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Forensic Lab Assistant Jobs in Racine, WI (NOW HIRING)

Forensic Chemist

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$33.92 - $50.88/hr

Forensic Chemists are a key part to this goal. Under the direction of the Forensic Technical ... improvements. Assist lab preparation for accreditation inspection. Perform annual reviews of ...

Forensic Chemist

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$33.92 - $50.88/hr

Forensic Chemists are a key part to this goal. Under the direction of the Forensic Technical ... improvements. Assist lab preparation for accreditation inspection. Perform annual reviews of ...

... forensics, advanced material sciences and in the support of clinical studies, as well as having an ... Maintain chemical/reagent traceability. 12. Assist with maintenance of chemical/supply inventory ...

... forensics, advanced material sciences and in the support of clinical studies, as well as having an ... Maintain chemical/reagent traceability. 12. Assist with maintenance of chemical/supply inventory ...

... forensics, advanced material sciences and in the support of clinical studies, as well as having an ... Maintain chemical/reagent traceability. 12. Assist with maintenance of chemical/supply inventory ...

Forensic Lab Assistant information

See Racine, WI salary details

$9

$18

$27

How much do forensic lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for forensic lab assistant in Racine, WI is $18.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.53 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

Infographic showing various Forensic Lab Assistant job openings in Racine, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,489 per year, or $19 per hour.

Forensic Chemist

Milwaukee, WI • On-site

$33.92 - $50.88/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Closing Date: August 26th, 2026, or upon receipt of the first 50 applicant submissions

 

Forensic Chemist

Medical Examiner’s Office

Hourly Range: $33.92 - $50.88

 

Job Summary:  The Milwaukee County Medical Examiner's Office is charged with investigating and determining the cause, circumstances and manner in each case of sudden, unexpected, or unusual death. The goal of the Toxicology Unit is to provide high quality timely analysis to assist the Medical Examiner’s Office in determination of cause and manner of death. Forensic Chemists are a key part to this goal. Under the direction of the Forensic Technical Director, the Forensic Chemist must be competent, experienced, and unbiased in providing reliable, reproducible, and defensible results which aid in investigations, charging decisions, and court proceedings.

Job Responsibilities: 

  • Responsible for the chemical data analysis which involves liquid/liquid and solid phase extractions of blood, urine, and tissue homogenates for drugs. Maintain records as well as prepare reports of findings and interpretation when necessary.
  • Maintain knowledge of the accreditation checklist and participate in quality initiatives and improvements. Assist lab preparation for accreditation inspection. Perform annual reviews of technical policies to provide input and propose updates/edits.
  • Operate, calibrate, and maintain complex laboratory equipment in the performance of qualitative and quantitative analyses, utilizing immunoassay, chromatography, and mass spectrometry for screening, confirmation, and quantification of chemicals in biological matrices.
  • Provide expert witness testimony to courts of law when requested regarding laboratory processes, final report, drug classes and effects. Maintain basic knowledge of the Organization of Scientific Area Committees for Forensic Science (OSAC/American Standards Board (ASB) and American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
  • Participate in department research activities including technology development, quality improvement, preparation and publication of findings. Interact with the toxicology community to share best practices as well as data findings important to public health and forensic toxicology trends.
  • Assist in training and education of the process, procedures, and methods utilized in forensic toxicology testing to pathology residents, post-doctoral toxicology fellows, medical students, and student interns affiliated with the office.
  • Perform all other duties as assigned.

 

Minimum Qualifications:  

  • Resident of Wisconsin
  • Current Wisconsin Driver's License and access to a reliable insured vehicle; both maintained throughout employment
  • Bachelor’s degree or higher in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Toxicology, or Pharmacology; may accept a degree in a closely related field such as forensic science.
  • At least one (1) year of experience working in a toxicology lab performing appropriate analytical tasks (e.g. completing extractions, operating instrumentation, and data analysis).
  • Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office Software, specifically Word and Excel
  • Hands-on experience with instruments used in Forensics such as Gas Chromatograph-Mass Spectrometers (GC-MS) and Liquid Chromatograph-Mass Spectrometers
  • Note:  Position requires a criminal background check; felony and some misdemeanor convictions would be a barrier to employment.

NOTE: This ORIGINAL APPLICATION is open to qualified residents of the State of Wisconsin at the time of application. Candidates need to submit a full account of their training and experience (i.e., by submitting an up-to-date resume or by fully completing the application) during the application process and may also be asked to take additional written or performance tests as part of the selection process.

APPLICANTS MUST POSSESS MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AT TIME OF FILING APPLICATION