2

Entry Level Forensic Science Technician Jobs in Michigan

... forensics, advanced material sciences and in the support of clinical studies, as well as having an emerging global presence in Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations. It also has a ...

This is an entry level position for a Microbiology Lab Technician, which operates under the Quality ... Education: 2 years of college in a science related field and/or demonstrated experience in ...

BIM/Revit Technician

Franklin, MI · Hybrid

$64K - $70K/yr

... science and technology, forensics, construction engineering, and federal buildings. We address ... Our Detroit, MI office is currently seeking a creative BIM/Revit Technician with a passion for ...

BIM/Revit Technician

Franklin, MI · Hybrid

$64K - $70K/yr

... science and technology, forensics, construction engineering, and federal buildings. We address ... Our Detroit, MI office is currently seeking a creative BIM/Revit Technician with a passion for ...

Be Seen First

Utilize Scientific Injection Molding technology to problem solve current production problems ... We work with candidates at all levels, from entry level to management. We will assist you in ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Forensic Science Technician information

See Michigan salary details

$30.9K

$45.7K

$68.4K

How much do entry level forensic science technician jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level forensic science technician in Michigan is $45,669.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,900.00 and $48,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level forensic science technician do?

An entry level forensic science technician assists in the collection, preservation, and analysis of physical evidence from crime scenes. They often work under the supervision of more experienced technicians or forensic scientists, helping to process evidence such as fingerprints, biological materials, and trace substances. Their duties may include documenting findings, preparing reports, and sometimes testifying in court about their procedures and results. This role is crucial in supporting criminal investigations and ensuring that evidence is handled according to legal standards.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level forensic science technicians in their first year on the job?

Entry level forensic science technicians often encounter the challenge of adapting to strict protocols and maintaining meticulous attention to detail, as even small errors can impact criminal investigations. Another common hurdle is managing the emotional impact of working with crime scene evidence, which can involve exposure to distressing materials. Additionally, new technicians must quickly learn to collaborate effectively with law enforcement and senior forensic staff, balancing independent tasks with teamwork. Overcoming these challenges typically involves ongoing training, mentorship, and developing strong communication skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level forensic science technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Forensic Science Technician, you need a solid background in biology, chemistry, or forensic science, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, evidence collection protocols, and data analysis software like LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems) is essential. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and clear communication are vital soft skills for ensuring accuracy and working effectively within investigative teams. These skills are crucial for maintaining evidence integrity, supporting criminal investigations, and ensuring reliable forensic results.

What is the difference between Entry Level Forensic Science Technician vs Forensic Laboratory Assistant?

AspectEntry Level Forensic Science TechnicianForensic Laboratory Assistant
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, or biologyOften requires a high school diploma or associate degree, with some positions preferring relevant coursework
Work EnvironmentWorks in crime labs, collecting and analyzing evidence, often under supervisionSupports lab operations, prepares samples, and maintains equipment
Employer & Industry UsageEmployed by law enforcement agencies, crime labs, and forensic firmsEmployed in similar settings, often as support staff in forensic labs

While both roles support forensic investigations, Entry Level Forensic Science Technicians typically perform analysis and evidence processing, requiring a degree, whereas Forensic Laboratory Assistants mainly handle sample preparation and lab support tasks, often with less formal education.

How do I start a career in entry level forensic science technician?

To start a career as an entry-level forensic science technician, obtain a bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Gaining laboratory experience through internships or volunteering and developing skills in evidence collection, analysis, and report writing are also important steps. Certification from professional organizations can enhance job prospects in this field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Science Technician jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Forensic Science Technician jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Forensic Science Technician jobs in Michigan?

For Entry Level Forensic Science Technician jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Forensic Science Technician jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Forensic Science Technician jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Entry Level Forensic Science Technician jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Entry Level Forensic Science Technician job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Forensic Science Technician job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,669 per year, or $22 per hour.

Forensic Autopsy Technician I

Western Michigan University

Kalamazoo, MI • On-site

$17.47 - $20.37/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Western Michigan University rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

489th of 623 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Description
The Forensic Autopsy Technician prepares bodies for postmortem examinations, assists pathologist
during and after the examination, and prepares body for release to funeral home; provide medical
photography services. Provides support with transfer of cadavers to anatomy laboratory and into storage,
maintenance of cadavers and the anatomy lab, and assisting with prosections of cadavers, as needed.
Performs routine and non-routine activities involved in the storage, filing, and preparation of slides for
microscopic evaluation and adheres to established quality control criteria and established procedures.
BENEFITS
  • Wellness reimbursement.
  • Continuing education and tuition reimbursement.
  • Employer-funded retirement plan.
  • Two medical plan options: PPO and High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) with employer HSA contribution.
  • Flexible work solutions based on position and department.
  • Up to four weeks of PTO accrual beginning in year one.
  • Paid holidays.
  • Paid volunteer time.
  • Paid preferred holiday.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Coordinates workload to complete assignments within requested time frame. Prepares paperwork and tools to accomplish the daily workload.
  • Responsible for the receipt, identification and transfer of all decedents into and out of WMed, maintaining chain of custody protocols in accordance with WMed protocols and in compliance with standards set forth by the National Association of Medical Examiners (NAME).
  • Performs postmortem radiography according to safety standards, including Lodox ®, Carestream, computed tomography (CT) and assists with postmortem dental radiography, as needed.
  • Responsible for the collection and preservation of clothing, physical and biological evidence for forensic analysis. Documents and maintains evidentiary materials in accordance with established policies and procedures, including chain of custody protocols compliant with standards set forth by NAME.
  • Responsible for the collection, appropriate labeling, documentation and packaging of specimens for toxicological analysis maintaining chain of custody protocols and in accordance with NAME standards.
  • Documents external examination, including: verification of decedent identification, photographs and documents all personal belongings and items pertinent to examination, including medical treatment, decedent identifiers and evidentiary materials, if applicable.
  • Under direct supervision of the assigned pathologist, performs in situ dissection of the autopsy procedure, including the identification, observation and evisceration of organs and tissues from the chest, abdomen and head.
  • Responsible for the documentation of examination information, observations, weights, and measurements following established procedures. Photographs medical/forensic materials with accurate labeling, uploads digital photographs to case management system.
  • Following examination, prepares decedent for funeral home and notifies funeral home and/or transport service, if applicable. Documents all communication.
  • With supervision, oversees the release of decedents to funeral homes and/or appropriate transport services.
  • Maintains morgue organization and cleanliness; ensures surfaces are free of blood and body fluids.
  • Disposes of hazardous waste and specimen storage appropriately.
  • Responsible for maintaining daily log of cooler inventory of decedents and specimens, temperature monitoring and laboratory supplies.
  • Practices universal precautions and follows infection control policies and procedures accordingly.
  • Assists in the Anatomy Laboratory, including support with transfer of cadavers, maintenance of cadavers, and cleanliness.
  • Assists in the Anthropology Laboratory, as needed, transferring decedents/specimens and decedents for examination.
  • Attends and engages in all unit and departmental meetings.
  • Maintains a clean and well-organized work area
  • At times, may be responsible for cleaning up bodily fluids from decedents/cadavers outside of department.
  • Availability to work weekends and holidays.
  • Availability to work occasional overtime or evenings to complete time sensitive projects.
  • Availability to provide on-call, overnight customer service with occasional response to morgue for time sensitive release procedures.
  • Availability to work occasional overtime on weekends or evenings to complete time sensitive projects.
  • Acquires knowledge for new technology and policy/procedure revisions
  • All other duties as assigned.

Requirements
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:
  • Associate degree; or two years of college in a scientific or applicable field, preferred.
  • Knowledge of anatomy and medical terminology, preferred.
  • Previous volunteer or work experience in a medical or patient care setting, required.
  • Experience labeling, managing, organizing, and shipping samples, preferred.
  • Experience operating cassette and slide printing equipment, preferred.
  • Experience operating laboratory equipment, including centrifuge and specimen labeling printers, preferred.

LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS:
  • Current valid Driver's License required.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Comfortable communicating with grieving individuals.
  • The ability to follow detailed oral and written directions and protocols.
  • Ability to attend to human remains in various stages of decomposition, disease and trauma.
  • Able to cope with the psychological effects of death.
  • Maintain the confidentiality and integrity of information.
  • Ability to adhere to stringent sanitation and biohazard control measures.
  • Demonstrates the ability to recognize priorities in organization of work flow.
  • Able to perform duties independently, with a minimal need for direct supervision.

What Western Michigan University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom