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Forensic Scientist Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

J.S. Held LLC

Forensic Mechanical Engineer

Wichita, KS · On-site +1

$130K - $170K/yr

Held is a global consulting firm that combines technical, scientific, financial, and strategic ... We are seeking a mid-to-senior level Forensic Mechanical Engineer to join our already robust team ...

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Forensic Scientist information

See Kansas salary details

$32.6K

$70.8K

$122.6K

How much do forensic scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic scientist in Kansas is $70,820.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,300.00 and $82,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a forensic scientist do?

A forensic scientist analyzes physical evidence collected from crime scenes to help law enforcement solve cases. Their work often involves examining substances like blood, hair, fibers, and other materials using scientific techniques in a laboratory setting. Forensic scientists may also be called to testify in court as expert witnesses, explaining their findings and methods. They play a critical role in linking suspects to crimes and helping to ensure that justice is served.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forensic scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forensic Scientist, you need a strong background in biology, chemistry, or forensic science, usually with at least a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, DNA analysis software, and evidence management systems is essential, and professional certifications like those from the American Board of Criminalistics can be advantageous. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong written and verbal communication skills help forensic scientists excel in preparing reports and testifying in court. These competencies ensure accurate evidence analysis, which is crucial for supporting justice and maintaining the integrity of legal proceedings.

What are some common challenges forensic scientists face when working on criminal cases?

Forensic scientists often encounter challenges such as managing tight deadlines for case reports, handling complex or degraded evidence, and maintaining strict chain-of-custody procedures. Additionally, they must stay current with evolving technologies and scientific methods, which requires ongoing training. Collaboration with law enforcement and legal professionals is frequent, and clear communication is essential to ensure that scientific findings are accurately represented in court.

What is the difference between Forensic Scientist vs Crime Scene Investigator?

AspectForensic ScientistCrime Scene Investigator
CredentialsBachelor's or master's in forensic science, chemistry, biologyBachelor's in criminal justice, forensic science, or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, crime labsCrime scenes, outdoor and indoor locations
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, forensic labs, governmentLaw enforcement agencies, police departments
Primary FocusAnalyzing evidence, laboratory testing, report writingCollecting evidence, documenting crime scenes

While both forensic scientists and crime scene investigators work within the criminal justice system, forensic scientists primarily analyze evidence in labs, whereas crime scene investigators focus on collecting evidence at crime scenes. Both roles require knowledge of forensic procedures, but their work environments and daily tasks differ significantly.

How do you become a forensic scientist?

To become a forensic scientist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Gaining laboratory experience and developing skills in evidence analysis, microscopy, and instrumentation are important; some roles may require a master's degree or certification from professional organizations.

What jobs can a forensic scientist do?

A forensic scientist can work in crime laboratories analyzing physical evidence such as DNA, fingerprints, and ballistics. They may work for law enforcement agencies, government labs, or private firms, often requiring skills in laboratory techniques, evidence handling, and report writing. Career options include forensic DNA analyst, crime scene investigator, toxicologist, and forensic toxicologist.

What jobs can you get in forensic science?

Forensic scientists can work in crime laboratories, law enforcement agencies, or private forensic firms, performing tasks such as analyzing physical evidence, DNA, fingerprints, and ballistics. They often use specialized tools and techniques, and may need certifications or advanced degrees depending on the role.
More about Forensic Scientist jobs

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Forensic Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Scientist job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,820 per year, or $34 per hour.

Forensic Toxicology Laboratory Scientist I

Quest Diagnostics

Lenexa, KS • On-site

$26.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

ExamOne rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

96th of 120 rated laboratories

Job description


Forensic Toxicology Laboratory Scientist I - Lenexa, KS, Tuesday to Saturday, 2:00 PM to 10:30 PM
This position works within the Forensic Toxicology Laboratory and is responsible for all aspects of testing of donor specimens including specimen preparation and instrument operation.
Pay range: $26.50+ per hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or all hours worked on second shift and 15% for some or all hours worked on third shift. Additional details on shift differential will be provided if an offer is extended.
Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered. Successful candidates may be eligible to receive annual performance bonus compensation.
Benefits information:
We are proud to offer best-in-class benefits and programs to support employees and their families in living healthy, happy lives. Our pay and benefit plans have been designed to promote employee health in all respects - physical, financial, and developmental. Depending on whether it is a part-time or full-time position, some of the benefits offered may include:
  • Day 1 Medical, supplemental health, dental & vision for FT employees who work 30+ hours
  • Best-in-class well-being programs
  • Annual, no-cost health assessment program Blueprint for Wellness®
  • healthyMINDS mental health program
  • Vacation and Health/Flex Time
  • 6 Holidays plus 1 "MyDay" off
  • FinFit financial coaching and services
  • 401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth IRA with company match up to 5% after 12 months of service
  • Employee stock purchase plan
  • Life and disability insurance, plus buy-up option
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Annual incentive plans
  • Matching gifts program
  • Education assistance through MyQuest for Education
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • and so much more!

Responsibilities
  • Maintain chain of custody of forensic specimens and follow approved sample handling procedures.
  • Maintain competency in the following areas: follow all written procedures in departmental SOP, prepare and verify performance of all new reagents, ensure that all required calibrators and quality control samples are included in each batch, demonstrate good analytical technique with minimal failed loads, capable of performing routine maintenance of equipment utilized in area of responsibility, capable of programming sequence table for sample analysis, capable of basic data review.
  • Maintain legible and complete documents.
  • Maintain clean and organized work area.
  • Perform and document checks of temperature dependent equipment.
  • Participate in completion of method and/or instrument validation studies to quality standards.
  • Participate in validation of new calibrators, controls and new or modified analytical procedures.
  • Maintain acceptable productivity and quality levels, and notify Supervisor and/or Group Lead of equipment or production problems.
  • Complete assigned continuing education activities and competency verification checks.
  • Follow the direction of the Supervisor and/or Group Lead and adhere to all company and department policies.
  • Complete all required quality control and quality assurance documentation related to job function.
  • Follow work schedule as defined by the Supervisor.
  • Maintain professional work environment.
  • Other duties as assigned. This is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities, but rather a general description of work performed by the position.

Qualifications
Preferred Work Experience:
Minimum of one (1) year laboratory experience preferred.
Physical and Mental Requirements:
  • Ability to perform routine and repetitive motions, such as pipetting.
  • Ability to stand or sit for long periods of time.

Knowledge:
Knowledge of methods and procedures used by the laboratory preferred.
Education
  • Bachelor's Degree Bachelor of Science or Art degree with a minimum of fifteen (15) semester hours in Chemistry, fifteen (15) semester hours in Biology, and three (3) semester hours of Mathematics; or applicable regulatory requirements (Preferred)

About the Team
Quest Diagnostics honors our service members and encourages veterans to apply.
While we appreciate and value our staffing partners, we do not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Quest will not be responsible for paying agency fees for any individual as to whom an agency has sent an unsolicited resume.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets or any other legally protected status.

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