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Forensic Drug Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CFSRE

Forensic Chemist Senior Scientist

Horsham, PA · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Design, validate, and apply analytical methods for drug material testing, including qualitative and ... Who You'll Work With Joining the CFSRE as a Forensic Chemist Senior Scientist means becoming part ...

New York State

Supervisor Forensic Services

Albany, NY

$96K - $121K/yr

Responsible for technical problem solving of analytical methods and for the oversight of training ... drug screening and polygraph. Additional Comments The New York State Police will not offer ...

StateJobsNY

Supervisor Forensic Services

Albany, NY · On-site

$96K - $121K/yr

Responsible for technical problem solving of analytical methods and for the oversight of training ... drug screening and polygraph. Additional Comments The New York State Police will not offer ...

County of Santa Clara

Criminalist I

San Jose, CA

$98K - $119K/yr

Typical Tasks Performs analysis and examines physical evidence in forensic specialty areas such as Audio-Video, Computer Forensics, Drug Chemistry, Trace Evidence, Firearms/Toolmarks, Forensic ...

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Forensic Drug Analyst information

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$45K

$86.5K

$134K

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.

Civil Environmental Engineer - Forensic Investigator

Las Vegas, NV • Remote

Robson Forensic
Legal Services • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Robson Forensicexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

You are a Civil Environmental or Chemical Engineer with 10+ years of experience with wastewater and industrial air pollution mitigation system design and implementation. You have experience with wastewater treatment facilities, landfills, and implementation of chemical safety protocols, including personal protective equipment assessment.

You are already an expert. Robson Forensic will train you to be a forensic expert. 

Areas of potential litigation and claims include environmental decontamination and remediation, wastewater and landfill standards of care, environmental health and safety compliance, and environmental chemical release. 

As a Civil Environmental Engineering Forensic Expert, you will:

  • Investigate civil environmental engineering incidents.
  • Analyze procedures, applying your comprehensive knowledge of standards and practices.
  • Write clear, scientifically sound reports.
  • Provide expert testimony.

You will delve into the "why" behind incidents, critically assessing decision-making, operational procedures, and the standard of care. This role offers you a chance to:

  • Use your cumulative training, experience, and critical thinking skills.
  • Collaborate with highly respected experts. 
  • Continuously learn and grow.
  • Make a tangible difference.

 

LOCATION: Miami Lakes/Palm Beach Gardens, FL, Atlanta, GA, Las Vegas, NV, Columbus/Dublin, OH, Lancaster, PA, Dallas/Ft. Worth/Irving, TX (hybrid)


REQUIREMENTS

  • Licensure: Active Professional Engineer (P.E.) license or an EIT/FE and can become a P.E. within 6 months.
  • Education: B.S. in Civil Environmental or Chemical Engineering from an ABET accredited institution.
  • Experience: 10+ years of Civil Environmental Engineering experience with wastewater and industrial air pollution mitigation system design and implementation; experience with wastewater treatment facilities, landfills, and implementation of chemical safety protocols, including personal protective equipment assessment.
  • Skills: Excellent technical, analytical, writing, and communication skills.
  • Aptitude: Strong ability to translate complex technical findings into clear, objective evidence for non-technical audiences.
  • Work Style: Approximately 20% travel for inspections; the remainder is focused on analysis and report drafting, working independently and as part of a collaborative team.
  • Prior forensic experience is not required. We seek professionals eager to apply their deep industry knowledge to a challenging new domain.

You must have a clean background screen, a driver’s license, and the ability to drive.

ABOUT US

Robson Forensic is a national leader in expert witness consulting, providing technical expertise across many fields within engineering, architecture, science, and a broad range of specialty disciplines.

Employees at Robson Forensic work alongside highly respected experts from both industry and academia. Our forensic experts are engaged in meaningful casework that is consequential to industry and society. Robson Forensic provides a unique working dynamic that blends collaboration and autonomy.

Due to the seriousness of our work, we do stringent background checks on all our candidates. Candidates are required to pass a drug and background screening prior to their employment.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

 

HOW TO APPLY

If this opportunity meets your requirements for a challenging and rewarding career, and you meet our minimum requirements, please apply and attach your resume outlining your professional background and experience. 

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those under consideration will be contacted.

#LI-Hybrid