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Entry Level Forensic Art Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Jonesboro

POLICE OFFICER RECRUIT

Jonesboro, GA · On-site

$53K/yr

... in which culture, art, history, education, placemaking, and innovation are valued. The ideal ... This is a pre-entry level position which works under the general supervision of the Training ...

City of Jonesboro

POLICE OFFICER RECRUIT

Jonesboro, GA · On-site

$53K/yr

... in which culture, art, history, education, placemaking, and innovation are valued. The ideal ... This is a pre-entry level position which works under the general supervision of the Training ...

All JobsForensic Art JobsEntry Level Forensic Art Jobs

Entry Level Forensic Art information

See salary details

$25.5K

$61.2K

$94.5K

How much do entry level forensic art jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level forensic art in the United States is $61,156.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,000.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level forensic artist?

An entry level forensic artist is a professional who uses artistic skills to assist law enforcement agencies in identifying suspects, victims, or reconstructing crime scenes. They typically create composite sketches from witness descriptions, age progressions, and sometimes facial reconstructions from skeletal remains. At the entry level, these artists work under the supervision of more experienced forensic artists and often assist with basic tasks and training. They usually have a background in art, strong observational skills, and may be trained in forensic science or criminal justice. Their work plays a crucial role in criminal investigations and public safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Forensic Artist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Forensic Artist, you need strong artistic ability, attention to detail, and a background in art, criminal justice, or a related field. Familiarity with digital imaging software (such as Adobe Photoshop), facial reconstruction techniques, and possibly certification from organizations like the International Association for Identification is beneficial. Excellent communication, empathy, and the ability to work collaboratively with law enforcement and witnesses are standout soft skills. These competencies are crucial for producing accurate visual representations that aid investigations and support the criminal justice system.

What types of projects are commonly assigned to entry-level forensic artists, and how do they contribute to investigations?

Entry-level forensic artists often assist with composite sketches based on witness descriptions, age progressions for missing persons cases, and facial reconstructions from skeletal remains. While more complex cases may be handled by senior artists, entry-level professionals play an essential role by supporting investigations, preparing preliminary sketches, and digitally enhancing images. Collaboration with law enforcement officers and forensic teams is frequent, offering valuable learning opportunities and on-the-job training. This hands-on experience helps entry-level artists build their portfolios and develop specialized skills relevant to the field.

How to get an entry level forensic science job?

To secure an entry-level forensic art position, candidates typically need a background in art, anthropology, or forensic science, along with strong drawing and observation skills. Gaining relevant experience through internships, building a portfolio, and obtaining certifications such as those from the American Board of Forensic Artists can improve job prospects. Familiarity with crime scene investigation procedures and working in a forensic laboratory environment are also beneficial.

What art-related jobs are about $80,000 a year?

Entry-level forensic artists typically earn between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, but senior forensic artists or those with specialized skills and certifications can reach or exceed $80,000 a year. Other art-related roles such as graphic designers or art directors may also earn around this level with experience and advanced skills, often requiring proficiency in digital tools like Adobe Creative Suite.

What is the difference between Entry Level Forensic Art vs Forensic Artist?

AspectEntry Level Forensic ArtForensic Artist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles prefer art or criminal justice backgroundSimilar; often requires art skills and some background in criminal justice or law enforcement
Work EnvironmentLaw enforcement agencies, forensic labs, or consulting firmsLaw enforcement agencies, courts, or private consulting
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily criminal justice and law enforcementCriminal justice, law enforcement, and legal proceedings
Common Search & ComparisonYes

Entry Level Forensic Art and Forensic Artist roles share similar credentials, work environments, and industry usage. The main difference is that Entry Level Forensic Art positions are often designed for newcomers with basic art skills, while Forensic Artists may require more experience or specialized training. Both roles support law enforcement in creating facial reconstructions and composites to assist investigations.

Can I be a CSI without being a cop?

Entry level forensic artists, often involved in crime scene analysis and facial reconstruction, are not required to be law enforcement officers. They typically need skills in art, anatomy, and sometimes certification in forensic art, but do not need to hold a police officer position. However, some forensic artists work closely with law enforcement agencies and may benefit from law enforcement experience or background knowledge.

How to get into forensic art?

To become an entry-level forensic artist, individuals typically need a background in art, illustration, or forensic science, along with strong drawing skills. Gaining experience through relevant education, such as a degree in art or criminal justice, and developing skills in facial reconstruction and witness interview techniques can help. Internships or training programs in law enforcement or forensic laboratories also provide valuable practical experience.
More about Entry Level Forensic Art jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Forensic Art jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Forensic Art job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Art jobs? The most popular types of Forensic Art jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Forensic Art jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Forensic Art jobs are:
Entry Level Forensic Art jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Forensic Art job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,156 per year, or $29.4 per hour.

POLICE OFFICER RECRUIT

City of Jonesboro

Jonesboro, GA • On-site

$53K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

City Of Jonesboro (Arkansas) rating

5.4

Company rating: 5.4 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

623rd of 649 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Police Officer Recruit

Full Time

Jonesboro City Center, Jonesboro, GA, US


Salary Range: $20.94 /hr. ($43,555.00 annually) Until the completion of the Academy


The City of Jonesboro is seeking a dynamic and grounded individual to serve as a Police Officer Recruit. As the county seat and economic heart of Clayton County, the City of Jonesboro population grows to over 10,000 during the day; however, right at 5,000 residents live within the city limits. Incorporated in 1859 as a Charter City, Jonesboro is a proud and inclusive community in which culture, art, history, education, placemaking, and innovation are valued.

The ideal candidate will be public service-focused, community-oriented, and partnership-based, and will have experience working with a diverse population of engaged residents and businesses. The City of Jonesboro offers a competitive benefits package to include 100% medical insurance coverage paid by the City, GMA Retirement, tuition reimbursement, take-home car, paid time off, and more. The salary range for this position upon completion of the law enforcement training academy is $53,472.84.

In addition to the awesome salary package, the city offers incentives for new hires:

*** $2,500.00 for Non-Certified Officers who successfully complete basic mandate and complete one year of continuous service with no disciplinary action.

JOB DESCRIPTION

POSITION: Police Officer Recruit

REPORTS TO: Sergeant, Lieutenant and/or Chief of Police

OVERVIEW: This is a pre-entry level position which works under the general supervision of the Training Officer and/or Sergeant (Shift Commander). As a Police Officer Recruit, you will receive comprehensive training and guidance. Upon passing the Academy and receiving your P.O.S.T. certification, you will immediately be promoted to a Police Officer with the potential to earn an annual salary of up to $53,472.84 (excluding overtime). You can rest assured that your hard work will be rewarded. Keep in mind that the actual salary earned may vary based on factors such as holidays, paid or unpaid leave, and overtime.

Rate of Pay: $20.94 per hour.

Grade: 13 / Hiring Rate

EDUCATION & DIRECTLY APPLICABLE EXPERIENCE

• High School diploma or GED

• Must be at least 21 years of age.

• Must have a Georgia Peace Officer Standard Training Certification and be recertified annually.

• Must be able to successfully complete written examinations, background investigation, oral examination, graph examinations, and drug screening.

• Must be able to successfully complete a standard physical agility test, medical examination and drug screening, a polygraph examination, and psychological testing.

• Must be certified in the use of firearms.

• Valid Class M Georgia Driver's License.

• Must have good habits and moral character.

• Must be free of any felony convictions or sufficient misdemeanor convictions to evidence a pattern.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

Due to the nature of the work most decisions must be made by the Officer immediately without the benefit of being able to consult with a supervisor, i.e., whether to arrest, give a warning, shoot or not, impound a vehicle, where to patrol, and which calls need to have a report done. Work begins when an Officer goes on patrol, answers calls from citizens and investigates accidents or crimes. The supervisor reviews work by checking paperwork for errors and content, monitoring radio traffic calls, and assisting at the scene of major crimes. The consequences of errors may be loss of time, inconvenience to the public, lawsuit against the city, injury or possible loss of life.

SUPERVISION GIVEN

This position does not supervise any other positions.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

  • Attend, participate, and successfully complete a P.O.S.T Certified Basic Academy, where you receive classroom and practical instruction on the criminal justice system.
  • Learn to apply criminal and civil laws with particular reference to the laws of arrest, use of force, custody, search and seizure, and more.
  • Learn police methods and procedures and act with integrity, ingenuity, inventiveness, and strength of character in your work performance.
  • Learn to react as a first responder, implement crime scene management, forensics, collection, preservation, and presentation of evidence, and more.
  • Learn first aid, CPR, hazardous materials awareness, emergency management, and the Incident Command System.
  • Learn the Community Oriented Policing philosophy, crime prevention, victimology/crisis intervention, cultural diversity/discrimination, and interacting with people with disabilities.
  • Learn to use modern law enforcement equipment, communications devices, computers, and information systems.
  • Assist in enforcing all local, state, and federal laws within the jurisdiction of unincorporated Chatham County and coordinate with other law enforcement agencies.
  • Use good judgment, flexibility, creativity, and sensitivity in response to changing needs and situations.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

SPECIAL SKILLS REQUIRED

▪ Exceptional organizational skills

▪ Ability to multi-task

▪ Flexibility

▪ Ability to interact successfully with a variety of audiences.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

Please note that an investigation will be conducted based on your provided information. You must complete the application form honestly, accurately, and to the best of your knowledge. If it is discovered during the background investigation or after that that you have deliberately omitted, misrepresented, or falsified any information, you will be immediately disqualified from further consideration. You must disclose all convictions, including a plea of guilty or nolo contendere, and a finding or a verdict of guilt in any criminal proceedings, even if the sentence or the judgment of guilt has been withheld or not entered thereon. This requirement applies to first offenders, as per Georgia State Law 25-8-7.1.

If selected for an interview, you will be required to provide the following documents:

  • 7-year Driving History (report at your own expense)
  • All Police and Incident Arrest Reports
  • Birth Certificate with Seal
  • College Transcripts
  • DD-214 Member Long Form
  • Final Court Disposition for ALL Criminal Charges
  • HS Diploma/GED Certificate, Private School Accreditation, if necessary
  • Legal Documentation for all Name Change
  • Valid Driver's License
  • Marriage License
  • Military Discharge Documentation
  • Naturalization Papers
  • Notarized Statement detailing any Arrests.
  • Social Security Card

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Employee works mostly outside in all kinds of weather. Stress is caused by non-standard working days with little time off due to a lack of adequate amount of personnel. Work involves recurring exposure to potentially dangerous situations involving law offenders and the use of firearms which could result in injury or possible loss of life. There is also expectations to know a vast amount of information in order to make split-second decisions when handling these dangerous situations.

The City of Jonesboro is an Equal Opportunity Employer