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Forensic Lab Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Forensic Examiner

Saint Louis, MO ยท On-site +1

$61K - $119K/yr

... 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.

LAB TECHNICIAN - NIGHT SHIFT, MANUFACTURING Role Summary This role manages and continuously ... Chemistry, Biology, Microbiology, Biotechnology, Zoology, Environmental Sciences, Forensic Sciences ...

Lab Technician

Ithaca, NY ยท On-site

$16 - $18/hr

... forensics, CDMO, and support clinical studies. They are currently looking for a Lab Technician to join their team! This is a great entry-level opportunity for someone looking to get into the life ...

Lab Technician

Pasadena, TX

$17.25 - $23/hr

... forensics, advanced material sciences and agroscience contract research services. It is one of the ... The TEM Lab Prep Technician prepares and analyzes environmental samples according to scientific ...

Lab Technician

Pasadena, TX ยท On-site

$17.25 - $23/hr

... forensics, advanced material sciences and agroscience contract research services. It is one of the ... The TEM Lab Prep Technician prepares and analyzes environmental samples according to scientific ...

Lab Technician

Pasadena, TX

$17.25 - $23/hr

... forensics, advanced material sciences and agroscience contract research services. It is one of the ... The TEM Lab Prep Technician prepares and analyzes environmental samples according to scientific ...

Lab Technician - TEM

Pittsburgh, PA ยท On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

The Lab Technician - TEM conducts and observes standardized tests following test parameters and as ... As the field of Industrial Forensics advanced and embraced more sophisticated and complex issues ...

Lab Technician - TEM

Pittsburgh, PA ยท On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

The Lab Technician - TEM conducts and observes standardized tests following test parameters and as ... As the field of Industrial Forensics advanced and embraced more sophisticated and complex issues ...

TEM Lab Technician

Pasadena, TX

$17.25 - $23/hr

... forensics, advanced material sciences and agroscience contract research services. It is one of the ... The TEM Lab Prep Technician prepares and analyzes environmental samples according to scientific ...

TEM Lab Technician

Pasadena, TX ยท On-site

$17.25 - $23/hr

... forensics, advanced material sciences and agroscience contract research services. It is one of the ... The TEM Lab Prep Technician prepares and analyzes environmental samples according to scientific ...

... forensics, advanced material sciences and in the support of clinical studies, as well as having an ... Receipt of consumables and lab stocking * Clean and maintain lab spaces and other duties as ...

Lab Technician

New Brunswick, NJ ยท On-site

$20/hr

... forensics, advanced material sciences and in the support of clinical studies, as well as having an ... Receipt of consumables and lab stocking * Clean and maintain lab spaces and other duties as ...

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Forensic Lab Technician information

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How much do forensic lab technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for forensic lab technician 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.

Is AI taking over forensics?

Forensic lab technicians use AI tools to assist in analyzing evidence, such as facial recognition, fingerprint analysis, and pattern recognition. While AI enhances efficiency and accuracy, human expertise remains essential for interpretation, decision-making, and maintaining evidence integrity.

What does a forensic lab tech do?

A forensic lab technician collects, analyzes, and preserves physical evidence from crime scenes using laboratory equipment and scientific methods. They prepare reports, document findings, and may testify in court, often working with tools like microscopes, chemical reagents, and DNA analysis techniques. Attention to detail and knowledge of safety protocols are essential in this role.

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

AspectForensic Lab TechnicianCrime Scene Investigator
CredentialsForensic science degree, certifications in lab proceduresCriminal 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
Primary FocusAnalyzing physical evidence in labCollecting evidence at crime scenes

While both roles are essential in forensic investigations, Forensic Lab Technicians focus on analyzing evidence within labs, whereas Crime Scene Investigators gather evidence at crime scenes. Their skills and work environments differ, but both contribute to solving crimes.

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

To thrive as a Forensic Lab Technician, you need a solid background in biology, chemistry, or forensic science, usually with a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory instruments such as spectrometers, DNA analyzers, and evidence management software, along with certifications like the American Board of Criminalistics (ABC), is highly valuable. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure precise evidence analysis, uphold legal standards, and support the integrity of criminal investigations.

How hard is it to get into the CSI?

Becoming a forensic lab technician typically requires a relevant degree in forensic science, biology, or chemistry, along with laboratory skills and attention to detail. Entry can be competitive, and gaining experience through internships or certifications can improve chances of acceptance into forensic crime scene investigation roles.

What does a Forensic Lab Technician do?

A Forensic Lab Technician assists forensic scientists by preparing and analyzing physical evidence from crime scenes. Their duties include processing samples such as blood, hair, fibers, and other trace materials using specialized laboratory equipment and techniques. They must carefully document their findings and may be called to testify in court about their analyses. Accuracy, attention to detail, and adherence to strict protocols are essential in this role.

What are some common challenges faced by forensic lab technicians when handling evidence?

Forensic lab technicians often face challenges such as maintaining the integrity and chain of custody for evidence, managing a high volume of samples, and ensuring accuracy under strict deadlines. Proper documentation and meticulous attention to detail are crucial to prevent contamination or mishandling, which could compromise investigations. Additionally, working closely with law enforcement and legal teams requires strong communication skills and adaptability to changing priorities.

How to become a forensic lab technician?

To become a forensic lab technician, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level laboratory work and developing skills in evidence analysis, laboratory techniques, and familiarity with forensic tools are important steps. Certification from professional organizations can also enhance job prospects.
More about Forensic Lab Technician jobs
What cities are hiring for Forensic Lab Technician jobs? Cities with the most Forensic Lab Technician job openings:
What states have the most Forensic Lab Technician jobs? States with the most job openings for Forensic Lab Technician jobs include:
Infographic showing various Forensic Lab Technician job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% 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 โ€ข On-site, Remote

$61K - $119K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Conducts forensic examinations of digital related evidence using established policies, procedures, and precedent techniques.

  • Trains employees on forensic related procedures, including proper evidence collection, handling, and chain of custody methods.

  • Receives, logs, and tracks evidence, and initiates cases within the case management software.


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