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Forensic Chemistry Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Maine

Forensic Seized Drug Unit Supervisor

Augusta, ME

$68K - $96K/yr

Department ofHealth and Human Services (DHHS) Chemist III Opening Date:May 28, 2026 Closing Date ... The Maine CDC Health and Environmental Testing Laboratory (HETL) Forensic Chemistry Section (FCS ...

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Forensic Chemistry information

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$29K

$68.2K

$95K

How much do forensic chemistry jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic chemistry 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 forensic chemistry?

Forensic chemistry is a branch of chemistry focused on the analysis of physical evidence collected from crime scenes. Forensic chemists use scientific techniques to identify and quantify substances such as drugs, explosives, toxins, and other materials to assist in criminal investigations. Their work helps law enforcement agencies determine what substances are present, how they might have been used, and sometimes the source of those substances. Forensic chemists often testify in court about their findings, playing a key role in the justice system.

What Are the Qualifications to Get a Job in Forensic Chemistry?

The primary qualifications for a job in the forensic chemistry field are a bachelor's degree and several years of experience. Employers often prefer an advanced degree or experience in any forensic or law enforcement position. Many forensic chemistry jobs are with the government or companies that provide services to the government, so there may be additional requirements beyond those described here. For example, depending on the role, you may need to obtain a federal security clearance. Fulfilling the duties and responsibilities of a forensic chemistry job requires analytical skills, communication skills, and proficiency with a variety of chemical analysis tools. Experience is precious in this field, so the more time you spend working in chemistry, the more likely you are to stand out from other applicants.

What are some common challenges faced by forensic chemists when analyzing evidence in criminal cases?

Forensic chemists often encounter challenges such as working with very small or degraded samples, ensuring the integrity of evidence throughout the analysis process, and maintaining strict chain-of-custody procedures. They must also stay updated on evolving analytical techniques and adhere to rigorous quality control standards to ensure their findings are legally admissible. Additionally, forensic chemists frequently collaborate with law enforcement and legal professionals, requiring strong communication skills to translate technical results into understandable reports and courtroom testimony.

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 analytical chemistry, laboratory techniques, and a degree in chemistry or forensic science. Familiarity with instruments such as GC-MS, HPLC, FTIR, and relevant laboratory information management systems is crucial. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and strong written and verbal communication skills help forensic chemists effectively analyze evidence and present findings. These competencies ensure the accuracy, reliability, and clarity of forensic analyses, which are vital for supporting investigations and legal proceedings.
More about Forensic Chemistry jobs
What cities are hiring for Forensic Chemistry jobs? Cities with the most Forensic Chemistry job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Chemistry jobs? The most popular types of Forensic Chemistry jobs are:
What states have the most Forensic Chemistry jobs? States with the most job openings for Forensic Chemistry jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Chemistry jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Chemistry jobs are:
Forensic Chemistry jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Chemistry job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,182 per year, or $32.8 per hour.
Lecturers in Chemistry and Forensic Chemistry (F0851A and F1103A Non-Tenured Track)

Lecturers in Chemistry and Forensic Chemistry (F0851A and F1103A Non-Tenured Track)

Old Dominion University

Norfolk, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Old Dominion University rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

284th of 535 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Details
Posting Details
Job Title
Lecturers in Chemistry and Forensic Chemistry (F0851A and F1103A Non-Tenured Track)
Department
CHEMISTRY & BIOCHEMISTRY
Position Number
F0851A and F1103A
Job Description
The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Old Dominion University invites applicants for two lecturer positions to begin in Fall 2026. These are 10-month appointments, within the career line track which does not include the possibility of tenure but otherwise parallels the tenure track with various ranks (lecturer, senior lecturer, and master lecturer).
For the Lecturer in Chemistry and Biochemistry (F0851A), responsibilities include teaching lecture and laboratory courses in introductory chemistry and general chemistry, upper-level courses within the candidate's specialty, supervision of recitation and laboratory teaching assistants, participation in curriculum development, and service to the department, college and university. Candidates should also be able to maintain, develop, and coordinate introductory and general chemistry labs, as well as lab courses within their discipline.
For the Lecturer in Forensic Chemistry (F1103A), responsibilities include teaching and developing both lecture and laboratory courses in introductory forensic science, forensic biochemistry and/or chemistry, and crime scene investigation. The successful applicant will also participate in curriculum development for a FEPAC certified Forensic Chemistry degree, as well as service to the department, college and university.
Position Type
FullTime
Type of Recruitment
General Public
Type of Recruitment
General Public
Minimum required education and/or special licenses, registrations, trainings, or certifications
Minimum required level and type of experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities
For the Lecturer in Chemistry and Biochemistry (F0851A):
  1. An M.S. in chemistry, biochemistry, or closely related field from an accredited institution.
  2. Demonstrated ability to teach chemistry lecture and lab courses at the undergraduate level in an US institution.

For the Lecturer in Forensic Chemistry (F1103A):
  1. A M.S. in forensic science, chemistry, or biochemistry, from an accredited institution and 3 years of professional experience in the field of forensic science. or a Ph.D. in forensic science, forensic chemistry, or closely related field from an accredited institution.
  2. Demonstrated ability to teach introductory forensic science lecture and/or lab courses at the undergraduate level at a US institution.

Preferred Qualifications
  • For the Lecturer in Chemistry and Biochemistry (F0851A):
    1. A Ph.D. in chemistry, biochemistry, forensic chemistry, or closely related field from an accredited institution
    2. Demonstrated ability as instructor of record to teach chemistry lecture and lab courses at the undergraduate level in an US institution.
    3. Experience teaching and managing courses with formal laboratory components
    4. Experience managing Teaching Assistants
    5. Experience with use of advanced technology in the classroom and, canvas or other LMS platforms.
  • For the Lecturer in Forensic Chemistry (F1103A):
    1. Demonstrated ability to teach chemistry lecture and lab courses at the undergraduate level at a US institution.
    2. Experience in teaching and managing courses with formal laboratory components.
    3. Experience with use of advanced technology in the classroom and canvas or other LMS platforms.
    4. Involvement in forensic chemistry curriculum development and FEPAC certification.

Conditions of Employment
Location
Norfolk, VA
Job Open Date
05/06/2025
Application Review Date
12/15/2025
Open Until Filled
Yes
Application Instructions
To be considered for the position, please apply online at https://jobs.odu.edu/postings/23166
with,
  1. Letter of application addressing the qualifications.
  2. Curriculum vitae.
  3. Teaching philosophy.
  4. Unofficial transcripts.
  5. Contact information of three references.

Optional uploads: Applicants are encouraged to upload up to a total of three documents or a total of 10 pages from their recent course syllabi or teaching evaluations, or other documents generated by them and used for classroom instruction.
References will be contacted upon submitting your application, to submit a recommendation letter through emailing the Hiring Manager Dr. Craig Bayse, cbayse@odu.edu.
Review of the applications for this position will begin on December 15, 2025, and will continue until the position is filled.
Telework Friendly
No
Reasonable Accommodation Request
If you are an individual with a disability and require reasonable accommodation, please contact the Division of Talent Management and Culture at (757)683-3141.
Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or © consistent with contractor's legal duty to furnish information.
About the College
https://www.odu.edu/sci
About the Department
https://www.odu.edu/chemistry

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