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Forensic Scientist Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Provide guidance (scientific and administrative) for junior analytical scientists * Proactively and ... Recent experience in method validation of forensic toxicology techniques in accordance to published ...

Method Development Scientist

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$90K - $180K/yr

Provide guidance (scientific and administrative) for junior analytical scientists * Proactively and ... Recent experience in method validation of forensic toxicology techniques in accordance to published ...

Method Development Scientist

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$90K - $180K/yr

Provide guidance (scientific and administrative) for junior analytical scientists * Proactively and ... Recent experience in method validation of forensic toxicology techniques in accordance to published ...

... and scientists. The Opportunity Abbott Rapid and Molecular Diagnostics is part of Abbott ... Prepare and/or extract analytes of interest for subsequent instrumental analysis (forensic ...

... and scientists. The Opportunity Abbott Rapid and Molecular Diagnostics is part of Abbott ... Prepare and/or extract analytes of interest for subsequent instrumental analysis (forensic ...

... and scientists. The Opportunity Abbott Rapid and Molecular Diagnostics is part of Abbott ... Prepare and/or extract analytes of interest for subsequent instrumental analysis (forensic ...

Quality Engineer

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$78K - $101K/yr

... scientists. The Opportunity This position works out of our Santa Rosa, CA location in the ... and forensic laboratory operations, drugs-of-abuse testing, quality systems compliance, and ...

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Forensic Scientist information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$39.9K

$86.8K

$150.3K

How much do forensic scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic scientist in Santa Rosa, CA is $86,819.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,900.00 and $101,700.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Forensic Scientist jobs in Santa Rosa, CA?

For Forensic Scientist jobs in Santa Rosa, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Forensic Scientist jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Forensic Scientist jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Forensic Scientist jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Forensic Scientist job openings:

Infographic showing various Forensic Scientist job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,819 per year, or $41.7 per hour.

Field Application Scientist

Waters Corporation

Bodega Bay, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Overview

Waters is a leader in life sciences tools, starting with liquid chromatography technologies in the 1960s. Since then, Waters has pioneered analytical techniques across markets including Clinical Diagnostics, Food & Environmental, Pharmaceuticals, and Materials. In Advanced Diagnostics, Waters has leading LC-MS technologies, which are already used for many applications including therapeutic drug monitoring, newborn screening, toxicology, and endocrinology. Our vision is for Waters to lead the continued broad-based adoption of LC-MS in the clinical and forensics space.

As a Field Application Scientist, you will support both our clinical and forensic customers through pre-sales and post-sales activities. Reporting to the US Applications and Support Manager, you will join a passionate, agile team to develop innovative solutions to address high unmet needs and establish Waters as the leader in clinical LC-MS diagnostics markets.

So, are you looking for an impactful role for a fast-growing company that helps advance science and human well-being? Would you like the freedom of being field based where no day is the same and you get the opportunity to become a trusted advisor to our customers? Do you want to work for a global best-in-class, innovative technology organization who are highly focussed and committed to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion? If your answers are yes, then we would love to hear from you!

With Waters being a Global Organization, there are endless opportunities for you to learn, grow and develop. Many of our team members have advanced their careers either in their current roles or moving into different parts of our business such as service, sales, global support, and leadership.

Responsibilities

What do our Field Application Scientists do? Below are some of the key responsibilities:

  • Train and support our customers with their Waters LC/MS instruments, both remotely and on-site.
  • Demonstrate Waters clinical solutions to our customers through sample analyses in our demo lab facilities.
  • Support our sales colleagues with technical expertise through joint visits, trade shows, and internal meetings.
  • Work closely together with our service organization by analyzing and reviewing system and scientific data, to determine the source of problems and recommend corrective actions.
  • Manage customer expectations by communicating work performed and providing follow-up plans if required.
  • Build strong rapport and trusted advisor partnerships with our customer base to provide them with suitable advice and support on Waters products and services - always looking for potential opportunities as to how Waters can further advance their laboratory operations.

To achieve the above, you will get the best possible training by our global Clinical Applications and Support Team and embark on a continuous learning and development pathway.

Qualifications

Who are we looking for?

  • The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related discipline with 1-2 years of experience, or, a Master of Science degree with 3-5 years of experience. Candidates with a Bachelor's degree will be considered with more than 5 years of in-depth LC/MS experience.
  • We are seeking a true expert in liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry method development and troubleshooting. Familiarization with Waters instruments and software (Waters_Connect and MassLynx) is a plus.
  • The ideal candidate will have experience with both tandem mass spectrometry instruments and high resolution mass spectrometry instruments.
  • We are seeking a candidate with experience in large molecule applications such as peptide mapping, peptide quantitation, proteins, or nanoflow chromatography as it relates to large molecule mass spec.
  • Experience with metabolomics/lipidomics applications in a clinical research domain is an advantage.
  • Understanding of clinical or forensic LC-MS/MS workflows is an advantage.
  • This position will require 50-75% travel throughout the U.S. and Canada. The selected candidate must have a valid driver's license and passport. Preference will be given to candidates in the Pacific and Mountain time zones with close access to a major U.S. airport.
  • We are seeking a personable individual with a passion for customer success, with the ability to explain complex scientific methodology to our customers.
  • Fluency in Spanish is an advantage but is not a requirement for this position.
Company Description

Waters Corporation (NYSE:WAT)  is a global leader in life sciences and diagnostics, dedicated to accelerating the benefits of pioneering science through analytical technologies, informatics, and service. With a focus on regulated, high-volume testing environments, our innovative portfolio harnesses deep scientific expertise across chemistry, physics, and biology. We collaborate with customers around the world to advance the release of effective, high-quality medicines, ensure the safety of food and water, and drive better patient outcomes by detecting diseases earlier, managing routine infections, and combating antibiotic resistance. Through a shared culture of relentless innovation, our passionate team of ~16,000 colleagues turn scientific challenges into breakthroughs that improve lives worldwide.  

Diversity and inclusion are fundamental to our core values at Waters Corporation. It benefits our employees, our products, our customers and our community. Waters complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws. Qualified applicants are considered without regard to sex, race, color, ancestry, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, marital status (including civil unions), military service, veteran status, pregnancy (including childbirth and related medical conditions), genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, legally recognized disability, domestic violence victim status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Waters is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. All hiring decisions are based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.

Key Words#LC/MS #HRMS #massspec #science #lab #chemistry #analytical #clinicaldiagnostics #toxicology #forensics #IVDREmployment Type: OTHER