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Forensic Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Forensic Identification Specialists work closely with detectives, patrol officers, and external agencies to ensure accurate, timely, and professional forensic services that uphold the highest ...

FORENSIC SUPERVISOR

Torrance, CA · On-site

$8.8K - $11K/mo

Forensic Identification Specialists work closely with detectives, patrol officers, and external agencies to ensure accurate, timely, and professional forensic services that uphold the highest ...

Forensic Supportive Housing Specialist Location: Glen Cove (2 days/week) & Baldwin (3 days/week), NY Travel: Regular community-based travel throughout Nassau County Schedule: Full-Time | Monday ...

New

Forensic Supportive Housing Specialist Location: Glen Cove (2 days/week) & Baldwin (3 days/week), NY Travel: Regular community-based travel throughout Nassau County Schedule: Full-Time | Monday ...

New

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Forensic Specialist information

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$25.5K

$61.2K

$94.5K

How much do forensic specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic specialist in the United States is $61,156.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,000.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a forensic specialist?

Forensic specialists are the criminal investigators responsible for collecting and evaluating the evidence that the investigative team recovers at a crime scene. As a forensic specialist, you use a variety of scientific tools and techniques to document and analyze evidence. Your job duties also include taking photographs at the crime scene and performing tests in a lab. Some of these include DNA testing of blood, hair, and other human materials to help identify the culprits. A forensic specialist plays an integral part in the process of investigating and solving crimes.

What is a forensic specialist?

A Forensic Specialist is a professional who applies scientific methods and techniques to analyze evidence from crime scenes. Their work helps law enforcement agencies solve crimes by identifying, collecting, and examining physical evidence such as fingerprints, biological samples, and digital data. They may specialize in areas like biology, chemistry, or digital forensics, and often testify in court about their findings. Forensic Specialists play a crucial role in the criminal justice system by ensuring that evidence is accurately interpreted and handled.

What are some common challenges faced by forensic specialists during evidence collection and analysis?

Forensic Specialists often encounter challenges such as maintaining the integrity of evidence, working under strict chain-of-custody protocols, and dealing with time-sensitive cases that require quick yet meticulous analysis. They must also adapt to various environments, from crime scenes to laboratory settings, and collaborate closely with law enforcement, attorneys, and other forensic professionals. Additionally, staying current with advancements in forensic technology and procedures is essential to ensure accurate and legally admissible results.

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

To thrive as a Forensic Specialist, you need a strong background in forensic science, criminal justice, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree and experience in laboratory or field investigations. Familiarity with evidence analysis tools, crime scene processing equipment, and digital forensic systems, as well as certifications such as those from the International Association for Identification (IAI), are typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective written and verbal communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies enable accurate evidence handling, reliable investigative outcomes, and clear presentation of findings in legal contexts.

What is the difference between Forensic Specialist vs Forensic Technician?

AspectForensic SpecialistForensic Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in forensic science, criminal justice, or related field; certifications like ASCLD-LABAssociate's or bachelor's degree; often on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentCrime labs, law enforcement agencies, courtroomsCrime scenes, laboratories, law enforcement agencies
Job FocusAnalyzing evidence, expert testimony, case analysisCollecting, processing, and documenting evidence
Industry UsageUsed in law enforcement, forensic labs, legal proceedingsPrimarily in crime scene investigation and evidence processing

While both roles are essential in forensic investigations, Forensic Specialists typically have more advanced education and focus on analysis and expert testimony, whereas Forensic Technicians handle evidence collection and processing at crime scenes and labs.

What do I need to be a forensic specialist?

To become a forensic specialist, a bachelor's degree in forensic science, criminal justice, or a related field is typically required. Relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory techniques, and proficiency with forensic tools and software; some roles may also require certification or advanced degrees.

What jobs in forensics make the most money?

In forensics, forensic pathologists and crime scene investigators tend to earn the highest salaries, often due to specialized training and certification requirements. Forensic pathologists, who perform autopsies and analyze cause of death, typically have advanced medical degrees and can earn six-figure salaries, while experienced forensic scientists with advanced degrees and certifications also command higher pay. Salary levels depend on experience, location, and employer type, such as government agencies or private labs.

What cities are hiring for Forensic Specialist jobs?

Cities with the most Forensic Specialist job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Forensic Specialist jobs?

The top employers for Forensic Specialist jobs are:

What states have the most Forensic Specialist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Forensic Specialist jobs include:

Infographic showing various Forensic Specialist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,156 per year, or $29.4 per hour.

Forensic Specialist Toxicology Unit 2026-02062

State of Wyoming

Cheyenne, WY • On-site

$29.76 - $33.06/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


State Of Wyoming rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 50 rated states


Job description

Salary: $29.76 - $33.06 Hourly
Location : Cheyenne, WY
Job Type: Permanent Full-time
Job Number: 2026-02062
Department: Attorney General
Division: DCI Lab
Opening Date: 08/19/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Job Classification: PSFC08
Description and Functions
Open Until Filled
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
The Division of Criminal Investigation, under the Attorney General's Office, seeks qualified applicants for the Forensic Specialist position in the Toxicology Unit. This family of positions includes those responsible for handling the physical evidence of a crime in a laboratory setting for agencies of the State of Wyoming. Under general supervision, these positions are responsible for performing specific forensic examinations supporting ongoing criminal investigations, creating written reports outlining those examinations, and presenting the results in court as necessary. In addition, these positions may have some input into setting a budget and ensuring project goals are achieved.
Working for the State of Wyoming offers more than a paycheck. Our total compensation package includes:
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid vacation, sick leave, FMLA, and holidays
  • Retirement - Pension and 457B plans that help you build a secure future
  • Flexible schedules and work-life balance options
  • Meaningful work that makes a difference for Wyoming communities and MUCH MORE!

Click here for detailed information, or you can watch this short video to learn about our benefit package!
Want to see the full value of your compensation beyond salary?
Explore our Total Compensation Calculator:https://compensationcalculator.wyo.gov
Human Resource Contact: Stacy Berres / 307-777-7130 / stacy.berres@wyo.gov
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: The listed functions are illustrative only and are not intended to describe every function that may be performed at the job level.
  • Performs examinations on evidence leading to forensic conclusions for use in legal proceedings in all types of cases.
  • Prepares written reports of forensic analysis and conclusions for use in legal proceedings.
  • Examination, identification, and comparison of evidence and/or investigation of various types of crimes.
  • Conducts routine examination and/or investigation under direct supervision.
  • Demonstrates effective use of case management to meet the case and/or court deadlines.
  • May provide expert forensic guidance and advice to judges, prosecutors, and defense attorneys to prepare exploratory questions for witnesses.
  • May participate in quality control and quality assurance checks on chemicals, standards, and quality-affecting materials used in the respective units.
  • Perform technical and/or administrative reviews on reports generated by other Unit personnel.
  • May perform technical review and confirmation of identifications and associations on reports in multiple sub-disciplines.
  • May testify as an expert witness.
  • Conduct field crime scene work to gather and analyze evidence.

Qualifications
PREFERENCES:
Preference may be given to candidates with a degree in Chemistry, Toxicology or other physical sciences plus 0-2 years of progressive work experience in a forensic laboratory.
KNOWLEDGE:
  • Knowledge of the general theory and application of toxicology.
  • Knowledge of forensic laboratory analysis techniques and applications.
  • Knowledge of methods, procedures, equipment, and materials used in forensic toxicology analysis and their limitations.
  • Knowledge of laboratory instrumentation.
  • Knowledge of criminal law.
  • Knowledge of the theory and application of forensic sciences, statistics, and evidence preservation processes relates to modern forensic laboratory techniques, practices, and procedures.
  • Knowledge of research or investigative techniques and controls, which limit or expand the significance of the findings.
  • Knowledge of the impact of work and testing performed in compliance with accreditation and state/federal regulations.
  • Knowledge of laboratory safety procedures, with emphasis on those procedures associated with the handling of biohazardous materials.
  • Skill in laboratory techniques.
  • Skill in explaining scientific procedures and results to a layperson in understandable terms.
  • Skill in recording and maintaining detailed records.
  • Skill in maintaining confidentiality in all aspects of work.
  • Skill in maintaining a good rapport with criminal justice personnel and fellow employees.
  • Skill in working with others to achieve common goals.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education:
Bachelor's Degree (typically in Science)
Experience:
0-2 years of progressive work experience in (Forensic Crime) with acquired knowledge at the level of a Forensic Evidence Technician
OR
Education & Experience Substitution:
3-5 years of progressive work experience in (Forensic Crime) with acquired knowledge at the level of a Forensic Evidence Technician
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:
None
Necessary Special Requirements
PHYSICAL WORKING CONDITIONS:
  • Subject to being on-call 24/7 for the response to field crime scenes.

NOTES:
  • FLSA: Non-Exempt
  • A valid driver's license may be required.
  • Successful applicants are required to pass a criminal background investigation.

Supplemental Information
Click to view the State of Wyoming Classification and Pay Structure.
Click to view the State of Wyoming Total Compensation Calculator.
URL:
The State of Wyoming is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively supports the ADA and reasonably accommodates qualified applicants with disabilities.
Class Specifications are subject to change, please refer to the A & I HRD Website to ensure that you have the most recent version.
Human Resource Contact: Stacy Berres / 307-777-7130 / stacy.berres@wyo.gov
Working for the State of Wyoming means more than a job - it's a stable, rewarding career that lets you make a difference while enjoying a great quality of life.
Employees enjoy:
  • Comprehensive health coverage - medical, dental, and vision plans for you and your family
  • Voluntary Benefits - including life insurance for you and family members, ambulance, pet insurance, short/long-term disability, flex spending and health savings accounts
  • Multiple retirement options - including the Wyoming Retirement System and a 457B account, helping you plan for long-term financial security
  • Generous paid leave and flexible schedules - vacation, sick leave, paid FMLA and 11 paid holidays each year
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility - for those with qualifying student loans
  • Training and professional development - to support your career growth and advancement
  • Employee Assistance Program - Includes paid short-term counseling, legal, financial and work-life benefits and select employee discounts
  • Wellness Program - Earn paid time off and incentives by focusing on your personal health

Know your full value.
Your paycheck is only part of the picture. The State of Wyoming offers a Total Compensation Calculator that shows the full value of your salary plus benefits, so you can clearly see what your complete compensation package looks like.
Explore your total compensation:
WORKING FOR THE GREATEST STATE IN THE NATION - Wyoming offers a lifestyle you can't find anywhere else - wide-open spaces, clean air, friendly communities, year-round recreation, and no state income tax.
Click here for detailed information or you can watch this short video to learn about our benefit package!.
01
(AA) Which of the following best describes your highest completed level of education to date or within the next three (3 months)? (Transcripts may be required.)
  • High School Diploma/GED/or Equivalent
  • Some college Coursework, No Degree Received
  • Associate's Degree
  • Associate's Degree and additional coursework
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Bachelor's Degree and additional coursework
  • Master's Degree
  • Master's Degree and additional coursework
  • Doctorate Degree
  • Doctorate Degree and additional coursework
  • None of the Above

02
(AA) Which of the following Quarter/Semester credit hours best describes your completed college education to date or within the next three (3 months)? (Transcripts may be required.)
  • 45+ Quarter hours/30+ Semester hours
  • 90+ Quarter hours/60+ Semester hours
  • 136+ Quarter hours/91+ Semester hours
  • 180+ Quarter hours/120+ Semester hours
  • 225+ Quarter hours/150+Semester hours
  • N/A

03
(PSFC08) How many years of relevant work experience or transferable skills do you have related to the job description?
  • No relevant experience.
  • Less than one (1) year of relevant experience.
  • One (1) to less than two (2) years of relevant experience.
  • Two (2) to less than three (3) years of relevant experience.
  • Three (3) or more years of relevant experience.

04
(AA) Describe your relevant experience in the box below.
05
Do you have a degree in chemistry or toxicology, plus 0-2 years of progressive work experience in a forensic laboratory
  • Yes
  • No

06
Describe your forensic laboratory experience below.
07
(A1) Where did you hear about this opportunity?
  • Government Jobs @www.governmentjobs.com/careers/wyoming
  • Indeed
  • LinkedIn
  • Zip Recruiter
  • Wyoming Workforce Center
  • Other job sites (Wyoming at Work, Monster, etc.)
  • Social Media (Facebook, Twitter, etc.)
  • Newspaper/Newsletter Advertisement
  • Career Fair
  • Human Resources Division
  • Friend or Acquaintance (Not State Employee)
  • Current State Employee
  • Other

08
(A1) If you selected "Current State Employee" please provide the employee's first and last name, and include the department they work for, if known. This employee may be eligible for a Referral bonus.
09
(A1) If you selected Other, please tell us where you heard about this opportunity.
10
(AA) VETERANS' PREFERENCE DISCLOSURE: PER WYOMING STATUTE, current employees of the State of Wyoming are not eligible for veterans' preference. If you are not a current employee of the State of Wyoming, to be eligible to receive veterans' preference you MUST have been a resident of the State of Wyoming for a period of one (1) year or more at any time prior to submitting this application. I have read and understand the veterans' preference disclosure.
  • Yes
  • No
  • I am not a veteran

11
(AA) VETERANS' PREFERENCE: If you are a war veteran as defined in section 101, Title 38, United States Code or are the surviving spouse of a war veteran who receives survivor benefits from the federal government based on the veteran's military service, and wish to claim veterans' preference, please attach the appropriate documentation substantiating your claim. Indicate below your appropriate veterans' preference status. By requesting veterans' preference, you are certifying that you meet the statutory requirements as described in the above disclosure.
  • Current State Employee
  • Veteran - DD214 Attached
  • Disabled Veteran (10% or more) - DD214 and Veteran's Disability Determination Attached
  • Surviving Spouse of a Deceased Veteran - DD214 and proof of Survivor Benefit Attached
  • None of the above

12
(AA) Please be advised that an incomplete application WILL NOT be considered for employment. An attached resume' is not required and is not an acceptable substitution for a completed application. Some State of Wyoming agencies use E-Verify, an Internet-based system, to confirm the eligibility of all newly hired employees to work in the United States. Learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities at https://www.uscis.gov/e-verify.I have read and understand the above statement.
  • Yes
  • No

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State of Wyoming logo

About State of Wyoming

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

State of Wyoming is not a company, but the government administration of the U.S. state named Wyoming, with headquarters in the capital city, Cheyenne. Its website, wyo.gov, serves as the official online portal for the state government, providing a diverse range of services focused on improving the lives of its residents. The government's mission encompasses various sectors including education, healthcare, transport, justice, and financial services.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Cheyenne, WY, US

Year founded

1890

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