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Forensic Lab Jobs in Maine (NOW HIRING)

The Division of Forensic Sciences within the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) is currently seeking qualified applicantsto fill Crime Lab Scientist vacanciesin the Toxicology Department

The Division of Forensic Sciences within the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) is currently seeking qualified applicantsto fill Crime Lab Scientist vacanciesin the Chemistry Department

Forensic Lab information

See Maine salary details

$36.8K

$59.1K

$103.6K

How much do forensic lab jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic lab in Maine is $59,070.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,000.00 and $69,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do people do in forensic labs?

Forensic lab professionals analyze physical evidence from crime scenes, such as DNA, fingerprints, blood samples, and trace materials, using specialized tools and techniques. They document findings, prepare reports, and may testify in court, often working with certifications and adhering to strict protocols to ensure evidence integrity.

What careers can you do with forensics?

Forensic labs offer careers such as forensic scientist, crime scene investigator, forensic analyst, and toxicologist. These roles involve analyzing physical evidence, using laboratory equipment, and often require knowledge of biology, chemistry, or criminal justice. Certifications and attention to detail are important for success in these careers.

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.

How can I work in a forensic lab?

To work in a forensic lab, you typically need a relevant degree such as a bachelor's or master's in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Gaining laboratory experience, developing skills in evidence analysis, and obtaining certifications like the ASCLD/LAB accreditation can improve job prospects. Strong attention to detail, knowledge of lab tools and procedures, and adherence to safety protocols are essential for forensic laboratory roles.

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 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 is the highest paid job in forensics?

The highest paid jobs in forensics are typically forensic science directors or senior forensic laboratory managers, who oversee laboratory operations and research. These roles often require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership skills, and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on the employer and location.

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 popular job titles related to Forensic Lab jobs in Maine? For Forensic Lab jobs in Maine, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Lab jobs in Maine look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Lab jobs in Maine are:
What cities in Maine are hiring for Forensic Lab jobs? Cities in Maine with the most Forensic Lab job openings:
Infographic showing various Forensic Lab job openings in Maine as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,070 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

Crime Lab Scientist - Toxicology

Georgia

Augusta, ME โ€ข On-site

$63K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Explore a World of Opportunity with the State of Georgia!

We are the force that drives Georgia!
Georgia State Government is a large enterprise, composed of various agencies and entities with a common goal to improve the lives of Georgia's more than 10 million citizens!
Join Team Georgia and impact lives everyday while receiving a robust benefits package designed for every stage of your career!

Job Title:

Crime Lab Scientist - Toxicology

Job Requisition ID:

JR0000001021

Number of Openings:

0

Shift:

Compensation Details:

$63,840.00

Job Description:

THIS A SENSITIVE GOVERNMENT POSITION


Please review theGBI Employment Disqualifiersbefore applying for this position. Employment for the selected candidate(s) is contingent upon the successful completion of a GBI background investigation including criminal, credit and driver's history checks, polygraph examination, fingerprinting and drug screening.

The GBI follows the Federal statute regarding illegal drug use and is a drug-free workplace. Although some states have legalized recreational drug use, applicants who currently use illegal drugs or controlled substances will be subject to disqualification from employment with the GBI.


TheDivision of Forensic Scienceswithin the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) is currently seeking qualified applicantsto fill Crime Lab Scientist vacanciesin theToxicology Department.Applicants selected for employment will be offered a position at the following crime laboratories as the final work location:

GBI Headquarters Laboratorylocated in Decatur, GA

Coastal Lablocated in Pooler, GA

Eastern Lablocated in Augusta, GA


Applicants must select theirgeographiclocation preference(s) by answering the supplemental questions during the application process if applicable.Applicants may also be given an opportunity to select their geographic location preference(s) at the time of interview.THE 24 MONTH TRAINING PROGRAM MAY BE HELD AT A LAB OUTSIDE OF THE FINAL WORK LOCATION.

PLEASE NOTE:
Some positions/locations listed in this announcement are not currently open. However, we are building a pool of qualified applicants. Apply now to be considered when opportunities become available.

  • TESTING WILL BE HELD VIRTUALLY. QUALIFIED APPLICANTS WILL BE CONTACTED VIA EMAIL TO SCHEDULE A TEST APPOINTMENT.
  • IN PERSON INTERVIEWS WILL BE HELD THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 29TH AT THE GBI HEADQUARTERS, LOCATED AT: 3121 PANTHERSVILLE ROAD, DECATUR, GA 30034.Headquarters, Decatur, GA

All applicants must download (right click to save), complete, and upload the Pre-employment Questionnaire. Failure to complete and upload the Pre-employment Questionnaire will result in your application being rejected.Click the following link to download the questionnaire. Pre-employment Questionnaire.

Only qualified applicants who complete and submit the State of Georgia application and Pre-employment Questionnaire will receive email notification with a link to schedule a test appointment. The notification will consist of the link to schedule a test appointment and times.

*APPLICANTS GRADUATING IN DECEMBER 2026 ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY*

VACANCY OPEN TO ALL QUALIFIED APPLICANTS

Job Duties:

DUTIESAND RESPONSIBILITIES
Under immediate supervision train to perform analytical procedures related to blood, urine, stomach contents and tissues to establish whether traces of alcohol, drugs or poisons are present, and if so, in what quantity for the GBI Crime Lab.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Good teamwork abilities
  • Perform scientific tests on bodily fluids and tissue samples
  • Work in a lab environment with Medical Examiners
  • Attention to details
  • Must be able to interpret results
  • Must be able to work assigned schedule
  • Give expert testimony in court
  • Sit and/or stand for long periods of time

Toxicology Section
The Division of Forensic Sciences (DOFS) Toxicology Section provides state and local law enforcement officials and medical examiners with vital information about human biological samples and specifically whether drugs, alcohol or poisons may have played a role in the commission of a crime or a death. By analyzing blood, urine, stomach contents and tissues, DOFS toxicologists are able to establish whether traces of alcohol, drugs or poisons are present, and if so, in what quantity.
For additional information on theToxicology Section, please visit the GBI Website.

Qualifications:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor's degree in a natural, physical, or forensic science from an accredited college or university with the successful completion of at least at least32 semester (or 48 quarter) hours ofCHEMISTRYcoursework.

* Successful completion is considered a "C" or better in coursework.

YOU MUST UPLOAD A COLLEGE TRANSCRIPT WITH YOUR ONLINE APPLICATION!

*TRANSCRIPTS MUST BE IN A WORD DOCUMENT OR PDF.

NO PHOTOS, JPEG FILES, OR SCREENSHOTS ALLOWED!

Transcripts can be unofficial for the application process. If currently enrolled in college, your transcript shouldinclude all courses that you are currently enrolled in.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

The incumbent will occasionally be required to stand; walk; reach, carry with hands and arms; stoop and kneel.Frequent light lifting and/or moving 10lbs. of evidence kits or suppliesunassistedis required.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The positions require the incumbent to work in a laboratory setting which includes shared office space with other Crime Lab personnel. These positions must wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when working in the laboratory to include lab coat, gloves, face mask and protective eye wear. PPE will be provided.

NOTE: The positions will require some travel and operating a state vehicle for court. A valid Georgia driver's license is required.

Supplemental Information:

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY AND ENSURE YOU HAVE COMPLETED THE STEPS BELOW. FAILURE TO SUBMIT THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS WILL RESULT IN AN INCOMPETE APPLICATION. INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE REVIEWED.

  • Uploaded transcripts and any required course content(s) when completing the application.TRANSCRIPTS MUST BE IN A WORD DOCUMENT OR PDF FORMAT. NO PHOTOS, JPEG FILES, OR SCREENSHOTS ALLOWED.
  • Uploaded ACOMPLETEDPre-employment Questionnairewith the State of Georgia Application.
  • Selected AND ranked the preferred lab locations.

Supplemental Information:

EXAMINATION SUBJECTS:
The test will be relative to the discipline or position you select. If you apply for multiple disciplines, additional tests may be required.

There are no study materials available for the test.

The GBI reserves the right to close this job announcement once a qualified applicant pool has been identified.

  • Due to the volume of applications we receive, we are unable to provide information on application status by phone or by e-mail. All qualified applicants will be considered, but may not necessarily receive an interview. Applicants who are not selected for an interview will not receive notification.
  • The GBI follows the Federal statute regarding illegal drug use and is a drug-free workplace. Although some states have legalized recreational drug use, applicants who currently use illegal drugs or controlled substances will be subject to disqualification from employment with the GBI.
  • Applicants must present a professional image during all phases of the GBI hiring process, to include when interviewing, either in-person or virtually.The attire and appearance of applicants interviewing must be what is generally accepted as both professional and appropriate for a business work environment.
  • Foreign Education:Applicants who have completed part or all of their education outside the U.S. must have their foreign education evaluated by an accredited organization to ensure that the foreign education is equivalent to education received in accredited educational institutions in the U.S.This evaluation must be a course-by-course evaluation that includes each completed course/subject and the U.S. credit equivalent.Applicants must submit a copy of the credential evaluation as part of the application process.For a listing of services that can perform this evaluation, see the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services website athttp://www.naces.org/members.htm.
  • Due to budget constraints, the GBI is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa.
  • The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has been internationally accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA).


THE GBI IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in a related field from an accredited college or university.

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer

The State of Georgia does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or other protected categories in employment or the provision of services.
Qualified applicants may request reasonable accommodation when needed during the application and/or screening process by contacting the appropriate agency Human Resources department.