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Entry Level Forensic Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Forensic information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$26.4K

$63.2K

$97.7K

How much do entry level forensic jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level forensic in Silver Spring, MD is $63,221.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,800.00 and $71,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs in forensics don't require a degree?

Entry-level forensic jobs such as evidence technician or crime scene assistant often do not require a college degree, focusing instead on skills like attention to detail, familiarity with lab equipment, and sometimes certification in crime scene processing. These roles typically involve supporting investigations, collecting and preserving evidence, and may require on-the-job training or specialized certifications rather than a formal degree.

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.

How to get into forensics with no experience?

Entry-level forensic jobs typically require a background in criminal justice, biology, or chemistry, along with strong attention to detail and analytical skills. Gaining relevant experience through internships, volunteering, or certifications such as crime scene investigation training can improve your chances. Building knowledge of forensic tools and procedures is also beneficial for entry into the field.

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.

Will AI replace forensic scientist?

AI can assist forensic scientists by analyzing large datasets, identifying patterns, and automating routine tasks, but it is unlikely to fully replace the role. Forensic scientists rely on critical thinking, expertise, and courtroom testimony that AI cannot replicate. Human judgment remains essential in interpreting evidence and making complex decisions in forensic work.

Can I be a CSI without being a cop?

A Crime Scene Investigator (CSI) is a specialized forensic role that does not require being a police officer. CSIs typically have backgrounds in forensic science, biology, or chemistry, and may need certifications or training in evidence collection and processing. While some law enforcement agencies employ CSIs as part of their police departments, many forensic technicians work in laboratories or private settings without being 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 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 Silver Spring, MD? The most popular types of Forensic jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Forensic jobs in Silver Spring, MD? For Entry Level Forensic jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Forensic jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Forensic jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Entry Level Forensic jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Entry Level Forensic job openings:
Entry Level Forensic jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Forensic job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, and 16% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,221 per year, or $30.4 per hour.

DIRECT CARE TRAINEE CI (COURT-INVOLVED)

State of Maryland - Maryland Department of Health

Baltimore, MD

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Introduction

\r\n

GRADE

ASTD11\r\n

LOCATION OF POSITION

The Maryland Department of Health has multiple full and part-time court-involved (CI) positions available within our Facilities. When completing your application, please select all locations in which you are willing to accept employment.\r\n\r\n\r\nClifton T. Perkins Hospital Center, Jessup, MD (Howard County) is a State facility where care is provided to mentally ill offenders, patients or residents who have been judged not criminally responsible for committing felonies and to those who are too violent for a regular hospital or residential setting and who have been deemed dangerous to themselves or others.\r\n\r\nEastern Shore Hospital Center, Cambridge, MD (Dorchester County) is a mental health facility under the jurisdiction of Maryland's Behavioral Health Administration. Eastern Shore Hospital Center houses 4 psychiatric units for a total of 80 beds. Its mission is to provide the highest quality inpatient mental health services on the Eastern Shore for adults age 18 and older.\r\n\r\nRegional Institute for Children and Adolescents (RICA)- Baltimore, Baltimore, MD (Baltimore City) is a mental health residential treatment facility of the Maryland Department of Health located in Baltimore City. This facility serves adolescents and their families from the central Maryland region, the Eastern Shore and parts of Western Maryland. RICA-Baltimore is staffed by qualified multidisciplinary treatment teams, providing treatment and educational programs for adolescent boys and girls aged 12 to 17.6 who are experiencing emotional, behavioral and learning difficulties.\r\n\r\nRegional Institute for Children and Adolescents (RICA) - Rockville, Rockville, MD (Montgomery County) is a community-based public residential, clinical, and educational facility serving children and adolescents with severe emotional disabilities, located in Rockville, Maryland.\r\n\r\nSpringfield Hospital Center, Sykesville, MD (Carroll County) is a regional psychiatric hospital operated by the State of Maryland, Maryland Department of Health, which is located on a picturesque campus in southern Carroll County. Springfield Hospital Center is one of the largest psychiatric hospitals in the State of Maryland that provides a wide range of clinical services for the treatment of patients with mental illnesses.\r\n\r\nSpring Grove Hospital Center, Catonsville, MD (Baltimore County) is a 375-bed complex that provides a broad spectrum of inpatient psychiatric services to adults and adolescents, as well as comprehensive residential psychiatric services to adults. The center is owned and operated by the State of Maryland, under the governance of the Behavioral Health Administration of the Department of Health.\r\n\r\nThomas B. Finan Center, Cumberland, MD (Allegany County) is a multi-purpose psychiatric facility operating 88 beds, is a primary inpatient component of the Maryland Department of Health serving the citizens of Maryland. Specialized evaluation and treatment services are available for adult and geriatric psychiatric patients.\r\n\r\nPotomac Center, Hagerstown, MD (Washington County) is one of two state residential centers overseen by the Developmental Disabilities Administration. The Potomac Center is a State residential center that is responsible for providing needed services to people who have intellectual disabilities admitted to the facility while working to integrate into less restrictive settings in the community.\r\n\r\nSecure Evaluation and Therapeutic Treatment (SETT) Program, Hagerstown, MD (Washington County), located within the Potomac Center campus, is a 32-bed licensed Forensic Residential Center that provides services to individuals with intellectual disabilities and court involvement within a safe and secure environment. The program provides assistance as they resolve their court involvement and work toward transitioning to a less secure environment. The SETT utilizes active treatment as well as providing evaluation, assessment and competency attainment education.\r\n

POSITION DUTIES

This recruitment is for multiple positions and shifts located throughout the State of Maryland.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nA Direct Care Trainee CI (Court Involved) is the entry level of work assisting in the care, treatment, habilitation or rehabilitation of mentally or physically ill patients, or developmentally disabled clients in State treatment facilities or community based programs. Employees in this classification do not supervise other positions. Employees in this classification receive close supervision from nursing staff or another designated healthcare administrator. Employees may be assigned to day, evening, night or rotating shifts which may include holidays and weekends. Employees are subject to call-in and overtime based on staffing needs.\r\n

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education:Graduation from an accredited high school or possession of a high school equivalency certificate.\r\nExperience:None.\r\nNotes:1. Applicants may substitute experience in patient/client direct care for the required education on a year-for-year basis for up to four years of the required education.\r\n2. Candidates may substitute U.S. Armed Forces military service experience as a non-commissioned officer in Hospital Corpsman classifications or Health Care Specialist and Medical Services specialty codes in the health related field of work on a year-for-year basis for the required experience.\r\n

LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS

1. Candidates for positions in this classification must possess and maintain a current certificate as a Nursing Assistant from the Maryland State Board of Nursing OR within sixty days from the date of hire and prior to performing delegated nursing tasks, musthave successfully completed a Board of Nursing approved Nursing Assistant training program and received certification as a Nursing Assistant from the Board of Nursing.\r\n2. Employees in this classificationlocated in facilities that provide long term care for the aged may be required to possess or obtain a Geriatric Aide certificate.\r\n3. Employees in this classification may be assigned duties which require the operation of a motor vehicle. Employees assigned such duties will be required to possess a motor vehicle operator's license valid in the State of Maryland.\r\n4. Some employees in this classification may be required to operate vans which require a specific motor vehicle operator's license valid in the State of Maryland. Employees assigned such duties will be required to possess the appropriate motor vehicle operator's license.\r\n5. Employees in this classification may be required to successfully complete training in and maintain a current cardiopulmonary resuscitation certification.\r\n

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

1. Employees in this classification must successfully complete an in-service training program approved by the hiring facility prior to permanent appointment to a position in this classification.\r\n2. Employees in this classification are subject to call-in and, therefore, will be required to provide the facility with a telephone number at which they can be reached.\r\n

SELECTION PROCESS

Applicants who meet the minimum (and selective) qualifications will be included in further evaluation. The evaluation may be a rating of your application based on your education, training and experience as they relate to the requirements of the position.Therefore, it is essential that you provide complete and accurate information on your application.Please report all related education, experience, dates and hours of work.Clearly indicate your college degree and major on your application, if applicable. For education obtained outside the U.S., any job offer will be contingent on the candidate providing an evaluation for equivalency by a foreign credential evaluation service prior to starting employment (and may be requested prior to interview).\r\nComplete applications must be submitted by the closing date.Information submitted after this date will not be added.\r\nIncorrect application forms will not be accepted.Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of a completed application.\r\nCandidates may remain on thecertified eligible list for a period of at least one year. The resulting certified eligible list for this recruitment may be used for similar positions in this or other State agencies.\r\n

BENEFITS

STATE OF MARYLAND BENEFITS\r\n

FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS

Online applications are highly recommended. However, if you are unable to apply online,the paper application (and supplemental questionnaire) may be submitted to MDH, Recruitment and Selection Division, 201 W. Preston St., Room 114-B, Baltimore, MD 21201.Paper application materials must be received by 5 pm, close of business, on the closing date for the recruitment, no postmarks will be accepted.\r\nIf additional information is required, the preferred method is to upload. If you are unable to upload, please fax the requested informationto 410-333-5689.Only additional materials that are required will be accepted for this recruitment. All additional information must be received by the closing date and time.\r\nFor questions regarding this recruitment, please contact theMDH Recruitment and Selection Division at 410-767-1251.\r\nIf you are having difficulty with your user account or have general questions about the online application system, please contact the MD Department of Budget and Management, Recruitment and Examination Division at 410-767-4850 orApplication.Help@maryland.gov.\r\nAppropriate accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request by calling: 410-767-1251 or MD TTY Relay Service 1-800-735-2258.\r\nWe thank our Veterans for their service to our country.\r\nPeople with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.\r\nAs an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruitment, retaining and promoting employees who are reflective of the State's diversity.\r\n

Employment Type: Full-Time

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