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Forensic Science Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

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Forensic Science information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$32K

$47.3K

$70.8K

How much do forensic science jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic science in Rio Rancho, NM is $47,257.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,200.00 and $50,100.00 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 popular job titles related to Forensic Science jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? For Forensic Science jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Forensic Science jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Forensic Science job openings:
Forensic Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Science job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 31% Full Time, 61% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 74% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,257 per year, or $22.7 per hour.
Open Rank of Forensic Pathology

Open Rank of Forensic Pathology

University of New Mexico

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

University Of New Mexico rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 535 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Open Rank of Forensic Pathology
Posting Number
req30252
Employment Type
Faculty
Faculty Type
Open Rank
Hiring Department
Pathology (254B)
Academic Location
School of Medicine
Benefits Eligible
The University of New Mexico provides a comprehensive package of benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. In addition, UNM offers educational benefits through the tuition remission and dependent education programs. See the Benefits home page for more information.
Position Summary
The Office of the Medical Investigator, administratively housed at the University of New Mexico, is seeking three, full time, forensic pathologists to join an amazing team of forensic pathologists housing one of the most reputable forensic pathology fellowship programs that has trained 121 forensic pathologists since 1975.
The Office of the Medical Investigator is a statewide, centralized, academically based medicolegal death investigative agency for New Mexico. This agency investigates approximately 7,000 of the 18,000 deaths that occur each year in New Mexico and performs approximately 2,000 autopsies and 2,500 external examinations each year. The office has been NAME accredited since 1976. Detailed death investigation data (1977-present) is recorded in an electronic database.
About New Mexico
New Mexico is the fifth largest state in the United States and is home to roughly 2.1 million people. New Mexico offers one of the most diverse landscapes of any U.S state, from auburn deserts, grasslands, mesas, and snow-capped mountain peaks. Experience over 300 days of sunshine and all four seasons! Outdoor pursuits await in our beautiful state.
New Mexico is also full of diversity, with roughly half the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino, and is home to the fourth largest Native American community in the U.S.
About theOMI
  • A cohesive teamof board-certified forensic pathologists, two forensic anthropologists, aforensic odontologist, two neuropathologists, pathologist's assistants, andPathology and Radiology consults at the University of New Mexico.
  • NAME accreditedand modernized facility.
  • On-siteComputed Tomography (CT) scanner used to triage every case.
  • Work/lifeBalance: An average of ten exam days per month when fully staffed. Telecommuteoptions when not performing examinations.
  • ForensicPathology Fellowship Program: Funded for four fellows with an incredibletraining track-record.
  • University ofNew Mexico: Faculty appointments within the Pathology Department.
  • RotatingPathology residents and medical students, providing ample mentor and educationopportunities.
  • Researchopportunities: A full-time epidemiologist, physicist, and staff for statisticalanalysis.
  • Grief servicesdepartment assists with family communication.
  • Completesupport staff: Investigators who respond to scenes and staff the office 24/7;morphology technicians and full administrative support staff.
  • Histologyservices provided by a local laboratory. Toxicology testing is provided by anationally recognized external laboratory.
  • Privatetransportation services for judicial hearings within New Mexico.

Benefits
  • Multipleretirement plan options
  • Definedcontribution plan options (similar to a pension) with significant employercontribution
  • Tax deferredvoluntary retirement plans (403(b) and 457(b)
  • Annual leave:21 days/year (252 hours maximum accrual)
  • Sick leave: 10working days
  • Parental leave:Up to 120 consecutive days or 17 weeks (inclusive of holidays)
  • Professionalleave: Up to 12 working days in a fiscal year
  • $3000 annually,for professional/education/travel expenses
  • Relocationpackage
  • Medical,Dental, Basic Life, and Long-Term Disability Coverage
  • TuitionRemission for employee and spouse/domestic partner

Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
  • M.D., or equivalent
  • Board Certified/eligible in Anatomic Pathology
  • Board Certified/eligible in Forensic Pathology or currently in a Forensic Pathology Fellowship
  • Eligible to work in the U.S.

Desirable Qualifications:
  • Experience or training in a subspecialty of medicine, pathology, or science applicable to forensic pathology
  • Evidence of public speaking and writing skills
  • Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and student success, as well as working with broadly diverse communities.

Application Instructions
Only applications submitted through the official UNMJobs site will be accepted. If you are viewing this job advertisement on a 3rd party site, please visit UNMJobs to submit an application.
A complete application will include an uploaded CV and should include a Cover Letter/Letter of Interest that details the candidate's education, training, and experience as they relate to the minimum and desirable qualifications listed in the job description.
For Best Consideration
For best consideration, please apply by 8/8/2024. This position will remain open until filled.
The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.
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