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Forensic Science Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Make sound scientific decisions with regard to screening results obtained based on validated ... Incumbent must meet the forensic technician requirements specified by the Texas Forensic Science ...

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Forensic Science Technician information

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How much do forensic science technician jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic science technician 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.

Is it easy to get hired as a CSI?

Getting hired as a forensic science technician, including CSI roles, can be competitive and typically requires a relevant degree in forensic science, biology, or chemistry. Employers often seek candidates with laboratory skills, attention to detail, and sometimes certification or experience in crime scene investigation. The hiring process may involve background checks and practical assessments.

What are forensic science technicians?

Forensic science technicians are professionals who collect, analyze, and interpret physical evidence from crime scenes to help solve criminal cases. They often work in laboratories or at crime scenes, using scientific methods and specialized equipment to examine evidence such as fingerprints, DNA, weapons, and substances. Their findings play a crucial role in criminal investigations and can be used in court to support legal proceedings. Forensic science technicians collaborate closely with law enforcement and other experts to ensure accurate and thorough analysis.

How long does it take to become a forensic technician?

Becoming a forensic science technician typically requires earning a bachelor's degree in forensic science, criminal justice, or a related field, which usually takes about four years. Some positions may require additional training or certification, which can add several months to a year to the process.

What Is a Forensic Science Technician?

A forensic science technician works on a crime scene investigation team. They gather and analyze evidence and write reports based off of their findings. As a forensic science technician, your duties include determining what physical artifacts at a crime scene should be collected, taking photos of the scene, documenting all aspects of the scene, and collecting and cataloging evidence for later analysis. When the team transfers evidence to a laboratory, you then perform various chemical and physical analyses, such as determining blood types, finding fingerprints, and using the scientific method to reconstruct a crime.

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

AspectForensic Science TechnicianCrime Scene Investigator
CredentialsForensic science degree, certification often preferredLaw enforcement training, crime scene processing certification
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, crime labs, research facilitiesCrime scenes, outdoor and indoor locations
Employer & IndustryFederal, state, or private labs; law enforcement agenciesPolice departments, law enforcement agencies
Job FocusAnalyzing evidence, lab work, report writingCollecting evidence, documenting crime scenes

While both roles support criminal investigations, Forensic Science Technicians primarily analyze evidence in labs, whereas Crime Scene Investigators focus on collecting evidence at crime scenes. Both require specialized training and often work within law enforcement or forensic labs, but their daily tasks and work environments differ.

What do you do as a forensic technician?

A forensic science technician collects, analyzes, and preserves physical evidence from crime scenes, such as fingerprints, blood samples, and DNA. They use laboratory equipment and scientific methods to help solve crimes and often prepare reports or testify in court. Attention to detail, knowledge of lab procedures, and certifications in forensic science are important for this role.

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

To thrive as a Forensic Science Technician, you need a solid background in biology, chemistry, and criminal justice, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in forensic science or a related field. Competence with laboratory equipment, evidence collection protocols, and familiarity with specialized software for analyzing DNA, fingerprints, and other evidence are crucial. Keen attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong written and verbal communication skills are essential soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure accurate evidence analysis, effective collaboration with law enforcement, and the integrity of legal investigations.

What are some common challenges faced by forensic science technicians during the evidence collection process?

Forensic science technicians often encounter challenges such as working in unpredictable or hazardous environments, ensuring strict adherence to chain of custody protocols, and avoiding contamination of evidence. They must pay meticulous attention to detail while collecting, preserving, and documenting evidence, often under time constraints or in stressful situations. Additionally, technicians regularly collaborate with law enforcement and other forensic experts to ensure accuracy and integrity in their findings.

How much do forensic techs make?

Forensic science technicians typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to over $90,000 depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced certifications and specialized skills can lead to higher pay, especially in government or private labs.
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Infographic showing various Forensic Science Technician 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.

Police Forensic Science Technician

Philadelphia, City of (PA)

Philadelphia, PA

$54K - $61K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

WHO WE ARE As an employer, the City of Philadelphia values inclusion, integrity, innovation, empowerment, and hard work above all else. We offer a vibrant work environment, comprehensive health care and benefits, and the experience you need to grow and excel. If you're interested in working with a passionate team of people who care about the future of Philadelphia, start here.

What We Offer: Impact - The work you do here matters to millions. Growth - Philadelphia is growing, why not grow with it. Diversity & Inclusion - Find a career in a place where everyone belongs.

Benefits - We care about your well-being. The City of Philadelphia is a Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program qualified employer. Learn more here: https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/forgiveness-cancellation/public-service Equal Access to Civil Service Testing The City of Philadelphia is an Equal Opportunity employer and does not permit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, source of income, familial status, genetic information or domestic or sexual violence victim status

If you believe you were discriminated against, call the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations at 215-686-4670 or send an email to faqpchr@phila.gov. For more information, go to: www.phila.gov/humanrelations The City of Philadelphia is committed to ensuring access to Civil Service examinations by providing appropriate accommodation for candidates with documented medical or religious reasons. Candidates may request accommodation for a Civil Service examination by contacting the Office of Human Resources (OHR) at 215-686-2350 or by email at janine.labletta@phila.gov

The accommodation process is interactive and requires cooperation and communication between the applicant and OHR. Decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis using the required documentation that is submitted. Requests are to be made in a timely manner prior to the scheduled date of the Civil Service examination.

Only an on-line application will be accepted for this exam. Paper applications will not be accepted. Computers are available in the 3-1-1 Walk-In Center located in Room 167 of City Hall (Weekdays from 9 AM to 5 PM) and at your local Philadelphia Free Library branch.

For inquiries regarding City employment, contact the Office of Human Resources Monday through Friday between 8 AM and 4 PM by telephone at 215-686-0880 or by email at hrhelpdesk@phila.gov Information concerning employment with the City of Philadelphia may be found at: work.phila.gov https://www.phila.gov/departments/office-of-human-resources/jobs/civil-service-faqs/ www.facebook.com/PhilaOHR www.twitter.com/PhilaOHR www.youtube.com/@PhilaOHR www.linkedin.com/showcase/philahr General Definition This is forensic science technician work at the full performance level in support of criminal investigations for the Office of Forensic Science (OFS) or a patrol district or investigative unit of the Philadelphia Police Department. Employees in this class assist qualified forensic examiners by supporting forensic science duties involved in the receipt, transfer, preservation, handling, preparation, analysis and comparison of items of evidence collected in criminal investigations. Employees in this class perform work in one of the following assignments: Biology/Chemistry, Evidence Control or Pattern Evidence

Positions within the Biology/Chemistry assignment prepare samples for analysis by a forensic scientist, enter forensic sample data into databases and perform other basic laboratory and evidence duties. Positions in the Evidence Control assignment receive, analyze, classify and store all evidence submitted to the Office of Forensic Science (OFS) or Patrol District or Investigative Unit, coordinate digital evidence activities to include Body Worn Cameras, make recommendations to increase efficiency of evidence submission and storage processes, utilize evidence databases, and assist with forensic forms and reports. Positions in the Pattern Evidence assignment classify, and analyze physical evidence related to a specified functional area; Firearms Identification, Document Analysis or Fingerprint Identification, assist forensic examiners, enter forensic sample data into databases and perform other basic laboratory and evidence duties.

An employee in this class may be required to work on a rotating shift. All work is performed in accordance with national and international quality assurance standards. Work is performed under the supervision of a technical or administrative superior and involves some disagreeable aspects.

Employees assigned to a patrol district or investigative unit will receive technical supervision from a technical superior at the Office of Forensic Science and onsite supervision from an administrative supervisor. CONTACT INFORMATION The analyst responsible for reviewing applications and additional documentation for this job opportunity is Stefan Koprivica City of Philadelphia - Office of Human Resources 1401 JFK Blvd., Room 1530 Philadelphia, PA 19102-1675 Phone: 215-686-3159 Fax: 215-686-0861 Email: stefan.koprivica@phila.gov For all other inquiries please contact Customer Service at 215-686-0880 or emailhrhelpdesk@phila.gov Notes to Applicants and Projected Exam Information ELIGIBLE LIST: DEPARTMENTAL-ONLY PROMOTIONAL Only a departmental promotional eligible list for the Philadelphia Police Department will be established as a result of this examination. Candidates who pass the exam and are placed on the civil service list will be retained on the list for a minimum of one year and a maximum of two years after the establishment of the Eligible List

PREFERENCE FOR PHILADELPHIA RESIDENTS Candidates who have maintained a bona fide residence in Philadelphia for at least one year prior to the date of the civil service examination shall have priority over all other people receiving an identical test score. For Training and Experience evaluations, in which applicants will not be asked to appear to take a scheduled examination, the residency preference eligibility date is the planned eligible list date listed on this announcement. To receive such preference, candidates must respond to the question regarding residence later in this form.

The response will be used to determine eligibility for preference for residents. Documentation of residence may be required if there is any question as to whether you meet the residency preference requirements. If an applicant does not respond to the appropriate residence question, it will be assumed that the applicant does not qualify for residence preference.

Eligibility for residence preference must be determined by the date of the test administration. No requests for residence preference will be granted after the test administration. TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE EVALUATION Applicants will be evaluated and scored based upon their training and experience credentials.

Applicants will not be asked to appear to take a scheduled examination. Scores in the Training and Experience Evaluation will be based on documentation of education and experience provided by the candidate. To receive full credit for your education and experience, you should submit all relevant documentation including college transcripts, licenses, certifications, paid out of class documentation, etc.

and provide a detailed description of your education, experience, and credentials. An Eligible List will be established the week of July 27, 2026. Please note that this date may change.

CERTIFICATION RULE Rule of List TEST REVIEW In accordance with Civil Service Regulation 9.091D, candidates may review their answer sheets and other test papers to determine if they have been scored correctly or if there has been an irregularity in the administration of the examination. Candidates will have 30 days after the results have been mailed to review their test and to file a written appeal. Call 215 686-0880 if you wish to schedule a test review

Level of Education Required High School/GED Minimum Acceptable Training and Experience ANTICIPATED ELIGIBILITY Candidates who meet all eligibility requirements within 6 months of the application deadline will be admitted to this examination. Successful candidates will be placed on the eligible list but may not be hired or promoted until all requirements have been satisfied. 1.

CIVIL SERVICE STATUS: Presently employed by the City of Philadelphia with permanent Civil Service status in the Philadelphia Police Department with a performance rating of Satisfactory or higher. AND Option 1: Biology/Chemistry Assignment EDUCATION: Completion of 60 credits at an accredited college or university with major coursework in biology, chemistry, forensic science or a related physical or natural science. OR EDUCATION: Education equivalent to the completion of the twelfth school grade.

AND EXPERIENCE: Two years of military service with an honorable discharge with specialized experience in biology, chemistry or clinical laboratory technology. OR Option 2: Pattern Evidence Assignment EDUCATION: Completion of 60 credits at an accredited college or university with major coursework in a physical, natural or forensic science. OR EDUCATION: Education equivalent to completion of the twelfth school grade.

AND EXPERIENCE: Two years of experience as a Fingerprint Identification Specialist 2. OR Two years of military service with an honorable discharge with specialized experience in armor, artillery, engineering or military police. Option 3: Evidence Control Assignment EDUCATION: Completion of 60 credits at an accredited college or university with major coursework in: Criminal Justice Legal Studies Paralegal Studies Computer Forensics Computer Science/Information Technology Digital Filmmaking and Video Production Visual Effects and Motion Graphics Media Studies Photography Physical or Natural Science/Forensic Science OR EDUCATION: Education equivalent to the completion of the twelfth school grade.

AND GENERAL EXPERIENCE: Two years of clerical experience in the Office of Forensic Science of the Philadelphia Police Department or in an accredited Forensic Laboratory. AND SPECIFIC EXPERIENCE: Two years of experience performing specialized clerical work in support of law enforcement activities following chain-of-custody handling techniques for receipt and storage of evidence in the Office of Forensic Science. OR EDUCATION: Education equivalent to the completion of the twelfth school grade.

AND EXPERIENCE: Two years of military service with an honorable discharge with specialized experience in digital forensics, computer science or logistics. NOTE: Selective Factor Certification may be utilized, as needed, to fill specific positions. In accordance with Civil Service Regulation 11.032 - Selective Factor Certification - the appointing authority may request certification of eligible candidates with the experience or education in the area of study to fill specific positions by assignment in this class

Certification to fill such positions will be made from the two highest-ranking eligible candidates on the eligible list who possess the specified experience or education. City of Philadelphia Class(es) which typically meet the experience requirements: Pattern Evidence Assignment: Fingerprint Identification Specialist 2 (6C13)