1

Forensic Science Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

... forensics, advanced material sciences and in the support of clinical studies, as well as having an emerging global presence in Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations. It also has a ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Forensic Science information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$37K

$54.7K

$81.9K

How much do forensic science jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 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 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 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:

$223K - $351K/yr

Other

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

For questions regarding this position, please contact the Recruiter listed in the Supplemental Information section. ABOUT THE POSITION This recruitment is intended to establish a pool of qualified candidates for the Forensic Pathologist III/IV. The pool will not be used to fill any immediate vacancies but will instead be utilized to fill future vacancies within the Sheriff's Office.

The Riverside County Sheriff's Office is accepting applications for the Forensic Pathologist III/IV. This position performs autopsies and evaluates historical and law-enforcement investigative information in order to establish cause and time of death and whether death was due to natural causes, accident, suicide, homicide, or is undetermined. Salary Range: Forensic Pathologist III $107.50 - $153.78 Hourly $18,633.71 - $26,655.56 Monthly $223,604.49 - $319,866.73 Annually Forensic Pathologist IV $118.25 - $169.15 Hourly $20,495.94 - $29,319.69 Monthly $245,951.26 - $351,836.34 Annually Additional Benefits 11% Difficult-to-Recruit differential Relocation pay may be available

See the policy here. Educational loan repayment assistance is available. See the policy here.

Meet the Team. The law enforcement professionals of the Riverside County Sheriff's Office, with a staff of over 3,600 dedicated men and women, cover the expanse of over 7,300 square miles in southern California. The Sheriff's Office is dedicated to serving the citizens of its communities with integrity, professionalism, leadership, and loyalty and believes in service above self.

EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES Performs autopsies and evaluates historical and law-enforcement investigative information in order to establish cause and time of death and whether death was due to natural causes, accident, suicide, homicide, or is undetermined. Collects medical evidence such as trace evidence and secretions; performs chemical and/or microscopic examination of tissues and fluids, and submits samples of body fluids, tissues and other findings to laboratories for toxicology and clinical laboratory examination when analysis may be required. Prepares detailed reports of findings, confers with judicial and law enforcement personnel and assists in interpreting autopsy findings for the purpose of reconstructing events leading to suspected homicides or suicides.

Signs death certificates, gives testimony at inquests, Coroner Review processes, and in court trials. Keeps informed of current techniques, procedures and equipment in forensic pathology; conducts special research projects as assigned. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Forensic Pathologist III $107.50 - $153.78 Hourly $18,633.71 - $26,655.56 Monthly $223,604.49 - $319,866.73 Annually License/Certificate: Possession of a valid Physician's and Surgeon's Certificate issued by the State of California and eligible for Forensic Pathologist Board Certification

Candidates that have been accepted into an accredited fellowship in forensic pathology are eligible to apply for this position at this time. Forensic Pathologist IV $118.25 - $169.15 Hourly $20,495.94 - $29,319.69 Monthly $245,951.26 - $351,836.34 Annually License/Certificate: Possession of a valid Physician's and Surgeon's Certificate issued by the State of California. Possession of the Forensic Pathologist Board Certification

Both Levels License: Possession of a valid Driver's License. Possession of a valid California's Driver's License must be obtained within three months of employment. Knowledge of: Principles and practices of modern medicine and techniques of autopsy; statues, ordinances, regulations and medicolegal issues related to Coroner's Bureau; the current and highly specialized techniques, investigative procedures and equipment applicable to forensic pathology including the applicability of toxicology, ballistics/firearm examination, trace evidence, forensic serology, forensic anthropology, and DNA technology; rules and regulations applicable to court testimony.

Ability to: Perform highly skilled post-mortem examinations; review and evaluate complex investigations, autopsy reports and other specific findings to establish the cause of death; communicate effectively and serve as an expert witness in a court of law, inquests, and legal proceedings; write and effectively interpret comprehensive reports; establish and maintain effective relationships with others. Work Performance Measures Gains confidence of County staff, judicial agencies, legal representatives, the media and the public. Viewed as medicolegal expert in Forensic Pathology.

Demonstrates integrity and professional standards. Answers technical questions in appropriate format for audience whether jury or a medicolegal expert. Follows policies, procedures, standards and controls established by the Chief Forensic Pathologist.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION For questions regarding this recruitment Please contact Brittney Mathis at 951-955-5358 or bmathis@rivco.org. Please allow 1-2 business days for response to general inquiries. ________________________________________________________________________________________ APPLICATION INFORMATION Veteran's Preference The County has a Veterans Preference Policy applicable to new hires

To qualify, attach the required documents to your job application. Documents include a copy of your (or your spouse's) Member-4 Form DD-214 indicating dates of service. For spousal preference, and as applicable, the following documents: a copy of your marriage certificate, spouse's death certificate, a letter of spouse's disability and/or letter of service-related death (if available) from the U.S

Veteran's Administration. For privacy reasons, it is recommended that you remove your social security information from the document(s). A Human Resources Representative will review the materials and determine if you qualify for veterans' preference.

For complete details and documentation requirements, please review the Veterans Preference Policy, C-3 here: https://rivcocob.org/board-policies Reasonable Accommodations The County of Riverside is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to applicants as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). Qualified individuals with disabilities who need a reasonable accommodation during the application or selection process should contact the recruiter for the position noted above. For additional information and/or to obtain the appropriate form for requesting a reasonable accommodation, please visit the Disability Access Office web page located at: https://rc-hr.com/disability Proof of Education If using education to qualify or when requested by the recruiter, upload a copy of any license(s), official/unofficial transcript(s), degrees, and/or related employment documents to your NeoGov account at the time of application and before the closing date

Official or unofficial transcripts will be accepted. If your education was completed outside of the United States, you will need to provide a copy of your Foreign Education Equivalency evaluation from a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) or Association of International Credential Evaluators, Inc. (AICE).

Work Authorization Requirement Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of application. The County of Riverside does not participate in visa sponsorship programs, including H1-B visas, and will not provide sponsorship for any employment-based visas. Equal Opportunity Employer The County of Riverside is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

It is the policy of the County of Riverside to provide equal employment opportunities for all qualified persons. All applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, ancestry, medical condition (cancer and genetic characteristics), genetic information, or denial of medical and family care leave, or any other non-job-related factors. Pre-Employment All employment offers are contingent upon successful completion of pre-employment requirements including a criminal background investigation, which involves fingerprinting.

(A felony or misdemeanor conviction may disqualify the applicant from County employment). A pre-employment physical examination and background check may be required. Probationary Period As an Approved Local Merit System, all County of Riverside employees, except those serving "At Will," are subject to the probationary period provisions as specified in the applicable Memorandum of Understanding, County Resolution, or Salary Ordinance.

Temporary and Per Diem employees serve at the pleasure of the agency/department head. General Information Current County of Riverside and/or current employees of the hiring department may receive priority consideration. Qualified candidates may be considered for future County vacancies.

Job postings may close without notice based on application volume. Submit your complete application by the recruitment close date; no late applications are accepted. Ensure all relevant experience/education is reflected on your application/resume, as a failure to demonstrate position requirements may disqualify applicants.

A description of job duties directly copied from the job classification or job posting will not be considered. Please read and follow any special application instructions on this posting. Click the 'Apply' link located on this page to submit your application.

For additional instructions on the application process, examinations, Veteran's preference, pre-employment accommodation or other employment questions, please refer to our web site, www.rc-hr.com. If you are experiencing technical problems, you may contact the governmentjobs.com applicant support desk Monday through Friday, 6 am to 5 pm Pacific Time at support@governmentjobs.com or toll-free 1-855-524-5627.