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Forensic Science Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Stability + growth in a specialized life sciences niche Who This Role is Perfect For * Two-year degree preferred in lab technology, forensics or related, although open to non-college candidates with ...

Stability + growth in a specialized life sciences niche Who This Role is Perfect For * Two-year degree preferred in lab technology, forensics or related, although open to non-college candidates with ...

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Forensic Science information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$35.2K

$51.9K

$77.8K

How much do forensic science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic science in Springfield, IL is $51,931.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,100.00 and $55,000.00 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 is the highest paying forensic job?

The highest paying forensic jobs are often forensic science managers, senior forensic toxicologists, or forensic laboratory directors, with salaries exceeding $100,000 annually. These roles typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership skills in forensic laboratories or law enforcement agencies.

How much do FBI forensic scientists make?

FBI forensic scientists typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. They often hold specialized skills in crime scene analysis, fingerprinting, or DNA testing, and may require security clearances and advanced certifications.

What jobs can you go into with a forensic science degree?

A forensic science degree prepares individuals for roles such as forensic scientist, crime scene investigator, forensic laboratory technician, and forensic analyst. These jobs typically involve analyzing physical evidence, using laboratory tools, and working in criminal justice or law enforcement environments, often requiring knowledge of lab procedures and certification in forensic techniques.

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 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 knowledge of legal procedures.

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 Springfield, IL? For Forensic Science jobs in Springfield, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Science jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Science jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Forensic Science jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Forensic Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Forensic Science job openings in Springfield, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,931 per year, or $25 per hour.

Forensic Scientist 1 (Forensic Scientist Entry Underfill Option) - Chemistry and Crime Scene Resp...

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife

Springfield, IL

$7.7K - $10K/mo

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Oregon Youth Authority rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 840 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Initial Posting Date:

07/21/2026

Application Deadline:

08/18/2026

Agency:

Oregon State Department of Police

Salary Range:

$7,767 - $10,529

Position Type:

Employee

Position Title:

Forensic Scientist 1 (Forensic Scientist Entry Underfill Option) - Chemistry and Crime Scene Response

Job Description:

The Oregon State Police Forensic Laboratory in Springfield, Oregon is hiring for one (1) Full-Time, Permanent Forensic Scientist position. To learn more about the Forensic Services Division, click here.

If you require an alternate format to complete the employment process, or to request a copy of the position description, please contact osp.recruiting@osp.oregon.gov and reference REQ-203810.

The State of Oregon does not request or require your age, date of birth, attendance or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process.

Summary of Job Duties:

You will be performing technical and scientific functions as they relate to the Criminal Justice System and in accordance with the policies of the Department of State Police, Forensic Services Division, accreditation procedures, and laws of the State of Oregon.

The forensic scientist in this position will:

  • Apply objective, scientific, and critical thinking skills to independently plan and problem solve challenges related to casework in the Chemistry and Crime Scene Response disciplines which meet the quality standards of the Division.

  • Respond to crime scenes in the field and participate in the response rotation as outlined in the Oregon State Police Officers Association contract.

  • Perform accurate and timely analysis of evidence according to Division policies and procedures.

  • Prepare and maintain accurate records, laboratory notes, and analytical reports to conform to accreditation standards, Division policies and procedures, and court proceedings.

  • Manage assigned caseload while maintaining timely communications with law enforcement partners, District Attorneys' offices, defense counsel, and Forensic Services Division employees.

  • Must be able to provide credible sworn testimony in a criminal or civil proceeding arising from the performance of duties.

  • Prepare necessary reagents, standards, and controls to ensure quality results and act as a resource to support Forensic Services Division analysts.

  • Receive and provide training related to assigned duties and perform other duties as needed or requested by the Laboratory Director or other supervisors of the Oregon State Police.

  • Perform independent casework in the Chemistry and Crime Scene Response disciplines which meet the quality standards of the Division.

  • Complete at least one proficiency test per year for each forensic discipline performed.

  • Assume added responsibilities as authorized.

Minimum Qualifications for Forensic Scientist 1 ($7,767.00 - $10,529.00):

Five years experience as a Forensic Scientist in an accredited Forensic Laboratory

AND
a Bachelor's degree in a natural science such as biology, chemistry, microbiology, biochemistry, physics, forensic science, pharmacology, bacteriology or a closely related field.

Please note: A Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Psychology, Sociology, or other similar degree does not meet this qualification.

If you are selected to move forward in the selection process, you must provide official transcripts from all institutions of higher education that were used in the award of your degree.

For applicants that are not yet at the full performance level, we are offering an underfill opportunity as follows:

Minimum Qualifications for Forensic Scientist Entry ($6,592.00 - $8,159.00):

A Bachelor's degree in a natural science such as biology, chemistry, microbiology, biochemistry, physics, forensic science, pharmacology, bacteriology, or a closely related field.

Please note: A Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Psychology, Sociology, or other similar degree does not meet this qualification.

If you are selected to move forward in the selection process, you must provide official transcripts from all institutions of higher education that were used in the award of your degree.

Preferred Skills:

  • Demonstrated ability to self-direct work, perform as part of a team, and perform well under intense mental and physical conditions.

  • Demonstrated interpersonal and teamwork skills showing excellent collaboration with the public, external customers and peers.

  • Demonstrated ability to objectively and critically analyze information, sometimes in time-sensitive situations, then make a reasoned judgment.

  • Demonstrated ability to follow laboratory procedures in changing, high pressure environments while successfully handling multiple priorities.

  • Demonstrated verbal and written communication skills conveying technical information in a clear, effective, and professional manner to audiences of varying educational backgrounds.

Special Qualifications:

  • Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.

  • As a condition of employment and / or to routinely work in any of the Forensic Services Division's laboratories in any capacity, all individuals are required to provide appropriate samples for inclusion into the Confidential Staff DNA Identification Index.

  • Must pass a urine analysis drug screen.

  • Must pass all applicable background, credit, and criminal history checks.

  • Must be able to provide credible sworn testimony in a criminal or civil proceeding arising from the performance of duties.

Prior to being hired as a Forensic Scientist with the Oregon State Police, you will be required to participate in a full background investigation process which will include a Criminal History Check and a Credit History Check. These positions, in the course of regular business activities, are responsible for the handling, management and/or analysis of several types of sensitive evidence, including bank statements, checks, debit and credit card information, and other financial records that contain financial information not customarily provided in a retail transaction. Forensic Scientists also handle, manage and/or analyze large amounts of cash, firearms, jewelry, controlled substances, and other valuable property collected as evidence during on-going criminal investigations.

Selection Process:

The process will be comprised of the following evaluation assessment (subject to change).

  • Interview

  • Background Investigation

How to Apply:

Apply in Workday by the deadline listed above, failure to submit your application by 11:59PM of the above listed date will result in automatic disqualification of your application.

1. You must submit a resume demonstrating your experience as it relates to the minimum qualifications for the position.

2. In addition to a resume, you must submit a Preferred Skills cover letter - no more than two pages in length - in the Preferred Skills cover letter you must provide clear and concise examples of how you meet the preferred skills listed in the job announcement. Your detailed examples will help us better understand your qualifications and applicability for the role.

Failure to attach a resume addressing the minimum qualifications and the preferred skills cover letter addressing the preferred skills will result in disqualification of your application. Please submit these documents in either MS Word or PDF format.

This position is covered by an OSPOA Collective Bargaining Agreement. Current OSPOA employees who meet the minimum qualifications of this position will be given preference in the selection process. Current OSP employees should refer to the Filling of Vacancies policy for additional information.

Studies have shown that people from underrepresented backgrounds are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet all the qualifications and preferred skills described in a job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job and recognize that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. If you meet key qualifications for the job and believe you would be a good fit, we encourage you to apply; please use your resume and cover letter to address your qualifications and the preferred skills for this position.

The salary listed is the non-PERS (Public Employee Retirement System) qualifying salary range. Prior to applying you should ensure all sections of your Workday Job History page is accurate and complete. This information is utilized during the pay equity analysis phase. If the successful candidate is PERS qualifying, the salary range will reflect an additional 6.95%. Please review the following Classification and Compensation links for more details:

Forensic Scientist Entry

Forensic Scientist 1

The Oregon State Police does not offer visa sponsorships.

U.S. Veteran and/or Oregon National Guard Servicemember Status Designation

Eligible veterans and Oregon National Guard servicemembers (current and former) who meet the qualifications of the position will be awarded candidate preference.

For more information, please visit Veterans Resources.

Additional Information:

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at OSP

Background Hiring Information

Employee Benefits

Pay Equity Information & Resources

What You Need to Know to Get the Job

This recruitment announcement will be used to establish a list of qualified candidates to fill the current vacancy and may be used to fill future vacancies as they occur.


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