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Forensic Lab Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Eurofins Scientific

Sr Lab Technician

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 ... Senior Laboratory Technician responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

Signature Science LLC

Forensic Technician I

Austin, TX · On-site

$50K/yr

Perform lab work wearing appropriate PPE, and practice good contamination control techniques ... Incumbent must meet the forensic technician requirements specified by the Texas Forensic Science ...

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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.

What do forensic lab techs do?

Forensic lab technicians analyze physical evidence collected from crime scenes, such as fingerprints, blood samples, and DNA, using laboratory equipment and techniques. They prepare reports, document findings, and may testify in court, often working with tools like microscopes and chemical reagents in a laboratory setting. Attention to detail and knowledge of forensic procedures are essential for 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.

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 over $80,000 depending on experience, education, and location. Certification and proficiency with laboratory tools can also influence earning potential.

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.

Is it easy to get hired as a CSI?

Getting hired as a forensic lab technician or CSI typically requires relevant education, such as a degree in forensic science, biology, or chemistry, along with laboratory skills and attention to detail. Competition can be high, and employers often seek candidates with certification and experience working with forensic tools and procedures.

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. Relevant skills include laboratory techniques, attention to detail, and knowledge of forensic tools and procedures; certifications such as the ASCLD-LAB or state-specific credentials can enhance job prospects.
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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:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Lab Technician jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Lab Technician jobs are:
Forensic Lab Technician jobs near you
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 Toxicology Laboratory Processing Technician I

Forensic Toxicology Laboratory Processing Technician I

Quest Diagnostics

Lenexa, KS • On-site

$14.56/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

ExamOne rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 103 rated laboratories

Job description


Forensic Toxicology Laboratory Processing Technician I - Lenexa, KS, Tuesday to Saturday, 3:45 AM to 12:15 PM
Pay range: $17.20+ per hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or all hours worked on second shift and 15% for some or all hours worked on third shift. Additional details on shift differential will be provided if an offer is extended.
Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered. Successful candidates may be eligible to receive annual performance bonus compensation.
Benefits Information:
We are proud to offer best-in-class benefits and programs to support employees and their families in living healthy, happy lives. Our pay and benefit plans have been designed to promote employee health in all respects - physical, financial, and developmental. Depending on whether it is a part-time or full-time position, some of the benefits offered may include:
• Day 1 Medical, supplemental health, dental & vision for FT employees who work 30+ hours
• Best-in-class well-being programs
• Annual, no-cost health assessment program Blueprint for Wellness®
• healthyMINDS mental health program
• Vacation and Health/Flex Time
• 6 Holidays plus 1 "MyDay" off
• FinFit financial coaching and services
• 401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth IRA with company match up to 5% after 12 months of service
• Employee stock purchase plan
• Life and disability insurance, plus buy-up option
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Annual incentive plans
• Matching gifts program
• Education assistance through MyQuest for Education
• Career advancement opportunities
• and so much more!
This position reports to the Supervisor, Forensic Processing and is responsible for the routine daily sample processing of the Forensic Toxicology Processing Department. This individual is accountable for all specimen receipt, sorting, data entry and work within the forensic processing department.
Responsibilities
  • Understand the QTN Lab Information System
  • Sort specimens by source (hair, oral fluid, urine, etc) and work list
  • Completes Maxilog Data Entry
  • Understands and adheres to strict forensic practices
  • Processes urine specimens for regulated and non-regulated testing independently
  • Adheres to company policies and procedures
  • Scans/images of all custody and control forms
  • Discards negative specimens
  • Performs flexilog on routine urine specimens at 70 CCF's per hour
  • Other duties as assigned by supervisor

Qualifications
Preferred Work Experience:
Lab experience
Physical and Mental Requirements:
Able to sit/stand for long periods
Education
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent (Required)

Competencies
  • Interpersonal communication skills

About the Team
Quest Diagnostics honors our service members and encourages veterans to apply.
While we appreciate and value our staffing partners, we do not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Quest will not be responsible for paying agency fees for any individual as to whom an agency has sent an unsolicited resume.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets or any other legally protected status.

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