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Forensic Science Technicians Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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.

Forensic Investigator

Garland, TX · On-site

$55K - $59K/yr

Establish and maintain liaisons with police department personnel, laboratory technicians and court ... Experience and/or certification in the forensic science field (pay commensurate accordingly ...

Institute of Forensic Sciences Division: Forensic Genetics Opening Date: 08/06/2026 Closing Date: 9 ... The Sero/Ops Technician may be called to provide expert testimony in court. This position will ...

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Forensic Science Technicians information

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$35.5K

$52.4K

$78.5K

How much do forensic science technicians jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 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 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.

Are forensic science technicians in demand?

Forensic science technicians are in growing demand due to increased reliance on forensic evidence in criminal investigations and advancements in forensic technology. Employment is expected to grow faster than average, with opportunities often requiring a bachelor's degree in forensic science, biology, or chemistry, along with proficiency in laboratory techniques and evidence analysis.

How to get a job as a forensic science technician?

To become a forensic science technician, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level laboratory work is valuable, and obtaining certifications such as the American Board of Criminalistics can enhance job prospects. Strong attention to detail, analytical skills, and familiarity with laboratory equipment are essential for this role.

What do you do as a forensic science technician?

A forensic science technician collects, analyzes, and preserves physical evidence from crime scenes. They use laboratory equipment and scientific methods to help investigate 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.
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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 75% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,397 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Forensic Science Technician

Des Moines, IA • On-site


State of Iowa
Public Administration • 10K+ employees

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 83 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 50 rated states

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks


$47K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


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.


State of Iowa logo

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


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