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Forensic Science Trainee Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Forensic Science Trainee information

See Tennessee salary details

$37.2K

$79.8K

$124.3K

How much do forensic science trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic science trainee in Tennessee is $79,758.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,100.00 and $100,700.00 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Science jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Forensic Science jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Forensic Science Trainee jobs in Tennessee? For Forensic Science Trainee jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Forensic Science Trainee jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Forensic Science Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Forensic Science Trainee job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 8% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,758 per year, or $38.3 per hour.
Academic Neuropathologist

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Vanderbilt University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

203rd of 555 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Description
Academic Neuropathologist
Vanderbilt Medical Laboratories and the Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology at Vanderbilt University Medical Center is seeking a board eligible/board certified anatomic surgical pathologist with subspecialty fellowship training in Neuropathology. Candidates need to be eligible for medical licensure in the state of Tennessee. Depending on qualifications and experience, candidates could be eligible for appointment as an Assistant or Associate Professor on the Clinician Educator track. Our department focuses on its patients and people, with distinguished faculty, excellent training programs and a supportive atmosphere. These make Vanderbilt Medical Laboratories an excellent place to thrive as an academic pathologist.
Located in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee, Vanderbilt University Medical Center (1,019 beds) is one of the nation's leading research and teaching institutions with undergraduate medical programs contiguous on the same campus. VUMC is experiencing expansion in many areas with a top 20 cancer center, multifaceted organ and stem cell transplant programs, expanding educational programs, and myriad opportunities for clinical, translational, and basic science research. Nashville, the capital of Tennessee, is a growing and vibrant, cosmopolitan area with a population exceeding 1 million, diverse entertainment, excellent schools, and ready access to outdoor activities.
Qualifications
The successful candidate is a high-performing, team-focused individual with strong communication skills and a commitment to excellent patient care as well as to colleagues and trainees in the department and institution. Experience in general diagnostic surgical neuropathology, muscle and nerve biopsy interpretation, and eye biopsy interpretation is a requirement. Expertise in autopsy neuropathology, including dementia diagnosis and forensic analysis, is also desired.
Application Instructions
Applicants are requested to send a C.V., a list of at least 3 references, and a letter of interest to:
For additional information regarding the department and the hospitals see:
Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology: https://www.vumc.org/pmi/
Vanderbilt University Medical Center: https://www.vumc.org

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