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Forensic Lab Tech Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... devices, forensics, and life sciences research laboratories spanning research, development and ... The LabAnswer team has a rare combination of laboratory science, IT, business and regulatory ...

Junior Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Bachelor's degree in architecture, engineering, or building technology * Field Experience Track: 2 ... lab or field testing, or related building envelope systems * Two years of experience in building ...

Junior Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Bachelor's degree in architecture, engineering, or building technology * Field Experience Track: 2 ... lab or field testing, or related building envelope systems * Two years of experience in building ...

Junior Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Bachelor's degree in architecture, engineering, or building technology * Field Experience Track: 2 ... lab or field testing, or related building envelope systems * Two years of experience in building ...

Senior Cybersecurity Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$134K - $185K/yr

... lab/OT environments; translate findings into pragmatic controls and roadmaps • Leverage DevOps ... Required : • 7 years of experience in the technology space (at least 5 with a security focus) • ...

R&D Electrical Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · Hybrid

$172K - $269K/yr

... forensics, and advanced materials. As an R&D Electrical Engineer on our Life Sciences and ... Build and verify prototypes hands-on in the lab using oscilloscopes, multimeters, power supplies ...

R&D Electrical Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$172K - $269K/yr

... forensics, and advanced materials. As an R&D Electrical Engineer on our Life Sciences and ... Build and verify prototypes hands-on in the lab using oscilloscopes, multimeters, power supplies ...

Showing results 21-40

Forensic Lab Tech information

See California salary details

$9

$24

$44

How much do forensic lab tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for forensic lab tech in California is $24.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a forensic lab tech do?

A forensic lab tech analyzes physical evidence from crime scenes, such as fingerprints, blood samples, and DNA, using laboratory equipment and techniques. They document findings, prepare reports, and may testify in court, often working with law enforcement agencies in a controlled lab environment. Strong attention to detail and knowledge of forensic science are essential for this role.

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.

Can I be a CSI without being a cop?

A Crime Scene Investigator (CSI) or forensic lab technician typically does not need to be a police officer, but they often work closely with law enforcement. Most CSIs have specialized training in forensic science, crime scene analysis, and laboratory techniques, and certification or a degree in forensic science or a related field is usually required. While some law enforcement agencies employ CSIs who are sworn officers, many forensic lab techs are civilian employees focused on evidence analysis and processing.

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.

How much do forensic techs make?

Forensic lab technicians typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $80,000 depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced technicians or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages.

What qualifications do you need to work in a forensics lab?

Forensic lab technicians typically need a bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory equipment, and familiarity with forensic analysis techniques; certifications such as the American Board of Criminalistics can enhance job prospects.

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.
Infographic showing various Forensic Lab Tech job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,829 per year, or $24.9 per hour.
Field Application Scientist

Field Application Scientist

Waters Corporation

Bodega Bay, CA

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Waters is a leader in life sciences tools, starting with liquid chromatography technologies in the 1960s. Since then, Waters has pioneered analytical techniques across markets including Clinical Diagnostics, Food & Environmental, Pharmaceuticals, and Materials. In Advanced Diagnostics, Waters has leading LC-MS technologies, which are already used for many applications including therapeutic drug monitoring, newborn screening, toxicology, and endocrinology. Our vision is for Waters to lead the continued broad-based adoption of LC-MS in the clinical and forensics space.

As a Field Application Scientist, you will support both our clinical and forensic customers through pre-sales and post-sales activities. Reporting to the US Applications and Support Manager, you will join a passionate, agile team to develop innovative solutions to address high unmet needs and establish Waters as the leader in clinical LC-MS diagnostics markets.

So, are you looking for an impactful role for a fast-growing company that helps advance science and human well-being? Would you like the freedom of being field based where no day is the same and you get the opportunity to become a trusted advisor to our customers? Do you want to work for a global best-in-class, innovative technology organization who are highly focussed and committed to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion? If your answers are yes, then we would love to hear from you!

With Waters being a Global Organization, there are endless opportunities for you to learn, grow and develop. Many of our team members have advanced their careers either in their current roles or moving into different parts of our business such as service, sales, global support, and leadership.


What do our Field Application Scientists do? Below are some of the key responsibilities:

  • Train and support our customers with their Waters LC/MS instruments, both remotely and on-site.
  • Demonstrate Waters clinical solutions to our customers through sample analyses in our demo lab facilities.
  • Support our sales colleagues with technical expertise through joint visits, trade shows, and internal meetings.
  • Work closely together with our service organization by analyzing and reviewing system and scientific data, to determine the source of problems and recommend corrective actions.
  • Manage customer expectations by communicating work performed and providing follow-up plans if required.
  • Build strong rapport and trusted advisor partnerships with our customer base to provide them with suitable advice and support on Waters products and services – always looking for potential opportunities as to how Waters can further advance their laboratory operations.

To achieve the above, you will get the best possible training by our global Clinical Applications and Support Team and embark on a continuous learning and development pathway.


Who are we looking for?

  • The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related discipline with 1-2 years of experience, or, a Master of Science degree with 3-5 years of experience. Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree will be considered with more than 5 years of in-depth LC/MS experience.
  • We are seeking a true expert in liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry method development and troubleshooting. Familiarization with Waters instruments and software (Waters_Connect and MassLynx) is a plus.
  • The ideal candidate will have experience with both tandem mass spectrometry instruments and high resolution mass spectrometry instruments.
  • We are seeking a candidate with experience in large molecule applications such as peptide mapping, peptide quantitation, proteins, or nanoflow chromatography as it relates to large molecule mass spec.
  • Experience with metabolomics/lipidomics applications in a clinical research domain is an advantage.
  • Understanding of clinical or forensic LC-MS/MS workflows is an advantage.
  • This position will require 50-75% travel throughout the U.S. and Canada. The selected candidate must have a valid driver’s license and passport. Preference will be given to candidates in the Pacific and Mountain time zones with close access to a major U.S. airport.
  • We are seeking a personable individual with a passion for customer success, with the ability to explain complex scientific methodology to our customers.
  • Fluency in Spanish is an advantage but is not a requirement for this position.

Waters Corporation (NYSE:WAT)  is a global leader in life sciences and diagnostics, dedicated to accelerating the benefits of pioneering science through analytical technologies, informatics, and service. With a focus on regulated, high-volume testing environments, our innovative portfolio harnesses deep scientific expertise across chemistry, physics, and biology. We collaborate with customers around the world to advance the release of effective, high-quality medicines, ensure the safety of food and water, and drive better patient outcomes by detecting diseases earlier, managing routine infections, and combating antibiotic resistance. Through a shared culture of relentless innovation, our passionate team of ~16,000 colleagues turn scientific challenges into breakthroughs that improve lives worldwide.  

Diversity and inclusion are fundamental to our core values at Waters Corporation. It benefits our employees, our products, our customers and our community. Waters complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws. Qualified applicants are considered without regard to sex, race, color, ancestry, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, marital status (including civil unions), military service, veteran status, pregnancy (including childbirth and related medical conditions), genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, legally recognized disability, domestic violence victim status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Waters is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. All hiring decisions are based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.


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#HRMS
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#science
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#chemistry
#analytical
#clinicaldiagnostics
#toxicology
#forensics
#IVDR