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Forensic Analyst Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Prepare and/or extract analytes of interest for subsequent instrumental analysis (forensic specimens) * Load prepared batches onto analytical instruments and initiate preapproved analytical runs ...

Prepare and/or extract analytes of interest for subsequent instrumental analysis (forensic specimens) * Load prepared batches onto analytical instruments and initiate pre-approved analytical runs ...

Prepare and/or extract analytes of interest for subsequent instrumental analysis (forensic specimens) * Load prepared batches onto analytical instruments and initiate preapproved analytical runs ...

Prepare and/or extract analytes of interest for subsequent instrumental analysis (forensic specimens) * Load prepared batches onto analytical instruments and initiate preapproved analytical runs ...

Prepare and/or extract analytes of interest for subsequent instrumental analysis (forensic specimens) * Load prepared batches onto analytical instruments and initiate pre-approved analytical runs ...

Method Development Scientist

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$90K - $180K/yr

Recent experience with Sciex (Analyst, Multiquant, Sciex OS) software and instrumentation. * Recent experience in method validation of forensic toxicology techniques in accordance to published ANSI ...

Recent experience with Sciex (Analyst, Multiquant, Sciex OS) software and instrumentation. * Recent experience in method validation of forensic toxicology techniques in accordance to published ANSI ...

Method Development Scientist

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$90K - $180K/yr

Recent experience with Sciex (Analyst, Multiquant, Sciex OS) software and instrumentation. * Recent experience in method validation of forensic toxicology techniques in accordance to published ANSI ...

... forensics, signals analysis, targeting, imagery, language, and mission systems; progressive advancement based on qualifications, performance, and warfare pins such as Information Warfare and platform ...

... forensics, signals analysis, targeting, imagery, language, and mission systems; progressive advancement based on qualifications, performance, and warfare pins such as Information Warfare and platform ...

... forensics, signals analysis, targeting, imagery, language, and mission systems; progressive advancement based on qualifications, performance, and warfare pins such as Information Warfare and platform ...

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Forensic Analyst information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$49.2K

$94.5K

$146.5K

How much do forensic analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic analyst in Santa Rosa, CA is $94,545.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,100.00 and $109,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a forensic analyst?

A forensic analyst supports law enforcement agencies at every level of government by processing and analyzing evidence of crimes. As a forensic analyst, you specialize in a particular area of the field, such as crime scene investigation, blood spatter analysis, DNA analysis, and computer analysis. Your work primarily takes place in a laboratory, although you may have to go into the field to collect evidence directly from a crime scene. If you specialize in crime scene investigation, then the majority of your work occurs in the field. Your job duties include collecting and analyzing crime scene evidence to help solve crimes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forensic analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forensic Analyst, you need a solid background in criminal justice or forensic science, strong analytical skills, and attention to detail, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with forensic software tools, evidence management systems, and laboratory equipment is typically required, and certifications such as the Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE) can be advantageous. Effective communication, critical thinking, and the ability to work under pressure are essential soft skills for this role. These skills ensure accurate collection, analysis, and presentation of evidence, which are critical for supporting investigations and legal proceedings.

What are some common challenges a forensic analyst may face when handling digital evidence?

Forensic Analysts often encounter challenges such as dealing with encrypted files, rapidly evolving technology, and ensuring the integrity of digital evidence throughout the investigation process. Maintaining a strict chain of custody is essential, as is keeping up-to-date with the latest forensic tools and techniques. Additionally, working under tight deadlines to support ongoing investigations and testifying in court as an expert witness can add pressure to the role.

What is the difference between Forensic Analyst vs Crime Scene Investigator?

AspectForensic AnalystCrime Scene Investigator
CredentialsForensic science degree, certifications like ASCLD/LABCriminal justice or forensic science degree, law enforcement training
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, offices, data analysis settingsCrime scenes, outdoor and indoor locations
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, forensic labsPolice departments, crime scene units
Primary FocusAnalyzing evidence, lab testing, report writingCollecting evidence, documenting crime scenes

While both roles work within the forensic and criminal justice fields, forensic analysts primarily focus on laboratory analysis and evidence interpretation, whereas crime scene investigators are responsible for collecting evidence at crime scenes. Both roles require specialized training and often collaborate to solve cases.

Do forensic analysts get paid a lot?

Forensic analysts typically earn a competitive salary that varies based on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start around $50,000 annually, while experienced analysts with specialized skills or certifications can earn over $80,000 or more per year.

Is a forensic analyst a good job?

A forensic analyst is a specialized role that involves examining evidence to support criminal investigations, often requiring knowledge of forensic science, laboratory skills, and attention to detail. The job can offer stable employment, opportunities for advancement, and the chance to contribute to justice, but it may also involve irregular hours and exposure to graphic material. Overall, it can be a rewarding career for those interested in science and law enforcement.

What job categories do people searching Forensic Analyst jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Forensic Analyst jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Forensic Analyst jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Forensic Analyst job openings:

Infographic showing various Forensic Analyst job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,545 per year, or $45.5 per hour.

Field Application Scientist

Waters Corporation

Bodega Bay, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Waters is a leader in life sciences tools, starting with liquid chromatography technologies in the 1960s. Since then, Waters has pioneered analytical techniques across markets including Clinical Diagnostics, Food & Environmental, Pharmaceuticals, and Materials. In Advanced Diagnostics, Waters has leading LC-MS technologies, which are already used for many applications including therapeutic drug monitoring, newborn screening, toxicology, and endocrinology. Our vision is for Waters to lead the continued broad-based adoption of LC-MS in the clinical and forensics space.

As a Field Application Scientist, you will support both our clinical and forensic customers through pre-sales and post-sales activities. Reporting to the US Applications and Support Manager, you will join a passionate, agile team to develop innovative solutions to address high unmet needs and establish Waters as the leader in clinical LC-MS diagnostics markets.

So, are you looking for an impactful role for a fast-growing company that helps advance science and human well-being? Would you like the freedom of being field based where no day is the same and you get the opportunity to become a trusted advisor to our customers? Do you want to work for a global best-in-class, innovative technology organization who are highly focussed and committed to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion? If your answers are yes, then we would love to hear from you!

With Waters being a Global Organization, there are endless opportunities for you to learn, grow and develop. Many of our team members have advanced their careers either in their current roles or moving into different parts of our business such as service, sales, global support, and leadership.


What do our Field Application Scientists do? Below are some of the key responsibilities:

  • Train and support our customers with their Waters LC/MS instruments, both remotely and on-site.
  • Demonstrate Waters clinical solutions to our customers through sample analyses in our demo lab facilities.
  • Support our sales colleagues with technical expertise through joint visits, trade shows, and internal meetings.
  • Work closely together with our service organization by analyzing and reviewing system and scientific data, to determine the source of problems and recommend corrective actions.
  • Manage customer expectations by communicating work performed and providing follow-up plans if required.
  • Build strong rapport and trusted advisor partnerships with our customer base to provide them with suitable advice and support on Waters products and services – always looking for potential opportunities as to how Waters can further advance their laboratory operations.

To achieve the above, you will get the best possible training by our global Clinical Applications and Support Team and embark on a continuous learning and development pathway.


Who are we looking for?

  • The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related discipline with 1-2 years of experience, or, a Master of Science degree with 3-5 years of experience. Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree will be considered with more than 5 years of in-depth LC/MS experience.
  • We are seeking a true expert in liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry method development and troubleshooting. Familiarization with Waters instruments and software (Waters_Connect and MassLynx) is a plus.
  • The ideal candidate will have experience with both tandem mass spectrometry instruments and high resolution mass spectrometry instruments.
  • We are seeking a candidate with experience in large molecule applications such as peptide mapping, peptide quantitation, proteins, or nanoflow chromatography as it relates to large molecule mass spec.
  • Experience with metabolomics/lipidomics applications in a clinical research domain is an advantage.
  • Understanding of clinical or forensic LC-MS/MS workflows is an advantage.
  • This position will require 50-75% travel throughout the U.S. and Canada. The selected candidate must have a valid driver’s license and passport. Preference will be given to candidates in the Pacific and Mountain time zones with close access to a major U.S. airport.
  • We are seeking a personable individual with a passion for customer success, with the ability to explain complex scientific methodology to our customers.
  • Fluency in Spanish is an advantage but is not a requirement for this position.

Waters Corporation (NYSE:WAT)  is a global leader in life sciences and diagnostics, dedicated to accelerating the benefits of pioneering science through analytical technologies, informatics, and service. With a focus on regulated, high-volume testing environments, our innovative portfolio harnesses deep scientific expertise across chemistry, physics, and biology. We collaborate with customers around the world to advance the release of effective, high-quality medicines, ensure the safety of food and water, and drive better patient outcomes by detecting diseases earlier, managing routine infections, and combating antibiotic resistance. Through a shared culture of relentless innovation, our passionate team of ~16,000 colleagues turn scientific challenges into breakthroughs that improve lives worldwide.  

Diversity and inclusion are fundamental to our core values at Waters Corporation. It benefits our employees, our products, our customers and our community. Waters complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws. Qualified applicants are considered without regard to sex, race, color, ancestry, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, marital status (including civil unions), military service, veteran status, pregnancy (including childbirth and related medical conditions), genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, legally recognized disability, domestic violence victim status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Waters is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. All hiring decisions are based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.


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#HRMS
#massspec
#science
#lab
#chemistry
#analytical
#clinicaldiagnostics
#toxicology
#forensics
#IVDR