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Entry Level Forensic Lab Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Forensic Lab information

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$13

$24

$50

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

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level forensic lab in the United States is $24.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $25.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get a job in a forensics lab?

To get a job as an entry-level forensic lab technician, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in forensic science, biology, chemistry, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in laboratory techniques, and becoming familiar with forensic tools and software can improve job prospects. Certifications such as the ASCLD-LAB or relevant training can also enhance employability.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Forensic Lab Technician, you need a solid background in chemistry, biology, or forensic science, usually backed by a relevant bachelor’s degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, evidence-handling protocols, and specialized software like LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems) is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to communicate findings clearly are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial to ensure accurate, reliable analysis and proper handling of evidence in support of criminal investigations.

What are entry level forensic lab jobs?

Entry level forensic lab jobs are positions within forensic laboratories typically suited for recent graduates or those new to the field. These roles involve assisting with the analysis of physical evidence from crime scenes, conducting laboratory tests, and supporting senior forensic scientists in their investigations. Common responsibilities include preparing samples, maintaining lab equipment, and documenting results. Entry level positions may be titled as forensic lab technician, evidence technician, or forensic science assistant, and they often provide valuable on-the-job training for career advancement.

What is the difference between Entry Level Forensic Lab vs Forensic Technician?

AspectEntry Level Forensic LabForensic Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's; some roles may prefer certificationHigh school diploma; on-the-job training often provided
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, analyzing evidenceLaboratory or crime scene environment, collecting and processing evidence
Employer & Industry UsageCrime labs, law enforcement agenciesCrime labs, law enforcement, forensic service providers

Both roles involve working in forensic laboratories, but Entry Level Forensic Lab positions typically focus on analyzing evidence with minimal experience, while Forensic Technicians may also assist in evidence collection and processing at crime scenes. The main difference lies in the scope of responsibilities and experience requirements.

What are some typical daily tasks for an entry level forensic lab technician, and how do they contribute to the investigative process?

As an entry level forensic lab technician, your day-to-day responsibilities will often include handling and cataloging evidence, preparing samples for analysis, and conducting routine laboratory tests under supervision. You may also assist senior analysts with more complex procedures and help maintain accurate records to ensure the chain of custody is preserved. These tasks are critical to supporting criminal investigations by ensuring that evidence is processed accurately and efficiently, which helps law enforcement and legal teams reach reliable conclusions.
More about Entry Level Forensic Lab jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Forensic Lab jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Forensic Lab job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Lab jobs? The most popular types of Forensic Lab jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Forensic Lab jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Forensic Lab jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Forensic Lab job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,049 per year, or $24.1 per hour.
Entry Level Construction Materials Testing Laboratory Technician

Entry Level Construction Materials Testing Laboratory Technician

Kleinfelder Inc

San Diego, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 29 days ago


Kleinfelder rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

271st of 352 rated engineering


Job description

Take Your Construction Career to the Next Level! 

Kleinfelder, a Forbes' Top Employer for Engineers in North America, is committed to a people-first culture, technical excellence, and creating opportunities where employees can thrive!

Are you ready to be challenged, make a difference, and experience professional growth in your career? Kleinfelder's Construction Services team is looking for you! From construction management and observation/inspection services to laboratory testing and materials and forensic engineering, our Construction Services market helps to develop and maintain America's infrastructure and supply chain and is a recognized industry leader with more than 25 accredited laboratories. 

Step into Your New Role

Kleinfelder is seeking an Entry-Level Laboratory Construction Materials Testing Technician to join our San Diego, California office.

This position supports the laboratory testing of construction materials for conformance with applicable project plans, specifications, and engineering requirements. The selected candidate will perform laboratory testing on soils, asphalt, aggregates, and concrete materials, and assist with general laboratory operations as assigned.

This is an excellent opportunity for an individual interested in developing a career in construction materials testing, geotechnical engineering support, and laboratory operations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Perform routine to moderately complex laboratory testing on construction materials, including:
    • Soils
    • Asphalt
    • Aggregates
    • Concrete
  • Prepare, label, and organize test specimens and samples
  • Accurately document and record test data and results
  • Maintain laboratory equipment, tools, and testing areas in clean and operational condition
  • Assist with receiving, handling, and tracking incoming samples
  • Follow applicable laboratory procedures, standards, and safety requirements
  • Support additional laboratory and project-related tasks assigned by the supervisor or laboratory management

Minimum Qualifications

Candidates must possess the following qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
  • Ability to pass a drug screening
  • Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
  • Willingness to learn and develop technical skills
  • Ability to work construction-related schedules, including occasional night shifts and weekends as needed
  • Ability to travel locally to support project assignments when required

Preferred Qualifications

The following certifications are preferred but not required at the time of hire. Candidates must be willing and able to obtain them as part of their professional development:

  • ACI Concrete Laboratory Testing Technician
  • Caltrans Certifications

Technical Skills

Candidates should possess basic computer proficiency and general working knowledge of:

  • Microsoft Word
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Outlook

Work Environment

This position is primarily based in the San Diego Office Laboratory. Work may occasionally require local travel to support project needs. The role may involve standing for extended periods, lifting and handling testing materials, and working in a laboratory and construction-related environment.

Professional Development

Kleinfelder is committed to supporting employee growth and career advancement. The selected candidate will have opportunities to expand technical knowledge and obtain industry certifications through:

  • Company-supported training
  • On-the-job mentoring
  • Professional development opportunities

This position offers a strong foundation for a long-term career within a highly successful and growing team.

Move Forward with Kleinfelder

Kleinfelder has been connecting great people to the best work since 1961. We are engineers, scientists, and construction professionals providing solutions that improve our clients' transportation, water, energy, and other private infrastructure. As a responsive, cross-disciplinary team of bright, curious, and innovative problem-solvers, we are dedicated to doing the right thing, every day, on every project from over 85 offices in the US, Canada, and Australia. Connecting great people to the best work is our purpose - together, we deliver.

Progress with an Employer that Values You

Kleinfelder is an inclusive organization free from discrimination. We are a stronger organization when we are a diverse workforce and believe that through diversity, equity, and inclusion comes creativity, innovation, and unity. We are proud to offer the following:

 

Benefits: Kleinfelder offers an excellent compensation and benefits package, including: medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, and paid holidays. The expected hourly pay range for the position is displayed in accordance with the California Pay Scale Disclosure Law. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience. Hourly range: $17.58 - $29.35 per hour.

Career Development: We are committed to investing in the professional development of our staff, offering each employee every opportunity to grow, develop, and take control of their career paths. We support these efforts through reimbursements for continuing education as well as many of the expenses associated with trainings and certifications, and opportunities for career development through our internal Mentoring Program.

Equal Opportunity: Kleinfelder is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Minorities/Women/Disabled/Veterans. (Compliant with the new VEVRAA and Section 503 rules).

NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES 

Please note that Kleinfelder does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the absence of a signed Recruitment Fee Agreement, Kleinfelder will not consider or agree to payment for any referral compensation or recruiter fee. In the event a recruiter or agency submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed agreement, Kleinfelder explicitly reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. Any unsolicited resume, including those submitted to hiring managers, are deemed to be the property of Kleinfelder.