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Forensic Lab Assistant Jobs in Ontario (NOW HIRING)

CA$85K/yr

Perform field and lab tests using predominantly standard techniques; provide support in laboratory ... control. * Assist with forensic inspection and testing of cables joints. * Assist with field ...

Forensic Lab Assistant information

See Ontario salary details

$10

$24

$55

How much do forensic lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for forensic lab assistant in Ontario is $24.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $26.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the easiest forensic job to get?

Forensic Lab Assistants often have the most accessible entry point into forensic careers, as they typically require a high school diploma or associate degree and offer on-the-job training. Positions may be competitive, but they generally have lower educational and experience requirements compared to forensic scientists or criminalists.

What is the difference between Forensic Lab Assistant vs Crime Scene Technician?

AspectForensic Lab AssistantCrime Scene Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's degree; some certificationsHigh school diploma; specialized training or certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, handling evidence processingCrime scenes, outdoor and indoor environments
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, forensic labsPolice departments, crime scene units
Job FocusPreparing evidence, assisting with lab analysesCollecting evidence at crime scenes

While both roles support criminal investigations, Forensic Lab Assistants primarily work in laboratories assisting with evidence processing, whereas Crime Scene Technicians focus on collecting evidence directly from crime scenes. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path within forensic science.

How to become a forensic lab assistant?

To become a forensic lab assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring postsecondary education in criminal justice, biology, or chemistry. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and knowledge of forensic procedures; certifications are not usually required but can enhance job prospects. On-the-job training is common, and the role often involves working in a laboratory environment with strict safety protocols.

What does a Forensic Lab Assistant do?

A Forensic Lab Assistant supports scientists and forensic analysts by preparing and organizing laboratory equipment, handling evidence, and assisting with various tests and analyses. They ensure that samples are properly labeled and documented, help maintain a clean and safe laboratory environment, and may be involved in basic data entry or record-keeping. Their work is crucial for maintaining the chain of custody and ensuring the integrity of evidence used in criminal investigations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Forensic Lab Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forensic Lab Assistant, you need a solid background in biology, chemistry, or forensic science, typically supported by a relevant associate or bachelor’s degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, evidence handling protocols, and data management systems is essential. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate evidence processing, maintain chain of custody, and support the integrity of legal investigations.

Can I be a CSI without being a cop?

A Forensic Lab Assistant is not required to be a police officer to work in the role. This position typically involves processing evidence, analyzing samples, and supporting investigations, often requiring knowledge of laboratory techniques and forensic science but not law enforcement authority. Certification or training in forensic science or laboratory procedures can be beneficial for this role.

What is a forensic assistant?

A forensic assistant supports forensic scientists by collecting, preserving, and analyzing evidence from crime scenes. They often handle laboratory tasks, operate specialized equipment, and maintain detailed records to ensure evidence integrity and assist in investigations.

What are some common challenges faced by Forensic Lab Assistants when handling evidence?

Forensic Lab Assistants often face challenges such as ensuring the chain of custody for evidence, preventing contamination, and adhering to strict laboratory protocols. This requires meticulous attention to detail, as even small errors can compromise the integrity of an investigation. Additionally, assistants must be comfortable working with potentially hazardous materials and be prepared to manage time effectively, as case priorities can shift rapidly in a forensic lab environment.
What cities in Ontario are hiring for Forensic Lab Assistant jobs? Cities in Ontario with the most Forensic Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Forensic Lab Assistant job openings in Ontario as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,337 per year, or $24.7 per hour.
Director, Global Head - Digital Forensic Services

Director, Global Head - Digital Forensic Services

Scotiabank

Toronto, ON

Other

PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Requisition ID: 264742 
Join a purpose driven winning team, committed to results, in an inclusive and high-performing culture.

Leads and oversees Corporate Security's global Digital Forensic Services and eDiscovery and Litigation Operations Support team, and has the overall governance responsibility of regional digital forensics team in the prevention, detection, and disruption efforts in response to criminal activities targeting the Scotiabank Group. In addition, work to ensure business strategies, plans and initiatives are executed / delivered in compliance with governing regulations, internal policies and procedures.

Is this role right for you? In this role, you will: 

  • Drive a customer focused culture throughout their team to deepen client relationships and leverage broader Bank relationships, systems and knowledge.
  • Lead the Digital Forensics teams across Corporate Security global footprint in Canada, Mexico, Chile, English Caribbean and Peru
  • Have oversight of the development of operational procedures to govern the department as well as assist international teams in respect to best practices covering forensic lab maintenance, digital evidence identification, conducting proper analysis and safeguarding findings and conclusions in a manner suitable for criminal or civil court presentation.
  • Provide enterprise oversight of digital evidence management, including eDiscovery and Litigation Operations, encompassing the identification, collection, preservation and production of electronically stored information to support investigations, regulatory matters and legal proceedings.
  • Maintain strong partnerships with Legal, Technology and Investigation teams to coordinate evidence strategies, support complex case requirements and resolve technical challenges related to digital evidence collection and production.
  • Lead the coordination, development, and execution of the unit's cyber-enabled crime prevention and disruption strategies drawing upon case investigations and intelligence insight. Contributes to the research and development of digital fraud risk mitigation techniques and provides expert advice on the state of the Bank's fraud detection and systems security controls on various committees. 
  • Build strategic partnerships internally and externally to investigate, mitigate and disrupt criminal activity in the global threat landscape where the Bank operates.
  • Oversee and gather evidence on complex technological crimes affecting Scotiabank Group and Affiliates, including serious employee misconduct, fraud, theft, and security breaches involving financial products and proceeds of crime.
  • Prevent, detect, and investigate cyber fraud against Scotiabank Group, including incidents that bypass security controls. Assess threats using TTPs, and work with management, Information Security, law enforcement, and partners to quickly respond and reduce financial and reputational risk.
  • Direct digital forensic examinations conducted by the team. This includes ensuring the allegations are well founded and provable, with a high expectation of confidence to avoid potential risk to civil liability.
  • Support Legal in building provable criminal cases while minimizing civil liability risk. Serve as expert witness in criminal and civil proceedings on behalf of the Bank.
  • Respond to emergency situations targeting Bank systems, staff or customers involving priority investigations, CIRTs, HPIs, etc.
  • Direct the use of various search strategies\techniques to enable analysis of all forms of electronic media to detect and investigate digital artifacts from criminal behaviors.
  • Lead the department's efforts to continually enhance its investigative methodologies, processes, technology, and tools, ensuring they remain effective, efficient, and aligned with the department's strategic goals and objectives. 
  • Support leadership and work in close partnership with Insider Threat Program & Threat Analytics on major projects such as system and or application development and implementation to assist with investigations and disruption capabilities..
  • Develop efforts to disrupt malicious operations and reduce risk to the bank and its customers working with internal and external partners.
  • Provide educational presentations to various stakeholders across the Bank on the detection and response to cyber-enabled crime.
  • Maintain and develop reliable information sources and building strategic relationships with law enforcement, external industry partners and investigative bodies worldwide to ensure a coordinated and intelligence-driven approach to protecting the Bank's reputation, operations, and financial integrity.
  • Understand how the Bank's risk appetite and risk culture should be considered in day-to-day activities and decisions.
  • Create an environment in which their team pursues effective and efficient operations of their respective areas in accordance with Scotiabank's Values, its Code of Conduct and the Global Sales Principles, while ensuring adequacy, adherence to and effectiveness of day-to-day business controls to meet obligations with respect to operational, compliance, AML/ATF/sanctions and conduct risk.
  • Build a high-performance environment and implements a people strategy that attracts, retains, develops and motivates their team by fostering an inclusive work environment and using a coaching mindset and behaviors; communicating vison/values/business strategy; and, managing succession and development planning for the team.

Do you have the skills that will enable you to succeed in this role? We'd love to work with you if you have:

  • University degree specializing in Computer Science, Technology Management and related disciplines is required.
  • Minimum of 10 + years' experience in Security or Information Technology field is preferred.
  • Minimum of 8 + years of people management experience working with cross functional teams over vary geographies
  • Experience in managing and understanding of various aspect of Bank risk include financial
  • Understanding Banking system/processes, general payments ecosystem, and Insider threat framework.
  • In-depth industry cyber fraud knowledge and computer/digital forensics expertise, including current cybercrime fraud trends and challenges globally
  • Must be self-motivated, energetic and results-oriented and be committed to adding value to the organization

What's in it for you?

 

  • Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Allyship - We strive to create an inclusive culture where every employee is empowered to reach their fullest potential, respected for who they are, and are embraced through bias-free practices and inclusive values across Scotiabank. We embrace diversity and provide opportunities for all employees to learn, grow & participate through our various Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) that span across diverse gender identities, ethnicity, race, age, ability & veterans.
  • Accessibility and Workplace Accommodations - We value the unique skills and experiences each individual brings to the Bank and are committed to creating and maintaining an inclusive and accessible environment for everyone. Scotiabank continues to locate, remove and prevent barriers so that we can build a diverse and inclusive environment while meeting accessibility requirements.
  • Upskilling through online courses, cross-functional development opportunities, and tuition assistance. 
  • Competitive Rewards program including bonus, flexible vacation, personal, sick days and benefits will start on day one.
  • Community Engagement - no matter where you choose to work from; we offer opportunities for community engagement & belonging with our various programs such as hackathons, contests, Humans of Digital and much more

Location(s):  Canada : Ontario : Toronto 
Scotiabank is a leading bank in the Americas. Guided by our purpose: "for every future", we help our customers, their families and their communities achieve success through a broad range of advice, products and services, including personal and commercial banking, wealth management and private banking, corporate and investment banking, and capital markets.  
At Scotiabank, we value the unique skills and experiences each individual brings to the Bank, and are committed to creating and maintaining an inclusive and accessible environment for everyone. If you require accommodation (including, but not limited to, an accessible interview site, alternate format documents, ASL Interpreter, or Assistive Technology) during the recruitment and selection process, please let our  Recruitment team know. If you require technical assistance, please click here. Candidates must apply directly online to be considered for this role. We thank all applicants for their interest in a career at Scotiabank; however, only those candidates who are selected for an interview will be contacted.