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Forensic Chemist Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Forensic Chemist information

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$30.3K

$71.1K

$99.1K

How much do forensic chemist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic chemist in Riverside, CA is $71,132.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,600.00 and $81,900.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Forensic Chemist jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Forensic Chemist jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Forensic Chemist jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Forensic Chemist job openings:

Infographic showing various Forensic Chemist job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,132 per year, or $34.2 per hour.

Laboratory Technician I - GC/GCMS SVOA (Multiple Shifts) Eurofins Environment Testing Southwest -...

Eurofins Scientific

Tustin, CA • On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Eurofins rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 181 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

64th of 121 rated laboratories


Job description

Company Description

Eurofins Scientific is a network of independent companies providing a unique range of analytical testing services to clients across multiple industries, to make life and our environment safer, healthier and more sustainable. From the food you eat, to the water you drink, to the medicines you rely on, Eurofins laboratories work to ensure the products they supply are safe, their ingredients are authentic, and labelling is accurate.


Eurofins is dedicated to delivering testing services that contribute to the health and safety of society and the planet, and to its corporate responsibility to protect the environment and ensure diversity, equity, and inclusion across the entire network of Eurofins companies.


With over 50 laboratories and more than 40 service centers nationwide, Eurofins Environment Testing provides full-service environmental analysis across all 50 states. Our network supports public and private clients-including DoD, DOE, and municipalities-through robust logistics and continuous investment in people, technology, and infrastructure.


We offer comprehensive testing for air, water, soil, sediment, tissue, and waste, covering a wide range of analytes including PFAS, metals, VOCs/SVOCs, dioxins/furans, radiochemicals, and more.

Job Description

Eurofins Environment Testing is seeking a Laboratory Technician I to support our GC and GCMS analytical departments. This role is responsible for sample preparation, instrument loading, laboratory organization, inventory management, quality assurance activities, and routine maintenance support. The successful candidate will help ensure efficient laboratory operations, timely sample analysis, and compliance with quality and safety standards.

Available Shifts

Monday - Friday, 2:00 PM - 11:00 PM

Tuesday - Saturday, 1:00pm -10:00pm

Monday - Friday, 11:00am - 8:00pm

*Overtime may be required based on business needs and sample volume.

Key Responsibilities

  • Prepare laboratory extracts and samples for GC/GCMS analysis, including dilutions, and addition of standards and reagents in accordance with laboratory SOPs.
  • Load samples onto analytical instruments and support routine analytical operations.
  • Assist with preventive maintenance and upkeep of GC and GCMS instrumentation, including cleaning and replacement of consumable parts.
  • Maintain active communication with supervisor, extraction team, analytical team and project managers about job status, rush ETA, sample matrix issues, holding time etc.
  • Document required sample preparation details and observations
  • Maintain laboratory cleanliness, organization, and operational readiness.
  • Wash and maintain laboratory glassware, equipment, and supplies.
  • Perform quality control activities, including balance calibration, pipette verification, and log book documentation.
  • Monitor and maintain inventory of laboratory standards, consumables, and instrument supplies.
  • Support laboratory safety programs and conduct routine safety inspections.
  • Collaborate with laboratory staff to meet turnaround times and project priorities.
  • Perform daily duties while adhering to the environmental health and safety policies.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned.
  • Assist other areas of laboratory as needed.
Qualifications

Minimum qualifications

  • High School Diploma or equivalent required.
  • Coursework or experience in chemistry, environmental science, biology, or a related field preferred.
  • Prior laboratory experience is helpful but not required.
  • Authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship.
  • Professional proficiency in English (reading, writing, and speaking).

The ideal candidate would possess

  • Previous experience in a fast paced, production. food service or retail type environment preferred
  • Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to follow written procedures.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to learn new techniques, perform multiple tasks simultaneously, keep accurate records, follow instructions, and comply with company policies.
  • Basic mathematical, computer proficiency, and effective communication skills.
  • Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 30 pounds.
  • Ability to work overtime as needed.
Additional Information

The compensation for this position is $18.00 - $22.00 per hour commensurate with experience.

Position is full-time, non-exempt from overtime pay with flexibility for overtime and weekend coverage as needed.

The candidate must be able to work Monday - Friday, 9:00AM - 6:00PM for the initial training and then transition to one of the following shifts:

  • Monday - Friday, 2:00 PM - 11:00 PM
  • Tuesday - Saturday, 1:00pm -10:00pm
  • Monday - Friday, 11:00am - 8:00pm

Eurofins Environment Testing (USA) provides a compensation range for informational purposes, the actual base compensation may vary based upon, but not limited to, relevant experience and skill set, base compensation of internal peers, business sector, and geographic location.

What we Offer:

  • Excellent full-time benefits including comprehensive medical coverage, dental, and vision options
  • Life and disability insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid vacation and holidays

We support your development! Do you feel you don't match 100% of the requirements? Don't hesitate to apply anyway! Eurofins companies are committed to supporting your career development.

We embrace diversity! Eurofins network of companies believe in strength and innovation through diversity, being an Equal Opportunity Employer. We prohibit discrimination against employees or applications based on gender identity and/or expression, race, nationality, age, religion, sexual orientation, disability, and everything else that makes employees of Eurofins companies unique.

Sustainability matters to us! At Eurofins, we believe sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. Guided by our vision to be the Global Leader in "Testing for Life," our mission to contribute to a healthier and safer world, and our core values, we are building a strong foundation for Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives. Eurofins' commitment to sustainability begins within our own companies through a shared responsibility to people and the planet. With climate change posing an imminent threat, Eurofins and its many companies recognize their duty to proactively reduce or offset the environmental impact of essential operations while also helping our clients do the same-serving as a true ESG Enabler.

Find out more in our career page: https://careers.eurofins.com/ 

Company description: Eurofins Scientific is an international life sciences company, providing a unique range of analytical testing services to clients across multiple industries, to make life and our environment safer, healthier and more sustainable. From the food you eat, to the water you drink, to the medicines you rely on, Eurofins laboratories work with the biggest companies in the world to ensure the products they supply are safe, their ingredients are authentic and labelling is accurate. The Eurofins network of companies is the global leader in food, environment, pharmaceutical and cosmetic product testing and in discovery pharmacology, forensics, advanced material sciences and agroscience contract research services. It is one of the market leaders in certain testing and laboratory services for genomics, discovery pharmacology, forensics, advanced material sciences and in the support of clinical studies, as well as having an emerging global presence in Contract Development and Manufacturing Organisations. It also has a rapidly developing presence in highly specialised and molecular clinical diagnostic testing and in-vitro diagnostic products.

In over 35 years, Eurofins has grown from one laboratory in Nantes, France to 61,000 staff across a decentralised and entrepreneurial network of ca. 900 laboratories in 61 countries. Eurofins companies offer a portfolio of over 200,000 analytical methods to evaluate the safety, identity, composition, authenticity, origin, traceability and purity of biological substances and products.

In 2025, Eurofins generated total revenues of EUR 7.296 billion, and has been among the best performing stocks in Europe over the past 20 years.

Eurofins USA Environment Testing is a Disabled and Veteran Equal Employment Opportunity employer.


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About Eurofins

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Scientific research and development services, biotechnology research and development and environmental consulting services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Leacock, PA, US