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Forensic Rn Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Palomar Health

Forensic RN I

Poway, CA · On-site

... forensic training program Preferred Certification: Not Applicable Required License: Valid Driver's License Current CA RN License Preferred License: Not Applicable

Palomar Health

Forensic RN I

Poway, CA · On-site

... SAFE forensic training program Preferred Certification: Not Applicable Required License: Valid Driver's License Current CA RN License Preferred License: Not Applicable We are an equal opportunity ...

Palomar Health

Forensic RN I

Poway, CA · On-site

... SAFE forensic training program Preferred Certification: Not Applicable Required License: Valid Driver's License Current CA RN License Preferred License: Not Applicable We are an equal opportunity ...

E-talentnetwork

RN- Registered Nurse

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Individuals should be comfortable working in a locked forensic environment with frequent interactions with law enforcement. RN will be providing professional nursing care to adult inmate patients in ...

E-talentnetwork

RN - Registered Nurse

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Individuals should be comfortable working in a locked forensic environment with frequent interactions with law enforcement. RN will be providing professional nursing care to adult inmate patients in ...

NuWest Travel Nursing

Correctional RN

Malibu, CA · On-site

$1.8K - $2.1K/wk

Discipline: RN * Duration: 8 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 8 hours, nights * Employment Type ... a locked forensic facility. In this role, you will deliver comprehensive nursing care to youth ...

vTech Solution

RN Emergency Room

Rancho Mirage, CA · On-site

The Registered Nurse in the Emergency Room is responsible for delivering high-quality nursing care ... Respond to high-acuity cases such as STEMI, sepsis, stroke, and forensic cases with appropriate ...

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Forensic Rn information

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$16

$31

$51

How much do forensic rn jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for forensic rn in California is $31.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.79 and $37.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Forensic RN do?

A forensic registered nurse (RN) assists law enforcement officers by helping to obtain evidence of crimes while caring for victims. In this role, you may work in a hospital emergency room, social services organization, or with a medical examiner. You provide medical care to victims and recover evidence, such as bullets or clothing. Forensic RNs may also take photographs of wounds and document your observations and conversations with the victims; all documentation must follow specific procedures and regulations to ensure the evidence is admissible in court. If a case goes to trial, a forensic RN can give testimony as an expert witness. Some forensic RNs choose to specialize in particular areas, such as death investigations, psychiatric forensic nursing, or domestic violence and sexual assault.

What is the difference between Forensic Rn vs Forensic Nurse?

AspectForensic RnForensic Nurse
CredentialsRegistered Nurse (RN), specialized training in forensic scienceRegistered Nurse (RN), often with additional forensic certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, law enforcement agencies, crime labsHospitals, clinics, law enforcement, forensic units
Industry UsageLegal cases, crime scene investigations, victim advocacyVictim support, evidence collection, court testimony

Both Forensic Rns and Forensic Nurses are registered nurses with specialized training in forensic science. While their work environments and roles overlap, Forensic Rns often focus on legal cases and crime scene investigations, whereas Forensic Nurses may work more directly with victims and evidence collection in clinical settings. Both roles are vital in the intersection of healthcare and the legal system.

What is a Forensic RN?

A Forensic RN (Registered Nurse) is a specially trained nurse who provides care to patients who are victims or perpetrators of trauma, violence, or abuse, while also collecting evidence for legal investigations. These nurses play a critical role in bridging the gap between healthcare and the legal system by documenting injuries, collecting forensic evidence, and sometimes providing expert testimony in court. Forensic RNs work in various settings, including hospitals, sexual assault response teams, and correctional facilities. Their work ensures that victims receive appropriate medical care and that crucial evidence is preserved for legal proceedings.

How do Forensic RNs typically collaborate with law enforcement and legal teams during investigations?

Forensic Registered Nurses (RNs) often work closely with law enforcement officers and legal professionals to ensure accurate evidence collection and documentation. They may be called upon to testify in court, provide expert opinions, and explain medical findings related to trauma or abuse cases. Effective communication and meticulous record-keeping are essential, as their documentation may be scrutinized during legal proceedings. This collaborative environment ensures that both the medical and legal needs of the case are addressed with precision and care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Forensic RN?

To thrive as a Forensic RN, you need a solid nursing background with specialized training in forensic evidence collection, trauma assessment, and legal documentation, typically supported by RN licensure and a forensic nursing certification (such as SANE). Familiarity with forensic examination tools, chain-of-custody protocols, and documentation systems is essential. Compassion, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help Forensic RNs support victims and collaborate with law enforcement. These skills are crucial for ensuring accurate evidence collection, comprehensive patient care, and the integrity of legal proceedings.
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Forensic Rn jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Rn job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 50% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 24% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,609 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

Forensic RN I

Palomar Health

Poway, CA • On-site

Full-time

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

Palomar Health rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Provides direct patient care to victims and suspects of sexual assault for all ages throughout San Diego County. Functions independently to perform forensic examinations, document findings, and collect evidence utilizing the California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) and department specific forms. Functions within the framework of the Nurse Practice Act, National Children's Alliance Child Advocacy Center standards, and adheres to all Palomar Health policies, procedures, and standards. Speak and read English at a level that is sufficient to satisfactorily perform the essential functions of the position. Knowledge of standard office equipment (i.e., calculator, fax, photocopier) and personal computer and computer software skills (i.e., MS Windows, Excel, Access, Word, Powerpoint, internet, e-mail). Windows computer skills including proficient use of keyboarding, use of mouse or keys for functions such as selecting items, use of drop down menus, scroll bars, opening folders, copying and similar operations required upon employment or within the 1st two weeks of employment to perform the essential functions of the job. Performs other duties as assigned. Follows Palomar Health rules, policies, procedures, applicable laws and standards. Carries out the mission, vision, and quality commitment of Palomar Health. Job Requirements
Minimum Education: As required by certification and/or licensurePreferred Education: Bachelor's DegreeMinimum Experience: 1 year work experience as a Registered NursePreferred Experience: Not ApplicableRequired Certification: American Heart Association recognized BLS - Healthcare Provider
Certificate of successful completion of an approved SANE or SAFE forensic training programPreferred Certification: Not ApplicableRequired License: Valid Driver's License
Current CA RN LicensePreferred License: Not Applicable

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