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Forensic Science Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Our forensic investigation, engineering and environmental services teams around the world share a ... Each of our more than 700 professional engineers, fire investigators, architects and scientists was ...

Our forensic investigation, engineering and environmental services teams around the world share a ... Each of our more than 700 professional engineers, fire investigators, architects and scientists was ...

We are not afraid to envision a future where fusion and science can transform our world. What you'll get with us * Generous benefits such as Medical, Dental, Vision, 401 (K) with company match, paid ...

... science industry. We value technical growth, entrepreneurial spirit, work-life balance and an ... Perform forensic analysis of building envelope failures * Conduct presentations to competing ...

Senior Building Enclosure Project Consultant

Irvine, CA · On-site

$105K - $134K/yr

... Science & Infrastructure team in California. In this role, you will manage and develop building ... Work includes forensic investigations, construction observation and limited inspections, building ...

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Forensic Science information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$37K

$54.7K

$81.9K

How much do forensic science jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic science in Riverside, CA is $54,664.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,400.00 and $57,900.00 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.

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.

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, using laboratory tools, and often require specialized certifications and training in biology, chemistry, or criminal justice.

What jobs can I do with forensic science?

Forensic science graduates can work as forensic scientists, crime scene investigators, forensic analysts, or laboratory technicians. These roles involve collecting, analyzing, and presenting physical evidence using tools like microscopes and chemical tests, often requiring attention to detail and knowledge of legal procedures.

What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Science jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Forensic Science jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Forensic Science jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Forensic Science jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Forensic Science jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Forensic Science jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Forensic Science jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Forensic Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Forensic Science job openings in Riverside, CA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,664 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Forensic Specialist Trainee / Forensic Specialist

Riverside, CA • On-site

City of Riverside
1 - 5K employees

$54K - $89K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


City Of Riverside (California) rating

9.5

Company rating: 9.5 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

The Position Forensic Specialist Trainee $26.43 - $29.15 Hourly $54,984 - $60,624 Annually Forensic Specialist $30.60 - $43.05 Hourly $63,660 - $89,556 Annually The City of Riverside Police Department is accepting applications for the position of Forensic Specialist Trainee / Forensic Specialist. The department is looking to fill the vacancy based on experience level of the candidate and create an eligibility list for any possible upcoming vacancies within this classification for up to six (6) months. The Forensic Specialist performs routine technical crime scene investigation duties in the collection, preservation, and processing of evidence

Participates in various other criminal investigative and administrative work. This is the entry/journey level within the Forensic Specialist series. This class is distinguished from the Senior Forensic Specialist by the performance of more routine and less complex crime scene duties.

Incumbent is expected to operate under direct supervision on routine crime scenes, provide expert testimony in court, and be aware of the operating procedures and policies within the unit. Incumbents may be promoted to the next level of Senior Forensic Specialist upon satisfactory job performance and meeting the minimum qualifications. Work Performed Responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following: Locate, identify, collect, protect, preserve, and analyze materials and substances as evidence at crime scenes, other locations, and from person; use and employ a variety of techniques and specialized equipment.

Assist in the examination and processing of crime scenes; document crime scenes with photographs, video recordings, diagrams, and reports; locate and record physical or trace evidence using a variety of photographic techniques; interview victims, witnesses, and suspects when requested. Develop, lift, photograph, preserve, classify, compare and identify fingerprints, palm prints and inked prints; evaluate latent print evidence for CAL-ID computer system; conduct chemical fingerprint processing and process hazardous and drug related material for fingerprints. Preserve, compare and attempt to identify evidence such as blood, hair, fibers, cloth, wood, paint and glass fragments; collect pathological samples and evidence for later clinical examination; photograph results of autopsy for criminal investigation and prepare photos for court presentation.

Collect, photograph, preserve, identify and perform basic analysis of DNA, blood, ballistics, narcotics, tool marks and other types of physical evidence; assist in analysis and laboratory activities. Process, download, print, enlarge, and mount photographs; prepare castings of tire, foot, hand, tool, and other types of impressions. Prepare and maintain reports and records; support the preparation of information for court cases.

Assist and participate in the reconstructing of crime scenes. Operate City vehicles; transport, release, and retrieve evidence from forensic laboratories. Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications Recruitment Guidelines: Forensic Specialist Trainee: Education: High school graduation or satisfactory equivalent (GED). Experience: None A trainee in this classification serves in a training capacity and will learn to perform the duties as defined above. Forensic Specialist: Education: High school graduation or satisfactory equivalent (GED) and completion of 15 semester or 20 quarter units from an accredited college or university in criminology, administration of justice, forensic science, or a closely related field.

Experience: One (1) year of experience performing routine crime scene duties such as identifying, photographing, collecting, and preserving evidence and receiving, cataloging, and maintaining custody of evidence. Licenses, Certifications, and Necessary Requirements: Must be willing to work weekends, holidays, nights, and rotating shifts and be subject to recall as needed. Must be willing to work an "on-call" assignment.

Must be able to pass an intensive police background investigation. Possession of an appropriate, valid, Class "C" California Motor Vehicle Operator's License. Possession of, or ability to obtain, a concealed weapons permit (CCW).

Selection Process DOCUMENTS REQUIRED AT THE TIME OF APPLICATION: 1) Completed Employment Application 2)Completed Supplemental Questionnaire FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ON COMPLETING YOUR ON-LINE APPLICATION, CLICK HERE: (Application Guide). The selection process will begin with an employment application package screening, with the best qualified candidates being invited to participate further in the assessment process. This process may include any combination of written, performance, and oral assessments to evaluate job-related education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Those who successfully complete the selection process will be placed on the eligibility list for this classification. IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON SCHEDULING ASSESSMENTS: If you are selected to move forward in the assessment process, you may be required to self-schedule your appointment. You will be notified via email of your status and provided with self-scheduling instructions.

Please check your email regularly following the closing date of this recruitment. Positions that require, or may require, a California Commercial Driver's License are considered Safety Sensitive and are monitored by the U.S. Department of Transportation

Any candidate being considered for a Safety Sensitive position must submit authorization forms to the City immediately upon request to begin the pre-employment process. It is the responsibility of candidates with a disability requiring accommodation in the assessment process to contact the Human Resources Department in writing to request such accommodation prior to the closing date of this recruitment. Appointment may be subject to the successful completion of a pre-employment background investigation, drug screen, and/or medical/physical examination.

NOTE: The City reserves the right to modify selection devices and test instruments in accordance with accepted legal, ethical, and professional standards. Candidates may reapply when there is a posting to establish an eligibility list. EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Proof of education listed in your application will be requested at the time of conditional offer.

Acceptable documentation consists of transcripts or degree, if applicable, by the accredited U.S. college or university. Education obtained outside the United States (US) require one of the following options: An equivalency statement from an evaluation company certified by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) at http://www.naces.org/members.html or the Association of International Credential Evaluators Inc

(AICE) at http://aice-eval.org/members/. An advanced-level degree from an accredited US college or university. All applicants will be notified via e-mail or telephone of their application status and the assessment dates/times/locations after the closing date of this announcement

THE PROVISIONS OF THIS JOB ANNOUNCEMENT DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED CONTRACT.


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