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Forensic Science Technicians Jobs (NOW HIRING)

FORENSIC SUPERVISOR/EXPERT

Little Rock, AR · On-site

$85K - $127K/yr

Knowledge and Skills Strong knowledge of forensic science principles, laboratory techniques, and analytical procedures. Ability to direct, mentor, and evaluate forensic specialists, technicians, and ...

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Forensic Science Technicians information

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How much do forensic science technicians jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic science technicians 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 are 5 potential jobs for forensic science?

Forensic science technicians can work in crime laboratories analyzing evidence such as DNA, fingerprints, and ballistics. They may also work in crime scene investigation, providing scene documentation and evidence collection, or in forensic pathology assisting with autopsies. Other roles include forensic toxicology, working with chemical analysis of substances, and forensic entomology, studying insects to estimate time of death.

What do you do as a forensic technician?

Forensic science technicians collect, analyze, and preserve physical evidence from crime scenes, such as fingerprints, blood samples, and DNA. They use laboratory equipment and techniques to help solve crimes and often prepare reports or testify in court based on their findings.

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 chemistry, biology, and criminal justice, usually supported by a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory instruments, DNA analysis software, and evidence management systems is typically required. Strong attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective written and verbal communication are essential soft skills for this role. These skills ensure accurate evidence analysis, reliable reporting, and successful collaboration with law enforcement and legal teams.

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. Those with specialized skills or certifications in crime scene investigation or laboratory analysis may earn higher wages.

What are some common challenges forensic science technicians face when working at crime scenes?

Forensic science technicians often encounter challenging conditions at crime scenes, including exposure to hazardous materials, working in adverse weather or in emotionally charged environments, and adhering to strict protocols to avoid contaminating evidence. Additionally, they must meticulously document and collect evidence while managing time-sensitive tasks and collaborating closely with law enforcement, which can be stressful. Effective communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to remain composed under pressure are essential for success in this role.

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 may work in laboratories or directly at crime scenes, using scientific methods to examine evidence such as fingerprints, DNA, weapons, and substances. Their findings are often used by law enforcement and presented in court as part of criminal investigations. Forensic science technicians play a critical role in ensuring evidence is properly documented, preserved, and analyzed to support justice.

What can I do with a forensic science technician certificate?

A forensic science technician certificate can qualify individuals for entry-level roles in crime labs, assisting with evidence collection, analysis, and documentation. It often provides foundational knowledge of laboratory techniques, forensic tools, and legal procedures, supporting career advancement in forensic science or related fields.

What is the difference between Forensic Science Technicians vs Crime Scene Investigators?

AspectForensic Science TechniciansCrime Scene Investigators
CredentialsTypically require a bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, or biologyOften have a similar degree; some roles may require additional certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, crime labs, and sometimes crime scenesPrimarily on-site at crime scenes and sometimes in labs
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, forensic labs, government agenciesLaw enforcement agencies, police departments, crime units
Primary FocusAnalyzing evidence in labs, preparing reportsCollecting evidence at crime scenes, initial documentation

While both roles work closely in criminal investigations, Forensic Science Technicians focus on laboratory analysis and evidence processing, whereas Crime Scene Investigators primarily gather evidence at crime scenes. Both require similar educational backgrounds and often collaborate during investigations.

More about Forensic Science Technicians jobs
What cities are hiring for Forensic Science Technicians jobs? Cities with the most Forensic Science Technicians job openings:
What states have the most Forensic Science Technicians jobs? States with the most job openings for Forensic Science Technicians jobs include:
Infographic showing various Forensic Science Technicians job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 8% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote 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 • On-site

$54K - $61K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 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)