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Forensic Biologist Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Forensic Biologist information

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$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.

Foster Care Specialist

Hands Across the Water

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

$54K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and this position is open until filled.
Join a dynamic, fast-paced, inclusive and supportive workplace focused on high quality services to children and families in our community.
Salary: $54,080 per year
Supportive Workplace
Excellent Benefits
  • Among the highest compensation of any agency in the area
  • All staff paid hourly/overtime work receives overtime pay
  • Training hours paid
  • Additional $40/day for on-call duties
  • Flexible workplace, hybrid remote/in-office duties after successful orientation period
  • Comprehensive medical/vision; employee pays 20% of the premium plus additional for spouse/dependents
  • Dental benefits with employer contribution
  • 11 paid holidays plus an extra day for your birthday and a floating holiday
  • 14 - 26 paid days off, depending on length of service
  • Mileage reimbursed at .70 cents
  • Monthly phone stipend of $40
  • 403(b) retirement plan with matching
  • Pay increases annually
  • Annual bonuses to staff as finances allow
  • Short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance premiums paid in full by employer
  • Employer paid employee assistance program - providing comprehensive support for employees' mental health and well-being, access to counseling, and resources to help navigate personal and work-related challenges

Your Development
• Licensure supervision for social workers
• Opportunities for growth and professional development,
including between $500 - $1,000 reimbursement for
training/CEU's/tuition costs related to position
Our Values
• Commitment to staff and clients of all backgrounds and identities
• Emphasis on positive workplace culture and teamwork
• Vocal advocates for social and political change benefiting children and families
• Recognized since 2011 by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation's All Children, All Families program for supporting LGBTQ+ youth and families
Job Details
Hands Across The Water is a licensed, non-profit child placing agency. Our Foster Care Program provides a temporary home for children until a more permanent placement can be secured. The primary responsibilities of the Foster Care Specialist position is to provide services to ensure that biological parents and foster parents are given the tools and resources to meet the educational, physical and emotional needs of the child. Case management services are goal-oriented and time-limited. The goals are to ensure the safety and well-being of the child while developing and monitoring a service plan for the child's parent(s), reporting and making recommendations to the court regarding a permanency plan for each child.
This position requires significant travel including in-office, in-home, and outside of office work, often during non-traditional hours such as evenings and weekends, depending on case needs. The appropriate candidate will work with other dedicated professionals in a team atmosphere and have the ability to work independently. Attention to detail, strong organization skills, and professional manner are all important characteristics for the right candidate. This is full-time position. Schedules need to be flexible to accommodate duties, children, families, and court, including a 9 week-long preliminary training. This is not a 9-5 job and requires periodic on-call duties. This position is based in our Washtenaw office but there will be work in multiple counties including Wayne, Monroe, Livingston and Lenawee counties.
Hands Across The Water does not discriminate against an employee or applicant for employment with respect to hire, tenure, terms, conditions, or privileges of employment, or a matter directly or indirectly related to employment, because of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, height, weight, marital status, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, political beliefs or mental or physical disability.
Requirements
Minimum degree REQUIRED is a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work, Sociology, Psychology, Criminal Justice, Child Development, Human Services, Family Studies, Education, Gerontology, Forensic Psychology, Social Science or related field.
The Foster Care Specialist candidate should demonstrate a commitment to the safety and well-being of children and families with the primary goal of ensuring that families have the tools and services needed to achieve reunification. Knowledge of available community resource for, and comfort working with, individuals facing challenges associated with substance abuse, mental health, cognitive/developmental disabilities, domestic violence, poverty, homelessness and trauma is required.
Experience in a professional setting with youth and families strongly preferred. Strong written and oral communication skills, professionalism, organizational skills and comfort with computer technology/database entry is required.
Appropriate candidate for this position must have the ability to handle stress well, have the ability to be an active listener with good clinical observation and evaluation skills, be flexible and able to handle change, be a team player yet able to work independently, able to multi-task, and maintain case responsibility and follow-through with multiple competing demands.
Candidate may not have been convicted of child abuse or neglect, a felony involving harm or threatened harm to an individual within the 10 years immediately preceding the date of hire, or be listed on the central registry as a perpetrator of child abuse or child neglect. The Foster Care Specialist shall possess a valid Driver's License, positive driving record and proof of automobile insurance.
Experience in foster care case management highly desirable, but not required. Candidate with CWTI foster care training to receive a signing bonus. Please submit resume WITH cover letter detailing why you are interested in this position.
Salary Description
$54,080 starting salary