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

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Entry Level Forensics information

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$45K

$119.3K

$173.2K

How much do entry level forensics jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level forensics in Silver Spring, MD is $119,349.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,300.00 and $139,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Forensics professional, you need a background in forensic science, criminal justice, or a related field, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, evidence management systems, and forensic analysis software is typically required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and strong written and verbal communication skills help you accurately analyze evidence and present findings. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining the integrity of investigations and supporting the justice system effectively.

Is AI taking over forensics?

Forensics professionals are increasingly using AI and machine learning tools to analyze digital evidence, identify patterns, and automate routine tasks. However, human expertise remains essential for interpretation, decision-making, and ensuring the accuracy and integrity of investigations. Entry-level forensics roles often require knowledge of forensic software, data analysis, and certifications, with AI serving as a complementary technology rather than a replacement.

What are entry level forensics jobs?

Entry level forensics jobs are positions designed for individuals who are new to the forensic science field, often requiring minimal prior experience and typically a bachelor’s degree in a related discipline such as biology, chemistry, or criminal justice. These roles may include forensic technician, evidence technician, or laboratory assistant, where tasks include collecting, preserving, and analyzing physical evidence from crime scenes. Entry level professionals usually work under the supervision of more experienced forensic scientists and may receive on-the-job training. These positions provide a foundation for career advancement in forensic science.

How do I start a career in forensic science?

To start a career in forensic science, obtain a bachelor's degree in forensic science, criminal justice, biology, or chemistry. Gaining laboratory skills, understanding legal procedures, and earning certifications like the Certified Forensic Scientist can improve job prospects. Entry-level positions often require strong analytical skills and familiarity with forensic tools and techniques.

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

Entry-level forensic professionals often encounter challenges such as handling complex casework, adapting to strict evidence handling protocols, and balancing multiple tasks under tight deadlines. Working closely with experienced colleagues and actively seeking mentorship can help address these challenges. Additionally, maintaining meticulous attention to detail and continuously updating technical skills are essential for success in the field. Open communication with team members and supervisors also fosters a supportive environment for professional growth.

How to get into forensics with no experience?

Entry level forensics positions often 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 the Certified Forensic Science Technician can improve your chances. Familiarity with laboratory tools and procedures is also beneficial for starting a career in forensics.

Where to start to get into forensics?

To start a career in forensics, pursue a relevant degree such as criminal justice, forensic science, or chemistry. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in laboratory techniques, and obtaining certifications like the Certified Forensic Scientist can improve job prospects in this field.
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Entry Level Forensics jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Entry Level Forensics job openings:
Entry Level Forensics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Forensics job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $119,349 per year, or $57.4 per hour.

DIRECT CARE TRAINEE CI (COURT-INVOLVED)

State of Maryland - Maryland Department of Health

Baltimore, MD

Full-time

Posted 23 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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