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Evidence Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Own and govern the end-to-end lifecycle of all Managed Services audit programs, including planning, execution, evidence management, remediation tracking, and program close-out. * Lead monthly ...

Own and govern the end-to-end lifecycle of all Managed Services audit programs, including planning, execution, evidence management, remediation tracking, and program close-out. * Lead monthly ...

The Project Manager (PM) is responsible for the implementation of APX Next/N70 Radios & Smart Applications and our Command Central software suite, bridging the gap between field-captured evidence and ...

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Evidence Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$29.4K

$64.5K

$116.9K

How much do evidence manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for evidence manager in Chicago, IL is $64,550.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,400.00 and $71,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an evidence manager?

Evidence Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing the collection, storage, tracking, and disposition of physical or digital evidence, typically within law enforcement agencies or legal organizations. They ensure that all evidence is properly documented, preserved, and handled in accordance with legal and organizational protocols to maintain its integrity for court proceedings. Evidence Managers also implement and monitor chain-of-custody procedures to prevent tampering or loss and may train other staff on proper evidence handling. Their role is critical in supporting investigations and ensuring that justice processes are upheld.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an evidence manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Evidence Manager, you need a background in criminal justice or forensic science, expertise in evidence handling protocols, and knowledge of legal chain-of-custody requirements. Familiarity with evidence management software, barcoding systems, and compliance certifications like IAPE are typically necessary. Strong attention to detail, integrity, and effective communication are vital soft skills for maintaining accuracy and trustworthiness. These competencies are crucial to ensure the admissibility, security, and proper documentation of evidence in legal proceedings.

What are some common challenges faced by evidence managers, and how can they effectively address them?

Evidence Managers often face challenges such as maintaining the chain of custody, managing large volumes of evidence, and ensuring compliance with strict legal protocols. To address these, they must implement organized tracking systems, conduct regular audits, and stay updated on best practices and regulations. Effective communication with law enforcement, legal teams, and forensic personnel is also crucial for seamless evidence transfer and documentation. Developing strong attention to detail and leveraging digital evidence management software can help streamline processes and minimize errors.

What is the difference between Evidence Manager vs Forensic Analyst?

AspectEvidence ManagerForensic Analyst
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or related field; certifications like Certified Evidence Specialist (CES) are commonRequires a degree in forensic science, chemistry, or biology; certifications such as Certified Forensic Scientist (CFS) are often preferred
Work EnvironmentManages evidence storage, documentation, and chain of custody in law enforcement or legal settingsAnalyzes physical and digital evidence in labs or crime scene investigations
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, legal firms, government labsCrime labs, law enforcement agencies, private forensic firms

While both Evidence Managers and Forensic Analysts work within the criminal justice system, Evidence Managers focus on organizing and maintaining evidence, ensuring its integrity. Forensic Analysts, on the other hand, perform scientific analysis of evidence to support investigations. Both roles require specialized certifications and work in related environments, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Evidence jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Evidence jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Evidence Manager jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Evidence Manager jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Evidence Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Evidence Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Evidence Manager jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Evidence Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Evidence Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,550 per year, or $31 per hour.

Senior Laboratory Evidence Control Specialist

Chicago, IL

$63K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

This position is located in the DEA, Operational Support Division, Office of Forensic Science (SF) Field Laboratories.
This position's primary purpose is to manage the life cycle of all evidence submitted to the laboratory including non-drug, drug, bulk, and non-diversion/diversion seizures.Qualifications:For more information on eligibility requirements see: DEA Employment Eligibility
Applicants must meet the required qualification requirements described below by the closing date of the announcement. If you are qualifying based on education or if there are mandatory education requirements listed below, you MUST submit a copy of your college transcripts with your application.
Basic Qualification Requirements:

Applicants applying for the GS-11 must meet one of the following requirements:
A. Have at least one full year of specialized experience that is at least equivalent to work performed at the GS-9 grade level. Specialized experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Qualifying experience must demonstrate the following: 1) Being responsible for the receipt, retention, safekeeping, and disposition of submitted evidence from cradle to grave for the Field laboratory. 2) Reviewing a variety of monthly, quarterly, and annual reports for accountability and reconciliation of submitted evidence prepared by junior level evidence specialists. 3) Contributing and/or participating in the development of agency processes and protocols for evidence management via job aides, templates, training materials, etc.
OR
B. Have completed three full years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree.
OR
C. A combination of education and experience may be used to qualify for this position as long as the computed percentage of the requirements is at least 100%. To compute the percentage of the requirements, divide your total months of experience by 12. Then divide the total number of completed graduate semester hours (or equivalent) beyond the second year (total graduate semester hours minus 36) by 18. Add the two percentages.
Additional information on the position qualification requirements are located in the Office of Personnel Management's (OPM) Qualifications Standards Handbook.
Time-In-Grade Requirement: Applicants must meet time-in-grade and time after competitive appointment requirements by the closing date of this announcement.Education:See the qualification section of this vacancy announcement for education requirements.
Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the education requirements if you can show that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying. For a list of accredited organizations recognized as specializing in interpretation of foreign education credentials, visit: www.naces.org/members.php.
If you are claiming education as any part of your qualifications for this position, you must submit an official transcript, unofficial transcript, or a list including courses, grades earned, completion dates, and quarter and semester hours earned.Employment Type: OTHER