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Forensic Lab Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Montgomery County Texas

Forensic Lab Tech I

Conroe, TX · On-site

$24.70 - $29.01/hr

Forensic Lab Technician I Job Grade: 9 Hourly Pay Rate: $24.70 - $29.01 Location: 5101 North Parkway Conroe TX 77303 Civil Service: Yes Shift Hours: 8:00am - 5:00pm Education, Experience and Skill ...

U.S. Courts

Forensic Examiner

Saint Louis, MO · 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.

Astrix Inc

Lab Technician

Ithaca, NY · 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 ...

RJ Lee Group

Lab Technician - TEM

Pittsburgh, PA · 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 ...

RJ Lee Group, Inc

Lab Technician - TEM

Pittsburgh, PA · 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 ...

Eurofins

Lab Technician

New Brunswick, NJ · 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 ...

Eurofins Scientific

Lab Technician

South Brunswick, NJ

$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 ...

Eurofins

Lab Technician - HVGC Lab

Winston Salem, NC · On-site

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

... forensics, advanced material sciences and in the support of clinical studies, as well as having an ... Laboratory Technician responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following: * Perform ...

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Forensic Lab Technician information

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How much do forensic lab technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 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.

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 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.

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.

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.

How do you 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 is valuable, and some positions may require certification from organizations like the American Board of Criminalistics. Strong attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory equipment, and understanding of legal procedures are essential for success in this role.

What is the average pay for a forensic lab technician?

The average salary for a forensic lab technician typically ranges from $45,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Salaries often increase with experience and advanced training in laboratory techniques and forensic analysis.
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Forensic Lab Technician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Lab Technician job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,516 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Forensic Lab Tech

City of South Bend, Indiana

South Bend, IN • On-site

$44K - $52K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Description
POSITION SUMMARY:
This is a day shift position with normal hours of 0700 hours to 1500 hours, Monday - Friday. This is also an On-Call position, and you will be required to work an On-Call rotation with the other technicians.
The SBPD Forensic Lab Tech purpose is to perform a variety of crime scene investigation duties within the Police Department. This is a civilian position responsible for complex crime scene investigations as well as using various types of equipment; locating, processing, securing, and packaging physical evidence for the scientific evaluation and comparison; preparing detailed reports on the observations and activities at the scene and in the South Bend Police Crime Lab. The job requires meticulous attention to detail and preparation that the work will come under the scrutiny of courts, juries, and the public. The evidence collected at the scene of a crime must be able to withstand tough legal challenges.
Additionally, the SBPD Forensic Lab Tech may be asked to analyze data, comply, and control evidence, prepare documentation, make recommendations to the justice system authorities, and provide court testimony. This position will collaborate with other law enforcement agencies to include St. Joseph County Prosecutor's Office, F.B.I., A.T.F., and other law enforcement agencies, including our own.
The SBPD Forensic Lab Tech will report directly to the supervisor or designee of the SBPD Crime Lab for daily assignments and duties and will be under general supervision of the Detective Bureau and any other Commanding Officer so properly designated.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Assumes a high degree of accountability for delivering the highest quality crime scene investigative service possible. This accountability attaches not only to the actual duties in the crime lab or processing of the crime scene but includes all follow up tasks.
  • Adherence to a step-by-step crime scene approach, knowledge of evidence, and proper procedures. This includes but is not limited to locating and extracting fingerprints, taking pictures, and other duties required to fully investigate, interview, document, and testify related to all aspects of a crime scene.
  • Maintain proficiency in all CST related job skills, as defined in the South Bend Basic Crime Scene school syllabus.
  • Identification: documentation, collection, preservation, packaging, transportation, and submittal into the evidence lockers at the Police Department of all crime scene evidence related to the incident.
  • Prepare necessary investigative reports in a timely manner.
  • Ability to testify or prepare and present information competently in a court of law or other settings to various groups.
  • Attend all mandatory CST trainings as required or as necessary. Including the 4-day Crime Scene Photography Course and the 5-day Basic Crime Scene Processing course.
  • Attend in-service training as required and perform other such duties as required of a position of this type.
  • Utilize the digital imaging workstation including digital photography, scanner, and Adobe Photoshop to enhance, save on disk and print latent prints.
  • Ability to successfully utilize all items listed under "EQUIPMENT" in this job description, with appropriate training.
  • Collect DNA from evidence when required and properly preserve in laboratory freezers.
  • Perform preliminary examination on all other forms of evidence. Determine subsequent analysis or examination needed and collect additional evidence there from as needed.
  • Perform Shooting Incident Reconstruction upon specific request.
  • Remove and package biohazard evidence from evidence drying chambers and disinfect the chambers thereafter.
  • Prepare and maintain chemicals for latent fingerprint development and research alternative chemical methods available.
  • Process vehicles from crime scenes, including but not limited to, bullet trajectory / shooting incident reconstruction, photography, collection and preservation of latent print and DNA evidence and any other request by the SBPD Detective Bureau.
  • Assist the Firearms and Ballistics Lab in processing of firearms and ballistic evidence.
  • Responds to death investigations upon request during normal working hours and/or on an on-call rotation with other technicians as needed.
  • Transport evidence to the Indiana State Police Lab or other laboratories as needed.
  • Attend autopsies upon request.
  • Assist in the training of other officers related to the forensic sciences.
  • Ensure supplies are stocked, and equipment is clean, maintained and in good, working order.
  • Assist in performing routine maintenance of the SBPD Crime Lab and Technician's Bay.
  • Any other duties as assigned and directed by the SBPD Crime Lab Supervisor and/or the Investigative Bureau or any other Commanding Officer so properly designated.
  • EDUCATION / QUALIFICATIONS:
  • To perform this position successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty in a satisfactory manner. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Preferred Qualifications
  • A two (2) year degree in a forensic science, related natural/physical science, two years relevant work experience as a crime scene investigator, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience and certification by the IAI as a Crime Scene Investigator or above
  • Or
  • A four (4) year degree in forensic science, related natural/physical science
  • Minimum Qualifications:
  • High School Graduate or Equivalent and 5 years work related experience

Required:
  • Ability to receive certification from the IAI as a Crime Scene Investigator within one year of employment or equivalent
  • Ability to communicate clearly in English, both orally and in writing with scientific and non-scientific personnel.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license and operate a motor vehicle.
  • Ability to travel by aircraft.
  • Ability to attend training at alternate locations for extended periods of time.
  • Successfully complete a truth verification examination, criminal history background and personal background with no criminal record.
  • Ability to lift 50 pounds.

KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITY:
  • Ability to work with chemicals, biological hazards, and forensic lab equipment.
  • Ability to maintain accurate and complete records.
  • Ability to multitask, use good judgement, and make independent decisions.
  • Ability to communicate clearly in English, both orally and in writing, with scientific and non-scientific personnel.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSE, REGISTRATION:
  • Valid Indiana Driver's License.

EQUIPMENT:
  • Alternate/forensic light sources, Computer, Digital Imaging System, Telephone, Various cameras (film based, digital), Magnifying lens, AFIS, IBIS, Fax, Copy machine, Scanner, Lab Equipment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit and walk, and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to walk; use hands to fingers, handle or feel objects, tools or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required in this job include vision and the ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:
  • The employee may work indoors and outdoors. Conditions indoors will be in a temperature-controlled environment but exposed to changing weather conditions outdoors. Storage room areas can be dusty. Lab environment may require the use of respirators, gloves, or mask. Exposure to potentially hazardous chemicals, human body fluids, blood borne pathogens, biological hazards such as viruses and germs, and other hazardous evidence items.

REQUIRED:
  • Pre-employment drug screen

Requirements
Essential Duty: Uphold Core Values
All employees of the City of South Bend are expected to uphold and actively demonstrate the City's Core Values in their daily work, which are summarized below:
  • Excellence - Deliver high-quality service and strive for continuous improvement.
  • Accountability - Take ownership of responsibilities and outcomes.
  • Innovation - Seek creative solutions and embrace new ideas.
  • Inclusion - Promote a respectful, equitable, and welcoming environment.
  • Empowerment - Support and encourage others to grow and succeed.

This duty is fundamental to fostering a positive workplace culture and delivering exceptional public service.
These values shape our culture, inform our decisions, and inspire our work every day.

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