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Forensic Science Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

An industry-leading construction and forensic consulting firm is seeking a Forensic GC to help them manage multiple cost-related client matters, analyze third-party expert reports, and provide cost ...

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Forensic Science information

See Colorado salary details

$37.3K

$55.1K

$82.5K

How much do forensic science jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic science in Colorado is $55,096.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,700.00 and $58,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of someone working in forensic science?

Forensic science professionals usually spend their days analyzing physical evidence from crime scenes, preparing detailed reports on their findings, and sometimes presenting results in court as expert witnesses. Their routine includes using specialized laboratory instruments, photographing and cataloging evidence, and maintaining the integrity and documentation of all samples through strict chain-of-custody procedures. Collaboration with law enforcement, attorneys, and other forensic experts is common, as is staying up-to-date with advancements in scientific analysis methods. This dynamic workflow ensures that forensic scientists contribute accurate, reliable evidence that can greatly impact the outcome of investigations.

What careers are there in forensic science?

Careers in forensic science include forensic scientist, crime scene investigator, forensic toxicologist, fingerprint analyst, and forensic DNA analyst. These roles typically require knowledge of laboratory techniques, evidence analysis, and often certification or specialized training in forensic methods.

Is a forensic scientist a 9-5 job?

Forensic scientists often work standard daytime hours, but their schedules can vary depending on case demands, laboratory needs, or crime scene investigations, which may require evening or weekend work. Flexibility and readiness to work outside typical hours are common in this field due to the nature of criminal investigations and evidence processing.

What is the highest paying forensic job?

The highest paying forensic jobs are often senior roles such as forensic laboratory directors or forensic science managers, who oversee laboratory operations and investigations. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and certification, and can earn six-figure salaries depending on the employer and location.

Can I be a CSI without being a cop?

Forensic Science technicians, including Crime Scene Investigators (CSIs), do not need to be police officers to perform their duties. They typically have backgrounds in forensic science, biology, or chemistry and may work in labs or crime scene environments, often requiring specialized training and certifications. While some CSIs are employed by law enforcement agencies, others work in private labs or independent forensic firms.

What is a Forensic Science job?

A forensic science job involves collecting, analyzing, and interpreting physical evidence to assist in criminal investigations. Forensic scientists work in labs, crime scenes, or courtrooms, using scientific techniques to examine fingerprints, DNA, blood samples, and other materials. Their findings help law enforcement agencies identify suspects, reconstruct crime scenes, and support legal proceedings. Some forensic scientists specialize in areas like toxicology, ballistics, or digital forensics.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Forensic Science position, and why are they important?

To succeed in forensic science, you need a strong background in chemistry or biology, meticulous attention to detail, and at least a bachelor's degree in forensic science or a related discipline. Experience with laboratory equipment, evidence analysis software, and knowledge of chain-of-custody protocols or certifications such as ASCLD/LAB are highly valued. Critical thinking, strong written communication, and the ability to work collaboratively under pressure set top performers apart. These capabilities are essential to ensure the integrity, accuracy, and reliability of forensic findings used in legal proceedings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Science jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Forensic Science jobs in Colorado are:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Science jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Science jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Forensic Science jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Forensic Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Forensic Science job openings in Colorado as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 91% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,096 per year, or $26.5 per hour.
Criminalistics/Forensic Science Affiliate Instructor

Criminalistics/Forensic Science Affiliate Instructor

Metropolitan State University of Denver

Denver, CO • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Department
Chemistry
By applying to this posting, you are entering an applicant pool for affiliate faculty. Screening of applicants will take place when positions come available. The number of these temporary, part-time, non-tenure track academic positions varies from semester to semester, depending on the needs of the program. As such, not everyone in the applicant pool for this position will be contacted and/or selected to teach.
About the University
Established in 1965, Metropolitan State University (MSU Denver) was founded to serve students who were underrepresented in higher education whose life paths and experiences did not fit the traditional mold. Sixty years later, the University continues to serve over 16,000 of Colorado's extraordinary and diverse students, providing them with the foundation on which to build their unique aspirations. As the third largest public institution of higher education in Colorado, MSU Denver is a model university for today's college students.
Proud of its federal designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution that also offers graduate programs (gHSI) and the only Seal of Excelencia certified institution in Colorado, the University serves the most diverse undergraduate student population in the state, as well as the most first-generation students. Through affordable, flexible, and holistic education, MSU Denver helps students build essential skills grounded in a multicultural and global perspective that lead to undergraduate and graduate degrees, and career and life success.
Position Summary
The Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry at Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver) invites applications for part-time affiliate faculty teaching positions. The primary responsibility of this position is to teach one or more of the following courses: Introduction to Criminalistics, Crime Scene Investigation I & II, Arson & Explosives, Field Testing, and Identification of Drugs.
For more information about the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry in the College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences, please visit: https://www.msudenver.edu/chemistry.
Responsibilities
  • This position typically teaches criminalistics and forensic science courses (lecture and laboratory) at basic and advanced undergraduate levels
  • The successful candidate must have the ability to work with and be sensitive to the educational needs of a diverse urban population

An affiliate faculty member's duties may include but are not limited to: teaching assigned classes in person or online by delivering course content to students, preparing course materials and lesson plans, grading student work, providing students with robust feedback in a timely manner, addressing student questions consistent with university, college/school, and department policies, and providing online or in person academic support to students as needed and appropriate for the teaching assignment; providing instruction in assigned classes consistent with the content and learning objectives of the regular course syllabus and, if required, with department course coordination policies; and complying with university-wide student evaluation of instruction policies and peer observation policies. The ability to adapt and learn new modes of instruction is highly encouraged. Candidates need to be sensitive to the educational needs of a diverse student population.
Required Qualifications
Master's degree in Chemistry or closely related field
Preferred Qualifications
  • Doctorate
  • Previous teaching experience

Terms of Employment
Affiliate faculty are part-time, at-will employees hired to teach on a per credit hour basis for specific classes, usually on a semester-by-semester basis. Affiliate faculty are not eligible for benefit coverage under the University's benefit program. All such teaching assignments are dependent on budget and enrollment.
Qualified candidates will be expected to teach in person/on campus upon hire.
Salary for Announcement
The final salary is based on the number of credit hours assigned at a rate determined by university policy.
Rate of pay per credit hour assignment can be between $1264 - $1482.
For more information, please view pay rates under the College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences: Affiliate-Rates-AY-25-26.
How to Apply
Candidates must apply online through MSU Denver's career site, https://www.msudenver.edu/careers. Complete applications will include the following required materials:
  • Resume or CV
  • Cover letter

Applicants will notice on the application portal there is one location (the resume/cover letter submission field) to upload all required materials. Multiple documents can be submitted into this one field; alternatively, merge all documents into one PDF and upload. Once submitted, you will not be able to edit your application.
Please submit any questions to:
Dr. Andrew Bonham, Ph.D. and Chair
Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry
Metropolitan State University of Denver
P.O. Box 173362, Campus Box 52
Denver, CO 80217-3362
Email: abonham@msudenver.edu
Official transcripts will be required of the candidate selected for hire.
Closing Date
Open Until Filled
Posting Representative
Katie Lynch
Posting Representative Email
klynch24@msudenver.edu
Benefits
The University's benefits package is comprehensive and offers medical, vision and dental, free RTD pass, tuition reimbursement, as well as a life and supplemental insurance plans, retirement plans and other programs, such as access to a long-term disability (LTD) plan. Visit MSU Denver's benefits website to learn more.
For a brief overview, please see: https://www.msudenver.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/MSU-Benefit-Summary.pdf.
The University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at totalrewards@msudenver.edu.
Background Checks
Metropolitan State University of Denver is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our faculty, staff, students, and visitors. To Assist in achieving that goal, we conduct background checks on all finalists for positions at the University prior to employment.
Diversity Statement
Metropolitan State University of Denver is a unique, access-oriented campus community that values diversity, equity, and inclusion in all its forms. Our student population consists of nearly 58% first generation students and over 50% students of color. We are a designated Hispanic Serving Institution located in downtown Denver.
We create an equitable learning and working environment in concert with individuals who consistently demonstrate commitment to equity and inclusion. We greatly value the diverse identities and perspectives of our students, faculty, and staff and recognize that in order to achieve a just and equitable society, diversity must go beyond simple representation. It requires critical inquiry and dialogue and a commitment to action. We strive to provide a culture of belonging for all community members to achieve personal and professional success.