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Forensic Science Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Digital Forensic Examiner

Lorton, VA · On-site

$56K - $77K/yr

Description The Forensic Examiner supports the laboratory's quality program by performing method ... Bachelor's degree in a science or computer related field from an accredited University or foreign ...

Digital Forensic Examiner

Lorton, VA · On-site

$56K - $77K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description The Forensic Examiner supports the laboratory's quality program by ... Bachelor's degree in a science or computer related field from an accredited University or foreign ...

CIF's digital forensics laboratory processes and examines a wide range of digital media using ... Apply recognized scientific practices to identify, analyze, interpret, and present digital evidence ...

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Showing results 1-20

Forensic Science information

See Washington salary details

$40.2K

$59.3K

$88.9K

How much do forensic science jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic science in Washington is $59,344.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,300.00 and $62,900.00 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 Washington? The most popular types of Forensic Science jobs in Washington are:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Science jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Science jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Forensic Science jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Forensic Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Forensic Science job openings in Washington as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 45% Full Time, 49% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 71% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 27% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,344 per year, or $28.5 per hour.
Forensic Autopsy Services Supervisor - Northern District

Forensic Autopsy Services Supervisor - Northern District

State of Virginia

Manassas, VA

$71K - $80K/yr

Other

Posted 11 days ago


State Of Virginia rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 50 rated states


Job description

Forensic Autopsy Services Supervisor - Northern District

Apply now Job no: 5105726
Work type: Full-Time (Salaried)
Location: Manassas, Virginia
Categories: Applied Sciences and Natural Resources

Title: Forensic Autopsy Services Supervisor - Northern District

State Role Title: Laboratory & Research Spec II

Hiring Range: $71,000 - $80,000

Pay Band: 4

Agency: Virginia Department of Health

Location: CHIEF MEDICAL EXAMINER-NO

Agency Website: www.vdh.virginia.gov

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

Assists the Assistant Chief Medical Examiner (forensic pathologist) in the external and internal examination of deceased individuals. Recruits, supervises and trains forensic autopsy technician staff and provides general supervision in autopsy service activities. Admits and releases bodies in accordance with policies, procedures and regulations, and provides leadership and supervisory oversight to other forensic technicians and support staff. Other characteristic duties include weighing, measuring and photographing bodies for identification, inspecting bodies for abnormalities and notifying pathologist, radiography, assisting with initial incisions, removing and weighing of organs, opening the head, collecting and preserving all evidence such as bullets and broken knife blades as well as collecting and retaining tissue and body fluids. Regularly reviews work products of staff and prepares written reports essential for sudden, unexpected or violent deaths. Designs spreadsheets, composes correspondence, and oversees research/purchase of autopsy supplies/equipment.

Minimum Qualifications

Considerable experience directly related to anthropology and remains processing; knowledge of anatomy, physical evidence, chain of custody, confidentiality, universal precautions and OSHA
Experience with forensic autopsies and previous supervisory experience preferred
Ability to write, document, and use computer software for data entry and writing
Ability to create and maintain spreadsheets, perform inventory control, conduct standard and digital radiography for both human remains and dental identifications
Ability to lift heavy bodies; to traverse unstable grounds and assist with recovery of human remains; ability to stand for long periods of time
Ability to effectively communicate and promote good relations among personnel and other agencies

Additional Considerations

Experience/training in physical or forensic anthropology, forensic science, biology or anatomy

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or resume is submitted successfully. Please refer to "Your Application" in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

VDH accepts only on-line applications. Faxed, mailed, or e-mailed applications will not be considered. Applications are accepted until 11:55 p.m. on the job closing date. Applications and/or resumes should include relevant work history which indicates your qualications for this position. Supplemental questions are encouraged to be answered in a comprehensive manner and reference any pertinent knowledge, skills, and abilities as well as any previous experience that relates to the position.
Employment is contingent upon satisfactory results of a state and federal criminal history background check and the Department of Social Service's Child Abuse and Neglect Central Registry check, U.S. HHSIG Exclusion List check, employment reference check and E-Verify. Other nancial, credit, driving, background checks or completion of Statement of Economic Interests may be required for certain positions.
It is the policy of the Commonwealth and VDH that all aspects of human resource management be conducted without regard to race (or traits historically associated with race including hair texture, hair type, and protective hairstyles such as braids, locks, and twists); sex; color; national origin; religion; sexual orientation; gender identity or expression; age; veteran status; political affiliation; disability; genetic information; and pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. VDH employees have a shared Code of Ethics, which can be found in the bottom banner of our website: www.vdh.virginia.gov.
If you have been affected by DHRM Policy 1.30 layoff and possess a valid Interagency Placement Screening Form (Yellow Card) or a Preferential Hiring Form (Blue Card), you must submit the card before the closing date for this position. The Card may be submitted with the state application as an attachment.
As a V3 (Virginia Values Veterans) employer VDH Welcomes Veterans to apply!

Contact Information

Name: Vontrell Hodges

Phone: 804-461-7605

Email: Vontrell.Hodges@vdh.virginia,gov

In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.

Advertised: 05 Jun 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 18 Jun 2026 Eastern Daylight Time

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