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Forensic Chemist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Maine

Forensic Seized Drug Chemist

Augusta, ME

$56K - $79K/yr

The Health and Environmental Testing Laboratory is seeking a Forensic Seized Drug Chemist III to test and analyze controlled substances seized by law enforcement agencies. Using sophisticated ...

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Harris County

Trace Evidence Chemist

Houston, TX

$70K - $74K/yr

Mission The Mission of the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences is to provide medical ... Trace Evidence Chemist Overview: The Trace Evidence Chemist receives, inventories, processes ...

New

Harris County

Trace Evidence Chemist

Houston, TX

$70K - $74K/yr

Mission The Mission of the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences is to provide medical ... Trace Evidence Chemist Overview: The Trace Evidence Chemist receives, inventories, processes ...

New

Harris County, TX

Trace Evidence Chemist

Houston, TX · On-site

$70K - $74K/yr

Institute of Forensic Sciences Division: Trace Evidence Opening Date: 07/08/2026 Closing Date: 9/1 ... Trace Evidence Chemist Overview : The Trace Evidence Chemist receives, inventories, processes ...

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WSU -

Instructor of Chemistry

Dayton, OH

D. or ABD in analytical chemistry, forensic chemistry, or related field * At least a one-year teaching experience in post-secondary level * Teaching, research, or other related positions in ...

Minnesota Department of Public Safety

Be Seen First

Drug Chemistry Technical Leader / Forensic Scientist 3 - Job ID 94851

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$38.55 - $57.35/hr

Job Summary The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) is seeking an experienced candidate to serve as a Forensic Scientist 3 (Drug Chemistry Technical Leader) for its new Southern Regional ...

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All JobsForensic Chemist Jobs

Forensic Chemist information

See salary details

$29K

$68.2K

$95K

How much do forensic chemist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic chemist in the United States is $68,182.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $78,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do you do as a forensic chemist?

A forensic chemist analyzes physical evidence from crime scenes, such as drugs, chemicals, and biological samples, to identify substances and support criminal investigations. They use laboratory techniques like chromatography and spectroscopy, often working in labs with strict safety protocols and requiring relevant certifications. Their work helps provide objective, scientific evidence for law enforcement agencies.

What are some common challenges a Forensic Chemist faces when analyzing evidence?

Forensic Chemists often encounter challenges such as working with limited or degraded samples, which require careful handling and advanced analytical techniques to obtain reliable results. Maintaining the integrity of evidence and avoiding contamination are critical, as even minor errors can compromise a case. Additionally, Forensic Chemists must stay up-to-date with evolving technologies and adhere to strict legal and procedural standards, often collaborating closely with law enforcement and legal teams to ensure their findings are clearly understood and admissible in court.

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

To thrive as a Forensic Chemist, you need a solid background in chemistry, laboratory techniques, and evidence analysis, typically supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in chemistry or a related science. Familiarity with analytical instruments like GC-MS, FTIR, and proficiency in laboratory information management systems (LIMS) are commonly required, along with relevant certifications such as those from the American Board of Criminalistics. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and strong written and verbal communication skills are essential soft skills for accurate reporting and courtroom testimony. These competencies ensure scientific integrity, reliable results, and the clear communication necessary for the legal process.

What are 5 potential jobs for forensic science?

Forensic science graduates and forensic chemists can pursue various roles including crime scene investigator, forensic laboratory analyst, forensic toxicologist, forensic DNA analyst, and forensic toxicology technician. These positions typically involve analyzing physical evidence, using laboratory equipment, and working in crime labs or law enforcement agencies.

What is the difference between Forensic Chemist vs Forensic Toxicologist?

AspectForensic ChemistForensic Toxicologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field; certification often preferredDegree in Toxicology, Pharmacology, or related; certification like Diplomate of the American Board of Forensic Toxicology (DABFT)
Work EnvironmentCrime labs, law enforcement agencies, government labsCrime labs, hospitals, law enforcement, government agencies
Industry UsageAnalyzing chemical substances, drugs, and unknown materialsDetecting and analyzing toxins, drugs, poisons in biological samples

While both roles work within forensic science and often in similar environments, forensic chemists focus on chemical analysis of substances, whereas forensic toxicologists specialize in detecting toxins and drugs in biological samples. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What is the highest paid job in forensics?

The highest paid roles in forensics are often forensic laboratory directors or senior forensic scientists, who oversee investigations and manage labs. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and certifications, and can earn six-figure salaries depending on the employer and location.

Is it hard to get a job as a forensic chemist?

Securing a job as a forensic chemist can be competitive due to specialized skills required, such as knowledge of analytical techniques and laboratory equipment. Candidates typically need a relevant degree in chemistry or forensic science, along with experience or certifications, which can influence job availability and ease of entry.

What does a forensic chemist do?

A forensic chemist analyzes physical evidence collected from crime scenes to help solve criminal cases. They use scientific techniques to identify and quantify substances such as drugs, explosives, toxins, and other chemical materials. Their findings are often used in court to support investigations and prosecutions. Forensic chemists must follow strict procedures to ensure the integrity of their results, and they often collaborate with law enforcement and legal professionals.

What Is a Forensic Chemist?

A forensic chemist usually assists medical examiners with post-mortem toxicology and evidence, but forensic roles can extend beyond investigations into causes of death. Responsibilities include processing information and chemicals, analyzing toxicology reports, performing chemical tests on specimens, and working with a team of experts to draw conclusions based on the data. Duties can also consist of managing computer programs and processes, working with chemicals and lab tools, following laboratory safety regulations, and applying forensic science to solve mysteries. Forensic science uses science, chemistry, and minute details to draw conclusions and decipher clues.

More about Forensic Chemist jobs
What cities are hiring for Forensic Chemist jobs? Cities with the most Forensic Chemist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Chemist jobs? The most popular types of Forensic Chemist jobs are:
What states have the most Forensic Chemist jobs? States with the most job openings for Forensic Chemist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Chemist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Chemist jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Forensic Chemist jobs? For Forensic Chemist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Forensic Chemist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Chemist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $68,182 per year, or $32.8 per hour.
Forensic Chemist (Explosive)

Forensic Chemist (Explosive)

AMERICAN SYSTEMS

Indian Head, MD

$100K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Are you a Forensic Chemist looking for an exciting opportunity? We are looking for a Forensic Chemist who specializes in explosives to join our team and provide mission-essential support for our nation's War Fighters. 

AMERICAN SYSTEMS is an employee-owned federal government contractor supporting national priority programs through our strategic solutions in the areas of Information Technology, Test & Evaluation, Program Mission Support, Engineering & Analysis, and Training.


  • Perform chemical analysis of recovered materials to detect and identify compounds present to include: explosives, homemade explosive pre-cursors, solvents, acids, bases, drugs, and other hazardous materials.
  • Differentiate trace explosive signatures from contamination and background.
  • Provide information to assist in profiling and signature analysis.
  • Perform appropriate presumptive and confirmatory analyses utilizing the following: colorimetric tests, thin layer chromatography (TLC), infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and other instrumentation or techniques as available.
  • Evaluate samples to determine appropriate sample preparation techniques: solvent extraction/filtration, liquid-liquid extraction, solid phase extraction, solid phase micro-extraction, headspace extraction. 
  • Understand, and strive to implement, data quality and reporting guidelines established within the professional forensic community, Properly utilize reference standards (when available) to support the highest degree of confidence available in reported results.
  • Perform instrument troubleshooting and maintenance.
  • Develop and validate analytical techniques to accommodate emerging chemical analysis requirements.
  • Interact and collaborate with other group/team members and other forensic staff to ensure a high quality and accurate product.

AMS1

#TXP & AXC-GO


  • Current DOD Secret security clearance with the ability to obtain a Top Secret security clearance.
  • Ten (10) years of experience working in an accredited laboratory with explosive compounds.
  • Degree from an accredited college or university in physical or life sciences with a minimum of 24 semester hours of chemistry coursework.
  • Proficient in use of excel/spreadsheets and other data bases.
  • Ability to explain technical subject matter to non-technical audience.
  • Completion of formalized training program and subsequent performance as certified examiner within drug chemistry, trace analysis, explosives chemistry or related discipline.
  • Experience working within a CEXC, WTI, C-IED Team, DTK Lab, JEFF, TEDAC facility, other NGIC, DIA or ATF Lab; interagency or state/local law enforcement environment is preferred but not required.

AMERICAN SYSTEMS is committed to pay transparency for our applicants and employee-owners. The salary range for this position is USD $100,000.00/Yr. - USD $120,000/Yr. Actual compensation will be determined based on several factors permitted by law. AMERICAN SYSTEMS provides for the welfare of its employees and their dependents through a comprehensive benefits program by offering healthcare benefits, paid leave, retirement plans, insurance programs, and education and training assistance.
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