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Forensic Science Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

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$36.6K

$54K

$80.9K

How much do forensic science jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic science in Silver Spring, MD is $54,001.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,800.00 and $57,200.00 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 Silver Spring, MD? The most popular types of Forensic Science jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What are popular job titles related to Forensic Science jobs in Silver Spring, MD? For Forensic Science jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Science jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Science jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Forensic Science jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Forensic Science job openings:
Forensic Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Science job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 38% Full Time, 54% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,001 per year, or $26 per hour.
Forensic Scientist I, II, III (Forensic Chemistry Unit), Grade 20, 22 25

Forensic Scientist I, II, III (Forensic Chemistry Unit), Grade 20, 22 25

Montgomery County (MD)

Rockville, MD

$83K - $134K/yr

Other

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

About the Position The anticipated hiring range for this position will be based on the candidate's qualifications and experience: Forensic Scientist I : $$67,672 - $102,385 Forensic Scientist II: $$76,742 - $120,956 Forensic Scientist III: $83,556 - $134,086 WHO WE ARE The Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD) is made up of approximately 1,300 sworn officers and approximately 650 support personnel. The Police Department was established in 1922 and today is responsible for providing service to a County with a population of over one million people. WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR The Montgomery County Department of Police (MCPD) is seeking an accomplished and dynamic forensic science professional to serve as a Forensic Scientist in the Forensic Chemistry Unit for the Montgomery County Police Crime Laboratory in the Forensic Science and Evidence Management Division.

About the Forensic Science and Evidence Management Division (FSEMD) Our mission is to deliver high-quality forensic services with accuracy, integrity, efficiency, and impartiality to support the administration of justice and serve the community. We continuously strive to achieve excellence in forensic science through transparency, rigorous standards, and ongoing training. Our commitment to collaboration with law enforcement, legal professionals, and the community fosters trust and contributes to a safer society.

Why Join MCPD. As a leader in forensic science and evidence management, MCPD offers an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on public safety and the justice system. You will be part of a mission-driven team dedicated to excellence, innovation, and service to the community.

What You'll Be Doing As a Forensic Scientist in the Forensic Chemistry Unit, you will play a critical role in supporting the justice system by analyzing evidence for the presence of controlled dangerous substances (CDS). Your work will help ensure public safety through accurate, high-quality forensic science. In this role, you will have full technical responsibility for your casework and are expected to independently plan, conduct, and document your analyses.

Given the sensitive legal implications of the work, you must apply complex scientific methods with a high degree of accuracy, objectivity, and attention to detail. This role may involve occasional exposure to harmful chemicals or biohazardous materials present in evidence. Strict adherence to safety protocols is required at all times.

Physical requirements may include standing for extended periods while working at laboratory benches and lifting/carrying evidence containers weighing up to 50 pounds. Certification by the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) to independently analyze CDS as a Certified Chemist must be obtained after the training period (COMAR 10.10.09.01). Key Responsibilities Analyze physical evidence using accepted techniques such as weighing protocols, macroscopic and microscopic examinations, color tests, Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) Interpret analytical data and issue laboratory reports Testify in court as an expert witness, clearly and confidently presenting scientific conclusions to support investigations and legal proceedings Maintain strict adherence to quality assurance standards and chain of custody procedures to ensure the integrity of all evidence Collaborate with a wide range of contacts, including laboratory staff, law enforcement officers, attorneys, external laboratories, scientific peers, accrediting bodies, and members of the community Minimum Qualifications MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Forensic Scientist Series: This position will be filled within the range of Forensic Scientist I through Forensic Scientist III based on prior experience and training

Subsequent promotions within the series are non-competitive and are based on experience. EXPERIENCE: If filled at Forensic Scientist I (Grade 20): This is an entry-level position as a Forensic Scientist trainee. The incumbent for this level is not expected to be a qualified scientist.

If filled at Forensic Scientist II (Grade 22): Two (2) years of full-time professional experience conducting examinations of CDS. If filled at Forensic Scientist III (Grade 25): Four (4) years of full-time professional experience conducting examinations of CDS. ALL LEVEL EDUCATION: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree in a natural, physical, or forensic science, and have completed courses in analytical and organic chemistry.

Applicants must be eligible for verification by the Maryland Department of Health, meeting requirements described in COMAR 10.10.09. ALL LEVEL EQUIVALENCY An equivalent combination of scientific education and experience may be substituted. Preferred Criteria, Interview Preferences Preferred Criteria for Forensic Scientist I: Experience working within the Forensic Sciences in an accredited forensic laboratory

Experience using GC-MS and FT-IR instrumentation. Preferred Criteria for Forensic Scientist II: Experience working as an authorized analyst in Seized Drugs within an accredited forensic laboratory. Experience as a qualified expert in the field of Seized Drug analysis in court.

Experience using GC-MS and FT-IR instrumentation. Experience interpreting results of analysis and writing conclusive reports in an accredited forensic laboratory. Preferred Criteria for Forensic Scientist III: Experience working as an authorized analyst in Seized Drugs within an accredited forensic laboratory.

Experience as a qualified expert in the field of Seized Drug analysis in court. Experience using GC-MS and FT-IR instrumentation. Experience interpreting results of analysis and writing conclusive reports in an accredited forensic laboratory.

Experience assisting with project development and/or validation. IMPORTANT INFORMATION The Office of Human Resources (OHR) reviews the minimum qualifications of all applicants, irrespective of whether the candidate has previously been found to have met the minimum requirements for the job or been temporarily promoted to the same position. This evaluation is based solely on the information contained in the application/resume submitted for this specific position.

Montgomery County Government(MCG) is an equal opportunity employer, committed to workforce diversity. Accordingly, as it relates to employment opportunities, the County will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities, in accordance with the law. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should email OHR at Hiring@montgomerycountymd.gov

Individual determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made in accordance with all applicable laws. MCG also provides hiring preference to certain categories of veterans and veterans/persons with a disability. For more information and to claim employment preference, refer to the Careers webpage on Hiring Preference.

All applicants will respond to a series of questions related to their education, relevant experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities required to minimally perform the job. The applicant's responses in conjunction with their resume and all other information provided in the employment application process will be evaluated to determine the minimum qualifications and preferred criteria or interview preference status. Based on the results, the highest qualified applicants will be placed on an Eligible List and may be considered for an interview.

Employees meeting minimum qualifications who are the same grade will be placed on the Eligible List as a "Lateral Transfer" candidate and may be considered for an interview. This will establish an Eligible List that may be used to fill both current and future vacancies. If selected for consideration for this position, you may be required to provide evidence that you possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities indicated on your resume.

Montgomery County Ethics Law: Except as provided by law or regulation, the County's "Public Employees" (which does not include employees of the Sheriff's office) are subject to the County's ethics law including the requirements to obtain advanced approval of any outside employment and the prohibitions on certain outside employment. The outside employment requirements of the ethics law can be found at 19A-12 of the County Code. Additional information about outside employment can be obtained from the Ethics Commission website.

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