ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Forensic Chemist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

mkecounty

Forensic Chemist

Milwaukee, WI

$33.92 - $50.88/hr

Forensic Chemists are a key part to this goal. Under the direction of the Forensic Technical Director, the Forensic Chemist must be competent, experienced, and unbiased in providing reliable ...

mkecounty

Forensic Chemist

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$33.92 - $50.88/hr

Forensic Chemists are a key part to this goal. Under the direction of the Forensic Technical Director, the Forensic Chemist must be competent, experienced, and unbiased in providing reliable ...

CFSRE

Forensic Chemist Senior Scientist

Horsham, PA · On-site

$110 - $160/hr

Are you ready to dive into the dynamic world of forensics as a Forensic Chemist Senior Scientist at the Center for Forensic Science Research and Education (CFSRE)? This unique role is a blend of ...

SNA International

Forensic Drug Chemist

Decatur, GA · On-site

Description SNA International seeks a bright, collaborative Forensic Drug Chemist with a strong work ethic to join our team. SNA International's team works together in pursuit of the same cause ...

SNA International

Forensic Drug Chemist

Decatur, GA

A minimum of three(3) to five(5) years of recent work experience as a Forensic Drug Chemist working as a bench analyst within an ISO/IEC 17025 forensic laboratory is required. * Successful completion ...

DC Government

Forensic Scientist (Chemist)

Washington, DC · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

The position is responsible for conducting forensic chemistry analytical work, to include controlled dangerous substance analysis as well as surveillance testing. The work includes data analysis and ...

SNA International

Forensic Drug Chemist

Pearl, MS · On-site

Description SNA International seeks a bright, collaborative Forensic Drug Chemist with a strong work ethic to join our team. SNA International's team works together in pursuit of the same cause, to ...

SNA International

Forensic Drug Chemist

Pearl, MS · On-site

Minimum of three (3) years of recent work experience as a Forensic Drug Chemist working as a bench analyst within an ISO/IEC 17025 forensic laboratory is required. * Successful completion of a formal ...

Harris County

Trace Evidence Chemist

Houston, TX · On-site

$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 ...

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsScience JobsChemistry JobsChemist JobsForensic Chemist Jobs

Forensic Chemist information

See salary details

$29K

$68.2K

$95K

How much do forensic chemist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 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 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.

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 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 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 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.

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:

Who are the top companies hiring for Forensic Chemist jobs?

The top employers for 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,182 per year, or $32.8 per hour.

Forensic Chemist

mkecounty

Milwaukee, WI

$33.92 - $50.88/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Closing Date: August 26th, 2026, or upon receipt of the first 50 applicant submissions

 

Forensic Chemist

Medical Examiner’s Office

Hourly Range: $33.92 - $50.88

 

Job Summary:  The Milwaukee County Medical Examiner's Office is charged with investigating and determining the cause, circumstances and manner in each case of sudden, unexpected, or unusual death. The goal of the Toxicology Unit is to provide high quality timely analysis to assist the Medical Examiner’s Office in determination of cause and manner of death. Forensic Chemists are a key part to this goal. Under the direction of the Forensic Technical Director, the Forensic Chemist must be competent, experienced, and unbiased in providing reliable, reproducible, and defensible results which aid in investigations, charging decisions, and court proceedings.

Job Responsibilities: 

  • Responsible for the chemical data analysis which involves liquid/liquid and solid phase extractions of blood, urine, and tissue homogenates for drugs. Maintain records as well as prepare reports of findings and interpretation when necessary.
  • Maintain knowledge of the accreditation checklist and participate in quality initiatives and improvements. Assist lab preparation for accreditation inspection. Perform annual reviews of technical policies to provide input and propose updates/edits.
  • Operate, calibrate, and maintain complex laboratory equipment in the performance of qualitative and quantitative analyses, utilizing immunoassay, chromatography, and mass spectrometry for screening, confirmation, and quantification of chemicals in biological matrices.
  • Provide expert witness testimony to courts of law when requested regarding laboratory processes, final report, drug classes and effects. Maintain basic knowledge of the Organization of Scientific Area Committees for Forensic Science (OSAC/American Standards Board (ASB) and American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
  • Participate in department research activities including technology development, quality improvement, preparation and publication of findings. Interact with the toxicology community to share best practices as well as data findings important to public health and forensic toxicology trends.
  • Assist in training and education of the process, procedures, and methods utilized in forensic toxicology testing to pathology residents, post-doctoral toxicology fellows, medical students, and student interns affiliated with the office.
  • Perform all other duties as assigned.

 

Minimum Qualifications:  

  • Resident of Wisconsin
  • Current Wisconsin Driver's License and access to a reliable insured vehicle; both maintained throughout employment
  • Bachelor’s degree or higher in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Toxicology, or Pharmacology; may accept a degree in a closely related field such as forensic science.
  • At least one (1) year of experience working in a toxicology lab performing appropriate analytical tasks (e.g. completing extractions, operating instrumentation, and data analysis).
  • Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office Software, specifically Word and Excel
  • Hands-on experience with instruments used in Forensics such as Gas Chromatograph-Mass Spectrometers (GC-MS) and Liquid Chromatograph-Mass Spectrometers
  • Note:  Position requires a criminal background check; felony and some misdemeanor convictions would be a barrier to employment.

NOTE: This ORIGINAL APPLICATION is open to qualified residents of the State of Wisconsin at the time of application. Candidates need to submit a full account of their training and experience (i.e., by submitting an up-to-date resume or by fully completing the application) during the application process and may also be asked to take additional written or performance tests as part of the selection process.

APPLICANTS MUST POSSESS MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AT TIME OF FILING APPLICATION

Apply