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Forensic Lab Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

EMC Technician

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

... forensics, advanced material sciences and in the support of clinical studies, as well as having an ... Understanding basic lab safety * Basic understanding of EMC principles (Emissions vs Immunity ...

... forensics, advanced material sciences and in the support of clinical studies, as well as having an ... Understanding basic lab safety * Basic understanding of EMC principles (Emissions vs Immunity ...

... forensics, advanced material sciences and in the support of clinical studies, as well as having an ... Experience with lab automation desired (liquid handlers / plate readers, robotics). * Ability to ...

New

... forensics, advanced material sciences and in the support of clinical studies, as well as having an ... Experience with lab automation desired (liquid handlers / plate readers, robotics). * Ability to ...

Lab Technician II

Fresno, CA ยท On-site

$18.75 - $25/hr

... forensic, CDMO, and clinical research industries. They are currently seeking a Laboratory Associate - Microbiology to join their team. This is an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on microbiology ...

New

Phlebotomist I

Hanford, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $24/hr

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

... forensic contexts as needed Support process excellence and contribute positively to a team-focused environment Required Skills Strong phlebotomy skills, including pediatric and geriatric blood draws ...

Showing results 21-40

Forensic Lab information

See California salary details

$37.5K

$60.2K

$105.6K

How much do forensic lab jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic lab in California is $60,212.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,900.00 and $71,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectForensic LabCrime Scene Investigator
CredentialsForensic science degree, certifications in forensic analysisCriminal justice or forensic science degree, training in scene documentation
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, controlled environmentOn-site at crime scenes, outdoor and indoor environments
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, forensic laboratoriesLaw enforcement agencies, crime scene units
Primary FocusAnalyzing physical evidence in labsCollecting evidence at crime scenes

While both roles are essential in criminal investigations, forensic labs focus on analyzing evidence in controlled lab settings, whereas crime scene investigators gather evidence directly from crime scenes. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in forensic science.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forensic lab technician?

To thrive as a Forensic Lab Technician, you need a solid background in chemistry, biology, or forensic science, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, DNA analysis tools, and evidence management systems is crucial. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong communication skills help ensure accuracy and effective reporting in high-stakes situations. These skills are vital for maintaining the integrity of evidence and supporting the justice process.

What is a forensic lab?

A forensic lab is a specialized facility where scientific analyses are conducted to assist in criminal investigations and legal proceedings. These labs use techniques from chemistry, biology, and other sciences to examine evidence such as DNA, fingerprints, drugs, and trace materials. Forensic scientists in these labs play a critical role in helping law enforcement solve crimes by providing objective, scientifically-backed results. The findings from forensic labs can be used in court to support or challenge evidence presented in criminal and civil cases.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a forensic laboratory setting?

Professionals in forensic labs often face challenges such as maintaining strict chain-of-custody protocols, managing a high volume of casework under tight deadlines, and ensuring accuracy under pressure, as their results can have significant legal implications. Additionally, staying updated with advancements in forensic technology and adhering to rigorous quality assurance standards are essential. Effective collaboration with law enforcement and legal teams is also key, as clear communication helps ensure that laboratory findings are properly understood and utilized.

What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Lab jobs in California?

The most popular types of Forensic Lab jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Forensic Lab jobs?

Cities in California with the most Forensic Lab job openings:

Infographic showing various Forensic Lab job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,212 per year, or $28.9 per hour.

Senior Geotechnical Laboratory Technician

BlackBurn Consulting

Olivehurst, CA โ€ข On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Description:



Senior Geotechnical Laboratory Technician – West Sacramento, CA


Position Summary:


Blackburn Consulting (Blackburn) is seeking a full-time Senior Geotechnical Laboratory Technician. The Senior Geotechnical Laboratory Technician will be able to perform all geotechnical laboratory tests and assist the Geotechnical Laboratory Manager with overall laboratory management in Blackburn’s West Sacramento testing laboratory. The Senior Geotechnical Laboratory Technician will be supervised by the Geotechnical Laboratory Manager. This candidate shall have at least five years of experience performing tests in accordance with ASTM and Caltrans test methods, entering data, and generating test result reports in a geotechnical laboratory. Experience with strength testing (direct shear and triaxial compression), hydraulic conductivity and/or R-value testing is preferred. This position may require some limited travel (<10%) to project sites or other testing laboratories to pick up and deliver samples.


Blackburn Company Overview:


Blackburn provides geotechnical, geo-environmental, construction, forensics and lab engineering services throughout California with offices in Auburn, West Sacramento, Sausalito, Escondido and Fresno. Blackburn has been in business since 1998 and is employee-owned and operated. We pride ourselves in our family-like work environment and culture. Each employee strives for high quality and constant improvement. Everyone here has the opportunity to make a big impact!


Position Duties:

  • Complete laboratory test schedules within deadlines and in accordance with appropriate testing methods
  • Assist the Geotechnical Laboratory Manager with overall laboratory management including equipment maintenance, certification renewals, equipment verifications and calibrations, space and sample management, and laboratory organization/cleaning
  • Communicate with Blackburn managers to provide input on proper laboratory test selection, test interpretation, and test schedules
  • Schedule lab tests
  • Enter laboratory test data into the computer-based testing program, generate test reports, circulate for review and provide final copies to the Blackburn manager in charge of the project

Essential Abilities:

  • Perform typical calculations associated with laboratory tests
  • Communication skills internally and externally
  • Multi-task between projects
  • Ability to deliver a high-quality deliverable in a timely manner

Technical Qualifications:

  • High school degree, Bachelor’s degree preferred
  • At least five years of relevant experience
  • Valid driver’s license and personal vehicle
  • Experience with standard computer operations (Windows based systems)

Physical Requirements:

  • Read, write, and speak English
  • Communicate clearly in person and over telephone
  • Visual acuity to perform job duties
  • Physical ability to bend, reach, stand, walk, sit, push and pull up to 40lbs of weight

Blackburn Consulting provides an Equal Employment Opportunity for all applicants and employees, and does not discriminate on any basis protected by local, state, or federal laws, including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex, gender, origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, military status, or marital status.

Requirements: