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Forensic Laboratory Director Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Senior Cyber Lead

Linthicum, MD · On-site

$175K - $225K/yr

... Laboratory (CFL) mission supporting digital forensics, cyber investigations, intrusion analysis ... Direct advanced cyber investigations and forensic examinations across Windows, Linux/Unix, macOS ...

... Laboratory (CFL) mission supporting digital forensics, cyber investigations, intrusion analysis ... Direct advanced cyber investigations and forensic examinations across Windows, Linux/Unix, macOS ...

Deputy Chief Toxicologist

Washington, DC · On-site

$114.44 - $160.22/hr

The primary purpose of this position is to direct the day‑to‑day management of the Forensic Post‑Mortem Toxicology Laboratory. The incumbent is responsible for the scientific and technical ...

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Forensic Laboratory Director information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$46.5K

$130.3K

$192.3K

How much do forensic laboratory director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic laboratory director in Silver Spring, MD is $130,345.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $109,600.00 and $143,200.00 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?

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 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.
What job categories do people searching Forensic Laboratory Director jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Laboratory Director jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Forensic Laboratory Director jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Forensic Laboratory Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Forensic Laboratory Director job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 6% Temporary, 6% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $130,345 per year, or $62.7 per hour.

Forensic Scientist Supervisor - Baltimore Police Department

Baltimorecity

Baltimore, MD • On-site

$98K - $157K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

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


Job description

Salary Range:

$98,359.00 - $157,302.00 Annually


Hiring Salary Range:

$98,359.00 - $127,830.50 Annually


Get to Know Us

Welcome to the City of Baltimore! Experience the reward of a fulfilling career and enjoy the added element of excitement in a vibrant, diverse atmosphere. The City of Baltimore offers limitless opportunities to help drive social impact, both on the job and in the community, while serving its citizens. Join us in making Baltimore a great place to live and work. In the City of Baltimore, we hire great people and provide them with the skills and opportunities to grow toward their career aspirations. If you are looking for a career change or interested in learning more, explore our opportunities and benefits programs. We are excited to have you as a part of the City of Baltimore Team! The city offers medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, optional life, AD&D, and FSA plans. This office also supplies wellness programs, support groups, and workshops. You can learn about our benefits here: https://humanresources.baltimorecity.gov/hr-divisions/benefits


Job Summary:

A Forensic Scientist Supervisor supervises subordinate staff engaged in the analyses of a variety of laboratory tests and comparative analyses in such specialized forensic discipline as controlled dangerous substances, toxicology, serology, DNA, trace evidence, firearms and tool mark, questioned documents or latent print examination. Work of this class involves supervising the activities of Forensic Scientists personnel.


Incumbents receive general supervision from a technical supervisor. Employees in this class work a rotating shift and are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Work is performed in a laboratory where there is exposure to toxic fumes and chemicals, unknown dangerous substances and sharp laboratory instruments. Work requires minimal physical exertion.


Minimum Qualifications:

On or before the date of filing the application, each candidate must:


Education: Have a bachelor's degree in forensics, biology, chemistry, physics or a related science from an accredited college or university


AND


Experience: Have eight years of experience in comparative analysis or scientific evaluation of evidence; controlled dangerous substances, toxicology, serology, DNA, trace evidence, firearms and tool mark, questioned documents or latent print examination, including experience in providing testimony in moot or criminal court.


OR


Equivalency Notes: Have a master's forensics, biology, chemistry, physics or a related science from an accredited college or university and seven years of experience in controlled dangerous substances, toxicology, serology, DNA, trace evidence, firearms and tool mark, questioned documents or latent print examination, including experience in providing testimony in moot or criminal court.


Licenses, Registrations, and Certifications: Positions in the Drug Analysis Unit require certification by the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene to analyze Controlled Dangerous Substances. Certification from a National Certifying Board in Latent Print Examination may be required.

**APPLICATION DEADLINE: Please submit your application no later than 12:00 AM on the closing date to be eligible for consideration. **


Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

  • Knowledge of the principles and techniques of forensic science.
  • Knowledge of the rules governing the admissibility of evidence in court.
  • Knowledge of the application of scientific methods of forensic science,
  • Knowledge of new techniques and current, up-to-date developments in forensic science,
  • Skill in the application of computer software to laboratory specifications and needs.
  • Ability to write complex technical forensic laboratory reports.
  • Ability to perform and evaluate scientific research.
  • Ability to direct the maintenance of a forensic laboratory record system.
  • Ability to testify effectively in a court of law on forensic matters.
  • Supervisory ability.
  • Administrative ability.

Additional Information

Background Check

Eligible candidates under final consideration for appointment to positions identified as positions of trust will be required to complete authorization for a Criminal Background Check and/or Fingerprint must be successfully completed.

Probation

All persons, including current City employees, selected for this position must complete a mandatory 1-year probation.

Eligibility

Qualified candidates will be considered for vacancies as they arise, for a period of at least six months. The decision of the Director of Human Resources with respect to acceptable minimum qualifications is final.

Education Accreditation

Applicants' education must be obtained from an accredited institution. Education credentials obtained out of the US must be evaluated for US equivalency. Evaluation agencies information may be obtained at www.naces.org.

Selection Process

All candidates indicating the minimum qualifications on their applications will be placed on the eligible list without further examination. The training and experience of each candidate will be evaluated for appropriateness and quantity. It is essential, therefore, that you give complete and accurate information on your application. Vagueness or omission may prevent you from being considered for this position. Qualified candidates will not be listed in rank order.

Examination Process

Applicants must provide sufficient information on their application to show that they meet the minimum qualifications for this recruitment. Successful applicants will be placed on the employment certified eligible list for at least six months.

The examination will consist of a rating of your education, training, and experience as presented on your application and as they relate to the requirements of the position. You may be required to complete supplemental questions to further examine specific Knowledge, Skills and Abilities of the position. Therefore, it is important that you provide complete and accurate information on your application.

Your Recruiter: Katrina Bayton

If you have any questions please contact Katrina Bayton, Recruitment and Talent Acquisition Specialist II, via email at Katrina.Bayton1@baltimorecity.gov.


Baltimore City Government is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, and we are committed to a workplace that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. The City of Baltimore prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, ancestry, creed, national origin, disability status, genetics, marital status, military service, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Applicants requiring accommodation during the hiring process should contact Human Resources directly. Do not attach your request for accommodation to the application.


BALTIMORE CITY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER