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Entry Level Crime Scene Investigator Jobs in Springfield, IL

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Petersburg, IL

$17.25 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Enlisted Active This role is open to both entry-level applicants and candidates with prior ... and Criminal Investigator; career-long development through leadership courses, warfare ...

US Navy

Security & Law Enforcement (Master-at-Arms)

Kincaid, IL

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Enlisted • Active This role is open to both entry-level applicants and candidates with prior ... and Criminal Investigator; career-long development through leadership courses, warfare ...

US Navy

Security & Law Enforcement (Master-at-Arms)

Lincoln, IL

$17 - $21.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Enlisted • Active This role is open to both entry-level applicants and candidates with prior ... and Criminal Investigator; career-long development through leadership courses, warfare ...

US Navy

Security & Law Enforcement (Master-at-Arms)

Loami, IL

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Enlisted • Active This role is open to both entry-level applicants and candidates with prior ... and Criminal Investigator; career-long development through leadership courses, warfare ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Taylorville, IL

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Enlisted Active This role is open to both entry-level applicants and candidates with prior ... and Criminal Investigator; career-long development through leadership courses, warfare ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Athens, IL

$17 - $21.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Enlisted Active This role is open to both entry-level applicants and candidates with prior ... and Criminal Investigator; career-long development through leadership courses, warfare ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Franklin, IL

$17 - $21.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Enlisted Active This role is open to both entry-level applicants and candidates with prior ... and Criminal Investigator; career-long development through leadership courses, warfare ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Kincaid, IL

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Enlisted Active This role is open to both entry-level applicants and candidates with prior ... and Criminal Investigator; career-long development through leadership courses, warfare ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Niantic, IL

$17 - $21.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Enlisted Active This role is open to both entry-level applicants and candidates with prior ... and Criminal Investigator; career-long development through leadership courses, warfare ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Tovey, IL

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Enlisted Active This role is open to both entry-level applicants and candidates with prior ... and Criminal Investigator; career-long development through leadership courses, warfare ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Sherman, IL

$17.25 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Enlisted Active This role is open to both entry-level applicants and candidates with prior ... and Criminal Investigator; career-long development through leadership courses, warfare ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Jerome, IL

$17.25 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Enlisted Active This role is open to both entry-level applicants and candidates with prior ... and Criminal Investigator; career-long development through leadership courses, warfare ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Springfield, IL

$17.25 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Enlisted Active This role is open to both entry-level applicants and candidates with prior ... and Criminal Investigator; career-long development through leadership courses, warfare ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Spaulding, IL

$17.25 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Enlisted Active This role is open to both entry-level applicants and candidates with prior ... and Criminal Investigator; career-long development through leadership courses, warfare ...

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All JobsCrime Scene Investigator JobsEntry Level Crime Scene Investigator JobsEntry Level Crime Scene Investigator Jobs in Springfield, IL

Entry Level Crime Scene Investigator information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$33.7K

$59.1K

$87.7K

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

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level crime scene investigator in Springfield, IL is $59,106.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,100.00 and $66,900.00 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 Springfield, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,106 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

Digital Forensic Examiners 23-E-25

Illinois Attorney General (IL)

Springfield, IL

$65K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Summary of Duties and Responsibilities Under the direction of a Digital Forensic Supervisor, the Digital Forensic Examiner (DFE) will conduct forensic examinations of digital evidence for criminal investigations. These examinations may take place within a laboratory environment or on-scene during law enforcement operations. On-scene examinations may require frequent in-state travel.

Additionally, the DFE will be required to provide direct technical support to Office of the Illinois Attorney General investigators and attorneys, and also assist law enforcement and prosecutorial agencies on investigations and prosecutions. Qualifications This position requires a Bachelor's or advanced degree in a computer related field or equivalent experience in law enforcement or computer forensics. Ideal candidates will have one to three years of exposure to law enforcement practices, techniques, and evidence handling.

Relevant certifications in digital forensics are preferred. Candidate must be prepared to obtain training and certifications that would qualify them as an expert witness in Illinois courts within one year. Attendance and the ability to maintain satisfactory working relationships with other employees and the public is an essential function of this position.

Supplemental Information This position requires in office attendance.

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