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Forensic Lab Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

... lab space. You will operate equipment including industrial parts washers, autoclaves, and pumps, supporting scientists who manufacture products used in diagnostic testing, forensic investigations ...

... lab space. You will operate equipment including industrial parts washers, autoclaves, and pumps, supporting scientists who manufacture products used in diagnostic testing, forensic investigations ...

Forensic Lab information

See Madison, WI salary details

$38.3K

$61.5K

$107.8K

How much do forensic lab jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic lab in Madison, WI is $61,485.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,900.00 and $72,600.00 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 are popular job titles related to Forensic Lab jobs in Madison, WI?

For Forensic Lab jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Forensic Lab jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Forensic Lab jobs in Madison, WI are:

Infographic showing various Forensic Lab job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,476 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

IVD Operations Support Technician

Promega

Madison, WI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Promega rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

OUR TEAM: The IVD Production team consists of expert manufacturing scientists delivering high-quality nucleic acid purification and custom PCR products to customers throughout the world. Our products are used in multiple applications including clinical diagnostics, forensic investigations, and cutting-edge medical research. We are a cohesive and agile group that enjoys collaboration and can tackle complex situations with a positive attitude.

YOUR ROLE: As an IVD Operations Support Technician on the IVD Production team, you will be primarily responsible for washing and autoclaving labware, staging raw materials for production, and maintaining lab and gowning supply inventory, along with other lab support duties as needed to keep our manufacturing lab running efficiently. This role is physically demanding, you can expect to be on your feet and in the lab most of each day and to be moving materials as part of routine tasks. You will have to be comfortable with the physicality of the role and with working in a cGMP-regulated, gowned, environmentally controlled lab space. You will operate equipment including industrial parts washers, autoclaves, and pumps, supporting scientists who manufacture products used in diagnostic testing, forensic investigations, and cutting-edge medical research.


CORE DUTIES:
1. Operate labware wash machines and autoclaves according to departmental operation and safety guidelines.
2. Plan and maintain stockroom supplies, stock all items used in area of responsibility.
3. Staging of raw materials according to process orders.
4. Maintain accurate daily activity logs and batch records. 
5. Keep work areas clean and free from clutter.
6. Ability to identify needs or problems and to communicate proper courses of action on various cleaning issues and follows through to ensure completion.
7. Operate pH meters, conductivity meters, balances, autoclaves, peristaltic pumps, vacuum pumps, filtering apparatus and laboratory mixing equipment.
8. Plan daily schedule according to incoming requests.
9. Identify unsafe situations, processes or procedures and report them as appropriate. 
10. Meet customers’ needs in a professional manner.
11. Provides backup in several areas of department. 
12. Process Special Request from IVD Production, IVD Product Finishing and/or Engineering staff as needed.
13. Assist in compiling information and data for special reports.
14. Assist in specific projects as required and assigned.
15. Assist with training of others in the proper and safe use of all equipment.
16. Demonstrates inclusion through their own words and actions and is accountable for a safe workspace. Acts with kindness, curiosity and respect for others.
17. Embracing and being open to incorporating Promega’s 6 Emotional & Social Intelligence (ESI) core principles in daily work.


18. Understands and complies with ethical, legal and regulatory requirements applicable to our business.
KEY QUALIFICATIONS: 
1. High School diploma or proven work experience that ensures you are ready to be successful in this role.
2. Punctuality and ability to maintain a good attendance record are essential.
3. Demonstrate a continuous willingness to be flexible with regard to job activities and associated scheduling.
4. Excellent communication skills.
5. Clean production areas and equipment.
6. Competency in general math.
7. Works independently with moderate supervision and with other team members.
8. Must be able to use in-house software (Microsoft Office and ERP) to perform general duties.
9. Ability to maintain a positive attitude toward work activities and show a willingness to accept direction and advice and be a team player.
10. Strong attention to detail.
11. Demonstrated proficiency in digital tools and technology, including Microsoft applications and mobile platforms, with the ability to adapt and leverage emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, to improve efficiency, automation, and collaboration.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: 
1. Previous work experience in glassware preparation within a laboratory setting.
2. Knowledge and/or coursework in biological sciences or chemistry.
3. A self-directed individual to work efficiently & accurately with strong customer service.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: 
1. Standing, walking and bending on a continuous basis as well as going up and down stairs.
2. Ability to work in limited space areas.
3. Ability to operate washing and drying labware equipment.
4. Ability to move up to 300 lbs. on a dolly and 500 lbs. on a pallet jack occasionally.
5. Ability to safely handle and transport glassware and labware items up to 300 liters in size and weighing up to 50 pounds for several hours per week.

At Promega, we value diversity and strive to create an inclusive workplace. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer, making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.

Qualifications:UNAVAILABLEEducation:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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