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

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Forensic Science information

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$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.
Senior/Principal Cyber Assurance Architect - Cyber Special Programs, Onsite

Senior/Principal Cyber Assurance Architect - Cyber Special Programs, Onsite

Sandia

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$117K - $235K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

About Sandia
Sandia National Laboratories is the nation's premier science and engineering lab for national security and technology innovation, with teams of specialists focused on cutting-edge work in a broad array of areas. Some of the main reasons we love our jobs:
  • Challenging work with amazing impact that contributes to security, peace, and freedom worldwide
  • Extraordinary co-workers
  • Some of the best tools, equipment, and research facilities in the world
  • Career advancement and enrichment opportunities
  • Flexible work arrangements for many positions include 9/80 (work 80 hours every two weeks, with every other Friday off) and 4/10 (work 4 ten-hour days each week) compressed workweeks, part-time work, and telecommuting (a mix of onsite work and working from home)
  • Generous vacation, strong medical and other benefits, competitive 401k, learning opportunities, relocation assistance and amenities aimed at creating a solid work/life balance*

World-changing technologies. Life-changing careers. Learn more about Sandia at: http://www.sandia.gov
*These benefits vary by job classification.
What Your Job Will Be Like
Are you ready to be at the forefront of cybersecurity innovation? As a Cyber Assurance Architect on our dynamic team, you'll play a pivotal role in shaping mission-critical solutions that seamlessly integrate cutting-edge cyber security measures. Your expertise will help safeguard vital systems while enabling groundbreaking capabilities that drive our mission forward.
You will serve as an Information System Security Engineer (ISSE) for multiple systems, configuring and maintaining cybersecurity tools while working hand-in-hand with Information Security Site Managers (ISSMs), System Security Officers (ISSOs), and system administrators. Together, you'll interpret and implement NIST/JSIG standards, conduct validation testing, and ensure compliance across the board.
On any given day, you might:
  • Collaborate with key external partners such as the Department of Energy and Intelligence Community agencies to securely enable new programs and maintain existing ones.
  • Partner with information assurance teams to define and refine system security requirements.
  • Analyze sponsor cyber policies and align them with solution designs.
  • Identify potential cyber risks and architect resilient, effective alternatives.
  • Integrate robust cybersecurity controls into new and existing tools and infrastructures.
  • Explore and evaluate emerging technologies to enhance cyber risk management.
  • Advise senior leadership with clear, actionable recommendations that influence strategic decisions.
  • Due to the nature of the work, this candidate must be able to work onsite with some travel required.

Salary Range
$117,500 - $235,700
*Salary range is estimated, and actual salary will be determined after consideration of the selected candidate's experience and qualifications, and application of any approved geographic salary differential.
Qualifications We Require
  • Bachelor's degree in Management Information Systems, Information Assurance, Computer Science or relevant discipline, plus five years' experience; or equivalent (AS + 9.)
  • Demonstrated experience supporting cybersecurity programs within the U.S. Government or government contracting environments.
  • Proven experience utilizing continuous monitoring tools such as Splunk, ACAS, Nessus, Security Center, and HBSS.
  • Active Certified Information System Security Professional (CISSP) or ability to obtain a CISSP certification within the first 9 months of employment.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DOE Q and SCI clearances, which may require a polygraph.

Qualifications We Desire
  • Understanding of the Risk Management Framework (RMF) and/or NIST 800-53 security controls.
  • Ability to apply cyber security standards, directives, guidance, and policies to an architectural framework.
  • System administration experience, to include a detailed understanding of common operating systems (e.g. Windows and Linux) and networking architecture.
  • Experience as an Information System Security Officer (ISSO).
  • Familiarity of the Risk Management Framework (RMF) and/or the Joint Special Access Program Implementation Guide (JSIG).
  • Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Demonstrated commitment to ongoing growth and professional development.
  • Active SCI clearance.

About Our Team
The FIE Cyber Special Programs Department supports the High Security Operations mission by delivering capabilities around information system hardening/accreditation, vulnerability assessment, risk management and forensics with a particular focus on mitigating cyber threats. The Cyber Security staff, consisting of Information Systems Security Managers (ISSMs), Information Systems Security Officers (ISSOs), and Information Systems Security Engineers (ISSEs), provide effective technical solutions for DOE, DoD and the Intelligence Community.
Posting Duration
This posting will be open for application submissions for a minimum of three (3) calendar days, including the 'posting date'. Sandia reserves the right to extend the posting date at any time.
Security Clearance
Sandia is required by DOE to conduct a pre-employment drug test and background review that includes checks of personal references, credit, law enforcement records, and employment/education verifications. Applicants for employment need to be able to obtain and maintain a DOE Q-level security clearance and SCI access, both of which require US citizenship. SCI access may also require a polygraph examination. If you hold more than one citizenship (i.e., of the U.S. and another country), your ability to obtain these levels of access may be impacted.
Applicants offered employment with Sandia are subject to a federal background investigation to meet the requirements for access to classified information or matter if the duties of the position require a DOE security clearance. Substance abuse or illegal drug use, falsification of information, criminal activity, serious misconduct or other indicators of untrustworthiness can cause a clearance to be denied or terminated by the DOE, resulting in the inability to perform the duties assigned and subsequent termination of employment.
EEO
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status and any other protected class under state or federal law.
NNSA Requirements for MedPEDs
If you have a Medical Portable Electronic Device (MedPED), such as a pacemaker, defibrillator, drug-releasing pump, hearing aids, or diagnostic equipment and other equipment for measuring, monitoring, and recording body functions such as heartbeat and brain waves, if employed by Sandia National Laboratories you may be required to comply with NNSA security requirements for MedPEDs.
If you have a MedPED and you are selected for an on-site interview at Sandia National Laboratories, there may be additional steps necessary to ensure compliance with NNSA security requirements prior to the interview date.

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