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Forensic Science Associate Degree Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Forensic Investigator

Garland, TX · On-site

$55K - $59K/yr

Graduation from an accredited college or university with an associate's degree in criminal justice, forensic sciences, or a closely related science * No experience required * Or an equivalent ...

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Forensic Science Associate Degree information

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$35.5K

$52.4K

$78.5K

How much do forensic science associate degree jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic science associate degree in the United States is $52,397.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,500.00 and $55,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs can I get with a forensic science associate degree?

With a Forensic Science Associate Degree, you can qualify for entry-level positions such as forensic science technician, crime scene investigator, lab assistant, or evidence technician. These roles typically involve collecting, analyzing, and processing physical evidence for law enforcement or forensic labs. Some positions may require additional certifications or on-the-job training. This degree can also serve as a foundation for further education in forensic science or criminal justice.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive with a forensic science associate degree?

To thrive in a role requiring a Forensic Science Associate Degree, you need a strong understanding of forensic techniques, laboratory procedures, and criminal justice principles, typically gained through an accredited associate program. Familiarity with analytical instruments like spectrometers and microscopes, as well as experience with evidence-handling protocols and chain-of-custody systems, is highly valued. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective written and verbal communication are essential soft skills for success in forensic settings. These competencies ensure evidence is processed accurately and ethically, supporting the integrity of criminal investigations and legal proceedings.

What types of work environments and team structures can I expect with a forensic science associate degree?

With a Forensic Science Associate Degree, you may work in crime laboratories, medical examiner offices, law enforcement agencies, or private labs, often as part of a larger forensic team. Your team could include forensic scientists, crime scene investigators, law enforcement officers, and legal professionals, all collaborating to solve cases and support the justice system. Daily responsibilities may involve processing physical evidence, performing lab analyses, maintaining detailed records, and occasionally testifying in court. Collaboration and communication are key, as your role often supports multiple aspects of ongoing investigations.

Is it worth it to get a forensic science associate degree?

A forensic science associate degree prepares individuals for entry-level roles such as forensic technician or evidence technician, often requiring knowledge of laboratory procedures, crime scene analysis, and relevant software. It can lead to employment in crime labs, law enforcement agencies, or private forensic firms, with opportunities for advancement through additional certifications or experience.
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What cities are hiring for Forensic Science Associate Degree jobs?

Cities with the most Forensic Science Associate Degree job openings:

What states have the most Forensic Science Associate Degree jobs?

States with the most job openings for Forensic Science Associate Degree jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Forensic Science Associate Degree jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Forensic Science Associate Degree jobs are:

Infographic showing various Forensic Science Associate Degree job openings in the United States 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 $52,397 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Forensic Science Technician

State of Iowa

Des Moines, IA

$47K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


State Of Iowa rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 85 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Description This is not a remote position. The Iowa Department of Public Safety is seeking to fill a Forensic Science Technician position specializing in Drug Chemistry within the Division of Criminal Investigation's Criminalistics Laboratory. Organization Background The Iowa Department of Public Safety (DPS) is a statewide law enforcement agency committed to serving the people of Iowa with leadership, integrity, and professionalism.

We uphold the core values of courtesy, service, and protection, and collaborate with federal, state, and local jurisdictions within the criminal justice community to provide for the safety of people living in or traveling through the State of Iowa. DPS is comprised of the following divisions: - Iowa State Patrol - Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) - Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement - Iowa State Fire Marshal - Division of Professional Development and Support Services - Division of Intelligence and Fusion Center - Administrative Services Division Job Description The Forensic Science Technician position performs a variety of routine tasks in direct support of forensic laboratory analysts, primarily in the Drug Chemistry section. These tasks include, but are not limited to; - preparing reagents and stock solutions by predetermined procedures for use in routine tests - conducting quality assurance checks of reagents, balances, instrumentation, and safety equipment, - maintaining inventory of chemicals and laboratory consumables - performing routine instrument maintenance - opening suspected cannabis cases under the direct supervision of case working analysts.

- serve on the laboratory crime scene response team in collecting, documenting, and photographing potential items of evidence (optional). Travel across the state of Iowa may be required for crime scene duties or continuing education, with the potential to be away from the Des Moines area overnight on occasion. General work hours will be Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m., however crime scene responsibilities may require hours outside of these times

Special Requirements Must possess, at minimum, an associate's degree with an emphasis in laboratory technology, chemistry, biology, forensic science, physics or a closely related physical or natural laboratory science. A bachelor's or advanced degree in one of these scientific discipline's will also be accepted. Additional Requirements - The State of Iowa is an E-Verify Employer.

- Candidates must successfully pass a comprehensive background investigation conducted by the Iowa Department of Public Safety investigators before a final letter of employment offer is delivered. - Applicants must be able to travel and may be occasionally required to stay away from home overnight during assignments. - Applicants are encouraged to attach a cover letter, transcripts, and resume with the NEOGOV application.

- This is not a remote position. Benefits At the State of Iowa, we value our employees' talents and backgrounds, and we are committed to your well-being beyond the paycheck. As a valued team member, you will enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes: Paid Time Off: - Vacation accruals that begin on day one and rollover on a yearly basis - Unlimited sick leave accrual - Nine (9) paid holidays per year Insurance Options: - Health - Affordable plans with the state paying more than 90% of premiums - Dental - Free for single coverage and affordable family coverage with access to a vision discount program - Life* - $20,000 in life insurance free, with an option to purchase additional coverage (*depending upon Collective Bargaining Agreements) - Long-Term Disability Insurance - Available at no cost Retirement: - IPERS Retirement package offering a lifetime monthly financial benefit for vested employees.

For every $1 an employee contributes, the state matches with $1.50 - Retirement Investors' Club (RIC) offering a voluntary savings program including a State match of up to $75/month Flexibility: Flexible Spending Accounts for medical and dependent care Support: Employee Assistance Programs and Employee Discount Programs To learn more about the benefits of working with the State of Iowa, visit our benefits webpage: Benefits at a Glance | Iowa Department of Administrative Services E-Verify and Right to Work The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization

For more information, please visit www.e-verify.gov. Minimum Qualification Requirements Applicants must possess an associate's degree with an emphasis in laboratory technology, chemistry, biology, physics, or a related field to qualify for positions in this job classification. For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description

Additional Qualification Requirements Applicants for this job class must be able to pass a thorough background investigation conducted by the Division of Criminal Investigation.


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About State of Iowa

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Iowa is not a company but the governmental structure of the U.S. state of Iowa, stationed in the capital city, Des Moines. The official website, iowa.gov, is a platform dedicated to providing information and services related to the state's governance. As a governmental establishment, the State of Iowa's 'industry' primarily involves social governance, policy-making, and public administration, overseeing sectors like education, health, transportation, agriculture, and other public services.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1939