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How much do forensic lab tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 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 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.
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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 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,516 per year, or $25.2 per hour.
Digital Forensic Analyst I

Digital Forensic Analyst I

Contact Government Services, LLC

Albany, NY

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 hours ago

Job description

Digital Forensic Analyst
Employment Type: Full-Time, Mid-Level
Department: Forensics   
 
CGS is seeking a Digital Forensic Analyst whose primary focus will be on the preservation & collection of mobile device and cloud-stored data.  This candidate should be fluent in a broad range of forensic technologies and interested in taking on a primary role in a quickly expanding forensics department. This position will include travel for on-site collection efforts as well as an in-office presence at the primary firm office which includes the forensics lab and data center.  This firm prioritizes a lean-team approach and a very employee-centric culture that encourages professional growth and active roles for all team members.
 
CGS brings motivated, highly skilled, and creative people together to solve the government's most dynamic problems with cutting-edge technology. To carry out our mission, we are seeking candidates who are excited to contribute to government innovation, appreciate collaboration, and can anticipate the needs of others. Here at CGS, we offer an environment in which our employees feel supported, and we encourage professional growth through various learning opportunities.
 
Skills and attributes for success:
- Perform forensic data collection and basic forensic analysis in both on-site and remote capacity
- Coordinate directly with legal teams/client IT departments to understand project scope
- Maintain forensic tool set by staying current on version updates and new options in the market
- Work closely with project management and other team members on completing complex projects in a fast pace, deadline-driven environment
- Assist in developing, documenting, and refining procedures to accomplish discovery process requirements
- Manage all chain of custody best practices associated with the rules of evidence
- Consistently adhere to standard operating procedures
- Perform quality checks on work products prior to delivering to the client
- Complete additional duties assigned by the manager including general IT functions
 
Qualifications:
- Minimum of an undergraduate degree, preferably in Digital Forensic Science or Computer Science/Engineering
- 1+ years of relevant experience in where the analyst understands the forensic lifecycle and can properly perform scoping activities, evidence acquisitions on a range of devices, and execute forensic analysis at an intermediate level
- Experience using industry standard forensic tools such as:
- EnCase 
- Cellebrite 
 - Oxygen
 - FTK Imager 
 - MacQuisition
 - X1 Social Discovery
 - Logicube Falcon 
- General understanding of Mac/Windows filesystems, mobile devices, and encryption
- Experience preserving desktops, laptops, mobile devices/tablets, servers, both cloud and on-premise email implementations, nontraditional cloud data sources, social media, etc. in a forensically sound manner
- Ability to communicate effectively and tactfully in both verbally and in written format to team members and technical/non-technical clients
- Ability to work extended hours when necessary to ensure client deadlines are met
- Ability to demonstrate superior organizational skills with acute attention to detail
- Must be willing to travel regularly on short notice; must have a valid passport for occasional international travel
- Must be an energetic self-starter who can work within a team environment but also independently as the situation requires
- Ability to document forensic workflows based on sound industry practice
- Willingness to develop/train other team members to increase the group's overall knowledge base as well as cultivate secondary resources to assist in larger collection events
- Strong troubleshooting skills coupled with the ability to solve on the fly to solve complex problems
 
Ideally, you will also have:
- Understanding of the electronic discovery reference model (EDRM)
- Possess at least one industry-standard certification (EnCE, CCE, CCFE, GCFE, GCFA, CCO, CCPA, CCME, etc.)
- General knowledge of litigation support applications (e.g. Relativity, Concordance, Nuix, LAW PreDiscovery, etc.)
- Experience working with structured data exported from various platforms including analysis, custom scripting, and data manipulation to develop reports for client use
- Understanding of (Robo/Rich) copy tools, BAT (PowerShell) scripting, and Active Directory
- Experience with scripting, programming/coding, and database languages (SQL, VB, HTML, Access)
 
Our Commitment:
Contact Government Services (CGS) strives to simplify and enhance government bureaucracy through the optimization of human, technical, and financial resources. We combine cutting-edge technology with world-class personnel to deliver customized solutions that fit our client's specific needs. We are committed to solving the most challenging and dynamic problems.
For the past seven years, we've been growing our government-contracting portfolio, and along the way, we've created valuable partnerships by demonstrating a commitment to honesty, professionalism, and quality work.
 
Here at CGS we value honesty through hard work and self-awareness, professionalism in all we do, and to deliver the best quality to our consumers mending those relations for years to come.
 
We care about our employees. Therefore, we offer a comprehensive benefits package.
- Health, Dental, and Vision
- Life Insurance
- 401k
- Flexible Spending Account (Health, Dependent Care, and Commuter)
- Paid Time Off and Observance of State/Federal Holidays
 
Contact Government Services, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants will be considered without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
 
Join our team and become part of government innovation!
Explore additional job opportunities with CGS on our Job Board:
https://cgsfederal.com/join-our-team/
For more information about CGS please visit: https://www.cgsfederal.com or contact:
Email: [email protected] Forensic Analyst
Employment Type: Full-Time, Mid-Level
Department: Forensics   
 
CGS is seeking a Digital Forensic Analyst whose primary focus will be on the preservation & collection of mobile device and cloud-stored data.  This candidate should be fluent in a broad range of forensic technologies and interested in taking on a primary role in a quickly expanding forensics department. This position will include travel for on-site collection efforts as well as an in-office presence at the primary firm office which includes the forensics lab and data center.  This firm prioritizes a lean-team approach and a very employee-centric culture that encourages professional growth and active roles for all team members.
 
CGS brings motivated, highly skilled, and creative people together to solve the government's most dynamic problems with cutting-edge technology. To carry out our mission, we are seeking candidates who are excited to contribute to government innovation, appreciate collaboration, and can anticipate the needs of others. Here at CGS, we offer an environment in which our employees feel supported, and we encourage professional growth through various learning opportunities.
 
Skills and attributes for success:
- Perform forensic data collection and basic forensic analysis in both on-site and remote capacity
- Coordinate directly with legal teams/client IT departments to understand project scope
- Maintain forensic tool set by staying current on version updates and new options in the market
- Work closely with project management and other team members on completing complex projects in a fast pace, deadline-driven environment
- Assist in developing, documenting, and refining procedures to accomplish discovery process requirements
- Manage all chain of custody best practices associated with the rules of evidence
- Consistently adhere to standard operating procedures
- Perform quality checks on work products prior to delivering to the client
- Complete additional duties assigned by the manager including general IT functions
 
Qualifications:
- Minimum of an undergraduate degree, preferably in Digital Forensic Science or Computer Science/Engineering
- 1+ years of relevant experience in where the analyst understands the forensic lifecycle and can properly perform scoping activities, evidence acquisitions on a range of devices, and execute forensic analysis at an intermediate level
- Experience using industry standard forensic tools such as:
- EnCase 
- Cellebrite 
 - Oxygen
 - FTK Imager 
 - MacQuisition
 - X1 Social Discovery
 - Logicube Falcon 
- General understanding of Mac/Windows filesystems, mobile devices, and encryption
- Experience preserving desktops, laptops, mobile devices/tablets, servers, both cloud and on-premise email implementations, nontraditional cloud data sources, social media, etc. in a forensically sound manner
- Ability to communicate effectively and tactfully in both verbally and in written format to team members and technical/non-technical clients
- Ability to work extended hours when necessary to ensure client deadlines are met
- Ability to demonstrate superior organizational skills with acute attention to detail
- Must be willing to travel regularly on short notice; must have a valid passport for occasional international travel
- Must be an energetic self-starter who can work within a team environment but also independently as the situation requires
- Ability to document forensic workflows based on sound industry practice
- Willingness to develop/train other team members to increase the group's overall knowledge base as well as cultivate secondary resources to assist in larger collection events
- Strong troubleshooting skills coupled with the ability to solve on the fly to solve complex problems
 
Ideally, you will also have:
- Understanding of the electronic discovery reference model (EDRM)
- Possess at least one industry-standard certification (EnCE, CCE, CCFE, GCFE, GCFA, CCO, CCPA, CCME, etc.)
- General knowledge of litigation support applications (e.g. Relativity, Concordance, Nuix, LAW PreDiscovery, etc.)
- Experience working with structured data exported from various platforms including analysis, custom scripting, and data manipulation to develop reports for client use
- Understanding of (Robo/Rich) copy tools, BAT (PowerShell) scripting, and Active Directory
- Experience with scripting, programming/coding, and database languages (SQL, VB, HTML, Access)
 
Our Commitment:
Contact Government Services (CGS) strives to simplify and enhance government bureaucracy through the optimization of human, technical, and financial resources. We combine cutting-edge technology with world-class personnel to deliver customized solutions that fit our client's specific needs. We are committed to solving the most challenging and dynamic problems.
For the past seven years, we've been growing our government-contracting portfolio, and along the way, we've created valuable partnerships by demonstrating a commitment to honesty, professionalism, and quality work.
 
Here at CGS we value honesty through hard work and self-awareness, professionalism in all we do, and to deliver the best quality to our consumers mending those relations for years to come.
 
We care about our employees. Therefore, we offer a comprehensive benefits package.
- Health, Dental, and Vision
- Life Insurance
- 401k
- Flexible Spending Account (Health, Dependent Care, and Commuter)
- Paid Time Off and Observance of State/Federal Holidays
 
Contact Government Services, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants will be considered without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
 
Join our team and become part of government innovation!
Explore additional job opportunities with CGS on our Job Board:
https://cgsfederal.com/join-our-team/
For more information about CGS please visit: https://www.cgsfederal.com or contact:
Email: [email protected]
 
#CJ
$80,000 - $120,000 a year
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your da...

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