1

Forensic Lab Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Forensic Lab information

See Rhode Island salary details

$37.2K

$59.7K

$104.8K

How much do forensic lab jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic lab in Rhode Island is $59,748.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,500.00 and $70,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 to get a job in a forensic lab?

To work in a forensic lab, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory techniques, and familiarity with forensic tools and software; some positions may require certification or advanced degrees. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level laboratory work can improve job prospects.

What does a forensic lab do?

A forensic lab analyzes physical evidence collected from crime scenes to help solve crimes. Forensic scientists examine items such as fingerprints, DNA, blood, and other materials using specialized tools and techniques to provide objective evidence for investigations and court cases.

What job categories do people searching Forensic Lab jobs in Rhode Island look for?

The top searched job categories for Forensic Lab jobs in Rhode Island are:

Infographic showing various Forensic Lab job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,748 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Laboratory Technician (Sample Receiving) - Eurofins Environment Testing Northeast- North Kingstow...

Eurofins Scientific

North Kingstown, RI • On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Eurofins rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 181 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

64th of 121 rated laboratories


Job description

Company Description

Eurofins Scientific is an international life sciences company which provides a unique range of analytical testing services to clients across multiple industries. The Group believes it is the world leader in food, environment and pharmaceutical products testing and in agroscience CRO services. It is also one of the global independent market leaders in certain testing and laboratory services for genomics, discovery pharmacology, forensics, advanced material sciences and for supporting clinical studies. In addition, Eurofins is one of the key emerging players in specialty clinical diagnostic testing in Europe and the USA.

Group's key figures are approx. 6.95 billion Euros turnover, over 950 laboratories across 60 countries and about 63,000 staff.

Job Description

Performs sample handling in accordance with state and local EPA regulations. Participates in performing tasks related to sample receipt, storage and disposal as well as shipping samples to outside laboratories.

Compensation:  $18-20/hour with benefits

Schedule is Monday-Friday 1:30pm-10:00pm plus overtime as needed. Train for  1-2 weeks on 1st shift M-F 9am-5:30pm

Responsibilities:

  • Follow laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs) in the handling and disposal of samples.
  • Light laboratory duties
  • Perform sample receiving duties including, but not limited to: sample documentation upon receipt, sample storage and sample disposal.
  • Effectively communicating with Sample Receiving Manager if there are sample receipt related discrepancies including but not limited to: incorrect bottle type / preservation, additional containers not listed on the chain of custody and reporting when sample receipt temperature is out of spec
  • Packing and shipping samples via FedEx
  • Preparing client bottle orders
  • Assists laboratory with glassware cleaning for all departments.
  • Assists chemists and other technicians as needed.
  • Perform all responsibilities in a safe and responsible manner in accordance with Eurofins Laboratory safety policy. Maintains a safe and healthy work environment that is in compliance with the requirements of Eurofins Laboratory's Health & Safety program (and local laws and regulations).
  • Utilizing computer based laboratory information system to electronically track and store sample containers and for shipping purposes
  • Performs all responsibilities in an organized and timely manner in strict accordance with courier arrival times, sample hold times and with the nightly Fedex pickup
Qualifications

Basic Minimum Qualifications:

  • Environmental Science background preferred
  • Must be able to work in a fast paced and deadline oriented environment
  • Exceptional multi-tasking ability with strong attention to detail
  • Must be able to follow instruction and work under general supervision.
  • Great organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Must be able to work in a fast paced, time sensitive environment..
  • Possess an understanding of basic technical knowledge as pertains to assigned department. 
  • Ability to learn quickly
  • Strong leadership qualities preferred.
  • Attention to detail. 
  • Must be able to lift 25+ pounds
  • Familiarity and working knowledge with TALS Laboratory Information Management System
  • Communicate all sample receipt/storage/disposal discrepancies effectively with Sample Receiving Manager in a timely manner
  • Professional working proficiency in English as a requirement, including the ability to read, write and speak in English
  • Authorization to work in the United States indefinitely without restriction or sponsorship
  • Perform other duties as assigned

"All offers of employment are contingent upon a successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen and background check."

Additional Information

Please note - Eurofins Environment Testing (USA) provides a compensation range for informational purposes, the actual base salary may vary based upon, but not limited to, relevant experience and skill set, base salary of internal peers, business sector, and geographic location.

As a Eurofins employee, you will become part of a company that has received national recognition as a great place to work.  We offer excellent full-time benefits including comprehensive medical coverage, life and disability insurance, 401(k) with company match, paid holidays, paid time off, and dental and vision options.

We do not offer Visa Sponsorship for this role.

We support your development! Do you feel you don't match 100% of the requirements? Don't hesitate to apply anyway! Eurofins companies are committed to supporting your career development.

We embrace diversity! Eurofins network of companies believe in strength and innovation through diversity, being an Equal Opportunity Employer. We prohibit discrimination against employees or applications based on gender identity and/or expression, race, nationality, age, religion, sexual orientation, disability, and everything else that makes employees of Eurofins companies unique.

Sustainability matters to us! At Eurofins, we believe sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. Guided by our vision to be the Global Leader in "Testing for Life," our mission to contribute to a healthier and safer world, and our core values, we are building a strong foundation for Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives. Eurofins' commitment to sustainability begins within our own companies through a shared responsibility to people and the planet. With climate change posing an imminent threat, Eurofins and its many companies recognize their duty to proactively reduce or offset the environmental impact of essential operations while also helping our clients do the same-serving as a true ESG Enabler.

Find out more in our career page: https://careers.eurofins.com/

Company description: Eurofins Scientific is an international life sciences company, providing a unique range of analytical testing services to clients across multiple industries, to make life and our environment safer, healthier and more sustainable. From the food you eat, to the water you drink, to the medicines you rely on, Eurofins laboratories work with the biggest companies in the world to ensure the products they supply are safe, their ingredients are authentic and labelling is accurate.

The Eurofins network of companies is the global leader in food, environment, pharmaceutical and cosmetic product testing and in discovery pharmacology, forensics, advanced material sciences and Eurofins Scientific 2/2 March 2023 agroscience contract research services. It is one of the market leaders in certain testing and laboratory services for genomics, discovery pharmacology, forensics, advanced material sciences and in the support of clinical studies, as well as having an emerging global presence in Contract Development and Manufacturing Organisations. It also has a rapidly developing presence in highly specialised and molecular clinical diagnostic testing and in-vitro diagnostic products.

In over 35 years, Eurofins has grown from one laboratory in Nantes, France to 61,000 staff across a decentralised and entrepreneurial network of ca. 900 laboratories in 61 countries. Eurofins companies offer a portfolio of over 200,000 analytical methods to evaluate the safety, identity, composition, authenticity, origin, traceability and purity of biological substances and products.

In 2022, Eurofins generated total revenues of EUR 6.7 billion, and has been among the best performing stocks in Europe over the past 20 years.

Eurofins is a M/F, Disabled, and Veteran Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer.

Eurofins USA Environment Testing is a Disabled and Veteran Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

Eurofins USA Environment Testing is a Disabled and Veteran Equal Employment Opportunity employer.


What Eurofins employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Eurofins logo

About Eurofins

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Scientific research and development services, biotechnology research and development and environmental consulting services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Leacock, PA, US