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Forensic Laboratory Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

... laboratory services for genomics, discovery pharmacology, forensics, advanced material sciences and in the support of clinical studies, as well as having an emerging global presence in Contract ...

... laboratory services for genomics, discovery pharmacology, forensics, advanced material sciences and in the support of clinical studies, as well as having an emerging global presence in Contract ...

... laboratory services for genomics, discovery pharmacology, forensics, advanced material sciences and in the support of clinical studies, as well as having an emerging global presence in Contract ...

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Forensic Laboratory information

See Michigan salary details

$33.1K

$53.2K

$93.3K

How much do forensic laboratory jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic laboratory in Michigan is $53,176.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,400.00 and $62,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a forensic laboratory?

A Forensic Laboratory job involves analyzing physical evidence from crime scenes to assist in criminal investigations. Professionals in this field use scientific techniques to examine biological samples, trace evidence, firearms, and digital data. They work closely with law enforcement and legal teams to provide expert testimony and accurate reports. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of forensic science are essential for this role.

What are the typical responsibilities of someone working in a forensic laboratory?

Professionals working in a Forensic Laboratory are responsible for analyzing physical evidence from crime scenes, such as biological samples, trace materials, or chemical substances, using a variety of scientific techniques and instrumentation. They document findings, maintain rigorous chain-of-custody protocols, and generate detailed reports that may be used in legal proceedings. Collaboration with law enforcement officers, attorneys, and other scientists is common, and professionals may occasionally be required to testify in court as expert witnesses. The work environment is structured and detail-oriented, with a strong emphasis on accuracy and adherence to quality standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a forensic laboratory position?

To thrive in a Forensic Laboratory, you need a solid background in chemistry, biology, or forensic science, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), analytical instrumentation such as GC-MS or PCR, and compliance with quality assurance standards is highly valuable. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and the ability to clearly communicate findings are essential soft skills. These competencies ensure precise analysis, reliable evidence processing, and effective collaboration within legal and investigative teams.

What does a forensic laboratory do?

A forensic laboratory analyzes physical evidence collected from crime scenes to help solve criminal cases. Forensic scientists examine substances like blood, hair, and DNA, often using specialized tools and techniques, and their work supports law enforcement investigations and court proceedings.

What qualifications do you need to work in a forensic laboratory?

To work in a forensic laboratory, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Many positions require laboratory skills, knowledge of forensic methods, and sometimes certification or specialized training in areas like fingerprint analysis or DNA testing.

What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Laboratory jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Forensic Laboratory jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Forensic Laboratory jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Forensic Laboratory job openings:

Infographic showing various Forensic Laboratory job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,176 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Forensic Autopsy Technician I

Kalamazoo, MI • On-site


Western Michigan University
Education • 1 - 5K employees

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

489th of 623 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Respectful managers


$17.47 - $20.37/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Description
The Forensic Autopsy Technician prepares bodies for postmortem examinations, assists pathologist
during and after the examination, and prepares body for release to funeral home; provide medical
photography services. Provides support with transfer of cadavers to anatomy laboratory and into storage,
maintenance of cadavers and the anatomy lab, and assisting with prosections of cadavers, as needed.
Performs routine and non-routine activities involved in the storage, filing, and preparation of slides for
microscopic evaluation and adheres to established quality control criteria and established procedures.
BENEFITS
  • Wellness reimbursement.
  • Continuing education and tuition reimbursement.
  • Employer-funded retirement plan.
  • Two medical plan options: PPO and High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) with employer HSA contribution.
  • Flexible work solutions based on position and department.
  • Up to four weeks of PTO accrual beginning in year one.
  • Paid holidays.
  • Paid volunteer time.
  • Paid preferred holiday.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Coordinates workload to complete assignments within requested time frame. Prepares paperwork and tools to accomplish the daily workload.
  • Responsible for the receipt, identification and transfer of all decedents into and out of WMed, maintaining chain of custody protocols in accordance with WMed protocols and in compliance with standards set forth by the National Association of Medical Examiners (NAME).
  • Performs postmortem radiography according to safety standards, including Lodox ®, Carestream, computed tomography (CT) and assists with postmortem dental radiography, as needed.
  • Responsible for the collection and preservation of clothing, physical and biological evidence for forensic analysis. Documents and maintains evidentiary materials in accordance with established policies and procedures, including chain of custody protocols compliant with standards set forth by NAME.
  • Responsible for the collection, appropriate labeling, documentation and packaging of specimens for toxicological analysis maintaining chain of custody protocols and in accordance with NAME standards.
  • Documents external examination, including: verification of decedent identification, photographs and documents all personal belongings and items pertinent to examination, including medical treatment, decedent identifiers and evidentiary materials, if applicable.
  • Under direct supervision of the assigned pathologist, performs in situ dissection of the autopsy procedure, including the identification, observation and evisceration of organs and tissues from the chest, abdomen and head.
  • Responsible for the documentation of examination information, observations, weights, and measurements following established procedures. Photographs medical/forensic materials with accurate labeling, uploads digital photographs to case management system.
  • Following examination, prepares decedent for funeral home and notifies funeral home and/or transport service, if applicable. Documents all communication.
  • With supervision, oversees the release of decedents to funeral homes and/or appropriate transport services.
  • Maintains morgue organization and cleanliness; ensures surfaces are free of blood and body fluids.
  • Disposes of hazardous waste and specimen storage appropriately.
  • Responsible for maintaining daily log of cooler inventory of decedents and specimens, temperature monitoring and laboratory supplies.
  • Practices universal precautions and follows infection control policies and procedures accordingly.
  • Assists in the Anatomy Laboratory, including support with transfer of cadavers, maintenance of cadavers, and cleanliness.
  • Assists in the Anthropology Laboratory, as needed, transferring decedents/specimens and decedents for examination.
  • Attends and engages in all unit and departmental meetings.
  • Maintains a clean and well-organized work area
  • At times, may be responsible for cleaning up bodily fluids from decedents/cadavers outside of department.
  • Availability to work weekends and holidays.
  • Availability to work occasional overtime or evenings to complete time sensitive projects.
  • Availability to provide on-call, overnight customer service with occasional response to morgue for time sensitive release procedures.
  • Availability to work occasional overtime on weekends or evenings to complete time sensitive projects.
  • Acquires knowledge for new technology and policy/procedure revisions
  • All other duties as assigned.

Requirements
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:
  • Associate degree; or two years of college in a scientific or applicable field, preferred.
  • Knowledge of anatomy and medical terminology, preferred.
  • Previous volunteer or work experience in a medical or patient care setting, required.
  • Experience labeling, managing, organizing, and shipping samples, preferred.
  • Experience operating cassette and slide printing equipment, preferred.
  • Experience operating laboratory equipment, including centrifuge and specimen labeling printers, preferred.

LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS:
  • Current valid Driver's License required.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Comfortable communicating with grieving individuals.
  • The ability to follow detailed oral and written directions and protocols.
  • Ability to attend to human remains in various stages of decomposition, disease and trauma.
  • Able to cope with the psychological effects of death.
  • Maintain the confidentiality and integrity of information.
  • Ability to adhere to stringent sanitation and biohazard control measures.
  • Demonstrates the ability to recognize priorities in organization of work flow.
  • Able to perform duties independently, with a minimal need for direct supervision.


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