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Forensic Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Garland Texas

Forensic Investigator

Garland, TX · On-site

$55K - $59K/yr

Salary: $55,100 - $59,000/yr depending on qualification and experience Summary Responsible for conducting timely, organized and complete forensic investigations. Duties include documenting, obtaining ...

State of Maryland

FORENSIC INVESTIGATOR

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$52K - $67K/yr

Baltimore Street Baltimore, MD 21223 Main Purpose of Job A Forensic Investigator is full performance level work that conducts investigation of cases that are referred to the Office of the Chief ...

Yuma County

Forensic Investigator (Grade 11)

Yuma, AZ · On-site

$24.62 - $30.78/hr

NATURE OF WORK Under general supervision, performs work of moderate difficulty in conducting forensic operations and investigations within the Medical Examiner's section of the Sheriff's Office; this ...

Georgia

Digital Forensic Investigator 1

Decatur, IL

$63K/yr

Digital Forensic Investigator 1 Agency: Bureau of Investigation Job Requisition ID: JR0000002599 Shift: Not Applicable (United States of America) Compensation Details: $63,423.10 This is a sensitive ...

Yuma County, AZ

Forensic Investigator (Grade 11)

Yuma, AZ · On-site

$24.62 - $30.78/hr

NATURE OF WORK Under general supervision, performs work of moderate difficulty in conducting forensic operations and investigations within the Medical Examiner's section of the Sheriff's Office; this ...

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Forensic Investigator information

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$33K

$77.4K

$133K

How much do forensic investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic investigator in the United States is $77,448.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $89,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a forensic investigator do?

A forensic investigator is responsible for collecting, preserving, and analyzing evidence from crime scenes to help solve criminal cases. Their duties include photographing scenes, gathering physical evidence such as fingerprints, biological samples, and trace materials, and preparing detailed reports on their findings. Forensic investigators may also testify in court about the evidence and how it was collected. They work closely with law enforcement, legal teams, and sometimes laboratories to ensure evidence is handled properly and contributes to the justice process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forensic investigator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forensic Investigator, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a relevant degree in forensic science, criminal justice, or a related field. Familiarity with evidence collection tools, laboratory analysis techniques, and digital forensics software is typically required, along with certifications such as those from the International Association for Identification (IAI). Excellent written communication, critical thinking, and teamwork skills help you document findings clearly and collaborate with law enforcement and legal professionals. These skills ensure accurate evidence analysis and contribute to the integrity and success of criminal investigations.

What are some common challenges faced by forensic investigators in the field?

Forensic investigators often encounter challenges such as working in high-pressure environments where timely and accurate analysis is critical. They may need to process crime scenes that are physically demanding or emotionally difficult, while maintaining strict attention to detail to preserve evidence integrity. Collaboration with law enforcement, legal teams, and sometimes external experts is frequent, requiring strong communication skills. Managing a varied caseload and adapting to rapidly advancing forensic technologies are also key aspects of the job.

What is the difference between Forensic Investigator vs Crime Scene Technician?

AspectForensic InvestigatorCrime Scene Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or related field; certifications like ASCLD-LAB are commonOften requires a high school diploma or associate degree; specialized training in evidence collection
Work EnvironmentInvestigates crime scenes, analyzes evidence, and collaborates with law enforcementCollects, preserves, and documents evidence at crime scenes
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, forensic labs, government agenciesPolice departments, crime labs, forensic units

While both roles work at crime scenes and handle evidence, Forensic Investigators typically have more advanced education and perform detailed analysis and case investigations, whereas Crime Scene Technicians focus on evidence collection and documentation.

Do forensic investigators make good money?

Forensic investigators typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $50,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. Advanced certifications and specialized skills in crime scene analysis or digital forensics can lead to higher pay. The job often requires attention to detail, analytical skills, and working in law enforcement or forensic laboratories.
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Forensic Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Investigator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $77,448 per year, or $37.2 per hour.

Forensic Investigator

City of Garland Texas

Garland, TX • On-site

$55K - $59K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Salary: $55,100 - $59,000/yr depending on qualification and experience
Summary
Responsible for conducting timely, organized and complete forensic investigations. Duties include documenting, obtaining, analyzing, and presenting evidence against those who have committed crimes in the City.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
  • Investigate crime scenes by means of collecting, documenting, analyzing, and presenting evidence.
  • Analyze, process, and document crime scenes by use of various techniques including photography, digital video, laser scanning, measurements and diagrams.
  • Prepare objective and thorough investigative reports.
  • Establish and maintain liaisons with police department personnel, laboratory technicians and court personnel to inform all parties of investigations and reports.
  • Provide testimony in court and present physical, documentary and photographic evidence collected.
  • Document and maintain files of latent prints recovered in investigations.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Graduation from an accredited college or university with an associate's degree in criminal justice, forensic sciences, or a closely related science
  • No experience required
  • Or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential functions of the job.

Preferred Qualifications
Education/ Experience:
  • Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree in Forensic Science, Chemistry, Biology or closely related science
  • Experience and/or certification in the forensic science field (pay commensurate accordingly)

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
  • Basic knowledge of photography, fingerprint development, proper evidence handling, and report writing preferred
  • Basic knowledge of investigative techniques, principles and practices used in crime scene analysis
  • Basic knowledge in performing blood spatter analysis, gunshot residue, chemical processing, and bullet trajectory analysis
  • Skilled in using math, biology, chemistry and related sciences as they relate to crime scene analysis
  • Skilled in basic writing principles and grammar
  • Ability to work independently, exercise good judgement and individual initiative in the performance of assigned duties
  • Ability to perform physical tasks under diverse working conditions
  • Ability to remain calm, even tempered, decisive, accurate, and emotionally unattached while working in a high stress environment

Licenses and Certifications
  • Valid Class C Texas driver's license
  • Completion of the Basic Fingerprint Comparison Course or the ability to do so within three years of hire.
  • Texas Department of Safety (DPS) Texas Crime Information Center (TCIC) Less Than Full Access and the Texas Law Enforcement Telecommunication System (TLETS) certifications or the ability to obtain within 6 months of hire

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