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Forensic Drug Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SNA International

Forensic Drug Chemist

Decatur, GA · On-site

Description SNA International seeks a bright, collaborative Forensic Drug Chemist with a strong ... Provide expert technical assistance to law enforcement agencies in analyzing controlled substances ...

SNA International

Forensic Drug Chemist

Decatur, GA · On-site

SNA International seeks a bright, collaborative Forensic Drug Chemistwith a strong work ethic to ... Provide expert technical assistance to law enforcement agencies in analyzing controlled substances ...

SNA International

Forensic Drug Chemist

Pearl, MS · On-site

Provide expert technical assistance to law enforcement agencies in analyzing controlled substances ... Minimum of three (3) years of recent work experience as a Forensic Drug Chemist working as a bench ...

SNA International

Forensic Drug Chemist

Pearl, MS · On-site

SNA International seeks a bright, collaborative Forensic Drug Chemistwith a strong work ethic to ... Provide expert technical assistance to law enforcement agencies in analyzing controlled substances ...

WSU -

Instructor of Chemistry

Dayton, OH

Experience developing analytical chemistry experiments and forensic chemistry experiments, including forensic drug analysis * Documented pedagogical and curricular success at the college level ...

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Forensic Drug Analyst information

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How much do forensic drug analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic drug analyst in the United States is $86,474.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,000.00 and $100,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a forensic drug analyst do?

A Forensic Drug Analyst is a scientific professional who analyzes substances to determine if they are illegal drugs or controlled substances. They work primarily in crime laboratories, using chemical and instrumental techniques to identify unknown substances collected from crime scenes. Their findings can be used as evidence in criminal investigations and court cases. Forensic Drug Analysts also prepare detailed reports and may be called to testify as expert witnesses.

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

To thrive as a Forensic Drug Analyst, you need a solid background in chemistry or forensic science, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with analytical instruments like gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), infrared spectroscopy, and laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is typically required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and strong written communication skills are essential soft skills for accurate analysis and clear reporting. These competencies ensure precise identification of substances, adherence to legal standards, and the integrity of forensic evidence in criminal investigations.

What are some common challenges faced by forensic drug analysts in their daily work?

Forensic Drug Analysts often encounter challenges such as handling high caseloads while maintaining accuracy and strict chain-of-custody protocols. They must adapt to evolving drug trends, which requires staying current with new substances and analytical techniques. Additionally, analysts must work meticulously to ensure all documentation and results are legally defensible, as their findings may be scrutinized in court. Collaboration with law enforcement and legal teams is common, requiring strong communication and the ability to explain complex scientific results to non-experts.

What are popular job titles related to Forensic Drug Analyst jobs?

For Forensic Drug Analyst jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Forensic Drug Analyst job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,474 per year, or $41.6 per hour.

Forensic Drug Chemist

Decatur, GA • On-site

SNA International
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about SNA Internationalexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Description
SNA International seeks a bright, collaborative Forensic Drug Chemist with a strong work ethic to join our team. SNA International's team works together in pursuit of the same cause: building a safe and just world by empowering organizations to use 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 laboratory policies, Standard Operating Procedures, and ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accreditation requirements.
  • Facilitate the receipt, tracking, and secure storage of samples related to drug cases, in accordance with 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 thoroughly and prepare comprehensive reports.
  • Ensure that all activities comply with ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation standards and that lab safety procedures are strictly followed.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college/university in chemistry or other related science with sufficient chemistry courses (minimally general, organic, and analytical) or equivalent experience.
  • A minimum of three(3) to five(5) 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.
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience with Thin-Layer Chromatography (TLC) and UV-VIS spectrometry plates.
  • 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.

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.

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