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Forensic Science Degree Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Conduct scientific examinations and analyses on forensic evidence, including but not limited to DNA ... Document, interpret, and validate forensic test results with a high degree of accuracy. Prepare and ...

$2.5K - $2.7K/day

A completed Master's degree in a relevant field (e.g., forensic science, chemistry, or related discipline) is required; a Ph.D. is preferred. * College-level teaching preferred; strong content ...

A completed Master's degree in a relevant field (e.g., forensic science, chemistry, or related discipline) is required; a Ph.D. is preferred. * College-level teaching preferred; strong content ...

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Forensic Science Degree information

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$35.5K

$52.4K

$78.5K

How much do forensic science degree jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic science 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 you go into with a forensic science degree?

A forensic science degree prepares individuals for roles such as forensic scientist, crime scene investigator, forensic technician, or laboratory analyst. These jobs typically involve analyzing physical evidence, using laboratory tools, and working in crime labs or law enforcement agencies. Certification and knowledge of laboratory procedures are often required for these positions.

What jobs can you do with a bachelor's in forensic science?

A bachelor's in forensic science qualifies individuals for roles such as forensic science technician, crime scene investigator, or laboratory analyst. These jobs involve collecting, analyzing, and presenting evidence, often requiring knowledge of lab equipment, scientific methods, and attention to detail.

Is forensic science a useful degree?

A forensic science degree prepares individuals for careers in crime laboratories, law enforcement agencies, and forensic consulting. It provides knowledge of laboratory techniques, evidence analysis, and legal procedures, making it a valuable credential in the criminal justice field. Job prospects often require additional certifications and practical experience.

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

To thrive as a Forensic Scientist, you need a solid background in biology, chemistry, and criminal justice, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree in forensic science or a closely related field. Proficiency with laboratory equipment, forensic analysis software, and evidence handling protocols is essential, and some roles may require professional certifications such as those from the American Board of Criminalistics. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective written and verbal communication are standout soft skills in this field. These skills are crucial for maintaining the integrity of evidence, ensuring accurate scientific analysis, and presenting findings clearly in legal contexts.

What types of teams or professionals do forensic science graduates typically work with in their roles?

Forensic science graduates often work closely with law enforcement officers, legal professionals, and specialized laboratory staff. Collaboration is a key part of the job, as forensic scientists provide crucial evidence and expert testimony for criminal investigations and court cases. Teamwork is essential, especially when coordinating evidence collection at crime scenes or interpreting laboratory results with detectives and attorneys. This interdisciplinary environment offers exposure to a variety of cases and professionals, fostering both learning and career growth.

What is the difference between Forensic Science Degree vs Crime Scene Technician?

AspectForensic Science DegreeCrime Scene Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in forensic science, chemistry, biologyHigh school diploma or associate's; specialized training
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, courtrooms, research facilitiesCrime scenes, outdoor and indoor locations
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, forensic labs, research institutionsPolice departments, crime scene units
Common Search & ComparisonEducational requirements, career paths, certificationsJob duties, fieldwork, training needed

While a Forensic Science Degree provides a broad educational foundation for various forensic careers, a Crime Scene Technician focuses on collecting and analyzing evidence at crime scenes. Both roles often collaborate but differ in work environment and qualifications required.

What is the highest paid forensic job?

The highest paid forensic jobs are typically forensic science managers or senior forensic examiners, who oversee laboratory operations and casework. These roles often require advanced degrees, certifications, and extensive experience, with salaries reaching six figures in some regions. Leadership positions in forensic laboratories tend to offer the highest compensation within the field.

What is a forensic science degree?

A forensic science degree is an academic program that prepares students to apply scientific principles and techniques to solve crimes and support legal investigations. The curriculum typically covers subjects such as biology, chemistry, criminal justice, and specialized forensic methods. Graduates learn how to collect, analyze, and interpret physical evidence from crime scenes. This degree can lead to careers in crime laboratories, law enforcement agencies, and other forensic settings. It also provides a foundation for further study in forensic specialties or advanced scientific research.
More about Forensic Science Degree jobs
What cities are hiring for Forensic Science Degree jobs? Cities with the most Forensic Science Degree job openings:
What states have the most Forensic Science Degree jobs? States with the most job openings for Forensic Science Degree jobs include:
Infographic showing various Forensic Science Degree job openings in the United States as of July 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.
Criminalist IB (Forensic Biology)

Criminalist IB (Forensic Biology)

City of New York

Manhattan, NY

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


City Of New York rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

516th of 693 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Job Description

The Office of Chief Medical Examiner investigates cases of persons who die within New York City from criminal violence, by accident, by suicide, suddenly when in apparent health, when unattended by a physician, in a correctional facility or in any suspicious or unusual manner or where an application is made pursuant to law for a permit to cremate a body of a person.
Our core purpose is to protect public health and serve impartial justice through forensic science and medicine. We exist to provide answers in support of families and communities during times of profound need.
The core values of CARES guide our work for communities and inform our behavior toward each other and all those we serve.
- Commitment: Dedicated to the mission at all times
- Accountability: Responsible to each other and the community
- Resilience: Adapt in the face of adversity
- Excellence: Achieve and maintain the highest quality
- Service: Innovate to meet evolving needs
Under the general direction of the Assistant Directors of the Department of Forensic Biology and specifically under the supervision of a Criminalist, level IV, the selected candidate will be responsible for assisting in conducting scientific analyses performed on biological specimens brought to the Forensic Biology Department of the Office of Chief Medical Examiner for the City of New York. Duties will include but are not limited to:
- Assists in the DNA analysis of evidentiary material such as hairs, body fluids, and other biological evidence, using state-of-the-art molecular techniques.
- Performs administrative review on case files for casework.
- Receives comprehensive training and instruction in the various techniques used in the collection, preservation, handling, and receipt of evidentiary materials.
- Attends and participates in staff meetings, conferences, and other training and development activities
- Receives training in the routine preventative maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment and analytical instruments.
- Other duties as assigned.
SPECIAL NOTE
- Selected candidates will be required to provide a DNA sample by swabbing.
- This position has been identified as essential. During emergency events, essential positions may require 24-hour availability.
WORK AUTHORIZATION:
Authorization to work in the United States is required for this position. Office of Chief Medical Examiner does not provide sponsorship for international employees for visa applications, extensions, or status changes, including STEM/OPT visas. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that they meet all qualifying requirements for this position at the time of application.
***Please note that only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted for this position. FINAL APPOINTMENTS ARE SUBJECCT TO OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT & BUDGET APPROVAL.***
CRIMINALIST - 21849

Qualifications

1. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college, with specialization in criminalistics, forensic science, chemistry, biology, physics, molecular genetics, genetics, biochemistry, molecular biology, entomology, anthropology, ecology or a closely related scientific or engineering field.
2. For Assignment to Assignment Level I - B
In addition to meeting the "Qualification Requirements For All Assignment Levels" above, to be assigned to Assignment Level I-B individuals must have at least one year of satisfactory full-time experience in criminalistics, forensic science or analytic chemistry, or a satisfactory equivalent combination of education and experience.
3. In addition to meeting the "Qualification Requirements" above, to be assigned to Assignment Level II, individuals must have one of the following:
1. One year of experience gained as a Criminalist at Assignment Level I-B; or 2. One additional year of qualifying experience in criminalistics or forensic science, for a total of two years of such experience; or 3. A satisfactory combination of education and experience totaling two years of experience as described above.
4. In addition to meeting the "Qualification Requirements" for Assignment Level I-B above, to be assigned to Assignment Level III, individuals must have one of the following:
1. Two years of experience gained as a Criminalist at Assignment Level I-B and/or II; or 2. Two additional years of qualifying experience in criminalistics or forensic science, for a total of three years of such experience; or 3. A satisfactory combination of education and experience totaling three years of experience as described above.
5. For Assignment to Assignment Level IV
In addition to meeting the "Qualification Requirements" for Assignment Level I-B above, to be assigned to Assignment Level IV, individuals must have one of the following:
1. Three years of experience gained as a Criminalist at Assignment Level I-B, II, and /or III; or 2. Three additional years of experience in criminalistics or forensic science, for a total of four years of such experience; or
3. A satisfactory combination of education and experience totaling four years of experience, as described above.

Additional Information

The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.


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