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Entry Level Forensic Science Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Harris County

Forensic Morgue Technician

Houston, TX · On-site

$16/hr

Position Description Mission The Mission of the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences is to provide medical examiner and crime laboratory services of the highest quality in an unbiased manner ...

Harris County

Forensic Morgue Technician

Houston, TX · On-site

$16/hr

Position Description Mission The Mission of the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences is to provide medical examiner and crime laboratory services of the highest quality in an unbiased manner ...

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Entry Level Forensic Science Technician information

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

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level forensic science technician in the United States is $52,397.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,500.00 and $55,500.00 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.
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Entry Level Forensic Science Technician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Forensic Science Technician job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,397 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Forensic Scientist 1- DNA Technician (QC)-Dover, Delaware

SNA INTERNATIONAL

Templeville, MD

Full-time

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Description
SNA International seeks a bright, collaborative Forensic DNA Technician in the Quality Control Section with a strong work ethic to join our team. SNA International's team works together in pursuit of the same cause: build a safe and just world by empowering organizations in the use of forensics, biometrics and identity intelligence.
The DNA Technician in the Quality Control Section at AFDIL assists in program maintenance and development at the direction of their Validation & Quality Control Manager. The DNA Technician may perform investigative studies on biological materials using DNA typing technologies; carry out DNA typing casework in support of routine casework and special projects; and support the logistical or resource management activities of the DNA Registry and will participate in the organization and presentation of educational activities.
Critical Work Responsibilities:
  • Assist in the expansion of the AFDIL technical program to accelerate service work capabilities, which may include the setup and make operationally ready a wide variety of laboratory instruments and equipment
  • Assist in quality assurance activities such as standards maintenance, equipment preventive maintenance, reagent quality control testing and validation, proficiency testing, and accreditation and certification.
  • Perform laboratory processing using the AFDIL most current forensically validated and accredited procedures on various tissue and fluid.
  • Prepare reagents and maintain documentation of reagent prep and Quality Control testing in accordance with AFDIL SOPs.
  • Perform laboratory house-keeping activities such as preparing common laboratory reagents, maintaining appropriate stock levels of expendable supplies, ordering reagents/supplies when needed, recording temperatures, monitoring laboratory equipment, and general cleaning duties within the laboratory.
  • Maintain accurate and complete chain of custody for evidence.
  • Accession of forensic evidence in the Laboratory Information Management System (LISA); maintain accurate and complete chain of custody for evidence; responsible for data entry into LISA and the Armed Forces Medical Examiners Tracking System (AFMETS); preparation of correspondence/documents ensuring proper format, mathematical correctness, grammar, punctuation, and spelling; and preparation & editing of recurring reports regarding case status and case tracking.
  • Assist in developing, optimizing and/or validating new forensic DNA test methods.
  • Prepare correspondence and/or documents ensuring proper format, mathematical correctness, grammar, punctuation, and spelling..
  • Assist with internal and external audit preparation and participation.
  • Perform service casework involving nucDNA and mtDNA quantification, typing and profiling procedures as required.
  • Self-direct workflow to ensure that all duties are completed weekly.
  • Generate documents and reports and assist other sections as deemed necessary by supervisor.
  • Maintain Privacy Act considerations at all times in the handling of specimens and the information contained within them.
  • Support validation projects focusing on systems with increased sensitivity and discrimination power and advanced development of automated systems.
  • Support research projects focusing on various research projects to include population databasing and working to increase sensitivity, discrimination power, and automated systems for casework applications.
  • Participate in completing required work as stated within Individual Training Plans (ITPs) to be signed off for performing laboratory procedures and data analysis.

Minimum Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in Forensic Science, Biology, or Chemistry is desired or Bachelor's degree in related field
  • Must be able to successfully complete a National Agency Check with Inquiries (NAC-I).
  • Have the ability to work independently on multiple tasks with minimal supervision.
  • Possess personality traits and professionalism necessary to maintain team cohesion and to set a good working example.
  • General knowledge of forensic DNA analytical methods, especially nucDNA and mtDNA profiling.
  • Ability to maintain minimum standards of technical proficiency as demonstrated by acceptable performance by internal and external proficiency testing programs.
  • Professional knowledge and understanding of the principles and theories of, and the skills to operate and maintain a wide variety of sophisticated analytical instrumentation.
  • Knowledge of various requirements necessary for achieving or maintaining accreditation by outside inspection agencies to include the College of American Pathologists (CAP), the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors-Laboratory Accreditation Board (ASCLD-LAB), the DoD Mitochondrial DNA Quality Assurance Oversight Committee, and the International Standards Organization (ISO 17025 criteria).

Physical Demands:
  • Sit or stand at automated computer management systems, computers or laboratory stations for extended periods of time.
  • Operate automated and/or robotic instrumentation
  • Perform laboratory house-keeping activities
  • Work with possible exposure to noxious odors, hazardous chemicals, poisons, radioisotopes, corrosive reagents, infections tissue, and X-ray, laser and ultraviolet rays.
  • The successful candidate must be self-motivated, detail oriented and able to work well in a team laboratory environment.
    Please submit a cover letter along with your CV. CVs without a cover letter will not be considered.
    SNA International is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

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