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Forensic Laboratory Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Maine

Forensic Seized Drug Unit Supervisor

Augusta, ME

$68K - $96K/yr

The Maine CDC Health and Environmental Testing Laboratory (HETL) Forensic Chemistry Section (FCS ... Laboratory Director at (207) 287-2703. Please submit all documents or files in PDF or Word format.

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$186K

How much do forensic laboratory director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic laboratory director in the United States is $126,086.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $106,000.00 and $138,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Forensic Laboratory Director vs Forensic Scientist?

AspectForensic Laboratory DirectorForensic Scientist
CredentialsTypically requires a master's or doctoral degree in forensic science, chemistry, or related field, along with management experienceUsually holds a bachelor's or master's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or related field
Work EnvironmentOversees laboratory operations, manages staff, and ensures quality controlPerforms laboratory analyses, tests, and reports on forensic evidence
Employer & Industry UsageFound in crime labs, law enforcement agencies, and government labsEmployed in similar settings, focusing on evidence analysis

The main difference is that the Forensic Laboratory Director manages the entire lab's operations and staff, while the Forensic Scientist conducts the actual forensic analyses. The director holds higher-level responsibilities, including oversight and strategic planning, whereas the scientist focuses on technical work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Forensic Laboratory Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forensic Laboratory Director, you need advanced scientific expertise, leadership experience, and a relevant degree—often a master's or doctorate in forensic science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), accreditation standards (such as ISO/IEC 17025), and evidence handling protocols is essential. Strong decision-making, communication, and team management skills help foster effective operations and uphold scientific integrity. These competencies are crucial to ensure accurate, reliable results, legal compliance, and a well-functioning forensic laboratory.

What does a Forensic Laboratory Director do?

A Forensic Laboratory Director oversees the operations and administration of a forensic science laboratory. They are responsible for managing staff, ensuring quality assurance, developing policies, and maintaining compliance with accreditation standards. Their role also involves budgeting, training, and sometimes representing the lab in court or public forums. Directors play a crucial part in ensuring that forensic analyses are accurate, timely, and legally defensible. They also help implement new technologies and methodologies to improve laboratory efficiency.

What are some common challenges faced by a Forensic Laboratory Director in managing both staff and casework priorities?

Forensic Laboratory Directors often encounter the challenge of balancing high case volumes with limited resources while maintaining rigorous quality standards. They must effectively allocate staff to ensure timely analysis, oversee compliance with accreditation requirements, and address any technical or ethical issues that arise. Additionally, they frequently coordinate with law enforcement agencies, legal teams, and external stakeholders, requiring strong communication and organizational skills. Navigating these demands while fostering a collaborative and motivated team environment is essential for success in this role.
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Forensic Laboratory Director jobs near you
Mankato Assistant Lab Director / Forensic Laboratory- Job ID 94504

Mankato Assistant Lab Director / Forensic Laboratory- Job ID 94504

Minnesota Department of Public Safety

Mankato, MN • On-site

$47.38 - $68.02/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

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Job description

Job Summary

The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) is seeking an experienced and forward-thinking forensic science leader to serve as Assistant Laboratory Director (ALD) for its new Southern Regional Forensic Laboratory in Mankato, Minnesota, currently under construction with estimated completion in March 2027. This modern 56,000 square foot regional office and forensic science laboratory will bring together a team of agents, forensic scientists, support staff, and a crime scene response team.

The Mankato laboratory will provide a range of forensic services, including:

  • Evidence intake
  • Drug Chemistry
  • Digital evidence examination
  • DNA analysis
  • Crime scene response
  • Other forensic technologies such as: National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) for firearm analysis and rapid DNA

This is a unique and highly impactful leadership opportunity to help build, shape, and launch a state-of-the-art forensic laboratory that will serve the Minnesota criminal justice system for decades to come. This full-time permanent position assists the Deputy Superintendent of Forensic Science Services in directing the delivery of a full range of state of the art and competent forensic laboratory services to the Minnesota Criminal Justice System and to supervise the staff under their control.

About the BCA Forensic Science Services

BCA Forensic Science Services (FSS) currently operates three laboratory locations:

  • Headquarters Laboratory – St. Paul
  • Northern Regional Laboratory – Bemidji
  • Satellite Laboratory – St. Cloud

The addition of the Mankato facility marks a major expansion of forensic service delivery in Minnesota and reflects a strong commitment to public safety, scientific excellence, and regional accessibility.

Position Overview

The Assistant Laboratory Director will play a critical leadership role in the development, implementation, and ongoing operation of the new Mankato laboratory. This position is being filled now—well ahead of the facility’s opening—to ensure thoughtful planning, strong operational readiness, and successful accreditation.

During the initial phase, the selected candidate will be based in St. Paul for onboarding and operational buildout, while integrating with the BCA FSS leadership team to cultivate relationships, align on organizational values, and intentionally carry forward the culture and standards of excellence into the new Mankato laboratory. The position will transition to a permanent work location in Mankato upon completion of the facility.

The selected candidate will be directly responsible for helping bring a new forensic laboratory to life by shaping its culture, operations, and long-term impact. 

The Assistant Laboratory Director will be instrumental in:

  • Establishing a high-performing, mission-driven laboratory team
  • Building strong partnerships across the criminal justice community
  • Ensuring the delivery of accurate, timely, and scientifically sound forensic results
  • Advancing innovation and best practices in forensic science

Key Responsibilities

Working in close partnership with the Laboratory Director, the Assistant Laboratory Director will:

  • Lead laboratory start-up efforts, including staffing plans, hiring timelines, and operational readiness
  • Oversee service delivery development, ensuring efficient and responsive forensic operations
  • Direct accreditation preparation and compliance with applicable standards and regulations
  • Manage equipment procurement, method validation, and procedure implementation
  • Provide strategic leadership and supervision for assigned staff and scientific sections
  • Lead quality assurance and continuous improvement initiatives
  • Manage administrative and budgetary responsibilities
  • Serve as a key liaison with criminal justice partners and stakeholders
  • Support and guide staff through operational, technical, and legal challenges

This is a rare opportunity to help build a legacy by establishing a modern forensic laboratory from the ground up while advancing public safety and scientific excellence across Minnesota. If you are a collaborative, strategic leader ready to take on a high-impact role, we encourage you to apply.

This position may be eligible for telework up to one day per week. 

The Department of Public Safety is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the start of employment. DPS does not participate in E-Verify.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

1. Bachelor's degree* in Business Administration, Public Policy, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Biological Sciences, Pharmacology, Criminalistics, Forensic Science, Toxicology, or related science. See note below for unofficial transcript requirement.

2. One (1) year of experience as a supervisor or manager in an ISO-IEC 17025 accredited forensic laboratory OR two (2) years of experience as a lead Forensic Scientist in an ISO-IEC 17025 accredited forensic laboratory.

AND

Five (5) years of experience as a Forensic Scientist in an ISO-IEC 17025 accredited forensic laboratory.

AND

Experience testifying in a court of law as an expert witness in a forensic discipline.

3. Documented knowledge of the principles and practices of forensic science and the criminal justice system, including rules of evidence and court testimony.

4. Strong administrative, managerial and leadership skills.

5. Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills including the ability to work effectively with Bureau management and external customers. Ability to work cooperatively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and underserved communities.

6. Knowledge and experience with ISO-IEC 17025 and relevant Forensic Science standards, the accreditation assessment process and compliance activities.

*Note: Applicants that do not currently work in a BCA Laboratory must upload unofficial college transcripts and resume to their application. Either attach a resume and a second attachment with your transcripts using the cover letter attachment type or combine the documents as a single attachment. Please upload documents in either PDF or docx format. 

Preferred Qualifications

  1. Advanced degree in Business Administration, Public Policy, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Biological Sciences, Pharmacology, Criminalistics, Forensic Science, Toxicology, or a related science.
  2. Member of the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors (ASCLD).
  3. Trained as an ANAB ISO-IEC 17025 forensic laboratory assessor/auditor.
  4. Knowledge and experience in a diverse array of forensic science disciplines.
  5. Supervisory experience including experience with employee labor agreements, hiring, and performance management.
  6. Working knowledge of the legislative process.
  7. Knowledge and experience with grant management including budgeting and reporting

Physical Requirements

Requires occasionally moving and transporting 50-pound items and frequently moving and transporting objects such as heavy tools and heavy file boxes. This job may require positioning self to move to a significant degree across rough terrain or may involve maintaining a stationary position for extended periods.

Additional Requirements

It is the policy of the Department of Public Safety that all employees submit to a background investigation prior to employment, which includes successful completion of the following background components:

  • Criminal history
  • Reference check
  • Driver License history 
  • Fingerprints (MNJIS)
  • Education Verification
  • Psychological Evaluation
  • Drug + Cannabis Screen
  • SEMA4 records, personnel file and employment records (current and former State employees only)


The Department of Public Safety is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the start of employment. DPS does not participate in E-Verify.


About Public Safety Dept 

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) is a diverse, complex agency dedicated to serving communities across the state. DPS has 10 public facing and four support divisions with about 2,400 dedicated employees operating programs statewide that all have one goal: Building a safer Minnesota.

Working together to improve the state we love. 

What do Minnesota's State employees have in common? 

  • A sense of purpose in their work
  • Connection with their coworkers and communities
  • Opportunities for personal and professional growth

Benefits 

As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.

Your benefits may include: 

  • Paid vacation and sick leave 
  • 12 paid holidays each year 
  • Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans 
    • Fertility care, including IVF
    • Diabetes care
    • Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children 
  • 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
  • Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
  • Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
  • Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
  • Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care 
  • Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being

Support to help you reach your career goals:

  • Training, classes, and professional development
  • Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support:

  • A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
  • Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
  • Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care


Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota. 

Company Description

When you bring your career to the State of Minnesota, the work you do affects the quality of life of millions of Minnesotans. From those who shape policy, to those who keep us safe, preserve our environment, or take care of our most vulnerable populations, we take our responsibilities to the public seriously. We need diverse and talented individuals – like you – to serve our great state and build a better Minnesota.