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Forensic Scientist Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Postal Service

Forensic Computer Analyst

Anaheim, CA · On-site +1

$78K - $144K/yr

The successful candidate conducts forensic analyses of digital and other multimedia evidence ... Examines and analyzes evidence and interprets scientific observations and data to render ...

TAE

Scientist - Applied Laser Physics

Foothill Ranch, CA · On-site

$125K - $140K/yr

Collaborate with other Scientists on the design, operation, and data interpretation of laser-based diagnostics. * Work with a team of physicists and engineers focused on precision optics and laser ...

City of Redlands, CA

Forensic Specialist

Redlands, CA · On-site

$76K - $95K/yr

Utilizes various kinds of scientific instrumentation to analyze, compare, identify, and quantify materials of evidence; * Utilizes technical expertise in operating a forensic laser and uses chemical ...

City of Redlands

Forensic Specialist

Redlands, CA

$76K - $95K/yr

Utilizes various kinds of scientific instrumentation to analyze, compare, identify, and quantify materials of evidence; Utilizes technical expertise in operating a forensic laser and uses chemical ...

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All JobsForensic Scientist JobsForensic Scientist Jobs in Riverside, CA

Forensic Scientist information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$38.1K

$82.8K

$143.4K

How much do forensic scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic scientist in Riverside, CA is $82,843.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $97,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do FBI forensic scientists make?

FBI forensic scientists typically earn between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. They often hold specialized skills in forensic analysis, crime scene investigation, and may require security clearances and certifications.

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 Do Forensic Scientists Do?

Forensic scientists analyze physical evidence from crime scenes to assist law enforcement officials in solving crimes. The items are usually provided to the forensic scientist for analysis and investigation, but there are times when the forensic scientist may need to visit the crime scene to collect evidence and conduct an on-site examination.

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 also serve as crime scene investigators, expert witnesses in court, or work in research and development of forensic methods, often requiring knowledge of laboratory techniques and certification. These roles typically involve detailed analysis, report writing, and collaboration with law enforcement agencies.

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 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.

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. Some roles may require evening, weekend, or shift work to meet project deadlines or respond to emergencies. Flexibility and readiness to work outside typical hours are common in this field.

What is the work of a forensic scientist?

A forensic scientist analyzes physical evidence from crime scenes, such as DNA, fingerprints, and blood samples, to help solve crimes. They use laboratory techniques and scientific methods to interpret evidence and often work closely with law enforcement agencies. Strong attention to detail and knowledge of forensic tools are essential for this role.

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.

More about Forensic Scientist jobs
What are popular job titles related to Forensic Scientist jobs in Riverside, CA? For Forensic Scientist jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Scientist jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Scientist jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Forensic Scientist jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Forensic Scientist job openings:
Forensic Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Scientist job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $82,843 per year, or $39.8 per hour.
Forensic Computer Analyst

Forensic Computer Analyst

U.S. Postal Service

Anaheim, CA • On-site, Remote

$78K - $144K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Summary
Come join the U.S. Postal Service!
The successful candidate conducts forensic analyses of digital and other multimedia evidence utilizing appropriate scientific methodologies, forensic techniques, and quality assurance practices in support of criminal and administrative investigations.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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  1. Conducts forensic examinations of digital and other multimedia evidence through the application of scientific practices for the recognition, collection, analysis, and interpretation of digital evidence for criminal and civil law or regulatory purposes.
  2. Examines and analyzes evidence and interprets scientific observations and data to render conclusions, form opinions and produce reports utilizing a full range of electronic search methods and forensic examination techniques.
  3. Provides expert witness testimony; produces comprehensive reports and illustrative exhibits for federal, state, and local judicial proceedings at a level sufficient to explain evidence interpretations and conclusions from forensic examinations and scientific data to a lay audience.
  4. Serves as a subject matter expert and technical advisor in matters relating to the proper collection, preservation, packaging, and submission of digital and multimedia evidence; participates in crime scene evidence collection activities in major field investigations; ensures evidence handling requirements are met.
  5. Performs ongoing evaluation and validation of laboratory instrumentation and methods, operating protocols, and safety practices under supervision; maintains awareness of safety procedures and identifies possible physical conditions and/or laboratory procedures that may create unsafe conditions.
  6. Delivers training in laboratory services, evidence collection, crime scene processing and field examination.
  7. Conducts studies and research for improving forensic analyses, scientific methods, and resolving forensic examination problems.
  8. Acts as liaison with postal management and federal, state, and local organizations on technical developments, forensic methods, and investigative problems of common interest.
  9. Analyzes systems to assist with network intrusion and cybersecurity investigations to determine the cause and extent of a breach.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  1. Must be a determined suitable for federal employment.
  2. You will be required to obtain and maintain a MBI security clearance prior to entrance on duty. Failure to obtain and maintain the required level of clearance may result in the withdrawal of a job offer or removal.
  3. Qualified applicants must successfully pass a pre-employment drug screening to meet the U.S. Postal Service's requirement to be drug free.
  4. SPECIAL NOTE: Current career USPS and USPIS employees are ineligible to apply for this posting.

Qualifications
  1. Ability to communicate orally and in writing in order to prepare reports of examination results and conclusions, and provide testimony as an expert witness before state, federal or other judicial bodies.
  2. Ability to provide training related to laboratory services, evidence collection, and field examination.
  3. Knowledge of evidence collection, preservation, packaging and shipment procedures sufficient to serve as a technical advisor in such matters and to ensure evidence handling requirements are met.
  4. Knowledge of forensic science techniques, laboratory protocols, research methodologies, quality assurance standards and computer forensic and cyber security examination procedures, instrumentation and software sufficient to properly access, preserve, and extract appropriate evidence from a variety of media and conduct detailed and complex analyses and interpretation of the value of evidentiary items.
  5. Ability to render conclusions/opinions and make recommendations based on forensic practices of recognition, collection, and interpretation of digital and multimedia evidence related to computer forensic examinations.
  6. Ability to conduct and document scientific research related to computer forensic examinations.
  7. EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION: Bachelor's degree in computer sciences, forensic science, or a closely related field from a college or university accredited by a national or regional accreditation organization recognized and sanctioned by the U.S. Department of Education. NOTE: Employees in the Forensic Computer Analyst or Forensic Computer Analyst Sr position prior to June 27, 2015 are exempt from this requirement.

Desirable Qualifications: CERTIFICATION: International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists (IACIS) Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE) or the International Society of Forensic Computer Examiners (ISFCE) Certified Computer Examiner (CCE) or Defense Cyber Investigations Training Academy (DCITA) Digital Forensic Examiner (DFE)
Qualified applicant must successfully pass a drug screening.
Education
This job does not have an education qualification requirement.
Additional information
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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The salary will be based on previous experience, and current postal pay policies. We offer excellent benefits including health and life insurance, retirement plan, savings/investment plan with employer contribution, flexible spending, flextime scheduling of core work hours, annual and sick leave.

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