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Forensic Lab Tech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Courts

Forensic Examiner

Saint Louis, MO · On-site +1

$61K - $119K/yr

Tracks evidence to determine if the forensic lab needs to maintain it for evidentiary reasons ... Skilled with various digital technologies, including mobile phones, tablets, computers, digital ...

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Forensic Lab Tech information

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$45

How much do forensic lab tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for forensic lab tech in the United States is $25.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Forensic Lab Tech vs Crime Scene Investigator?

AspectForensic Lab TechCrime Scene Investigator
CredentialsForensic Science degree, certifications like ASCLD-LABCriminal justice or forensic science degree, law enforcement training
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, analyzing evidenceOn-site at crime scenes, outdoor and indoor environments
Employer & IndustryCrime labs, forensic laboratoriesLaw enforcement agencies, police departments

While both roles support criminal investigations, Forensic Lab Techs focus on analyzing evidence in labs, whereas Crime Scene Investigators collect evidence at crime scenes. Each role requires specific skills and certifications, but they work closely within the forensic and law enforcement fields to solve crimes efficiently.

What are some of the typical challenges faced by a Forensic Lab Tech when handling evidence?

Forensic Lab Techs often face challenges related to maintaining the integrity and chain of custody of evidence. Strict protocols must be followed to prevent contamination or loss, which requires attention to detail and strong organizational skills. Additionally, working with potentially hazardous materials and adhering to tight deadlines can be demanding. Collaboration with law enforcement and legal professionals is frequent, requiring clear communication and documentation throughout the process.

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

To thrive as a Forensic Lab Tech, you need a solid background in biology, chemistry, or forensic science, typically supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), specialized analytical instruments, and evidence handling protocols is essential. Strong attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure accurate analysis, proper evidence handling, and reliable results that are crucial for legal investigations.

What are Forensic Lab Techs?

Forensic Lab Technicians, also known as forensic science technicians, are professionals who assist in the investigation of crimes by collecting, analyzing, and preserving physical evidence in laboratory settings. They use scientific methods and specialized equipment to examine materials such as blood, hair, fibers, and other trace evidence. Their findings help law enforcement agencies solve crimes and can be presented as evidence in court. Forensic lab techs often work closely with forensic scientists, crime scene investigators, and law enforcement personnel.
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What job categories do people searching Forensic Lab Tech jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Lab Tech jobs are:
Forensic Lab Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Lab Tech job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 10% Full Time, 35% Part Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,516 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Forensic Examiner

U.S. Courts

Saint Louis, MO • On-site, Remote

$61K - $119K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Summary
The United States Probation Office, United States District Court, Eastern District of Missouri is accepting applications for the position of Forensic Examiner. The position(s) may be located in the St. Louis office with full responsibility to the divisional office as well. Multiple positions may be filled from this announcement.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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  • Conducts forensic examinations of digital related evidence using established policies, procedures, and precedent techniques. Examination can include, but are not limited to: financial, terrorist, and sexually explicit material cases. Confers with the Supervisory Probation Officer about policies and procedures in relation to digital related evidence.
  • Responsible for training employees in this Court and across the nation on forensic related procedures. This includes the proper evidence collection, handling, and chain of custody methods either via video, teleconference, or in-person.
  • Receives evidence from other districts, checking items into custody, logging the items received, and initiating the case within the case management software. This would include data entry into SIRS and PACTS to ensure proper credit is received for each examination.
  • Collects and prepares digital evidence for forensic examination.
  • May be required to testify in legal proceedings as to the procedures and methods used to obtain data, as well as to the findings of the examination.
  • Develops, prepares, and presents reports of findings of forensic examinations.
  • Responsible for verification of forensics tools validation.
  • Coordinates the maintenance, security and troubleshooting on all hardware and software for forensic tools.
  • Identifies, diagnoses, and corrects errors and problems.
  • Assists in developing new procedures and policies for the forensic lab and the districts served.
  • Responsible for initial scan and installation of monitoring software on offender's electronic devices.
  • Prepare and maintain documentation and standard operating procedures and checklists for end users and other technicians.
  • Conducts the semi-annual inventories on all evidence maintained in the forensic lab. Tracks evidence to determine if the forensic lab needs to maintain it for evidentiary reasons.
  • Responsible for the disposing of all evidence which is no longer needed for evidentiary reasons.
  • Responsible for ensuring the evidence is appropriately removed from the evidence tracking software.
  • Maintains contact with the forensic community for the purpose of keeping abreast of developments, techniques, and user programs.
  • Recommend hardware, equipment, and software updates.
  • Provide related duties, as assigned.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
All applicants considered for the position will be required to undergo a background investigation which includes an FBI fingerprint check, as the position involves handling of confidential or highly sensitive information. The selectee may be appointed provisionally, and retention will depend upon favorable suitability determination of the background investigation.
Qualifications
Thorough knowledge of the latest forensic examination techniques technology hardware and software tools and their design. Knowledge of telephone and wireless systems. Skilled with various digital technologies, including mobile phones, tablets, computers, digital storage devices, GPS, IoT and gaming systems. Be able to perform basic routine disassembly of desktop and laptop computer, phones, and tablets. Ability to image digital equipment in a forensically sound manner. Ability to conduct thorough investigations into possible criminal conduct and document findings. Able to document the steps of an examination and a detailed analysis of your findings.
Three years specialized experience, and completion of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in a field of academic study, such as digital forensics, computer science and criminal justice, which provides evidence of the capacity to understand and apply the legal requirements and investigative skills involved in the position. Prior Forensic Examiner experience required. Law Enforcement Forensic examiner experience preferred. Certifications from the FBI CART, US Postal Service, National White-Collar Crimes, Secret Service is also preferred.
Education
This job does not have an education qualification requirement.
Additional information
  • Applicants must be United States citizens or eligible to work in the United States. Appointment is contingent upon providing proof of United States citizenship or proof of authorization to work in the United States as required by the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. Applicants selected for interviews must travel at their own expense and relocation expenses will not be reimbursed.
  • Applicants may be asked to participate in proficiency tests.
  • Citizenship-Requirements-Employment-Judiciary https://www.moed.uscourts.gov/sites/moed/files/Citizenship-Requirements-Employment-Judiciary.pdf
  • Learn More About Judiciary Policies, https://www.uscourts.gov/administration-policies/judiciary-policies
  • The organization reserves the right to assign and/or reassign an employee to any location within the district based on the needs of the organization.

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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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  • Paid Annual Leave
  • Paid Sick Leave
  • Paid Holidays (11)
  • Flexible Work Schedule
  • Pre-tax Benefit Programs
  • Health Insurance
  • Vision/Dental Insurance
  • Group Life Insurance
  • Defined contribution retirement benefits (FERS)
  • Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)- 401 (k)-styled program with up to 5% match
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Parking/Commuter Benefit Program
  • Virtual Judiciary Online University

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