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Forensic Dna Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

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Forensic Dna information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$58.9K

$88.1K

$158.2K

How much do forensic dna jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic dna in Silver Spring, MD is $88,054.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,500.00 and $87,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to get a job as a forensic DNA analyst?

Securing a position as a forensic DNA analyst typically requires a relevant degree in biology, genetics, or a related field, along with specialized training in forensic techniques and laboratory skills. Competition can be high due to the specialized nature of the work, and employers often seek candidates with certification and experience in DNA analysis tools and procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the forensic DNA position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forensic DNA analyst, you need a strong background in molecular biology, genetics, and bioinformatics, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Experience with DNA extraction, PCR, capillary electrophoresis, and familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) are often required, along with certifications such as those from the American Board of Criminalistics. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective written and verbal communication are standout soft skills in this position. These abilities ensure accurate analysis of forensic evidence, clear documentation, and the capacity to provide reliable testimony in legal settings.

How much does a forensic DNA scientist make?

A forensic DNA scientist typically earns between $50,000 and $85,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. They often work in crime laboratories and use specialized tools like PCR and electrophoresis to analyze DNA evidence.

What are some typical challenges faced by forensic DNA analysts in their daily work?

Forensic DNA analysts often encounter the challenge of working with degraded or limited biological samples, which requires precision and advanced analytical techniques to obtain reliable results. They must also maintain stringent quality control standards and follow strict chain-of-custody procedures to ensure evidence integrity. The role can involve testifying in court and explaining complex scientific findings to non-experts, requiring strong communication skills. Additionally, analysts regularly collaborate with law enforcement, attorneys, and other forensic specialists, making teamwork and adaptability essential for success in this field.

How do I become a forensic DNA analyst?

To become a forensic DNA analyst, you typically need a bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, or a related field. Relevant skills include laboratory techniques, DNA analysis methods, and familiarity with forensic software; certification from organizations like the American Board of Criminalistics can enhance job prospects.

What is a forensic DNA?

A Forensic DNA job involves the analysis of biological evidence, such as blood, hair, or saliva, to assist in criminal investigations. Professionals in this field extract, amplify, and compare DNA samples to identify individuals or verify relationships. They work in crime labs, law enforcement agencies, or private forensic firms, often testifying in court as expert witnesses. Their work helps solve crimes, exonerate the innocent, and provide crucial evidence in legal cases.

What job categories do people searching Forensic Dna jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Dna jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Forensic Dna jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Forensic Dna job openings:
Forensic Dna jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Dna job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,784 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Biologist (Forensic)-Direct Hire

Forensic Auditors | Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives

Beltsville, MD

$102K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

The position is in the Forensic Science Laboratories within the Office of Science and Technology. Laboratory services consist of the Forensic Science Laboratories and Fire Research Laboratory. The laboratories provide highly technical and scientific services to support the Bureau's primary law enforcement missions.
Direct-Hire Authority (DHA) is a hiring authority granted by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) to address critical hiring needs or severe candidate shortages.Qualifications:
To qualify for the Biologist (Forensic) position at the GS-12 grade level, you must meet the following requirements by the closing date of this announcement.
Basic Requirements
A. Degree: biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position.
OR
B. Combination of education and experience: Courses equivalent to a major, as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.

AND
Minimum Qualifications
Specialized experience is demonstrated experience, which has equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills and abilities to perform successfully the duties of this position. Experience must be in the normal line of progression or must be related to the work of the position advertised and must be reflected in resume.
To qualify for this position at the GS-12 grade level, candidates must meet the following specialized experience by the closing date of this announcement.
EXPERIENCE:
Candidates must have at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-11) (obtained in either the public or private sectors). This experience must include all of the following:

  • Analyzing and interpreting DNA mixtures to perform statistical calculations for forensic DNA examinations to draw conclusions about the evidence; AND
  • Preparing laboratory reports detailing the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) eligibility, conclusions, and comparisons of forensic DNA examinations performed; AND
  • Providing court testimony as an expert witness based on laboratory examinations of biological evidence through formal training or practical application; AND
  • Assisting with identifying a need for development of information, new methods, or novel approaches to address trends and or problems.

Your resume must support your responses to the application questionnaire and the qualification requirements. Failure to do so may result in an ineligible rating.See the Required Documents section for important notes about what must be included in your resume.
After you submit this application, you will receive an e-mail informing you that a USA Hire assessment is required of you. You will have 48 hours from the closing date of this announcement (08/13/2026) to complete the assessment as this assessment is part of your application.

Education:
This position requires a degree in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position or courses equivalent to a major, as shown above. Please refer to the Qualifications section for full details.
Education must be reviewed and certified by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, in order for it to be creditable towards your qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from accredited institution.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in a conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying. For special instructions pertaining to foreign education and a list of organizations that can evaluate foreign education, see the Department of Education website. If you are qualifying on foreign education, you MUST submit proof of creditability of education as evaluated by a credentialing agency. All documentation must be in English or include an English translation.
Employment Type: OTHER

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