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Forensic Biologist Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Forensic Toxicologist

Pontiac, MI ยท On-site

$86 - $115/hr

Sep 30, 2026 Forensic Toxicology Join our team in a highly specialized scientific role where your ... In this position, you'll perform complex toxicological testing on biological specimens to identify ...

In this position, you'll perform complex toxicological testing on biological specimens to identify ... SUPERVISION EXERCISED Collaborates with forensic pathologists, autopsy attendants, and clerical ...

Genetics Tutor

Ann Arbor, MI ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes probabilistic reasoning and connects genetics to genetic counseling, forensic science, evolutionary biology, and personalized medicine applications. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive ...

Genetics Tutor

Kalamazoo, MI ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes probabilistic reasoning and connects genetics to genetic counseling, forensic science, evolutionary biology, and personalized medicine applications. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive ...

Genetics Tutor

Detroit, MI ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes probabilistic reasoning and connects genetics to genetic counseling, forensic science, evolutionary biology, and personalized medicine applications. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive ...

... forensics, advanced material sciences and in the support of clinical studies, as well as having an ... Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, or other related degree concentration, or equivalent ...

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Showing results 1-20

Forensic Biologist information

See Michigan salary details

$32.2K

$77.9K

$120.3K

How much do forensic biologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic biologist in Michigan is $77,924.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,900.00 and $105,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a forensic biologist?

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.

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.

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 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.

Do forensic biologists make good money?

Forensic biologists typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced certifications and working in government labs can lead to higher salaries, and the job often requires skills in DNA analysis and laboratory techniques.

Is a forensic biologist a good job?

A forensic biologist is a specialized scientist who analyzes biological evidence from crime scenes, often working in laboratories or crime labs. The role requires strong attention to detail, knowledge of biology and DNA analysis, and typically involves a stable work schedule. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in criminal justice and scientific investigation, with job growth expected to be steady in forensic science fields.

What qualifications do you need to be a forensic biologist?

To become a forensic biologist, a bachelor's degree in biology, forensic science, or a related field is typically required, with many positions preferring or requiring a master's degree. Relevant skills include laboratory techniques, DNA analysis, and familiarity with forensic tools; certifications such as the American Board of Criminalistics can enhance job prospects.
Infographic showing various Forensic Biologist job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 8% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,924 per year, or $37.5 per hour.

Forensic Toxicologist

Soft Tox

Pontiac, MI โ€ข On-site

$86 - $115/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Salary: $85,818.00 - $114,981.00 Annually

Application Deadline: Sep 30, 2026

Forensic Toxicology

Join our team in a highly specialized scientific role where your expertise directly supports death investigations and the pursuit of accurate, evidence-based answers. In this position, youโ€™ll perform complex toxicological testing on biological specimens to identify and interpret the presence of drugs, poisons, and alcohol. Your work will provide critical scientific information to pathologists, death investigators, and law enforcement agencies and may play an important role in legal proceedings.

What Youโ€™ll Do
  • Perform high-complexity analytical testing on biological specimens to identify, quantify, and interpret drugs, poisons, alcohol, and other substances.
  • Analyze and interpret laboratory findings to provide accurate, scientifically supported results.
  • Provide critical toxicology data used in determining the cause and manner of death.
  • Collaborate with pathologists, death investigators, law enforcement, and other professionals throughout the investigative process.
  • Prepare and communicate scientific findings clearly and accurately.
  • Provide expert testimony regarding laboratory procedures, testing, and findings in legal proceedings.
  • Utilize current County and department-specific software to document results and complete assignments.
Why Youโ€™ll Love It
  • Meaningful Work: Your scientific expertise directly contributes to death investigations and helps provide answers to families, investigators, and the community.
  • Specialized Expertise: Apply advanced analytical and toxicological skills to complex, real-world cases.
  • Collaborative Environment: Work alongside pathologists, investigators, law enforcement professionals, and other scientific experts.
  • Professional Impact: Serve as a trusted scientific resource and have the opportunity to provide expert testimony in legal proceedings.
  • Public Service: Build your career while contributing to work that supports public safety and the integrity of the investigative process.
Experience, Training, Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required Minimum Qualifications
  • 1. a. Possess a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in toxicology, pharmacology, biochemistry, analytical chemistry, biology, forensic science or closely related field of study.
  • 1. b. Have had two (2) years of full-time analytical experience in forensic toxicology;
  • OR
  • 2. a. Possess a Masterโ€™s degree from an accredited college or university in toxicology, pharmacology, biochemistry, analytical chemistry, biology, forensic science or a closely related field of study.
  • 2. b. Have had at least one (1) year of full-time analytical experience in forensic toxicology, testing toxic agents;
  • OR
  • 3. Possess a Ph.D. from an accredited college or university in toxicology, pharmacology, biochemistry, analytical chemistry, biology, forensic science or a closely related field of study.
Special Requirements
  • Submit to annual tuberculin skin test or chest X-ray, at County expense.
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