techniques and procedures.

Skills: Must be able to type rapidly and accurately enough to accomplish the essential functions of the job; Operate office equipment including computers and supporting word processing and spreadsheet applications; Respond to requests and inquiries; communicate clearly and concisely both verbally and in written format. Attentiveness and intensity is critical to ensure accuracy and minimize errors. Organize, plan, and prioritize investigations. Work effectively with all types of crime and accident scenes with the Office of the Medical Examiner. Must be able to organize large amounts of information in a methodical and logical manner.

Abilities: Ability to use photographic techniques and procedure under various lighting conditions. Process crime scene evidence with accuracy and attention to detail. Analytical thinking abilities; capacity to recognize patterns or connections between situations/events that aren't obviously related; Identify key or underlying issues in complex cases, or use creative conceptual, methodical, and/or inductive reasoning to develop case hypothesis. Ability to cope with stressful situations calmly, fairly, tactfully and with respect for the public and co-workers. Ability to operate police vehicles and equipment. Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, orally and in writing. Ability to adhere to established policies and procedures. Maturity of judgment and ability to maintain strict confidentiality.

Interaction with Groups/Agencies/Entities: Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work including professional agencies and the general public. Provide expert testimony in administrative, civil, criminal, or other proceedings concerning investigative findings.

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