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Forensic Lab Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

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Forensic Lab information

See Washington, DC salary details

$43K

$69.1K

$121.2K

How much do forensic lab jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic lab in Washington, DC is $69,100.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,800.00 and $81,500.00 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 Washington, DC? The most popular types of Forensic Lab jobs in Washington, DC are:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Lab jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Lab jobs in Washington, DC are:
Infographic showing various Forensic Lab job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,100 per year, or $33.2 per hour.

WBG Pioneer -Digital Forensic Lab Intern

The World Bank Group

Washington, DC • On-site

Internship

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

WBG Pioneer

Background/Organizational Context 

As part of the World Bank Group (WB), the Integrity Vice Presidency (INT) shares in the WB's overall mission in alleviating poverty and achieving a shared and sustainable prosperity in client countries. INT's fundamental role within the WB is to help detect, prevent, and deter fraud and corruption in the use of the WB's financial resources, so that those resources are used effectively to benefit the poor people that they are intended to reach.  

Forensic Services Unit (FSU) supports INT's fraud and corruption investigations, forensic reviews, and integrity risk mitigation across WBG-funded operations, Bank Group staff matters, vendors, and client-country contexts. FSU combines financial, technology (digital forensic and fraud analytics) and investigative skills for broader preventive and advisory work, including diagnosing vulnerabilities, quantifying losses, strengthening financial management and procurement controls. FSU also provides capacity building, knowledge sharing, external engagement, internal FSU strategy/reporting, and the use of forensic technologies such as digital forensics, eDiscovery, fraud analytics, AI/GenAI, blockchain, and cryptocurrency tools, while maintaining strong working relationships across INT, the Bank Group, development partners, and client countries. 

Duties and Responsibilities 

The Digital Forensic Intern will support Digital Forensics Lab Specialists in the identification, forensic acquisition, triage, preservation, processing, and organization of digital evidence and data. The intern will assist with the use of digital forensic and eDiscovery tools, including uploading, processing, and preparing data for review under the supervision of DF Lab Specialists. The role requires adherence to applicable global, WBG, INT, and VPU standards for evidence handling, data collection, processing, storage, retention, and confidentiality throughout the evidence lifecycle. The intern will also support the management and maintenance of DF Lab assets, including hardware and software inventory, evidence storage, archive organization, and general lab readiness. Additional duties may be assigned based on operational needs.