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Entry Level Forensic Chemist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Duties Description Forensic Scientist 1 - Seized Drugs Entry level for scientists with no previous ... A degree in forensic science must include a concentration in biology or chemistry and include ...

Entry Level Chemist

Lancaster, PA ยท On-site

$21.50 - $28.75/hr

... forensics, advanced material sciences and in the support of clinical studies, as well as having an ... Bachelor's degree in chemistry or other related degree concentration, or equivalent directly ...

Entry Level Chemist- 2nd Shift

Lancaster, PA ยท On-site

$21.50 - $28.75/hr

... forensics, advanced material sciences and in the support of clinical studies, as well as having an ... Bachelor's degree in chemistry or other related degree concentration, or equivalent directly ...

CHEMIST 2

Queens, NY

$23.25 - $31/hr

BEDC seeks to hire an Associate Chemist 2 for the Engineering Services, Laboratory Services Section ... science, forensic science, or other natural science. Certificate Requirement At the time of ...

CHEMIST 2

Queens, NY ยท On-site

$23.25 - $31/hr

BEDC seeks to hire an Associate Chemist 2 for the Engineering Services, Laboratory Services Section ... science, forensic science, or other natural science. Certificate Requirement At the time of ...

CHEMIST I

Little Rock, AR ยท On-site

$58K - $86K/yr

SPC01 Salary Range: $58,700 - $86,876 Job Summary The Chemist I is an entry-level professional ... food, pharmaceuticals, forensic evidence, or other sample types depending on agency function.

Chemist I

Frankfort, KY ยท On-site

$3K - $4K/mo

This Chemist I position is an entry level position that will focus primarily on the preparation and ... forensic science or a related science field. EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, OR SKILLS: NONE Substitute ...

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Entry Level Forensic Chemist information

See salary details

$29K

$68.2K

$95K

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

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level forensic chemist in the United States is $68,182.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $78,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is there a high demand for forensic chemists?

Forensic chemists are in steady demand due to the need for crime scene analysis and evidence testing in criminal investigations. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as forensic science becomes increasingly integral to law enforcement and criminal justice systems, often requiring knowledge of laboratory techniques and certification.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an Entry Level Forensic Chemist?

As an Entry Level Forensic Chemist, your daily tasks often include preparing and analyzing physical evidence from crime scenes, operating analytical instruments, and meticulously recording your findings. You may be responsible for maintaining laboratory safety practices, calibrating equipment, and preparing detailed reports or summaries of your analyses. Collaboration with other forensic professionals, such as crime scene investigators and law enforcement, is common to ensure evidence is processed properly. This role offers significant variety, with opportunities to build technical expertise and gain experience handling diverse casework.

How to get into forensics as a chemist?

To become an entry-level forensic chemist, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field. Gaining laboratory experience through internships or research, developing skills in analytical techniques like chromatography and spectroscopy, and obtaining certifications such as the ASCLD-LAB or forensic science credentials can improve job prospects.

How to get an entry level forensic science job?

To secure an entry-level forensic science job, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, or forensic science. Gaining laboratory experience through internships or volunteering, developing skills in evidence analysis and documentation, and obtaining relevant certifications can improve job prospects. Familiarity with laboratory tools and adherence to safety protocols are also important for entry-level positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Entry Level Forensic Chemist position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Forensic Chemist, you need a solid background in chemistry or a related scientific field, typically supported by a bachelor's degree and laboratory coursework. Familiarity with analytical instruments such as GC-MS, HPLC, and spectrophotometers, as well as knowledge of evidence handling protocols, is often required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and clear written and verbal communication help you excel in documenting findings and collaborating with team members. These abilities are essential for ensuring the accuracy, reliability, and legal defensibility of forensic laboratory results.

Can I be a CSI without being a cop?

A forensic chemist role, often involved in crime scene investigation, does not require being a police officer. Instead, it focuses on analyzing physical evidence in laboratories, and relevant skills include knowledge of laboratory techniques and certifications in forensic science. While some crime scene investigators are law enforcement officers, forensic chemists typically work in labs and do not need to be police officers.

What is an Entry Level Forensic Chemist job?

An Entry Level Forensic Chemist analyzes physical evidence related to criminal investigations, such as drugs, toxins, or trace materials. They conduct laboratory tests using chemical and instrumental techniques to identify substances and generate reports for law enforcement. This role often requires attention to detail, critical thinking, and knowledge of lab procedures. Entry-level positions typically require a bachelor's degree in chemistry, forensic science, or a related field. Some positions may also involve testifying in court as an expert witness.

More about Entry Level Forensic Chemist jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Forensic Chemist jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Forensic Chemist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Chemist jobs? The most popular types of Forensic Chemist jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Forensic Chemist jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Forensic Chemist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Forensic Chemist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, and 99% Full Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,182 per year, or $32.8 per hour.

Forensic Scientist - Seized Drugs

StateJobsNY

New Windsor, NY โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Duties Description Forensic Scientist 1 - Seized Drugs
Entry level for scientists with no previous forensic lab experience. Must successfully complete training in Seized Drugs under the guidance of the Supervisor of Forensic Services and/or Technical Coordinator. Appropriate training with competency and/or proficiency tests will be completed before assuming any casework.
Analyzes submitted evidence using instrumentation and required techniques, adhering to security protocols and policies; interprets result sand findings for use in court; prepares data for interpretation by higher level State Police Forensic Scientists; uses automated systems to record results; and maintains and enhances expertise and technical proficiency in the field of forensics. Will inform the appropriate supervisor of any unusual or unexpected developments that may occur during his/her analysis.
Be familiar with, and aware of work completed and analyses performed in other laboratory sections.
Forensic Scientist 2 - Seized Drugs
Will be proficient in all the duties of a Forensic Scientist 1 - Seized Drugs.
Continues training in Seized Drugs; performs analysis on case work that is of limited technical complexity utilizing established procedures; plans and executes analyses using the necessary instrumentation and techniques according to proper quality control procedures so results and findings can be interpreted and reported for court purposes.
When standard procedures are not applicable, the Forensic Scientist 2 will discuss alternate or modified methodologies with the Supervisor of Forensic Services, Technical Coordinator or designated Forensic Scientist 3 prior to conducting analysis.
Will be expected to maintain and enhance his/her expertise and maintain technical proficiency in the field of forensic Drug Chemistry.
Forensic Scientist 3 - Seized Drugs
Will be proficient in all the duties of a Forensic Scientist 2 - Seized Drugs.
Will perform analyses of complex cases, work with little supervision, and exercise considerable independent judgment in evaluating possible alternative methods of analysis and modify existing methodology to fit particular investigations, subject to approval of the Supervisor of Forensic Services and/or Technical Coordinator.
Will interpret data and results derived from analyses and report findings and conclusions. Reviews casework of other examiners for peer review and provides training for State Police Forensic Scientists 1.
Will be proficient in the use of scientific techniques and instrumentation and be expected to perform troubleshooting and maintenance tasks within the section.
May be required to assume the duties of the Supervisor of Forensic Services and/or Technical Coordinator in his/her absence.
Minimum Qualifications Forensic Scientist 1 - Seized Drugs
A Bachelor's Degree in the natural sciences, physical sciences, or forensic science. A degree in forensic science must include a concentration in biology or chemistry and include laboratory work with an emphasis on upper-level coursework in chemistry, biology or other natural/physical sciences. All transcripts will be reviewed to determine eligibility.
Forensic Scientist 2 - Seized Drugs
A Bachelor's Degree in the natural sciences, physical sciences, or forensic science. A degree in forensic science must include a concentration in biology or chemistry and include laboratory work with an emphasis on upper-level coursework in chemistry, biology or other natural/physical sciences. All transcripts will be reviewed to determine eligibility.
AND
Have a minimum of eighteen months satisfactory experience performing the duties of a Forensic Scientist 1 - Seized Drugs or its equivalent in another laboratory.
AND
If applicable, have gained experience in testimony as an expert witness and have established his/her credentials as an expert in various courts of record.
Forensic Scientist 3 - Seized Drugs
A Bachelor's Degree in the natural sciences, physical sciences, or forensic science. A degree in forensic science must include a concentration in biology or chemistry and include laboratory work with an emphasis on upper-level coursework in chemistry, biology or other natural/physical sciences. All transcripts will be reviewed to determine eligibility.
AND
Have a minimum of four years satisfactory experience performing the duties of a Forensic Scientist - Seized Drugs or its equivalent in another laboratory.
AND
If applicable, experience in testimony as an expert witness and have established his/her credentials as an expert in various courts of record.
Minimum qualifications must be met by the time of appointment.
Additional Comments Starting Salaries:
Forensic Scientist 1 - Seized Drugs, SG-14 - $53,764.00.
Forensic Scientist 2 - Seized Drugs, SG-18 - $66,951.00.
Forensic Scientist 3 - Seized Drugs, SG-20 - $74,193.00.
Resumes will be evaluated to determine whether candidates will proceed to the interview phase of the process.
The New York State Police will not offer permanent employment to any candidate unless the candidate provides documentation that they are authorized to accept work in the United States on a permanent basis. It is the policy of the New York State Police not to hire F1 or H1 visa holders for permanent employment or to sponsor non-immigrant aliens for temporary work authorization visas or for permanent residence.
The New York State Police values a diverse and inclusive workforce where the unique skills of all employees are valued in support of the mission of the Division. Qualified candidates are considered for employment without the regard to age, race, color, religion, gender identity and expression, disability, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, military or veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law. The New York State Police is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer that accept all applications from a wide range of candidates.
The New York State Police complies with federal and state laws and makes reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and/or sincerely held religious belief. If a reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact the Division Personnel Office at (518) 457-3840 or personnel@troopers.ny.gov.
Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.
Name Mr. Christopher Siciliano, Director of Human Resources
Telephone 518-457-3840
Fax
Email Address Personnelresumes@troopers.ny.gov
Address
Street Building 22
1220 Washington Avenue
City Albany
State NY
Zip Code 12226
Notes on Applying Kindly submit a cover letter, complete resume and transcripts via Email to personnelresumes@troopers.ny.gov.
Place in the Subject line: Forensic Scientist MHSCL
Applicants must clearly demonstrate satisfaction of the minimum qualifications as described in the job posting by including this information in their resume; credit will not be given for experience or education that is not listed directly on the resume (e.g. in a cover letter or other supporting application materials). All statements are subject to verification, including transcript review.