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Forensic Cleaner Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

FORENSIC SCIENTIST

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$74K/yr

FORENSIC SCIENTIST Job Number: 416624 Description JOB/BID ANNOUNCEMENT FORENSIC SCIENTIST CHICAGO ... Maintains the laboratory in a clean and orderly manner * Performs basic maintenance, calibration ...

FORENSIC SCIENTIST

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$74K/yr

... clean and orderly manner โ€ข Performs basic maintenance, calibration and quality control on ... Knowledge of: โ€ข forensic investigative methods, techniques and practices โ€ข evidence protection ...

... clean and orderly manner โ€ข Performs basic maintenance, calibration and quality control on ... Moderate Knowledge of: โ€ข forensic investigative methods, techniques and practices โ€ข evidence ...

SENIOR FORENSIC SCIENTIST Job Number: 420089 Description JOB/BID ANNOUNCEMENT SENIOR FORENSIC ... Maintains the laboratory in a clean and orderly manner * Performs basic maintenance, calibration ...

Phlebotomist II

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Must have reliable transportation, valid driver license, and clean driving record, if applicable ... Perform with confidence, both the forensic and clinical specimen collection and processing duties ...

Phlebotomist III - Floater

Elgin, IL ยท On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Must have reliable transportation, valid driver license, and clean driving record, if applicable ... Perform with confidence, both the forensic and clinical specimen collection and processing duties ...

Phlebotomist III - Floater

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Must have reliable transportation, valid driver license, and clean driving record, if applicable ... Perform with confidence, both the forensic and clinical specimen collection and processing duties ...

Phlebotomist II

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$17.50 - $22/hr

Performs with confidence, both the forensic and clinical specimen collection and processing duties ... Must have reliable transportation, valid driver license, and clean driving record, if applicable.

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Forensic Cleaner information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$26.3K

$63K

$97.4K

How much do forensic cleaner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic cleaner in Chicago, IL is $63,049.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,700.00 and $71,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do forensic cleaner crime scene cleaners make?

Forensic cleaners or crime scene cleaners typically earn between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. The job often requires specialized training, safety equipment, and the ability to handle biohazardous materials in sensitive environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forensic cleaner?

To thrive as a Forensic Cleaner, you need knowledge of cleaning and decontamination procedures, attention to detail, and physical stamina, often supported by a high school diploma and specialized training in biohazard remediation. Familiarity with personal protective equipment (PPE), chemical disinfectants, and adherence to OSHA and EPA regulations is crucial. Strong communication skills, discretion, and resilience are important soft skills for dealing with sensitive situations and client interactions. These skills are vital to ensure safety, legal compliance, and respectful handling of trauma scenes.

What are some common challenges forensic cleaners face on the job, and how are these managed?

Forensic cleaners frequently encounter challenging environments, such as crime scenes or trauma sites, which can be emotionally and physically demanding. Managing biohazards, strong odors, and distressed property owners requires strict adherence to safety protocols, use of specialized cleaning equipment, and strong emotional resilience. Many employers provide comprehensive training, support resources, and personal protective equipment to help staff manage these challenges and ensure both safety and professionalism on the job.

What is the difference between Forensic Cleaner vs Crime Scene Cleaner?

AspectForensic CleanerCrime Scene Cleaner
CertificationsOSHA training, biohazard handling certificationsOSHA training, biohazard handling certifications
Work EnvironmentCrime scenes, hospitals, laboratoriesCrime scenes, accident sites, trauma scenes
Employer & IndustryForensic labs, cleanup companies, law enforcement supportCleanup companies, law enforcement agencies, emergency services
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Both Forensic Cleaners and Crime Scene Cleaners handle biohazardous materials and require similar certifications. However, Forensic Cleaners often work closely with law enforcement and forensic teams, focusing on cleaning after criminal investigations, while Crime Scene Cleaners primarily handle cleanup at crime or accident scenes. Their work environments overlap but may differ slightly based on the specific scene type and employer focus.

What is a forensic cleaner?

Forensic cleaners are professionals who specialize in cleaning and sanitizing scenes where traumatic incidents have occurred, such as crime scenes, unattended deaths, accidents, or hazardous spills. Their work involves removing biohazards like blood, bodily fluids, and other potentially infectious materials, following strict health and safety protocols. Forensic cleaners use specialized equipment and cleaning agents to ensure that affected areas are thoroughly disinfected and restored to a safe condition. In addition to technical cleaning, they handle sensitive situations with discretion and empathy. This profession requires rigorous training, certification, and a strong commitment to safety.

Is it hard to get into forensic cleaning?

Forensic cleaning is a specialized field that typically requires training in biohazard handling, safety procedures, and sometimes certification. Entry can be competitive, but having relevant skills, attention to detail, and proper safety knowledge can improve chances of getting hired.

How do you become a forensic cleaner?

To become a forensic cleaner, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and training in biohazard handling, crime scene cleanup, and safety procedures. Some employers may require certification in hazardous materials or bloodborne pathogens, and on-the-job training is common to learn the use of cleaning tools and protective equipment.
What are popular job titles related to Forensic Cleaner jobs in Chicago, IL? For Forensic Cleaner jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Cleaner jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Cleaner jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Forensic Cleaner job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $63,049 per year, or $30.3 per hour.

FORENSIC SCIENTIST

City of Chicago

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$74K/yr

Other

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

FORENSIC SCIENTIST Job Number: 416624
Description

JOB/BID ANNOUNCEMENT

FORENSIC SCIENTIST

CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT

Bureau of Detectives/ Forensic Services Unit

Number of Positions: 1 (Additional vacancies possible pending budget approval)

Starting Salary: $74,160

Applications for this position will be accepted from 12:00am CDT 07/30/2026 until 11:59pm CDT on 08/12/2026

This position is open to the public and all current city employees covered under the City's Collective Bargaining Agreement with AMERICAN FEDERATION OF STATE, COUNTY, AND MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES (AFSCME) - BARGAINING UNIT 1, 3, 4 & 5. Only employees in City job titles in this bargaining unit are eligible to bid.

BID INSTRUCTIONS: Apply on the bid site: https://chicago.taleo.net/careersection/103/jobsearch.ftl?lang=en AND

1. Check the box on your profile titled "Currently employed by the City of Chicago"

2. Enter your employee ID (located on your pay stub labeled 'payee/employee number')

3. Select your correct bargaining unit

FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS WILL RESULT IN A REJECTED BID APPLICATION

Under immediate supervision, positions in this class title will be assigned to work in a specialized unit within the Chicago Police Department's Forensic Laboratory (e.g., latent print development/examination, evidence examination, firearms and ballistics, or other related forensic disciplines). The class title performs professional scientific examinations of the nature, origin, and significance of physical evidence in crime investigations; and performs related duties as required.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

* Receives, collects, and preserves, physical evidence submitted to the Forensic laboratory associated with criminal investigations

* Applies scientific principles to identify and classify items received in the laboratory (e.g., hair, skin, tissues, blood, bones, bullets, shells, weapons, etc.)

* Conducts chemical analyses of evidentiary materials (e.g., blood, fibers, tool marks, body fluids)

* Conducts tests on physical items using various methods and scientific tools (e.g., visual examinations, instrumental analysis, presumptive evaluations, enhancement techniques, extractions, quantifications, microscopic techniques, comparative examinations)

* Analyzes chemical and physical substances, materials, liquids, or other physical evidence and prepares chemical reagents within assigned forensic discipline

* Uses photographic equipment to enhance evidence through digital imaging and post processing

* Identifies and reaches scientific conclusions supported by data and observations

* Prepares reports or presentations of findings, methods, and techniques used to support conclusions and prepares results for court of other formal hearings

* Performs audits of chemicals, equipment and laboratory supplies

* Maintains compliance with accreditation standards, laboratory and departmental procedures and methods

* Attends seminars and reviews published materials to remain abreast of new technology and new applications in the area of forensic analysis

* Maintains the laboratory in a clean and orderly manner

* Performs basic maintenance, calibration and quality control on scientific instruments

* Conducts regular performance monitoring, including proficiency and competency testing, as required

* Testifies as an expert witness on evidence and crime laboratory techniques at the local, state and federal levels

* Trains in a primary forensic discipline by completing all training assignments in established timelines

* Confers with senior level scientists on case investigations

NOTE: The list of essential duties is not intended to be inclusive; there may be other duties that are essential to particular positions within the class.

Location: 3340 W Filmore, Chicago

Days: Monday through Friday

Hours: 6:00AM to 2:00PM OR 2:00PM-10:00PM

THIS POSITION IS NOT IN THE CAREER SERVICE

Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

* Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's degree or higher in Forensic Science, Physical or

Natural science, Criminalistics, or a directly related field

SELECTION REQUIREMENTS

This position requires applicants to complete an interview. The interviewed candidate(s) possessing the qualifications best suited to fulfill the responsibilities of the position, based on the interview will be selected.

Knowledge of:

* forensic investigative methods, techniques and practices

* evidence protection, recovery, and preservation techniques

* scientific procedures and equipment used in forensic examination

* safe handling practices for firearms and chemicals in use by the laboratory

* chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations they undergo

* use of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods

Knowledge of applicable City and department policies, procedures, rules, regulations, and ordinances

ALL REFERENCES TO POLITICAL SPONSORSHIP OR RECOMMENDATION MUST BE OMITTED FROM ALL APPLICATION MATERIALS SUBMITTED FOR CITY EMPLOYMENT.