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Forensic Firearms Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Forensic Pathologist

Modesto, CA · On-site

$175.74 - $263.60/hr

Procedures, techniques, and equipment utilized in forensic medicine, including medico-legal autopsy, forensic toxicology, ballistic/firearms examination, trace evidence, forensic serology, forensic ...

Criminalist I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$90K - $109K/yr

Firearms Identification * Forensic Biology * Narcotic Analysis * Toxicological Analysis * Trace Evidence Analysis COURSEWORK: Completion of the following college-level coursework: * 8 semester/12 ...

Criminalist I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$90K - $109K/yr

Blood Alcohol Analysis Computer Forensics Crime Scene Reconstruction Digital Forensics Firearms Identification Forensic Biology Narcotic Analysis Toxicological Analysis Trace Evidence Analysis ...

Criminalist II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120K - $145K/yr

Blood Alcohol Analysis Computer Forensics Crime Scene Reconstruction Digital Forensics Firearms Identification Forensic Biology Narcotic Analysis Toxicological Analysis Trace Evidence Analysis NOTES:

Criminalist II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120K - $145K/yr

Digital Forensics * Firearms Identification * Forensic Biology * Narcotic Analysis * Toxicological Analysis * Trace Evidence Analysis NOTES: * Experience performing comparative analysis of ...

Police Officer Recruit

San Marino, CA · On-site

$5.8K - $7.1K/mo

Learning the use and care of firearms, chemical agents, and other weapons. Learning to drive a ... Demonstrating the ability to learn and implement crime scene management, forensics, collection ...

Commander

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$9.8K - $13K/mo

... Forensics Team), Enforcement Support, and Specialized Investigation and Training Units. The ... In addition, the Supervising Investigator II must qualify and carry a firearm, have a valid ...

Forensic Firearms information

See California salary details

$25.2K

$60.4K

$93.3K

How much do forensic firearms jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic firearms in California is $60,355.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,300.00 and $68,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a forensic firearms?

A Forensic Firearms job involves examining firearms, ammunition, and ballistic evidence to solve crimes. Professionals in this field analyze bullet trajectories, gunpowder residues, and firearm markings to link weapons to suspects or crime scenes. They often work in crime labs, law enforcement agencies, or courtrooms, providing expert testimony. Their findings help determine whether a weapon was used in a crime and can aid in criminal investigations and prosecutions.

What does a forensic firearms do?

A typical day for a Forensic Firearms Examiner involves examining firearms, ammunition, and ballistic evidence in a laboratory setting, often to determine if a particular weapon was used in a crime. This can include microscopic comparisons of bullets and cartridge cases, documenting findings in detailed reports, and maintaining evidence chain of custody. Examiners regularly collaborate with law enforcement officers, testify in court as expert witnesses, and may also participate in crime scene investigations. The work is highly methodical and detail-oriented, with a strong focus on accuracy and adherence to strict protocols, making it both challenging and rewarding for those interested in forensic science and public service.

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

To thrive as a Forensic Firearms Examiner, you need a strong background in forensic science, ballistics, and firearm identification, often supported by a degree in forensic science, criminal justice, or a related field. Proficiency in using comparison microscopes, ballistics databases (such as NIBIN), and laboratory protocols is essential, and professional certifications (e.g., AFTE) can be advantageous. Keen attention to detail, strong analytical thinking, and the ability to communicate complex findings clearly are valued soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring accurate, defensible analyses that contribute to criminal investigations and judicial proceedings.

What kind of job does forensic firearms work on bullets and guns?

Forensic firearms specialists analyze bullets, cartridge cases, and firearms to identify evidence related to crimes. They use tools like microscopes and ballistic analysis software to compare markings and determine firearm connections, often working in crime labs or law enforcement agencies. Certification and knowledge of ballistics are important for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Firearms jobs in California?

The most popular types of Forensic Firearms jobs in California are:

What job categories do people searching Forensic Firearms jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Forensic Firearms jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Forensic Firearms job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $60,355 per year, or $29 per hour.

Forensic Pathologist

Stanislaus County

Modesto, CA • On-site

$175.74 - $263.60/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Stanislaus County rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

345th of 854 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

About the Opportunity ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY The Stanislaus County Sheriff's Department is dedicated to serve and protect the community through the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conduct by ENFORCEMENT, PREVENTION and EDUCATION in partnership with our community. Our Community demands the best service we can provide, so we continually search for candidates who have a strong desire to make a positive impact on it. The Stanislaus County Sheriff's Department offers multiple career opportunities in an organization that maintains Pride in Service, Dedication to Duty and Excellence in Performance.

Our state of art coroner's facility was dedicated in November of 2015. This 9,000 square foot facility has a large main autopsy room with advanced filtration and odor mitigation. It includes hospital grade lighting with a high definition camera system.

In addition, we have a separate isolation autopsy room and another dedicated operating room for tissue recovery. Our facility stands out above and beyond other coroner facilities in California as it was designed with comfort and convenience in mind. We have a large main cooler, smaller secondary, and a separate freezer.

There is a dedicated laboratory room onsite with a histology station and workspace for our Forensic Odonatologist. Pathologists have their own private office and dedicated dictation room. As a convenience, we have a 2,000 square foot fitness facility onsite.

TENTATIVE RECRUITMENT SCHEDULE Application Deadline: Continuous but may close at any time Oral Examination: TBA To learn more about the Sheriff's Office, Visit stanjobs.org THE POSITION The Forensic Pathologist will perform forensic pathology services including but not limited to: management and development of a regional pathology model, autopsies at the direction of the Sheriff-Coroner or his designee, general case investigation, external examinations, professional medical consultations related to such work, medical record reviews, and expert witness testimony. The Forensic Pathologist is a single position assigned to the Sheriff's Office and performs related duties as assigned. Typical Tasks Develop and manage a regional pathology model, including providing professional pathology services to other jurisdictions; Establish and maintain effective working relationships with members of the legal profession, public, staff, and governmental agencies; Perform and oversee autopsies; Perform general case investigation, including preparation of comprehensive reports; Provide expert witness testimony and testify in Local, State, and Federal Court proceedings; At the direction of the Sheriff-Coroner or his designee, respond to death scenes, consultations and autopsies as needed during non-business hours; Maintain cooperative relationships with transplant organizations; Communicate with families and other interested parties to explain autopsy findings; May provide administrative, operational, and supervisory direction to staff; and Participate in countywide death review teams and hospital peer committees concerning traumatic death

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education/Experience) KNOWLEDGE Current methods and techniques in Forensic Pathology and related scientific aspects of death investigation; Procedures, techniques, and equipment utilized in forensic medicine, including medico-legal autopsy, forensic toxicology, ballistic/firearms examination, trace evidence, forensic serology, forensic anthropology, DNA technology, and interpretation of histology and clinical chemistry; Identification procedures; Laws, legal codes, court procedures, and governmental regulations; Modern office procedures and equipment; and Proper usage of English grammar and punctuation. SKILLS/ABILITIES Perform highly skilled post-mortem examinations; Review and analyze complex investigation data; Prepare comprehensive case reports; Communicate effectively both orally and in writing; Operate a variety of computer programs; Multi-task, prioritize and problem solve; and Travel to various sites when necessary. We recognize your time is valuable, please only apply if you meet the following required qualifications.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE Graduation from an accredited medical school including a Forensic Pathology Fellowship Program; AND Certification by the American Board of Pathology; AND Three years of experience in forensic pathology; AND Possession of a valid Physicians and Surgeons Certificate issued by the Board of Medical Examiners of the State of California; AND Possess and maintain a valid California Driver's License. Note: No felony convictions. Must be of good moral character and must not have been convicted of a crime for which the punishment could have been imprisonment in a Federal penitentiary or State prison.

Proof of education is required for verification purposes at the time of application. Applicants who are unable to submit proof must call 209-567-4412 to make other arrangements. Failure to submit proof will result in disqualification.

Application and Selection Procedures APPLICATION PROCEDURES/FINAL FILING DATE Applications cannot be submitted later than 5:00 p.m. on the final filing date. Make your online application as complete as possible so a full and realistic appraisal may be made of your qualifications

Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of a completed application. Attaching your resume and cover letter are an optional feature for those who wish to do so in addition to completing the required application. Information on your resume and cover letter will not substitute for the education, work experience and required fields on the County application.

The online County application is the primary tool used to evaluate your job qualifications. EXAMINATION PROCESS Most County recruitments consists of the steps detailed below and are governed by Merit Principles. The examination process ensures that all applicants are given the same opportunity to gain employment within Stanislaus County.

Application Review and Screening. Applications are carefully screened based on information provided. Those who submit incomplete applications that lack relevant qualifications or do not submit all required documents will not be invited to move on.

Written Examination. Applicants will be invited to participate in a written exam that tests knowledge for the position. Oral Examination.

Applicants are invited to a panel interview in which they will be evaluated by County subject matter experts. Eligible Lists. Candidates who pass the examination will be placed on an eligible list for that classification.

Eligible lists are effective for six months but may be extended up to eighteen months. GENERAL INFORMATION CLASSIFICATION INFORMATION The Job Task Analysis provides information detailing the physical and functional demands of the classification. For the complete job task analysis, visit the Risk Management website at http://www.stancounty.com/riskmgmt/ under the "Disability" tab

Note: The eligible list generated from this recruitment may be used to fill future extra-help, part-time and full-time vacancies throughout Stanislaus County. Incumbents may also be subject to overtime, standby, callback, weekend, holiday and shift assignments as identified in their MOU (Memorandum of Understanding). Part-time extra-help is a provisional classification where permanent status may not be obtained.

This position is subject to overtime, standby, shift, and callback assignments and will perform related duties as assigned. This position is non-benefited except for participation in a 401a program with Nationwide. RECRUITMENT ACCOMMODATIONS Arrangements may be made to accommodate disabilities and religious convictions.

Applicants requiring testing accommodations are required to complete and submit the Testing Accommodations Request Form prior to the test administration date. Special arrangements for religious convictions should be included in the "Additional Information" section of the application form. GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS Pass County-paid pre-employment job-related background investigation.

Perform job duties in a manner assuring a safe working environment for oneself and others. Maintain confidential information according to the legal standards and/or County regulations as required. Some positions may be required to possess and maintain a valid California Driver's License and meet County insurability requirements.

APPLICATION AND/OR EXAMINATION APPEAL RIGHTS Application and/or examination results may be appealed by applicants presenting facts alleging irregularity, fraud and/or error in application screening or in exam scoring. Appeals must be in writing and submitted to the Chief Executive Officer within seven (7) days after the examination results are emailed. DISCLAIMER Stanislaus County reserves the right to revise the examination plan described in this flyer to better meet the needs of County service.

The provisions of this bulletin do not constitute an express or implied contract. Any provision contained in this bulletin may be modified or revoked without notice. The information contained in the bulletin is information which sets forth a general summary of benefits for this respective position.

This information is not legally binding. The benefits and other information regarding this position may be found in the Stanislaus County Code, the Stanislaus County Personnel Policies manual, or in the applicable Memorandum of Understanding(s), and such information prevails over information contained in this flyer. Questions regarding this bulletin may be directed to the Stanislaus County Chief Executive Office/Human Relations.


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