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Forensic Lab Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Georgia

Crime Lab Scientist - Firearms

Midland, TX

$63K/yr

The Division of Forensic Sciences within the GBI is currently looking to fill Crime Lab Scientist positions in the Firearms & ToolmarksSection . Applicants selected for employment will be offered a ...

coctx

Crime Scene Technician

Carrollton, TX

Successfully complete required forensic training program and obtain required certifications. * Ensure maintenance of processing lab and adherence to established standards and procedures. * Ensure ...

Harris County

DNA Laboratory Technician

Houston, TX · On-site

$37K/yr

The Mission of the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences is to provide medical examiner and crime laboratory services of the highest quality in an unbiased manner with uncompromised integrity.

City of Frisco, TX

Criminalist

Frisco, TX · On-site

$59K - $86K/yr

Reviews all Crime Scene Reports and Lab Reports. * Reconstructs major crime scenes using advanced forensic techniques such as blood spatter interpretation, gunshot trajectory etc. * Testifies in ...

City of Frisco

Criminalist

Frisco, TX

$59K - $86K/yr

Reviews all Crime Scene Reports and Lab Reports. Reconstructs major crime scenes using advanced forensic techniques such as blood spatter interpretation, gunshot trajectory etc. Testifies in court as ...

City of Midland

Crime Scene Technician

Midland, TX

$58K/yr

... scene, forensic, and evidentiary matters Processes evidence in the laboratory and maintains lab equipment and supplies in a state of readiness Prepares and submits items of evidence to the ...

City of Midland, TX

Crime Scene Technician

Midland, TX · On-site

$58K/yr

Gives advice and direction to officers and detectives in crime scene, forensic, and evidentiary matters * Processes evidence in the laboratory and maintains lab equipment and supplies in a state of ...

SOCOTEC

Geotechnical Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

We are seeking an experienced Geotechnical Engineer with a strong background in forensic analysis ... Organize and coordinate with field and laboratory staff to complete explorations and lab testing.

Socotec

Geotechnical Engineer

Houston, TX

We are seeking an experienced Geotechnical Engineer with a strong background in forensic analysis ... Organize and coordinate with field and laboratory staff to complete explorations and lab testing.

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All JobsForensic Lab JobsForensic Lab Jobs in Texas

Forensic Lab information

See Texas salary details

$35.4K

$56.8K

$99.7K

How much do forensic lab jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic lab in Texas is $56,841.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,300.00 and $67,100.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Forensic Lab jobs in Texas? The most popular types of Forensic Lab jobs in Texas are:
What are popular job titles related to Forensic Lab jobs in Texas? For Forensic Lab jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Lab jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Lab jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Forensic Lab jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Forensic Lab job openings:
Forensic Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Lab job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,841 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

Crime Lab Scientist - Firearms

Georgia

Midland, TX

$63K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 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 - Firearms

Job Requisition ID:

JR0000001010

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 GBI is currently looking to fill Crime Lab Scientist positions in theFirearms & ToolmarksSection.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

Western Lablocated in Midland, GA
Coastal Lablocated in Pooler, GA


Applicants must select theirgeographiclocation preference(s) by answering the supplemental questions during the application process.Applicants may also be given an opportunity to select their geographic location preference(s) at the time of interview. THE18-24 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:

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Under immediate or limited supervision performs laboratory examinations and comparisons on physical evidence (firearms and components, bullets and cartridge cases, distance determination tests, tool markings, serial number restoration, and NIBIN database) submitted by local, state and federal law enforcement agencies for investigative and legal purposes.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Evaluates and test fires various types of firearms.
  • Performs laboratory examinations, scientific analysis, and comparisons on firearms and firearms related evidence that may include hazardous biological and chemical substances.
  • Performs serial number restorations on firearms.
  • Performs distance approximations.
  • Issues reports that accurately reflects the results of examinations.
  • Provides expert testimony in court in the discipline of Firearms Examination.
  • Stand or sit for long periods of time.
  • Use highly technical equipment
  • Work assigned hours

Firearms/Toolmarks Identification

TheFirearms and Toolmarks Sectionis a versatile, well-equipped unit offering a number of services that can be useful to investigators.This unit provides examinations of firearms and components, bullets and cartridge cases, distance determination tests, toolmarks, serial number restoration, and NIBIN database.

For additional information on theFirearms & Toolmarks Section,please visit the GBI website.

NOTE

Employees will be required to complete a training program for up to 24 months at the Headquarters in Decatur, GA before being place at an assigned location.

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 40 semester (or 60 quarter) hours of coursework in natural sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, etc...)

* 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:

These 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: This position 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 INCOMPLETE 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 ACOMPLETED Pre-employment Questionnairewith the State of Georgia Application.
  • Selected 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.

Apply