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Entry Level Forensic Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Police Officer Trainee

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$88K - $130K/yr

... entry-level Police Officer classification. Upon successful completion of required training and ... forensic evidence, care and proficient use of firearms and chemical agents, gang awareness ...

Staff/Senior/Lead Neuropsychologist

Ventura, CA · On-site

$99K - $156K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Staff Psychologist ($3,828.65 - $4,964.31 biweekly) - is the entry level classification in this job ... Provides psychological services including clinical assessment, consultation, forensic evaluation ...

Be Seen First

This entry-level position is ideal for individuals with a passion for helping others and a desire ... Prior forensic experience is encouraged but not required. Position Responsibilities : * Deliver ...

Staff/Senior/Lead Neuropsychologist

Ventura, CA

$99K - $156K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Staff Psychologist ($3,828.65 - $4,964.31 biweekly) - is the entry level classification in this job ... Provides psychological services including clinical assessment, consultation, forensic evaluation ...

Showing results 21-27

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 Aug 15, 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 is an entry level forensic professional?

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.

How to get into entry level forensic with no experience?

Entry level forensic positions often require a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles preferring or requiring a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field. Gaining relevant skills through certifications such as the Certified Forensic Science Technician (CFST) or learning tools like fingerprint analysis and evidence handling can improve prospects; internships or volunteering can also provide valuable experience. Building a strong understanding of laboratory procedures, documentation, and legal protocols is beneficial for entry-level candidates.

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.

What skills and qualifications are needed for an entry level forensic professional?

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.

How do I start a career in entry level forensic?

To start a career as an entry-level forensic professional, obtain a relevant degree such as criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in evidence analysis and documentation, and earning certifications like the Certified Forensic Science Technician can improve job prospects.

What challenges do entry level forensic professionals face, 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:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Forensic job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 60% In-person, and 40% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,355 per year, or $29 per hour.

Police Officer Trainee

City of Anaheim

Anaheim, CA • On-site

$88K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


City Of Anaheim rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

170th of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description The City of Anaheim Police Department is seeking highly motivated individuals interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement. Police Officer Trainee is a non-sworn classification, participating in required law enforcement training in order to develop and meet the requirements of the entry-level Police Officer classification. Upon successful completion of required training and graduation from the P.O.S.T

Basic Police Academy, Police Officer Trainees are eligible to be promoted to the position of Police Officer on a probationary basis. As a condition of continued employment, incumbents must earn and maintain a POST Basic Certificate upon completion of probation as a Police Officer. All non-probationary Police Officers must possess and maintain a valid POST Basic Certificate or higher for continued employment.

For more information about the hiring process, please visit JoinAnaheimPD.com. Essential Functions The following functions are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed functions and/or may be required to perform additional or different functions from those set forth below to address business needs and changing business practices

Attend, participate, and successfully progress through pre-academy training and orientation program(s) and a California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) approved Basic Police Academy. The components of the pre-academy and academy training include, but are not limited to: Leadership, professionalism, ethics, cultural diversity and discrimination awareness, criminal justice system, criminal law and statutes, juvenile law and procedure, laws of arrest, search and seizure, preservation and presentation of evidence, criminal investigation, report writing, emergency vehicle operations, patrol techniques, community policing and collaborative problem solving, vehicle pullovers, traffic enforcement, traffic collision investigation, arrest and control methods, defensive tactics, use of force, handling disputes, crime scene investigation, collection and processing of forensic evidence, care and proficient use of firearms and chemical agents, gang awareness, narcotics recognition and enforcement, and emergency management. Participate in training programs in order to develop an awareness of the duties, activities, and responsibilities of a Police Officer

Participate in physical fitness, agility, and conditioning exercises and self-defense exercises, first aid and CPR. Learn, understand and interpret various laws, police practices, and procedures, including the principles of community-oriented policing. Analyze problems and ability to learn how to rationally and calmly take appropriate action in stressful situations.

Prepare accurate and grammatically correct written reports and solve basic arithmetic problems. May be required to work with and around specially trained police dogs. Perform related duties and responsibilities as required.

Qualifications Training/Education: Graduation from an accredited High School or successful completion of the G.E.D (General Educational Development) exam. Abilities: Must be physically fit to perform the essential functions, including corrected or uncorrected vision of 20/20 or better; physical strength and agility to perform foot pursuit and physical restraint of suspects. Must have ability to communicate clearly and accurately, both orally and in writing; exercise tact, self-restraint and good judgment; demonstrate collaborative problem-solving skills; and establish and maintain effective relationships with those contacted in the course of employment

License Required: Possession of a valid California Driver's License by date of appointment and as a condition of continued employment. Additional Requirements: At least 21 years of age upon completion of the academy training. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States under federal law.

Employees of the Anaheim Police Department must be permanent and fulltime residents of the State of California and live within a one hundred (100) mile radius of the City of Anaheim. Note: Upon successful completion of required training and graduation from the P.O.S.T. Basic Police Academy, Police Officer Trainees are eligible to be promoted to the position of Police Officer on a probationary basis

As a condition of continued employment, incumbents must earn and maintain a POST Basic Certificate upon completion of probation as a Police Officer. All non-probationary Police Officers must possess and maintain a valid POST Basic Certificate or higher for continued employment. Environmental Conditions: Due to the nature of work assignments, incumbents may be exposed to smoke/fumes/gas, live electricity, excessive heat/cold, inclement weather, high frequency noise, dirt/dust, grease/oil, chemicals and solvents/toxic agents and may infrequently be exposed to radiation, treated water, and pesticides.

Physical Conditions: Due to the nature of work assignments, incumbents must be able to stand, sit in a patrol car for long periods, walk; lift, carry, and pull up to 165 pounds; push; climb walls, fences, stairs and ladders, work at heights above ten feet and in confined spaces, stoop, twist, squat/kneel, crawl, run, grasp, repeatedly bend and move wrists, use both hands, legs and feet; speak, hear and understand radio communications, touch/feel, see at a distance and up close and have depth perception and normal color vision. Supplemental Information *** IMPORTANT APPLICATION INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTIONS *** Applications will be accepted until Monday, August 10, 2026 at 5:00PM. Applicants are encouraged to apply early.

Applications will not be accepted after this deadline. Recruitment Steps: 1. Written Exam - POST PELLETB - tentatively scheduled for August 27 & 28, 2026.

The City of Anaheim utilizes the Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB). The Applicant Preparation Guide(Download PDF reader) for the POST Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery has been developed to provide helpful information about test format and content. This guide explains exactly what is tested in the exam and provides sample questions that can be used for practice.

This guide also provides research-based information on the best strategies for answering test questions. Applicants may not take the POST PELLETB within 30 calendar days of taking the exam with another department/agency. PELLETB Waiver: Applicants who have taken the PELLETB within 365 days of application and achieved a T-score of T-51 or higher may request a waiver from the written exam.

Applicants requesting to waive the written exam are required to submit proof of their qualifying T-score on agency letterhead from the agency that administered the exam. Screenshots of the letter will not be accepted. Applicants who possess a qualifying T-score must attach the required documentation to their application.

Applicants who possess a valid POST basic academy completion certificate must attach a copy of their certificate to their application. *** PLEASE DO NOT ATTACH ANY OTHER DOCUMENTS TO YOUR APPLICATION EXCEPT WHAT IS REQUESTED ABOVE. *** 2.

Physical Ability Test, Oral Interview & Pre-Background Screening - tentatively scheduled for Saturday, September 26, 2026. Applicants who achieve a passing T-score of T-51 or higher on the written exam or submitted a T-score waiver or submitted a valid academy completion certificate will be invited to the physical ability test. The physical ability test is a series of events and obstacles that candidates must successfully complete.

Physical Ability Test Standards Applicants who achieve a passing score on the physical ability test will be invited to participate in the oral interview process. Successful candidates will be interviewed by a background investigator after the oral interview. The following documents are required and must be completed and brought to the oral interview: Preliminary Background Information Form / PHS Background Investigation Questionnaire (BIQ) Required Documents Applicant Autobiography Please provide as many of the required documents along with your Preliminary Background Information Form / PHS, BIQ, and Applicant Autobiography.

Items such as transcripts, credit report or other missing documents can be provided upon your receiving them. Further selection steps include, but are not limited to a background investigation, polygraph examination, psychological evaluation, a medical examination, which includes drug/alcohol screening, and an interview with the Chief of Police. The interview with the background investigator and completion of the background investigation will include, but is not limited to, verification and evaluation of any present and/or past use of drugs, driving and employment history.

Please review the following common disqualifiers. If any items listed pertain to you, you will be automatically disqualified in the background investigation. You may, at this time, want to screen yourself and withdraw prior to starting the recruitment process.

Any illegal use, sales, or possession of a drug classified as an opiate (heroin, opium, etc.) or PCP. Any use of cocaine, methamphetamine, hallucinogens (GHB, MDMA/ecstasy, ketamine, etc.) within five years of date of application. Any illegal use of anabolic steroids within three years of date of application

Two or more at-fault traffic collisions within three years of the date of application. Conviction of a hit-and run offense. Any driver's license suspension within five years of date of application.

Conviction of a felony crime. Conviction of any misdemeanor crime within five years of application. Any conviction as an adult, of any misdemeanor crime involving domestic violence, sexual-related offenses or crimes against children.

Any conviction as an adult, of a theft or larceny crime. The following may result in disqualification: Use of cocaine, methamphetamine, hallucinogens (GHB, MDMA/ecstasy, ketamine, etc.) previous to five years of application. Prior nitrous oxide use

Illegal use of anabolic steroids previous to three years of application. Illegal use of a hypodermic needle/ syringe. A pattern or history of irresponsibility as evidenced by debt collections, civil judgments, failure to pay, late payments, etc.

More than one moving violation in the past 12 months, and/or three or more moving citations within the past three years, and/or five or more moving citations within the past five years of date of application. Candidates must be specific and complete in describing their qualifications for this position. Stating "See Resume" is not an acceptable substitute for a completed application.

Failure to state all pertinent information may lead to elimination from consideration. The City of Anaheim uses E-Verify and new employees must provide documentation to establish both work authorization and identity. Communication regarding your application and/or status will be sent to the email address listed on your application.

Please check your email regularly throughout the recruitment process. Equal Opportunity Employer


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