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Forensic Science Jobs in Rathdrum, ID (NOW HIRING)

Forensic Science information

See Rathdrum, ID salary details

$32.6K

$48.1K

$72.1K

How much do forensic science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic science in Rathdrum, ID is $48,100.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,900.00 and $50,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a forensic scientist do?

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.

Is forensic science a good career?

Forensic science is a viable career that involves analyzing physical evidence to support criminal investigations. It requires strong attention to detail, scientific knowledge, and often a degree in forensic science, chemistry, or biology. Job prospects can vary based on location and experience, with opportunities in laboratories, law enforcement agencies, and private firms.

What are the careers with forensic science?

Careers in forensic science include forensic scientist, crime scene investigator, forensic toxicologist, fingerprint analyst, and forensic pathologist. These roles involve analyzing physical evidence, working in laboratories or crime scenes, and often require knowledge of biology, chemistry, and specialized tools like microscopes and DNA analysis techniques.

What skills and qualifications are needed for forensic science?

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.

How to get hired as a forensic science professional?

To get hired as a forensic science professional, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Gaining laboratory experience through internships, developing skills in evidence analysis and report writing, and obtaining certifications such as the ASCLD-LAB accreditation can improve employment prospects.
What cities near Rathdrum, ID are hiring for Forensic Science jobs? Cities near Rathdrum, ID with the most Forensic Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Forensic Science job openings in Rathdrum, ID as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,100 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Forensic Nurse Examiner

Kootenai Health

Coeur D Alene, ID • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago


Kootenai Health rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

255th of 1,055 rated hospitals


Job description

Forensic Nurse Examiner
Position Summary
Serves patients who are potential victims of crime presenting for care across the Kootenai Health organization. Care provided must be compassionate, trauma-informed medical forensic care, to include appropriate follow up referrals. Acts as a community expert for forensic nursing. Promotes optimal health, well-being, and safety through use of the nursing process and in accordance with patient care standards, and the Idaho Nurse Practice Act. Provides relationship-based care as demonstrated by compassion for the patient, maintaining confidentiality, securing the chain of custody for evidence collection, and providing trauma-informed medical forensic care. Engages fully within nursing and inter-professional teams, fostering open communication, mutual respect, and shared decision-making to achieve quality patient care. Integrates best current evidence into clinical practice and uses data to monitor and improve the outcomes of care processes. Uses information and technology to communicate, manage knowledge, mitigate error, and support decision-making.
Responsibilities
• Evaluates, plans, implements, and documents nursing care for an assigned patient population
• Performs various patient tests and administers medications within the scope of practice of the registered nurse
• Promotes patient's independence by establishing patient care goals and teaching patient and family to understand condition, medications, and self-care skills
• Function independently with minimal oversight, utilizing strong critical thinking skills
• Maintain expertise and current knowledge in performing medical forensic exams related to forensic science, trauma-informed care, current legal laws and statues, any changing evidence collection procedures, and emerging trends
• Perform a complete medical forensic exam, recognizing time sensitive nature of certain exam collections, including but not limited to: obtaining a detailed history for the purpose of treatment/evidence collection, a detailed head-to-toe assessment, forensic photography, appropriate screenings, and follow up recommendations
• Actively participate in peer review, professional development, staff meetings, and ongoing continuing education as required
• Provide fact/expert witness testimony, as required
• Relies on experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals
• Regular and predictable attendance is an essential job function
• Performs other related duties as assigned
• Competent to meet age-specific needs of the unit assigned
Requirements and Minimum Qualifications
• Graduate of a nationally accredited Nursing program required
• State of Idaho Registered Nurse OR licensure pending as documented by temporary licensure OR current RN licensure from a state participating in the "multistate privilege to practice" compact with Idaho prior to start date
• 2 years' RN experience in any setting required; emergency, women's health, or critical care experience preferred
• Licensed RN with a minimum 3 years' patient-facing RN experience at time of hire, ADN or diploma required; BSN or higher preferred
• All non-BSN RN's with less than 3 years' patient-facing RN experience at time of hire are required to be enrolled in a baccalaureate (or higher) degree program in nursing within 1 year of employment, with completion within 3 years of hire
• 64-hour combined adult/adolescent/pediatric sexual assault nurse examiner course required or completion of Kootenai Health training within 3 months of hire
• 16-hour SANE clinical skills course required or completion of Kootenai Health training within 3 months of hire
• 24-hours of forensic continuing education required annually
• Kootenai Health approved specialty certification required within 2 years of hire; SANE-A, SANE-P, GFN-C preferred
• BLS required
Working Conditions
• Must be able to lift and move up to 35 lbs
• Must be able to maintain a standing position
• Typical equipment used in a clinical job
• Must be able to stoop, crouch, or bend
• Must be able to push, pull, or transport heavy equipment
• Must be able to assist in patient transfer
• Exposure to needles, blood and body fluids, etc.
About Kootenai Health
Kootenai Health is a highly esteemed healthcare organization serving patients throughout northern Idaho and the Inland Northwest. We have been recognized with many accolades and distinctions, including being a Gallup Great Workplace, No. 1 Best Place to Work in Large Healthcare Organizations, and Magnet™ Status for Nursing Excellence. We pride ourselves on our outstanding reputation as an employer and a healthcare provider.
As your next employer, we are excited to offer you:
  • Comprehensive medical coverage, including fully employerpaid options for eligible fulltime employees, plus affordable plans for parttime staff. Benefits begin on the 1st of the month following 30 days of employment.
  • Dental, vision, life, and pet insurance, with telemedicine and wellbeing resources available to all employees
  • Tuition assistance after 90 days to support your professional growth
  • Retirement plans with pretax and Roth options and employer matching from 3%-6%
  • Competitive pay, plus night, weekend, and PRN shift differentials
  • Awardwinning wellness program with coaching, financial wellness resources, and free or discounted access to fitness centers and premium wellbeing apps
  • PerkSpot discounts providing access to thousands of exclusive deals in over 25 categories
  • And an employee referral bonus program

Kootenai Health provides exceptional support for extraordinary careers. If you want to work on a high-quality, person-centered healthcare team, we can't wait to meet you!
Apply today! Please reach out to Grey Mora at tmora@kh.org or Front Desk 208-625-4620 or email careers@kh.org with any questions.
Kootenai Health complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or sex. Kootenai Health does not exclude people or treat them differently because of race, color, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or sex.

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