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Forensic Scientist Jobs in Inkster, MI (NOW HIRING)

J.S. Held LLC

Forensic Mechanical Engineer

Detroit, MI · 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 ...

J.S. Held LLC

Forensic Mechanical Engineer

Detroit, MI · Hybrid

$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 ...

J.S. Held LLC

Forensic Mechanical Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

$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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All JobsForensic Scientist JobsForensic Scientist Jobs in Inkster, MI

Forensic Scientist information

See Inkster, MI salary details

$34.2K

$74.3K

$128.7K

How much do forensic scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic scientist in Inkster, MI is $74,318.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,800.00 and $87,000.00 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

What cities near Inkster, MI are hiring for Forensic Scientist jobs?

Cities near Inkster, MI with the most Forensic Scientist job openings:

Forensic Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Scientist job openings in Inkster, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,318 per year, or $35.7 per hour.

Human Factors Managing Scientist (Ph.D. or M.S.)

Exponent Inc.

Farmington Hills, MI

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Exponent is the only premium engineering and scientific consulting firm with the depth and breadth of expertise to solve our clients’ most profoundly unique, unprecedented, and urgent challenges.

We are committed to engaging multidisciplinary teams of science, engineering, and regulatory experts to empower our clients with solutions that create a safer, healthier, more sustainable world. For over five decades, we've connected the lessons of past failures with tomorrow's solutions to advise clients as they innovate technologically complex products and processes, ensure the safety and health of their users, and address the challenges of sustainability.

Join our team of experts with degrees from top programs at over 500 universities and extensive experience spanning a variety of industries. At Exponent, you’ll contribute to the diverse pool of ideas, talents, backgrounds, and experiences that drives our collaborative teamwork and breakthrough insights. Plus, we help you grow your career through mentoring, sponsorship, and a culture of learning. Thanks for your interest in joining our team!

Key statistics:

  • 950+ Consultants
  • 640+ Ph.D.s
  • 90+ Disciplines
  • 30+ Offices globally

We are currently seeking a Managing Scientist for our Human Factors Practice to be based in our Farmington Hills, MI office. In this role, you will work as part of a team to help our clients solve challenging technical problems, which are often urgent, high-profile, and multi-disciplinary. You will work to analyze human factors, safety management, and risk communication issues in a wide variety of scenarios involving consumer products, electronics, chemical products, manufacturing, oil & gas production, environmental exposures, and more. Activities in these contexts will focus on a combination of analyzing accidents and injuries that have occurred in the past and managing safety risk to help prevent such incidents in the future. You will also work closely with consultants in Exponent’s Biomechanics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, and Vehicle Engineering Practices. You will have the opportunity to define and shape your individual consulting practice based on your skills and interests.


  • Managing a range of consulting activities that involve analyzing human perceptual, cognitive, and response capabilities and limitations in accidents, and the prevention of accidents
  • Conducting hands-on inspections and analyzing human performance to investigate accidents and injuries
  • Working on multi-disciplinary projects, providing case management, data processing, and other project support
  • Conducting research to obtain and review technical data, scientific literature, and standards
  • Developing client contacts
  • Preparing written and oral summaries of human factors analyses
  • Participating in the design and evaluation of warnings and safety information
  • Communicating complex analyses clearly and succinctly to a non-technical audience
  • Assisting in conducting research, publishing reports and papers in technical journals, and presenting findings at meetings and conferences
  • Managing projects with effective cost-control measures
  • Recruiting and developing the careers of junior staff
  • Actively participating in the Human Factors Practice and assisting in marketing the group's technical capabilities to clients and the scientific community

  • Master's Degree (with experience) or Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering, Experimental, Computational, Developmental or Cognitive Psychology, Cognitive Science, Cognitive Neuroscience, or related field
  • At least five (5) years of experience in litigation support, forensics consulting, health and safety investigation, or relevant field
  • Undergraduate degree in Psychology, engineering, or a related discipline is a plus
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills as well as strong interpersonal skills
  • Proficiency in experimental design, human subjects testing, instrumentation, data analysis, and computer programming (e.g. Matlab, SAS, SPSS, Labview, etc.) a plus
  • Demonstrated success in independently developing and managing client relationships
  • Outstanding reputation among clients for integrity, responsiveness, and technical expertise
  • Targeted business development plan for specific clients/sectors
  • Ability to attract projects to support full-time staff and to manage and develop a group of highly motivated individuals
  • Presently legally authorized to work in the United States; no immigration sponsorship or processing required  

Applicants are encouraged to submit a CV with publications (feel free to include publications that are in review or pending) [not restricted to 1 page]. 


To learn more about life at Exponent and our impact, please visit the following links:

https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponent
https://www.exponent.com/company/our-impact

Attracting, inspiring, developing, and rewarding exceptional people with diverse backgrounds and expertise are central to our corporate culture. Our diverse team allows us to provide better value to our clients and enjoy an enriched work environment.
Our firm is committed to offering a variety of programs and resources to support health and well-being. We believe that providing competitive benefits as well as compensation and recognition programs empowers our staff to do work that makes a difference.


At Exponent, we have found that in-person interactions deepen employee engagement and are crucial for development, for realizing the full potential of our talented and diverse teams, and for building a more inclusive workplace where all have a sense of belonging. In our offices, you can expect a supportive culture and a collaborative, dynamic, multi-disciplinary work environment. Our consultants engage in-person in the office unless they are traveling for client work or other business activities.

We value the rich lives our colleagues enjoy outside of work and understand that work/life balance is critical to our employees and their well-being. Consultants have the autonomy to balance their work and personal schedules so you can meet with clients, visit inspection sites, attend conferences, and make time for priorities outside of work, too. It is this flexible, agile work style and working hours that allow our teams to drive innovation and results in their own ways, while meeting the needs of clients. #LI-Onsite


Access benefits information on our Life@Exponent page:  https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponent 

 
Exponent is a proud equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status. 

 
If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, you may email us at HR-Accommodations@exponent.com. 


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