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Entry Level Forensic Science Jobs in Naperville, IL

Entry Level Forensic Science information

See Naperville, IL salary details

$20.9K

$51K

$101K

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

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level forensic science in Naperville, IL is $50,955.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,426.00 and $54,883.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Are Entry-Level Forensic Science Jobs?

Entry-level forensic science jobs combine the work of many fields, including chemical and biological analysis, crime scene investigation, laboratory technician work, and medical examination. If you are a CSI forensic scientist, for example, your responsibilities are to help with criminal investigations by collecting evidence at the scene of a crime and analyzing it. Your duties include searching for fingerprints, bagging evidence that might have DNA on it, photographing the scene with special cameras, and taking every sample to a lab to investigate further. Upon analysis, you report your findings to investigators.

What types of cases or evidence might an entry-level forensic scientist typically work with, and how is workload usually managed?

As an entry-level forensic scientist, you may primarily handle routine evidence such as biological samples (like blood or hair), trace materials, or fingerprints from property crimes and less complex cases. Workload is generally managed through a structured case assignment system, with more experienced analysts overseeing your progress. You'll likely work as part of a team, collaborating closely with law enforcement officers, senior scientists, and laboratory technicians. This collaborative environment helps ensure evidence is processed accurately and in a timely manner, while also providing valuable opportunities for on-the-job learning and mentorship.

What are 5 potential jobs for forensic science?

Entry-level forensic science professionals can work as crime scene investigators, forensic laboratory technicians, forensic evidence analysts, forensic science assistants, or forensic data specialists. These roles involve collecting, analyzing, and documenting evidence, often requiring knowledge of laboratory tools and procedures. They typically require attention to detail, analytical skills, and relevant certifications or training.

Can I be a CSI without being a cop?

Entry level forensic science positions, such as crime scene investigators (CSIs), do not always require law enforcement certification or police experience. Many CSIs have backgrounds in biology, chemistry, or forensic science and may work for crime labs or private agencies, focusing on evidence collection and analysis rather than law enforcement duties. Certification and training in crime scene processing and evidence handling are often necessary for these roles.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Forensic Scientist, you need a strong background in chemistry, biology, or a related science, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in forensic science or a similar field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, evidence analysis techniques, and software such as chromatography and DNA analysis tools is essential. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and strong written communication skills help you excel in documenting findings and collaborating with law enforcement. These competencies ensure accurate, reliable evidence analysis that is crucial for supporting criminal investigations and judicial processes.

What is the difference between Entry Level Forensic Science vs Entry Level Crime Scene Technician?

AspectEntry Level Forensic ScienceEntry Level Crime Scene Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in forensic science, biology, or chemistryBachelor's in criminal justice, forensic science, or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, crime labs, forensic labsCrime scenes, outdoor and indoor locations
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement agencies, forensic labsPolice departments, crime scene units
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Forensic Science professionals typically work in laboratories analyzing evidence, requiring degrees in forensic science or related fields. Entry Level Crime Scene Technicians often work at crime scenes, collecting evidence and documenting the scene, with similar educational backgrounds. Both roles support law enforcement but differ mainly in work environment and specific duties.

What jobs in forensics don't require a degree?

Entry-level forensic science jobs such as evidence technician, crime scene cleaner, or laboratory assistant often do not require a degree, though they may prefer candidates with relevant certifications or training in areas like laboratory procedures or safety protocols. These roles typically focus on supporting forensic investigations through tasks like evidence collection, processing, and documentation.

How to get an entry level forensic science job?

To secure an entry-level forensic science position, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in forensic science, biology, chemistry, or a related field. Gaining laboratory experience through internships or volunteering, developing skills in evidence analysis and laboratory techniques, and obtaining relevant certifications can improve job prospects. Familiarity with forensic tools and strong attention to detail are also important for entry-level roles.

What are entry level forensic science jobs?

Entry level forensic science jobs are positions designed for individuals new to the forensic field, often recent graduates with a bachelor's degree in forensic science, biology, chemistry, or a related field. These roles typically include laboratory technicians, evidence technicians, or assistant forensic analysts, and involve tasks such as collecting, preserving, and analyzing physical evidence from crime scenes. Entry level positions provide hands-on training and experience, serving as a foundation for advancing to more specialized or senior forensic roles.
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Forensic Science jobs in Naperville, IL? For Entry Level Forensic Science jobs in Naperville, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Naperville, IL are hiring for Entry Level Forensic Science jobs? Cities near Naperville, IL with the most Entry Level Forensic Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Forensic Science job openings in Naperville, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,955 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Incident Response Senior Consultant

Crowe LLP

Chicago, IL

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Your Journey at Crowe Starts Here:

At Crowe, you can build a meaningful and rewarding career. With real flexibility to balance work with life moments, you're trusted to deliver results and make an impact. We embrace you for who you are, care for your well-being, and nurture your career. Everyone has equitable access to opportunities for career growth and leadership. Over our 80-year history, delivering excellent service through innovation has been a core part of our DNA across our audit, tax, and consulting groups. That's why we continuously invest in innovative ideas, such as AI-enabled insights and technology-powered solutions, to enhance our services. Join us at Crowe and embark on a career where you can help shape the future of our industry.

Job Description:

The Incident Response Senior Staff position at Crowe is a client-facing role designed for professionals in the field of cybersecurity, particularly within incident response (IR). This position requires a higher level of ownership and responsibility compared to entry-level roles, demanding creativity, critical thinking, and the ability to manage complex IR engagements. The successful candidate will engage directly with clients, leading calls and handling deliverables such as analysis and report drafting. This role is ideal for individuals who are passionate about cybersecurity and are eager to apply their expertise in a dynamic, market-facing environment, contributing to the protection and recovery of client systems under attack.

Responsibilities
  • Interact directly with clients during Incident Response (IR) engagements, providing expert guidance and support.

  • Coordinate with IR team members and external resources to execute and complete IR engagements effectively.

  • Investigate security incidents, including Business Email Compromise, Ransomware attacks, and Data breaches.

  • Assist with on-site incident response engagements, either as the sole on-site resource or in collaboration with other personnel.

  • Collect and analyze forensic evidence from impacted systems to support investigations.

  • Conduct threat hunting activities using EDR, SIEM, and application logs to identify and remediate threat actor entry and persistence methods.

  • Assist with the secure recovery of client environments, ensuring minimal disruption to business operations.

  • Prepare detailed reports covering the findings of investigations, providing actionable insights and recommendations.

  • Apply incident response knowledge to enhance ongoing cybersecurity practices and strategies.

Requirements
  • Commitment to and proven track record of continually expanding skillsets and knowledge.

  • Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, with a strong attention to detail.

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with clients and team members.

  • Proven adaptability and a drive to learn and master new technologies.

  • Ability to maintain focus and composure in high-stress situations.

  • Willingness to travel 15% of the time or more, as required.

  • 4+ years of experience in Computer Science, Information Technology, or Cybersecurity, or a combination of a minimum of 2 years of experience with equivalent educational experience (such as a bachelor's or higher degree in a related field, or relevant certifications).

  • Experience utilizing SIEM or other log aggregation tools such as Splunk, Elastic, FortiSIEM, or Microsoft Sentinel.

  • Experience with EDR tools like SentinelOne, CrowdStrike, Carbon Black, or Microsoft Defender for Endpoint.

  • Strong understanding of networking, IT, and cybersecurity concepts.

  • Proficiency in scripting and command interpreter usage (e.g., Bash, PowerShell, Python).

  • Strong documentation skills.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous incident response experience.

  • Relevant certifications such as Red Hat Certified Systems Administrator (RHCSA), Linux Foundations Certified Systems Administrator (LFCS), GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH), GIAC Certified Detection Analyst (GCDA), GIAC Public Cloud Security (GPCS), GIAC Cloud Forensics Responder (GCFR), CompTIA Cyber Security Analyst+ (CySA+), CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+), ISC2 Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), ISC2 Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP), EC-Council Certified Incident Handler (ECIH), EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Cisco Certified Network Professional - Security (CCNP Security), Microsoft Certified Azure Security Engineer Associate (AZ-500), AWS Certified Security - Specialty, or Google Professional Cloud Security Engineer.

  • Experience writing detailed incident reports.

  • Experience with hypervisors (ESXI, Microsoft Hyper-V, etc.).

  • Active Directory administration and buildout experience.

  • Experience with backup software (VEEAM, Rubrik, Datto, Druva, Commvault, etc.).

  • Experience investigating cloud-based security incidents (AWS, O365, Google Workspace).

  • Experience managing and reviewing network hardware configurations (Firewalls, Switches, Routers).

  • Experience with identity and access management solutions (Okta, Duo, etc.).

  • Experience with digital forensics collection.

We expect the candidate to uphold Crowe's values of Care, Trust, Courage, and Stewardship. These values define who we are. We expect all of our people to act ethically and with integrity at all times.

The application deadline for this role is 10/31/2026.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. Crowe is not sponsoring for work authorization at this time.

The wage range for this role takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and organizational needs. The disclosed range estimate has not been adjusted for the applicable geographic differential associated with the location at which the position may be filled. At Crowe, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for their role and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the current range is $86,100.00 - $170,500.00 per year.

Our Benefits:
Your exceptional people experience starts here. At Crowe, we know that great peopleare what makes a great firm. We care about our people and offer employees a comprehensive total rewards package. Learn more about what working at Crowe can mean for you!
How You Can Grow:
We will nurture your talent in an inclusive culture that values diversity. You will have the chance to meet on a consistent basis with your Career Coach that will guide you in your career goals and aspirations. Learn more about where talent can prosper!
More about Crowe:
Crowe (www.crowe.com) is one of the largest public accounting, consulting and technology firms in the United States. Crowe uses its deep industry expertise to provide audit services to public and private entities while also helping clients reach their goals with tax, advisory, risk and performance services. Crowe is recognized by many organizations as one of the country's best places to work. Crowe serves clients worldwide as an independent member of Crowe Global, one of the largest global accounting networks in the world. The network consists of more than 200 independent accounting and advisory services firms in more than 130 countries around the world.
Crowe LLP provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, national origin, disability or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Crowe LLP does not accept unsolicited candidates, referrals or resumes from any staffing agency, recruiting service, sourcing entity or any other third-party paid service at any time. Any referrals, resumes or candidates submitted to Crowe, or any employee or owner of Crowe without a pre-existing agreement signed by both parties covering the submission will be considered the property of Crowe, and free of charge.

Crowe will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws.

Please visit our webpage to see notices of the various state and local Ban-the-Box laws and Fair Chance Ordinances, where applicable.

We are committed to a merit-based hiring process, evaluating all candidates consistently using objective, job-related criteria such as relevant experience, demonstrated skills, measurable impact, and alignment with the role's responsibilities, and making employment decisions in a fair and inclusive manner free from discrimination.

If you are interested in applying for employment with Crowe and are in need of an accommodation or require special assistance to navigate our website or to complete your application, please visit our Applicant Assistance and Accommodations page for more information: https://careers.crowe.com/crowe-applicant-assistance-and-accommodation


Crowe logo

About Crowe

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Crowe (www.crowe.com) is one of the largest public accounting, consulting and technology firms in the United States. Crowe uses its deep industry expertise to provide audit services to public and private entities while also helping clients reach their goals with tax, advisory, risk and performance services. Crowe is recognized by many organizations as one of the country's best places to work. Crowe serves clients worldwide as an independent member of Crowe Global, one of the largest global accounting networks in the world. The network consists of more than 200 independent accounting and advisory services firms in more than 130 countries around the world.

Industry

Accounting services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

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