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Forensic Lab Tech Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CYNET SYSTEMS

Phlebotomist III - Floater

Glendale, CA · On-site

$25 - $31/hr

Perform both forensic and clinical specimen collection and processing duties following established ... Draw quality blood samples from patients and prepare specimens for lab testing. * Explain ...

Allana Buick & Bers

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 ...

Allana Buick & Bers

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 ...

Allana Buick & Bers

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 ...

Eurofins Scientific

Calibration Technician

San Jose, CA

$25.75 - $35.25/hr

... t is one of the market leaders in certain testing and laboratory services for genomics, discovery ... Perform calibration/qualification and preventative maintenance in the lab on single channel and ...

Eurofins

Calibration Technician

San Jose, CA · On-site

$25.75 - $35.25/hr

... t is one of the market leaders in certain testing and laboratory services for genomics, discovery ... Perform calibration/qualification and preventative maintenance in the lab on single channel and ...

CYNET SYSTEMS

Phlebotomist I

Oakland, CA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Perform both forensic and clinical specimen collection and processing duties following established ... Draw quality blood samples from patients and prepare specimens for lab testing. * Explain ...

CYNET SYSTEMS

Phlebotomist I

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$22 - $27.20/hr

Draw quality blood samples from patients and prepare specimens for lab testing following ... Perform both forensic and clinical specimen collection and processing duties. Maintain required ...

CYNET SYSTEMS

Phlebotomist I

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Draw quality blood samples from patients and prepare specimens for lab testing following ... Perform both forensic and clinical specimen collection and processing duties. * Maintain required ...

CYNET SYSTEMS

Phlebotomist I

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Perform both forensic and clinical specimen collection and processing duties following established ... Draw quality blood samples from patients and prepare specimens for lab testing. * Explain ...

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Forensic Lab Tech information

See California salary details

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$24

$44

How much do forensic lab tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 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 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 a forensic lab technician become a forensic scientist?

A forensic lab technician can become a forensic scientist by gaining additional education, such as a bachelor's or master's degree in forensic science, biology, or chemistry, and developing specialized skills. Many forensic scientists have more advanced training and experience in laboratory analysis, research, and casework, which can be achieved through on-the-job experience or further education.

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 is a forensic lab tech?

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.

What are popular job titles related to Forensic Lab Tech jobs in California?

For Forensic Lab Tech jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Forensic Lab Tech jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Forensic Lab Tech jobs in California are:

Forensic Lab Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Lab Tech job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 10% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,829 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Extraction Laboratory Technician II

Abbott

Santa Rosa, CA

$18.70 - $37.40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago

Abbott rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 138 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

178th of 540 rated manufacturers

Job description

Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our portfolio of life-changing technologies spans the spectrum of healthcare, with leading businesses and products in diagnostics, medical devices, nutritionals and branded generic medicines. Our 115,000 colleagues serve people in more than 160 countries.JOB DESCRIPTION:

Extraction Laboratory Technician II

Working at Abbott

At Abbott, you can do work that matters, grow, and learn, care for yourself and family, be your true self and live a full life. You'll also have access to:

  • Career development with an international company where you can grow the career you dream of.

  • Employees can qualify for free medical coverage in our Health Investment Plan (HIP) PPO medical plan in the next calendar year.

  • An excellent retirement savings plan with high employer contribution.

  • Tuition reimbursement, the Freedom 2 Save student debt program and FreeU education benefit - an affordable and convenient path to getting a bachelor's degree.

  • A company recognized as a great place to work in dozens of countries around the world and named one of the most admired companies in the world by Fortune.

  • A company that is recognized as one of the best big companies to work for as well as a best place to work for diversity, working mothers, female executives, and scientists.

The Opportunity

Abbott Rapid and Molecular Diagnostics is part of Abbott's Diagnostics family of businesses, bringing together exceptional teams of experts and industry leading technologies to support diagnostic testing which provides important information for treatment and management of diseases and other conditions.

The position of Extraction Laboratory Technician IIis within our Toxicology Division located in Santa Rosa, CA. This role will prepare specimens for routine drug testing following the laboratory's Standard Operating Procedures

What You'll Work On

  • Read, understand, and follow written Standard Operating Procedures

  • Correctly identify specimens scheduled for analysis and assemble batches as necessary

  • Pour or quantitatively pipette biological specimens and standards in varying volumes (forensic specimens)

  • Prepare and/or extract analytes of interest for subsequent instrumental analysis (forensic specimens)

  • Load prepared batches onto analytical instruments and initiate preapproved analytical runs following established SOPs

  • May create Hamilton batches for aliquots merged from different screening batches

  • Maintain proper and adequate Chain of Custody batch documentation

  • Communication with supervisors and prompt escalation of emerging challenges

  • Maintain and promote a safe healthful environment for self and co-workers

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in chemistry, analytical chemistry, or a related field

  • The ability to work safely with biological specimens, chemicals, equipment, and instruments.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience working with biological specimens and/or analytical instruments (LC/MS/MS and/or GC/MS)

Apply Now

Learn more about our health and wellness benefits, which provide the security to help you and your family live full lives: www.abbottbenefits.com

Follow your career aspirations to Abbott for diverse opportunities with a company that can help you build your future and live your best life. Abbott is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to employee diversity.

Connect with us at www.abbott.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Abbott and on Twitter @AbbottNews.

The base pay for this position is

$18.70 - $37.40/hour

In specific locations, the pay range may vary from the range posted.

JOB FAMILY:Operations QualityDIVISION:TOX ARDx ToxicologyLOCATION:United States > Santa Rosa : 3700-3730 Westwind Blvd.ADDITIONAL LOCATIONS:WORK SHIFT:StandardTRAVEL:NoMEDICAL SURVEILLANCE:Not ApplicableSIGNIFICANT WORK ACTIVITIES:Awkward/forceful/repetitive (arms above shoulder, bent wrists), Continuous sitting for prolonged periods (more than 2 consecutive hours in an 8 hour day), Continuous standing for prolonged periods (more than 2 consecutive hours in an 8 hour day), Keyboard use (greater or equal to 50% of the workday), Work with human blood or other potentially infectious materialsAbbott is an Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities/Women/Individuals with Disabilities/Protected Veterans.EEO is the Law link - English: http://webstorage.abbott.com/common/External/EEO_English.pdfEEO is the Law link - Espanol: http://webstorage.abbott.com/common/External/EEO_Spanish.pdf

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