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Entry Level Forensic Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Forensic information

See California salary details

$25.2K

$60.4K

$93.3K

How much do entry level forensic jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level forensic in California is $60,355.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,300.00 and $68,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs in forensics don't require a degree?

Entry-level forensic jobs that typically do not require a degree include forensic technician, evidence technician, and crime scene cleaner. These roles often focus on supporting investigations through tasks like evidence collection, processing, and maintaining lab or crime scene environments, sometimes requiring on-the-job training or certifications in areas like safety or evidence handling.

What are entry level forensic jobs?

Entry level forensic jobs are positions within the forensic science field that are suitable for recent graduates or individuals just starting their careers. These roles often include positions such as forensic technicians, laboratory assistants, or evidence technicians. Employees in these jobs are responsible for collecting, preserving, and processing evidence, assisting in laboratory analyses, and supporting more experienced forensic scientists. Entry level positions provide valuable hands-on experience and are a crucial step for advancing to higher-level forensic roles.

What is the difference between Entry Level Forensic vs Entry Level Criminal Investigator?

AspectEntry Level ForensicEntry Level Criminal Investigator
Required CredentialsForensic science degree or related certificationCriminal justice degree, law enforcement training
Work EnvironmentLaboratory, crime scene analysisField investigations, police stations
Employer & IndustryForensic labs, crime labs, law enforcement agenciesPolice departments, federal agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Forensic roles focus on laboratory analysis and scientific evidence processing, requiring specialized forensic credentials. Entry Level Criminal Investigators typically work in the field conducting investigations and require law enforcement training. Both roles are essential in criminal justice but differ mainly in work environment and required qualifications.

How do I start a career in forensics?

To start a career as an entry-level forensic professional, obtain a relevant bachelor's degree such as criminal justice, forensic science, or chemistry. Gaining laboratory skills, understanding evidence handling, and earning certifications like the Certified Forensic Science Technician (CFST) can improve job prospects; internships or volunteer work in forensic labs also provide valuable experience.

Can I be a CSI without being a cop?

A Crime Scene Investigator (CSI) is a forensic professional who collects and analyzes evidence from crime scenes. While some CSIs are law enforcement officers, many are civilian forensic specialists with backgrounds in science, such as biology or chemistry, and do not need to be police officers. Certification and training in forensic science are often required, and CSIs typically work in labs or crime scenes under law enforcement agencies but are not necessarily sworn officers.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Forensic professional, you need a background in forensic science, biology, or chemistry, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, evidence handling procedures, and forensic analysis software is typically required. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring accurate evidence analysis, maintaining chain of custody, and supporting criminal investigations.

What is the easiest forensic job to get?

Entry-level forensic jobs such as forensic technician or evidence technician are generally the easiest to obtain, often requiring a high school diploma or an associate degree and basic knowledge of lab procedures. These roles typically involve processing evidence, maintaining lab equipment, and supporting investigations, with some positions offering on-the-job training and certifications like the Crime Scene Certification (CSC).

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level forensic professionals, and how can they prepare for them?

Entry-level forensic professionals often encounter challenges such as adapting to strict evidence handling protocols, managing potentially distressing case materials, and learning to work efficiently under tight deadlines. It's important to develop strong attention to detail, maintain objectivity, and communicate findings clearly within multidisciplinary teams. Gaining familiarity with standard procedures and actively seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues can help ease the transition and build confidence in handling complex cases.
What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic jobs in California? The most popular types of Forensic jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Forensic jobs in California? For Entry Level Forensic jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Forensic jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Forensic jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Forensic jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Forensic job openings:
Entry Level Forensic jobs near you
Entry-Level Structural Engineer | Designer

Entry-Level Structural Engineer | Designer

Degenkolb Engineers

Sacramento, CA • Hybrid

$84K - $112K/yr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Company Background: Founded in 1940 and headquartered in San Francisco, Degenkolb Engineers has more than eight decades of commitment to innovation, client service, and life-long learning. We deliver customized structural solutions in a variety of practice areas such as healthcare, education, science and technology, forensics, construction engineering, and federal buildings. We address every project need—whether meeting stringent codes, staying on budget, adhering to tight schedules, or creating landmark structural systems.

Position Description: We review candidates for this Entry-Level Structural Engineer | Designer position throughout the year in all of our California offices (Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Diego, and Oakland), as well as our Midwest offices in Detroit and Grand Rapids, MI. Applicants may indicate interest in multiple locations on a single application.

Ideal Candidate: A high-achieving master’s student (undergraduate GPA 3.40 or above) with a passion for structural engineering, seismic analysis (non-Michigan offices) and/or steel (Michigan). You want to be part of a high-performing team that supports your professional development with a challenging mix of projects, mentorship, and lifelong learning opportunities.

Compensation and Benefits: The pay rate for this position, across the various offices, generally ranges between $84,000 and $112,000 annually. This range is a good faith estimate provided pursuant to pay transparency laws. Actual pay rates will be based on various factors, including location, company geographic differentials, education level, and candidate qualifications. 

Benefits include health and life insurance, commuter benefits, paid parental leave, 401(k) with company Profit Sharing contribution, employee ownership in a privately held stock plan, financial support for professional activities, company holidays, and a generous paid time off program.

Culture: We offer a flexible hybrid work schedule and a fun office environment! Our firm is highly collaborative and filled with experts united by a passion for industry involvement, pride in company ownership, and respect for personal lives. You will benefit from focused professional development within a supportive and transparent team environment, as well as opportunities for committee participation and leadership, variety in work assignments, and a pay scale set at the 75th market percentile. To learn more about the company, please visit: https://degenkolb.com/culture/

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