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How much do forensic dna analysis jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic dna analysis in the United States is $85,177.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,500.00 and $85,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is forensic DNA analysis?

Forensic DNA analysis is the scientific process of examining genetic material from biological evidence, such as blood, hair, or saliva, to identify individuals involved in a crime. This technique compares DNA profiles from crime scenes with those of suspects or in national databases to confirm or exclude potential matches. Forensic DNA analysis is highly accurate and has become a crucial tool in criminal investigations, helping to solve cases and exonerate the innocent. The process involves several steps, including extraction, quantification, amplification, and interpretation of DNA results.

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

To thrive as a Forensic DNA Analyst, you need a solid background in molecular biology, genetics, and forensic science, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with laboratory instruments such as PCR machines, genetic analyzers, and specialized software like STRmix, as well as certifications from organizations like the American Board of Criminalistics, are often required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective written and verbal communication are crucial soft skills for accurately interpreting results and conveying findings. These skills ensure the reliability of DNA evidence, support the integrity of criminal investigations, and uphold standards in the justice system.

What are some common challenges encountered by forensic DNA analysts during casework?

Forensic DNA analysts frequently encounter challenges such as working with degraded or limited DNA samples, avoiding contamination, and interpreting complex mixtures from multiple individuals. These issues require meticulous attention to detail, adherence to strict laboratory protocols, and advanced analytical skills to ensure accurate results. Collaboration with law enforcement and legal teams is also essential, as analysts must clearly communicate their findings and sometimes testify in court.

What is the difference between Forensic Dna Analysis vs Forensic Toxicology?

AspectForensic Dna AnalysisForensic Toxicology
Required CredentialsDegree in biology, genetics, or forensic science; certification often preferredDegree in chemistry, pharmacology, or forensic science; certification may be required
Work EnvironmentCrime labs, crime scenes, forensic laboratoriesCrime labs, hospitals, medical examiner offices
Industry UsageCrime scene investigation, criminal justiceDrug testing, poisoning cases, criminal investigations

Both forensic DNA analysis and forensic toxicology are vital forensic science fields with overlapping credentials and work environments. DNA analysis focuses on identifying individuals through genetic material, while toxicology examines substances and poisons in biological samples. Understanding their differences helps in selecting the appropriate forensic specialty for criminal investigations or legal cases.

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What cities are hiring for Forensic Dna Analysis jobs?

Cities with the most Forensic Dna Analysis job openings:

What states have the most Forensic Dna Analysis jobs?

States with the most job openings for Forensic Dna Analysis jobs include:

Infographic showing various Forensic Dna Analysis job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,177 per year, or $41 per hour.

Criminalist IB (Forensic Biology)

City of New York

Manhattan, NY

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


City Of New York rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

622nd of 848 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Job Description

The Office of Chief Medical Examiner investigates cases of persons who die within New York City from criminal violence, by accident, by suicide, suddenly when in apparent health, when unattended by a physician, in a correctional facility or in any suspicious or unusual manner or where an application is made pursuant to law for a permit to cremate a body of a person.
Our core purpose is to protect public health and serve impartial justice through forensic science and medicine. We exist to provide answers in support of families and communities during times of profound need.
The core values of CARES guide our work for communities and inform our behavior toward each other and all those we serve.
- Commitment: Dedicated to the mission at all times
- Accountability: Responsible to each other and the community
- Resilience: Adapt in the face of adversity
- Excellence: Achieve and maintain the highest quality
- Service: Innovate to meet evolving needs
Under the general direction of the Assistant Directors of the Department of Forensic Biology and specifically under the supervision of a Criminalist, level IV, the selected candidate will be responsible for assisting in conducting scientific analyses performed on biological specimens brought to the Forensic Biology Department of the Office of Chief Medical Examiner for the City of New York. Duties will include but are not limited to:
- Assists in the DNA analysis of evidentiary material such as hairs, body fluids, and other biological evidence, using state-of-the-art molecular techniques.
- Performs administrative review on case files for casework.
- Receives comprehensive training and instruction in the various techniques used in the collection, preservation, handling, and receipt of evidentiary materials.
- Attends and participates in staff meetings, conferences, and other training and development activities
- Receives training in the routine preventative maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment and analytical instruments.
- Other duties as assigned.
SPECIAL NOTE
- Selected candidates will be required to provide a DNA sample by swabbing.
- This position has been identified as essential. During emergency events, essential positions may require 24-hour availability.
WORK AUTHORIZATION:
Authorization to work in the United States is required for this position. Office of Chief Medical Examiner does not provide sponsorship for international employees for visa applications, extensions, or status changes, including STEM/OPT visas. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that they meet all qualifying requirements for this position at the time of application.
***Please note that only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted for this position. FINAL APPOINTMENTS ARE SUBJECCT TO OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT & BUDGET APPROVAL.***
CRIMINALIST - 21849

Qualifications

1. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college, with specialization in criminalistics, forensic science, chemistry, biology, physics, molecular genetics, genetics, biochemistry, molecular biology, entomology, anthropology, ecology or a closely related scientific or engineering field.
2. For Assignment to Assignment Level I - B
In addition to meeting the "Qualification Requirements For All Assignment Levels" above, to be assigned to Assignment Level I-B individuals must have at least one year of satisfactory full-time experience in criminalistics, forensic science or analytic chemistry, or a satisfactory equivalent combination of education and experience.
3. In addition to meeting the "Qualification Requirements" above, to be assigned to Assignment Level II, individuals must have one of the following:
1. One year of experience gained as a Criminalist at Assignment Level I-B; or 2. One additional year of qualifying experience in criminalistics or forensic science, for a total of two years of such experience; or 3. A satisfactory combination of education and experience totaling two years of experience as described above.
4. In addition to meeting the "Qualification Requirements" for Assignment Level I-B above, to be assigned to Assignment Level III, individuals must have one of the following:
1. Two years of experience gained as a Criminalist at Assignment Level I-B and/or II; or 2. Two additional years of qualifying experience in criminalistics or forensic science, for a total of three years of such experience; or 3. A satisfactory combination of education and experience totaling three years of experience as described above.
5. For Assignment to Assignment Level IV
In addition to meeting the "Qualification Requirements" for Assignment Level I-B above, to be assigned to Assignment Level IV, individuals must have one of the following:
1. Three years of experience gained as a Criminalist at Assignment Level I-B, II, and /or III; or 2. Three additional years of experience in criminalistics or forensic science, for a total of four years of such experience; or
3. A satisfactory combination of education and experience totaling four years of experience, as described above.

Additional Information

The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.


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