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$37K

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$138K

How much do forensic biologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic biologist in the United States is $89,403.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,500.00 and $121,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Forensic Biologist, you need a strong background in biology, chemistry, and laboratory analysis, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or advanced degree. Familiarity with DNA analysis techniques, laboratory information management systems (LIMS), and certifications such as those from the American Board of Criminalistics are commonly required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication are essential soft skills for accurately analyzing evidence and presenting findings. These competencies ensure the integrity of forensic investigations and support the accurate delivery of evidence in legal contexts.

How much money do forensic biologists make?

Forensic biologists typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $70,000, with salaries varying based on experience, education, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with advanced certifications or in supervisory roles can earn over $80,000 annually.

Is a forensic scientist a 9-5 job?

Forensic biologists often work standard daytime hours, but their schedules can vary depending on case deadlines, lab needs, or crime scene investigations, which may require evening or weekend work. Flexibility and readiness to work outside typical hours are common in the field due to the nature of criminal investigations and evidence processing.

What is the difference between Forensic Biologist vs Forensic Scientist?

AspectForensic BiologistForensic Scientist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Biology, Microbiology, or related fields; certifications varyVaries; often includes degrees in biology, chemistry, or forensic science; certifications may be required
Work EnvironmentCrime labs, crime scenes, research facilitiesCrime labs, law enforcement agencies, research institutions
Industry UsagePrimarily in biological analysis, DNA testing, and specimen analysisBroader scope including chemical analysis, ballistics, and toxicology

While both roles work within forensic science, forensic biologists focus on biological evidence like DNA, whereas forensic scientists may handle a wider range of evidence types. The roles often overlap, but forensic biologists specialize in biological analysis and DNA testing within crime investigations.

What can I do with a Forensic Biology degree?

A forensic biologist can work in crime laboratories analyzing biological evidence such as blood, hair, and DNA to assist in criminal investigations. They often use tools like PCR and electrophoresis and may work for law enforcement agencies, crime labs, or research institutions. Certification and knowledge of legal procedures are also important for career advancement.

What careers fall under forensic science?

Forensic science encompasses careers such as forensic biologists, forensic chemists, crime scene investigators, forensic toxicologists, and fingerprint analysts. These professionals analyze physical evidence, often using laboratory tools and techniques, to assist criminal investigations and legal proceedings.

What are some common challenges faced by forensic biologists during evidence analysis?

Forensic biologists often encounter challenges such as working with degraded, limited, or contaminated biological samples, which can affect the accuracy of results. They must adhere to strict chain-of-custody protocols and maintain meticulous documentation to ensure evidence integrity. Additionally, balancing the need for thorough analysis with tight case deadlines and collaborating closely with law enforcement, attorneys, and other forensic specialists requires strong communication and organizational skills.

What are forensic biologists?

Forensic biologists are scientists who apply biological principles and techniques to help solve crimes. They analyze biological evidence such as blood, hair, saliva, and other bodily fluids to identify victims or suspects and to reconstruct events related to criminal cases. Their work often involves DNA analysis, microscopic examination, and working closely with law enforcement agencies. Forensic biologists may also testify in court as expert witnesses and contribute to criminal investigations by providing scientific insights.
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Forensic Biologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Biologist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 80% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,403 per year, or $43 per hour.
Forensic Biologist - Direct Hire (Open Continuous Announcement)

Forensic Biologist - Direct Hire (Open Continuous Announcement)

Department of Justice

Wichita, KS • On-site

$74K/yr

Other

Posted 20 hours ago

Job description

This position is located under the Office of Science and Technology, Forensic Sciences Division, Laboratory Services Branch, Forensic Crime Gun Intelligence Laboratory in Wichita, Kansas. Laboratory work encompasses a broad range of responsibilities critical to ATF's mission of combatting violent crime.
This is an open continuous announcement, open until July 10, 2026. Qualified applicants will be considered and referred as vacancies become available.Qualifications:To qualify for the position of Forensic Biologist, at GS-0401-11, you must meet the basic qualification requirements listed below by the closing date of the announcement.

Basic Requirements

A. Degree: biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position.

OR
B. Combination of education and experience -- Courses equivalent to a major, as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.

AND
To qualify for this position at the GS-11 grade level, candidates must also have at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-09) by the closing date of this announcement.

Specialized experience is demonstrated experience, which has equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills and abilities to perform successfully the duties of this position. Experience must be in the normal line of progression or must be related to the work of the position advertised and must be reflected in resume.
Specialized experience must include all of:

  • Examining a wide variety of evidence from criminal investigations for the presence of biological material; AND
  • Analyzing, interpreting, and applying statistical calculations to the results of forensic DNA examinations to draw conclusions about the evidence; AND
  • Preparing laboratory reports detailing the conclusions and comparisons of forensic DNA examinations performed; AND
  • Formal training or experience providing court testimony as an expert witness based on laboratory examinations of biological evidence.
-OR-
Successful completion of a Ph.D. or an equivalent doctoral degree, or successful completion of at least 3 full academic years of progressively higher-level graduate education toward either a Ph.D. or an equivalent doctoral degree. Degree must have included a major field of study or specific course requirements generally required to successfully perform the duties of the position. You must include transcripts.
-OR-
Successful completion of a combination of education and experience as described above. You must include your resume with hours worked per week annotated, as well as transcripts.
Experience as a qualified forensic DNA examiner in an accredited crime laboratory is preferred.
Your resume must support your responses to the application questionnaire and the qualification requirements. Failure to do so may result in an ineligible rating.See the Required Documents section for important notes about what must be included in your resume.Education:Education must be reviewed and certified by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, in order for it to be creditable towards your qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from accredited institutions.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in a conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying. For special instructions pertaining to foreign education and a list of organizations that can evaluate foreign education, see the Department of Education website. If you are qualifying on foreign education, you MUST submit proof of creditability of education as evaluated by a credentialing agency. Transcripts must be uploaded with your application to verify education. All documentation must be in English or include an English translation.Employment Type: OTHER

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