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Forensic Science Laboratory Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

... forensic science, medicine/health care, or related field and one (1) year of investigative ... Work is performed in general office environment, in the field at death scenes, and in a laboratory ...

Forensic Investigator (Grade 11)

Yuma, AZ · On-site

$24.62 - $30.78/hr

... forensic science, medicine/health care, or related field and one (1) year of investigative ... Work is performed in general office environment, in the field at death scenes, and in a laboratory ...

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Forensic Science Laboratory information

See Arizona salary details

$33.1K

$48.8K

$73.2K

How much do forensic science laboratory jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic science laboratory in Arizona is $48,828.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $51,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Forensic Science Laboratory vs Crime Scene Investigator?

AspectForensic Science LaboratoryCrime Scene Investigator
CredentialsDegree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or related fields; certifications often preferredDegree in criminal justice, forensic science, or related fields; specialized training in crime scene processing
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, analyzing evidence collected from crime scenesOn-site at crime scenes, collecting and documenting evidence
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, private labs, government agenciesLaw enforcement agencies, police departments

While both roles are essential in criminal investigations, forensic science laboratories focus on analyzing evidence in a lab setting, whereas crime scene investigators work at the scene to collect evidence. Both require specialized training and collaborate closely to solve crimes.

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

To thrive as a Forensic Science Laboratory Technician, you need a solid background in chemistry, biology, or forensic science, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory instruments, evidence handling protocols, and specialized forensic analysis software is essential. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and strong communication skills help ensure accuracy and clarity when handling and reporting findings. These competencies are crucial for producing reliable results that support criminal investigations and uphold the integrity of the justice system.

What do forensic scientists do in the lab?

Forensic scientists in the lab analyze physical evidence such as DNA, fingerprints, blood, and trace materials to help solve crimes. They use scientific techniques and tools like microscopes, chemical tests, and DNA sequencing to identify and compare evidence, preparing reports for use in investigations and court cases.

What are 5 potential jobs for forensic science?

Forensic science offers various career opportunities including forensic scientist, crime scene investigator, forensic toxicologist, forensic DNA analyst, and forensic laboratory technician. These roles typically require knowledge of laboratory techniques, evidence analysis, and often certification or specialized training in forensic methods.

What are some common challenges faced by forensic science laboratory professionals and how can they be managed?

Forensic science laboratory professionals often encounter challenges such as managing high case volumes, maintaining strict chain-of-custody protocols, and staying current with evolving technologies and methodologies. These challenges can be managed by efficient time management, regular training, and adhering to quality assurance standards. Additionally, strong communication within multidisciplinary teams helps ensure accurate and timely results, which is essential for supporting law enforcement and the justice system.

What is a forensic science laboratory?

A forensic science laboratory is a facility where forensic scientists analyze physical evidence from crime scenes, such as DNA, fingerprints, and chemical substances. These labs use specialized tools and techniques to support criminal investigations and often require certifications and adherence to strict protocols.

How can I work in a forensic lab?

To work in a forensic science laboratory, you typically need at least a bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory techniques, and familiarity with forensic tools and software; some positions may require certification or advanced degrees. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level laboratory work can also improve job prospects.
What are popular job titles related to Forensic Science Laboratory jobs in Arizona? For Forensic Science Laboratory jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Science Laboratory jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Science Laboratory jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Forensic Science Laboratory jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Forensic Science Laboratory job openings:
Infographic showing various Forensic Science Laboratory job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,828 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Forensic Investigator (Grade 11)

Yuma County

Yuma, AZ

$24.62 - $30.78/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Job Summary This position is advertised from the minimum to the mid-point hourly rate. Salary will be determined based on education and experience at the time of offer. **Applications are sought on behalf of the Sheriff's Office in Yuma County.

Yuma County Human Resources does not review any applications submitted for this position. All applications are forwarded to Sheriff's Office in Yuma County** NATURE OF WORK Under general supervision, performs work of moderate difficulty in conducting forensic operations and investigations within the Medical Examiner's section of the Sheriff's Office; this position has department specific responsibility. Nature of Work (Illustrative Only) Responds to death scenes; investigates the cause and manner of death in cases of unattended natural death, accident, suicide, or homicide; conducts interviews with family members, law enforcement personnel, medical professionals and others regarding circumstances of death; determines what scenes to investigate and what evidence to examine and/or collect; examines and photographs crime scenes; conducts an external examination of body and document findings; collects, submits, retrieves, and documents pathological, toxicological/histological specimens; removes deceased body from the death scene and transports to designated location; documents transfer of body and property; obtains or coordinates positive identification of bodies through visual personal identification affidavit, x-ray, dental records, descriptive evidence, and fingerprint records; files paperwork internally and to the Arizona Office of Vital Records, to include certified death certificates; prepares and maintains records and reports, including unidentified decedent data; collects, inventories, and preserves all evidentiary materials and personal effects of the deceased; maintains logs for cremation death certificates and removals; may assist the Pathologist or Medical Examiner with the evaluation and postmortem examination; maintains sanitary conditions of the facility, equipment and instruments and properly disposes biological and biohazardous materials; performs routine clerical duties, such as, filing, answering phones and working with a variety of office and technical equipment; comply with all HIPAA regulations and related policies and regulations; maintains regular and reliable attendance; performs other duties as assigned Experience and Education Associate's Degree in Criminal Justice, forensic science, medicine/health care, or related field and one (1) year of investigative experience; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience; SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: May be required to successfully complete a background check, polygraph examination, and drug test prior to appointment; must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Knowledge of: Yuma County and Sheriff's Office Policies and Procedures; Federal and state laws pertaining to forensic operations/activities; human anatomy and medical terminology, forensic investigative methods and laws in criminology; law enforcement principles, practices, methods, techniques and equipment; practices and procedures of evidence collection, including specimen and tissue retrieval; geography, roads, and streets of Yuma County. Skills in: Applying forensic principles, and determining cause and manner of death; collecting, processing, and preserving death scene evidence; packaging and organizing property and evidence in an orderly fashion for storage and retrieval; use of autopsy/forensic, safety, and personal protective equipment; safety handling and disposal of biological and biohazardous materials; preparing complete and accurate reports and records; dealing impartially with people of different social economic, and ethnic backgrounds; operating computerized technology and job-related software applications. Ability to: Read, learn, understand, apply and follow rules, regulations, instructions and forensic practices and procedures; exercise initiative and independent judgment in selecting proper field forensic techniques; obtain and analyze information/factors regarding a death and to determine cause/manner of death; plan, organize and prioritize multiple investigations; follow written and verbal instructions; communicate effectively verbally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationship with supervisors, employees, other agencies, and the public, including law enforcement and physicians; perform the essential functions of the job specifications with or without reasonable accommodation.

WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Work is performed in general office environment, in the field at death scenes, and in a laboratory/morgue setting; work a variety of scheduled shifts, irregular hours, and/or on-call status, as necessary; may work non-standard hours, to include shift work, holidays, and weekends; exposure to dirt, dust, pollen, inclement weather, temperature extremes, body fluids, communicable diseases; hazardous materials/chemical, various evidence, and unpleasant odors; exposure to remote and isolate areas when examining a scene; climb rocks and other uneven terrains to access a scene; walk, stand and sit for long period of time; crawl, kneel, bend, stoop, twist, crouch, and reach to gather evidence during an investigation; move, lift, carry, drag, push and/or pull objects weighing up to 100 pounds; prolong periods of attention to detail information; visual and muscular dexterity to operate: a motor vehicle, computer equipment, and two-way radio; utilize two-way radio to hear and respond to: radio communications, voice instructions, and/or commands; operate a motor vehicle and travel to/from various locations. EOE/AA/ADAAA/M/F/V/D DRUG FREE WORKPLACE