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Forensic Science Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Harris County, TX

Forensic Neuropathologist

Houston, TX · On-site

Institute of Forensic Sciences Division: Pathology Services Opening Date: 07/07/2026 Closing Date ... trainees (forensic pathology fellows, pathology residents, medical residents, and medical students ...

Harris County

Forensic Neuropathologist

Houston, TX · On-site

Position Description Mission The Mission of the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences is to ... trainees (forensic pathology fellows, pathology residents, medical residents, and medical students ...

Harris County

Forensic Neuropathologist

Houston, TX

Position Description Mission The Mission of the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences is to ... trainees (forensic pathology fellows, pathology residents, medical residents, and medical students ...

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$41K

$87.9K

$137K

How much do forensic science trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic science trainee in the United States is $87,877.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,500.00 and $111,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of hands-on training and mentorship can a Forensic Science Trainee expect during their first year?

As a Forensic Science Trainee, you can expect to receive comprehensive hands-on training that includes shadowing experienced forensic scientists, participating in laboratory analysis, and learning to follow strict evidence handling protocols. During your first year, you'll likely rotate through various sections such as DNA, toxicology, or trace evidence, gaining exposure to different forensic techniques. Mentorship is a key part of the role, with senior staff guiding you through casework, quality assurance procedures, and courtroom testimony preparation. This structured approach helps build your technical skills, attention to detail, and understanding of chain-of-custody requirements.

What is the difference between Forensic Science Trainee vs Forensic Laboratory Technician?

AspectForensic Science TraineeForensic Laboratory Technician
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in forensic science, biology, or chemistry; training programsAssociate's or bachelor's degree in forensic science, biology, chemistry, or related field
Work EnvironmentTraining setting, supervised environment, often in labs or crime scenesFull-time lab work, analyzing evidence under supervision
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement agencies, forensic labs, crime scene unitsCrime labs, law enforcement agencies, forensic facilities

In summary, a Forensic Science Trainee is an entry-level position focused on learning and gaining experience, often under supervision. A Forensic Laboratory Technician is a more experienced role responsible for conducting evidence analysis independently. Both roles require relevant degrees, but the trainee position emphasizes training and development.

What does a Forensic Science Trainee do?

A Forensic Science Trainee assists experienced forensic scientists in the collection, analysis, and preservation of physical evidence from crime scenes. They typically work in laboratories or at crime scenes, learning techniques such as fingerprint analysis, DNA testing, and chemical analysis of substances. Trainees gain hands-on experience while following strict protocols to ensure evidence integrity. Over time, they develop the skills necessary to analyze evidence, write reports, and may eventually testify in court as expert witnesses.

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

To thrive as a Forensic Science Trainee, you need a solid background in biology, chemistry, or forensic science, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, evidence handling procedures, and standard analytical software like LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems) is highly valued. Attention to detail, strong analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help trainees accurately process evidence and present findings. These abilities are crucial for ensuring the integrity of evidence and supporting the justice system through reliable scientific analysis.
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What cities are hiring for Forensic Science Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Forensic Science Trainee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Science jobs? The most popular types of Forensic Science jobs are:
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What job categories do people searching Forensic Science Trainee jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Science Trainee jobs are:
Forensic Science Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Science Trainee job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,877 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Forensic Scientist-Firearm/Tool Mark SCT, SCI, SCII, SCIII

City of Albuquerque

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$75K - $102K/yr

Other

Posted 10 days ago

City Of Albuquerque rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

477th of 835 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Position Summary Identify, examine, analyze, evaluate and interpret evidence in the investigation of crimes; use forensic science in the analysis of evidence in order to reach scientific conclusions in the area of Firearm / Tool Marks; effectively communicate results and findings, verbally and in writing, to the appropriate parties. Refer to the Crime Laboratory Director's chart of standards for specific qualifying criteria. This is a safety sensitive position subject to random drug/alcohol testing.

Job descriptions are intended to present a general list of tasks/duties performed by employees within this job classification. Job Descriptions are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job. Minimum Education, Experience And Additional Requirements Forensic Scientist Firearm and Tool Mark SCT- Trainee: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology or related field.

Successful completion of the APD FS - Firearm/Tool Mark Training Program before progression to SCI, SC2, SC3 levels. Successful completion of the Competency Exams and/or Mock Trials before progression to SCI, SC2, SC3 levels. Forensic Scientist Firearm and Tool Mark I SC1 - Entry Level: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology or related field; and One (1) year of examination training and/or casework.

Forensic Scientist Firearm and Tool Mark II SC2- Journeyman Level: Master's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology or related field; and Three (3) years of examination training and/or casework; OR Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology or related field; and Five (5) years of examination training and/or casework. Forensic Scientist Firearm and Tool Mark III SC3 - Advanced Level: Master's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology; and Eight (8) years of examination training and/or casework; OR Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology; and Ten (10) years of examination training and/or casework. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Possession of a valid New Mexico Driver's License, or the ability to obtain by date of hire Possession of a City Operator's Permit (COP) within 6 months from date of hire Refer to the Crime Laboratory Director's chart of standards for specific qualifying criteria.

Working Conditions Environmental: A variety of forensic, laboratory and crime scene environments; potential exposure to unpleasant odors, fumes, dust, contagious diseases, bodily fluids, explosive materials, loud noises, as well as irritant, carcinogenic, toxic or mutagenic chemicals; prolonged use of computers. Physical: Essential and supplemental functions require maintaining physical condition necessary for personal mobility; may be required in to move objects up to 50 pounds on a regular basis.

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