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Forensic Chemist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Soft Tox

Forensic Toxicologist

Hoover, AL · On-site

$40K - $88K/yr

Senior Forensic Scientist Qualifications & About the Roles If you are a recent graduate (or will be graduating soon) with a background in forensic science, toxicology, chemistry, biology, or a ...

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Forensic Chemist information

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$29K

$68.2K

$95K

How much do forensic chemist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 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.

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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, 82% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,182 per year, or $32.8 per hour.

Toxicologist - Forensic Expert

Robson Forensic

Las Vegas, NV • Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

You are a highly driven Toxicologist with 5+ years of experience working with alcohol, prescription/illicit drugs, and toxicants. You possess a deep understanding of drug, environmental, occupational, chemical, and/or biological exposures.

You are already an expert. Robson Forensic will train you to be a forensic expert. 

As a Toxicology Forensic Expert, you will:

  • Investigate cases involving toxicology.
  • Analyze complex scenarios, applying your comprehensive knowledge of standards and practices.
  • Write clear, scientifically sound reports.
  • Provide expert testimony.

You will delve into the "why" behind incidents, critically assessing exposure, adverse effects, and causation. This role offers you a chance to:

  • Use your cumulative training, experience, and critical thinking skills.
  • Collaborate with highly respected experts.
  • Continuously learn and grow as an expert in your field.
  • Make a tangible difference in litigation.


Locations: Las Vegas, NV & Dallas/Ft. Worth/Irving, TX area (hybrid)


Requirements

  • Education: Ph.D. in toxicology with broad training and expertise in a relevant discipline (toxicology, chemistry, biology, microbiology, physiology, pathology, etc.). Postdoctoral training & research in toxicology is preferred.
  • Certification: Board certification (preferred) in toxicology, such as ABFT or DABT.
  • Membership: Member of an organization with a toxicology focus (ex. SOFT or SOT).
  • Experience: 5+ years of experienceworking in the field of toxicology; interpretive, mechanistic-oriented human clinical research, and/or animal research is preferred.
    • If your past work experience is in industry or government, several broad-based experiences are highly desirable including work experience in the pharmaceutical industry, a government entity, military, and/or a forensic toxicology laboratory with emphasis on interpretation of scientific results.
    • If your past work experience is as an assistant, associate, or full professor in an academic institution, active involvement in a toxicology research program, evidence of competitive and renewable research funding, commensurate teaching and committee responsibilities.
  • Work Style: Roughly 20% travel for initial training phase; the remainder is focused on analysis and report drafting, working independently and as part of a collaborative team.
  • Prior forensic experience is not required. We seek professionals eager to apply their deep toxicology knowledge to a challenging new domain.


About Us

Robson Forensic is a national leader in expert witness consulting, providing technical expertise across many fields within engineering, architecture, science, and a broad range of specialty disciplines.

Employees at Robson Forensic work alongside highly respected experts from both industry and academia. Our forensic experts are engaged in meaningful casework that is consequential to industry and society. Robson Forensic provides a unique working dynamic that blends collaboration and autonomy.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.


How to Apply

If this opportunity meets your requirements for a challenging and rewarding career, and you meet our minimum requirements, please send your resume outlining your professional background and experience.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those under consideration will be contacted.

#LI-Hybrid