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How much do forensic behavioural science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic behavioural science in the United States is $52,397.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,500.00 and $55,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a forensic behavioral scientist?

A forensic behavioral scientist studies the behavior of individuals involved in criminal cases to assist law enforcement and legal proceedings. They analyze psychological patterns, conduct assessments, and may provide expert testimony in court, often requiring knowledge of psychology, criminal behavior, and relevant legal standards.

What is the difference between Forensic Behavioural Science vs Forensic Psychology?

AspectForensic Behavioural ScienceForensic Psychology
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in behavioural science, criminology, or related fields; certifications varyRequires a doctoral degree in psychology, licensure, and specialized training in forensic settings
Work EnvironmentResearch settings, law enforcement agencies, criminal investigationsCourts, correctional facilities, mental health institutions
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement, government agencies, research institutionsLegal system, mental health services, correctional facilities
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for roles in criminal profiling and investigationsFocuses on mental health assessments and expert testimony in court

While both careers involve understanding criminal behavior, Forensic Behavioural Science emphasizes research and profiling, whereas Forensic Psychology focuses on mental health evaluations and court testimony. The roles often overlap but serve different functions within the criminal justice system.

What can I do with a forensic behavioral science degree?

A forensic behavioral science degree prepares individuals for roles such as criminal profiler, forensic psychologist, or behavioral analyst, often working within law enforcement, correctional facilities, or private consulting. These positions typically require skills in psychological assessment, criminal behavior analysis, and may involve working with law enforcement agencies or legal teams. Certification or licensure may be necessary depending on the specific role and jurisdiction.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Forensic Behavioural Science, and why are they important?

To thrive in Forensic Behavioural Science, you need a strong background in psychology or criminology, analytical skills, and often a relevant postgraduate qualification. Familiarity with assessment tools, research databases, and case management systems is typically required. Excellent communication, ethical judgement, and critical thinking are essential soft skills in this field. These skills and qualities are crucial for accurately assessing behavior, providing expert opinions, and supporting the criminal justice system effectively.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in forensic behavioural science, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in forensic behavioural science often encounter challenges such as managing emotionally charged cases, maintaining objectivity in high-stakes legal environments, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. To address these, it's important to develop strong communication skills, establish clear boundaries, and engage in regular professional supervision or peer support. Additionally, staying current with research and best practices helps ensure ethical and effective assessments and interventions.

What are 5 potential jobs for forensic science?

Forensic behavioral science professionals can work as criminal investigators, forensic psychologists, crime scene analysts, forensic examiners, or law enforcement consultants. These roles often require strong analytical skills, knowledge of criminal behavior, and familiarity with forensic tools and techniques. They typically operate within law enforcement agencies, forensic laboratories, or criminal justice organizations.

What is forensic behavioural science?

Forensic behavioural science is the study of human behavior and mental processes as they relate to criminal investigations and the legal system. Professionals in this field analyze patterns of behavior to help understand, prevent, and manage criminal actions. They may work with law enforcement, the courts, or correctional facilities to assess offenders, provide expert testimony, or develop rehabilitation programs. Their work often combines principles from psychology, criminology, and law to help address crime and justice-related issues.

What is the highest paying job in behavioral health?

In behavioral health, forensic behavioral scientists or clinical psychologists with specialized training and experience often earn the highest salaries, especially those working in forensic or correctional settings. Advanced roles such as forensic psychologists with board certification or leadership positions can also command higher pay, often exceeding six figures annually.
More about Forensic Behavioural Science jobs
What job categories do people searching Forensic Behavioural Science jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Behavioural Science jobs are:
Forensic Behavioural Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Behavioural Science job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 37% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 62% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,397 per year, or $25.2 per hour.
Community Counselor III (Forensic Assertive Community Treatment)

Community Counselor III (Forensic Assertive Community Treatment)

Cascadia Health

Portland, OR • On-site

$62K - $84K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Cascadia Health rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Community Counselor III (Forensic Assertive Community Treatment)
Job Overview
Location/Schedule: This position is based at the Kerns building located in NE Portland, OR, but work is primarily conducted in the community. The schedule for this position is Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with some weekend and holiday availability required as necessary.
Position: Community Counselor III
Program: Forensic Assertive Community Treatment (FACT)
Cascadia's Mission and Vision:
Mission: Cascadia Health delivers whole health care - integrated mental health and addiction services, primary care, and housing - to promote hope and support the well-being of the communities we serve.
Vision: We envision a community where everyone benefits from whole health care, experiences well-being, and has a self-directed, connected life.
Program Description: FACT (Forensic Assertive Community Treatment) is a transformative forensic mental health program, focusing on individuals with severe and persistent mental illnesses (SPMI) who have past or current justice involvement. Our multidisciplinary team provides community-based, client-centered, and unlimited services, improving mental health outcomes while addressing criminogenic risks to reduce recidivism. We offer individual therapy, crisis support, SUD counseling, supported employment, medication management, and much more.
Position Description: As a Community Counselor III in the FACT program, you'll play a pivotal role in providing comprehensive support and therapeutic services for justice involved adults with severe mental illness and addiction issues, helping them achieve their personal goals and reduce recidivism in the context of a community-based setting including client homes, justice involved settings, and community spaces. Community Counselor III's are responsible for conducting mental health assessments and service plans, and will provide case management services, assist with intakes, discharges, and acquisition of entitlements or other benefits. The Community Counselor III will also provide some individual and group therapy, as well as crisis intervention.
Essential Responsibilities
This position description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, skills, or working conditions associated with the position. Management reserves the right to modify, add or remove duties as necessary.
  • Conduct mental health assessments, behavioral health assessments, and develop Individual Service Plans (ISPs) and Support Plans.
  • Maintain fidelity to the Assertive Community Treatment model.
  • Guide clients in setting goals and identify realistic steps to achieve them, using tools like Strengths Assessment.
  • Provide individual and group therapy using evidence-based practices, including strengths-based counseling and motivational interviewing.
  • Provide mental health services in the community, engaging with clients where they are to ensure accessibility and continuity of care.
  • Support clients through crisis situations, offering interventions that ensure a trauma-informed environment.
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date electronic health records (EHR) and ancillary documentation in compliance with agency policies, local, state, and federal regulations, including HIPAA.
  • Collaborate with internal and external providers and justice involved entities (probation officers, judicial staff, correctional facility staff...) to ensure coordinated care and advocate for clients to secure needed services.
  • Develop and maintain working relationships with landlords, community partners, and other service providers.
  • Assist clients in navigating the housing process, including finding housing, addressing barriers, and ensuring housing stability.
  • Work closely with other providers and support systems to ensure comprehensive treatment planning and continuity of care.
  • Adhere to safety protocols, including emergency procedures, and demonstrate responsibility for the safety of clients and staff.
  • Maintain professional boundaries, ethics, and respect for client rights.
  • Participate in staff meetings, supervision sessions, and training opportunities to develop professional skills and ensure ongoing compliance with training requirements.
  • Perform other duties as assigned, including driving to meet with clients in the community and providing practical support such as transportation.

Qualifications
Education:
  • Master's degree in behavioral science field from an accredited college or university. Demonstrate the competencies to become credentialed as a Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP), as outlined in the Oregon Administrative Rulings (OARs); or credentialed through state licensing boards: Board of Licensed Socials workers, Board of Licensed Professional Counselors. Certification must be kept current and in compliance with OARs through MHACBO or respective licensing board.
  • The CADC credential is preferred in addition to a master's degree given the high occurrence of substance use/abuse.

Experience:
  • Experience in a non-profit organization is preferred.

Specialized Skills and Knowledge:
  • Ability to conduct a Mental Status assessment and formulate diagnosis according to the most recent DSM.
  • Proficient verbal and written communication skills.
  • Basic knowledge of Trauma Informed Care (TIC), Motivational Interviewing, and Evidence-Based Practices.
  • Basic understanding of recovery models, illness management, and strength-based philosophies.
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (e.g., Word & Excel).

Other:
  • CPR Certification (training provided post-hire).
  • Possess a valid driver's license, minimum of one year driving history, ability to pass Driver Motor Vehicle (DMV) check and complete the Cascadia online Defensive Driving course.
  • Must have access to a reliable mode of transportation to commute around the Portland metro area.

Working Conditions
Environmental: This role is centered on direct client and community engagement; it is designed for in-person work and does not include hybrid or remote work options.
Work is performed in one or more of the following: clinical office, acute care settings and community setting including client residences, correctional facilities, shelters, hospitals, public places and other social service sites. Meal periods and breaks are subject to interruption. Universal Precautions and remaining alert to the environment are critical to address the potential for violent behavior, exposure to disease, biohazards, noise, and contaminants. Must poses ability to work some weekends, evenings, and provide on call support to assigned team as required.
Mental Demands: The work assigned is diverse and involves addressing new and unusual circumstances. The work regularly involves a degree of unpredictability and disruption of planned tasks requiring a flexible time management approach. In addition, this position requires exercising sound judgment.
Cascadia is an Equal Opportunity employer. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at peopleandculture@cascadiahealth.org.
Benefits
We offer generous benefits for our full-time and part-time employees (20 hours + pro-rated) including:
  • Generous Paid Time Off Package Full-time employees earn 6 weeks of PTO in their first year!
  • Medical and Dental Coverage (begins 1st of the month following hire date)
  • VSP Vision Discount Plan
  • 403(B) Retirement Savings (Pre and post-tax plans with up to 8% employer matching contribution!)
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA) (Medical, dependent care, and transportation options)
  • Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, and Life Insurance
  • Paid Bereavement and Jury Duty Leave
  • Length of Service Award
  • Voluntary Life Insurance
  • Supplemental Insurance
  • Student loan forgiveness options

Wellness Benefits:
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Bike to Work Reimbursement
  • Discounted Fitness Memberships
  • Trauma Support Team

Starting Rate Range in USD ($)
$70,331.30 - $75,355.73

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