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Entry Level Forensic Science Jobs in Springfield, VA

Expression

Junior Test Engineer (DEA)

Arlington, VA · On-site

... forensic, and intelligence communities. The Junior Test Engineer will work with developers ... Bachelor's degree in computer science or related fields and 1 year of professional experience.

Expression

Junior Test Engineer (DEA)

Arlington, VA · Hybrid

... forensic, and intelligence communities. The Junior Test Engineer will work with developers ... Bachelor's degree in computer science or related fields and 1 year of professional experience.

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Entry Level Forensic Science information

What is an entry level forensic science job?

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level forensic scientist?

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 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 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.

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

To start a career in entry level forensic science, obtain a bachelor's degree in forensic science, biology, chemistry, or a related field. Gaining laboratory skills, understanding criminal justice procedures, and earning certifications such as the ASCLD-LAB or IAI can improve job prospects; internships or volunteer work in forensic labs also provide valuable experience.

How to become an entry level forensic science with no experience?

To become an entry-level forensic scientist with no experience, obtain a relevant bachelor's degree in forensic science, biology, chemistry, or a related field. Gaining skills in laboratory techniques, evidence handling, and familiarity with forensic tools like microscopes or DNA analysis can help; internships or volunteering can also provide practical experience and improve job prospects.

Is it hard to get a job with entry level forensic science?

Entry level forensic science positions can be competitive due to high demand for specialized skills such as laboratory analysis, evidence handling, and knowledge of forensic tools. Candidates often need relevant education, certifications, or internships to improve their chances of securing a job in this field.
More about Entry Level Forensic Science jobs

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Forensic Science jobs in Springfield, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Forensic Science jobs in Springfield, VA are:

What cities near Springfield, VA are hiring for Entry Level Forensic Science jobs?

Cities near Springfield, VA with the most Entry Level Forensic Science job openings:

Entry Level Forensic Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Forensic Science job openings in Springfield, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, and 27% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Junior Test Engineer (DEA)

Expression Networks

Arlington, VA • On-site

$55 - $80/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Support the design and execution of functional test cases for Pega applications.

  • Assist with validating system functionality against documented requirements and user stories.

  • Help identify, document, and collaborate on software defects, and support testing activities throughout the development lifecycle.

Job description

Expression is seeking a Junior Test Engineer to support the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Investigative Case and Data Ecosystem (ICDE) modernization effort. The program is focused on delivering a modern, secure, user-friendly investigative and case management ecosystem supporting DEA's law enforcement, investigative, forensic, and intelligence communities.

The Junior Test Engineer will work with developers, business analysts, and experienced QA professionals to support functional testing of Pega applications and related system capabilities. This early-career position will help validate functionality against requirements and user stories, document defects, maintain test artifacts, and contribute to quality throughout the Agile software development lifecycle.

Clearance: Top Secret clearance required and willingness to pursue SCI.

Location: Arlington, VA. The program is primarily onsite at DEA Headquarters.

Key Responsibilities
  • Support the design and execution of functional test cases for Pega applications by following established testing guidelines and workflows.
  • Work closely with developers, business analysts, and senior QA team members to understand requirements, user stories, and acceptance criteria.
  • Assist with validating system functionality against documented requirements to confirm expected system behavior.
  • Execute functional and regression tests and accurately document test results.
  • Help identify and document software defects and collaborate with engineering teams to follow issues through resolution and retesting.
  • Participate in test-planning activities by providing input on test scope and helping estimate testing effort under guidance.
  • Maintain and update test documentation, including regression test cases, test results, testing checklists, and supporting QA artifacts.
  • Support User Acceptance Testing and other system validation activities as assigned.
  • Participate in Agile ceremonies, including stand-ups, sprint planning, sprint reviews, and retrospectives.
  • Support testing throughout development iterations and help ensure testing activities align with sprint requirements.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to promote quality standards throughout the software development lifecycle.
  • Review and analyze test results and elevate potential risks, defects, or issues to senior QA team members for evaluation.
  • Assist with testing system workflows, integrations, and user-facing functionality.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science or related fields and 1 year of professional experience.
  • Exposure to or foundational understanding of Pega testing concepts or Pega functional testing tools through coursework, training, internships, or professional experience.
  • Basic understanding of Quality Assurance principles, including test-case creation, defect reporting, functional testing, and regression testing.
  • Ability to read and interpret requirements or user stories and translate them into clear test steps.
  • Familiarity with Agile development methodologies such as Scrum or Kanban through coursework, internships, or previous roles.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to clearly document issues, defects, test results, and testing outcomes.
  • Experience with or knowledge of common test-management or defect-tracking tools such as Jira or Azure DevOps.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Pega certification, such as CSA, CSSA, or another applicable entry-level certification.
  • Exposure to automated testing tools for Pega applications, such as PegaUnit or Selenium for Pega UI.
  • Familiarity with Agile-focused testing methodologies, including Scrum, SAFe, or hybrid environments.
  • Interest in or basic exposure to test-automation or hybrid-testing frameworks.
  • Awareness of CI/CD concepts and how software testing integrates into automated delivery pipelines.
  • Exposure to testing Federal Government or other complex enterprise applications.
Benefits:

Expression offers competitive salaries and benefits, such as:

  • 401k matching
  • PPO and HDHP medical/dental/vision insurance
  • Education reimbursement up to $10,000/yr
  • Complimentary life insurance
  • Generous PTO and 11 days of holiday leave
  • Onsite gym facility
  • Commuter Benefits Plan
  • In-office Cold Brew Coffee
About Expression:

Founded in 1997 and headquartered in Washington DC, Expression provides data fusion, data analytics, AI/ML, software engineering, information technology, and electromagnetic spectrum management solutions to the U.S. Department of Defense, Department of State, and national security community. Expression’s culture focuses on creating immediate and sustainable value for our clients via agile delivery of tailored solutions built through constant engagement with our clients. Expression was ranked #1 on the Washington Technology 2018's Fast 50 list of fastest-growing small business Government contractors and a Top 20 Big Data Solutions Provider by CIO Review.

We make sure to provide everyone with the tools and opportunities to grow while working on some of the newest technologies in the industry. We get excited about celebrating our professionals' milestones, accomplishments, promotions, overcoming challenges, and many other aspects that make an engaging collaborative environment.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled
Expression is an Equal Opportunity Employer. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please submit your request to our Human Resources department through the application portal.

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