ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Forensic Chemistry Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SNA International

Forensic Drug Chemist

Pearl, MS

SNA International seeks a bright, collaborative Forensic Drug Chemistwith a strong work ethic to ... Bachelor's degree accredited four-year college/university in chemistry or other related science ...

State of Arkansas

FORENSIC SCIENTIST

Little Rock, AR · On-site

$71K - $105K/yr

The Forensic Chemist must possess a baccalaureate or advanced degree in natural science or closely related field with knowledge of the principles and practices of chemistry, chemical analysis and ...

State of Arkansas

FORENSIC SCIENTIST

Little Rock, AR · On-site

$71K - $105K/yr

The Forensic Chemist must possess a baccalaureate or advanced degree in natural science or closely related field with knowledge of the principles and practices of chemistry, chemical analysis and ...

The Pennsylvania State University

Designing and writing a research plan for a topic in forensic biology or forensic chemistry * Implementing the research plan and collecting experimental data while using appropriate controls

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsForensic Chemistry Jobs

Forensic Chemistry information

See salary details

$29K

$68.2K

$95K

How much do forensic chemistry jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 69% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% 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.

Forensic Drug Chemist

SNA International

Pearl, MS

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

SNA International seeks a bright, collaborative Forensic Drug Chemistwith a strong work ethic to joinour team. SNA International's team works together in pursuit of the same cause, to build a safe and just world by empowering organizations in the use of forensics, biometrics, and identity intelligence.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
  • Provide expert technical assistance to law enforcement agencies in analyzing controlled substances, following MSFL policies, Standard Operating Procedures, and ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accreditation requirements.
  • Facilitate the receipt, tracking, and secure storage of samples related to drug cases, adhering to the chain of custody requirements.
  • Coordinate and perform a range of drug identification tests, including Color Tests, Gas Chromatography (GC), Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS), and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR).
  • Document findings in a thorough manner and prepare comprehensive reports.
  • Ensure that all activities are performed in compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation standards and that lab safety procedures are strictly followed.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree accredited four-year college/university in chemistry or other related science with sufficient chemistry courses (minimally general, organic, and analytical) or equivalent experience.
  • 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 documented casework training program from an accredited forensic laboratory in forensic drug analysis and/or demonstration of competency.
  • Knowledge of basic theoretical principles and applications of the instrumentation and methodologies used to analyze controlled substances (e.g., Color Tests, GC, GC/MS, FTIR) and performing microscope and chemical tests.
  • Knowledge of laboratory safety procedures, quality assurance/quality control, and laboratory practices; instrumental analysis and experience in forensic drug analysis.
  • Must be flexible and have the ability to travel to other laboratories in Mississippi if required.
TO APPLY:
Please submit your resume.

SNA International is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

Employment Type: Full-Time

Apply