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Forensic Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aperture, LLC

Forensic Expert

Midland, TX

$70K - $90K/yr

Forensic Expert - Accident Reconstruction Expert About Aperture Aperture brings together leading forensic specialists and technical consultants who clarify complex events, strengthen business ...

Aperture, LLC

Forensic Expert

Dallas, TX

$70K - $90K/yr

Forensic Expert - Accident Reconstruction Expert About Aperture Aperture brings together leading forensic specialists and technical consultants who clarify complex events, strengthen business ...

City of New York

Forensic Quality Specialist

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Innovate to meet evolving needs Under the direction of the Assistant Director of Forensic Operations, oversees the quality assurance/control activities associated with Morgue operations under the ...

U.S. Courts

Forensic Examiner

Saint Louis, MO · On-site +1

$61K - $119K/yr

Conducts forensic examinations of digital related evidence using established policies, procedures, and precedent techniques. Examination can include, but are not limited to: financial, terrorist, and ...

Withum

Forensic Associate

East Brunswick, NJ · Hybrid

$70K - $90K/yr

The Forensic & Valuation Services Group supports clients and attorneys through investigation, financial analysis and expert testimony. Our group handles matters of Forensic Accounting, Ownership ...

WithumSmith+Brown

Forensic Associate

New York, NY · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

The Forensic & Valuation Services Group supports clients and attorneys through investigation, financial analysis and expert testimony. Our group handles matters of Forensic Accounting, Ownership ...

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Forensic Specialist information

See salary details

$25.5K

$61.2K

$94.5K

How much do forensic specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 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.
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Cities with the most Forensic Specialist job openings:

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What states have the most Forensic Specialist jobs?

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

What are popular job titles related to Forensic Specialist jobs?

For Forensic Specialist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Forensic Specialist jobs near you
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 Residential Specialist (Shift 2) (1787)

Lecanto, FL • On-site

LifeStream Behavioral Center
Offices of Mental Health Practitioners • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about LifeStream Behavioral Centerexternal

$15.40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Job Purpose:
- The Forensic Residential Specialist position is integral to the efficient functioning of the assigned Department. The Forensic Residential Specialist will, by virtue of the role, have primary individual contact and, in that role, will have influence on the individual safety and well-being of the consumer. As such, the Forensic Residential Specialist is a professional staff member responsible for maintaining a secure and safe work environment in cooperation with other professional staff members.
Key Responsibilities:
- Help with the admission of individuals, including taking urine analysis, blood alcohol content, and contraband search, if necessary, body check, checking for hazardous objects, listing valuables and personal possessions, and orienting the individual to the Department.
- Monitor compliance of medication to ensure compliance is maintained
- Monitor consumer for undesirable side-effects to medication and inform appropriate professional when necessary
- Ability to successfully complete initial and annual Techniques for Effective Aggression Management (TEAM) physical restraint and verbal de-escalation training.
- Carry out assigned duties in caring for individuals who require more than routine observation and care.
- Report all pertinent observations, changes in physical signs or symptoms, changes in emotional behavior and individual's medical and/or psychiatric concerns to the appropriate professional level.
- Assist other personnel in the management of impulsive, violent or uncooperative individuals and help apply restraints or put individuals into seclusion, as necessary.
- The ability to comply with the regulations requiring a workplace of dignity and respect and equal employment opportunity compliance.
Required Education:
- High School diploma or equivalent required
- CNA preferred
Required Experience:
- Minimum of Two (2) years of prior experience in a mental health setting is required
- Minimum of One (1) year of experience working with the chronically mentally ill in an acute psychiatric setting preferred
Required Skills and Abilities:
- Strong understanding of forensic mental health issues and the ability to apply this knowledge in a residential setting.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, to effectively interact with residents, colleagues, and external stakeholders.
- Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team and adapt to changing situations.
- Proficient in documentation and record-keeping with attention to detail and accuracy.
- Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
- Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make sound decisions under pressure.
- Ability to maintain a calm demeanor in high-stress situations and provide support to residents in crisis.
LifeStream Benefits
  • Health/Dental/Vision Insurance
  • Short Term Disability
  • Pension Plan
  • 403(b)
  • PTO (Over 4 weeks your 1st year!)
  • Flexible Work Schedules
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program
  • Free Telehealth Services
  • And More!

Important Notice
As part of our hiring process and in compliance with Section 435.04, Florida Statutes, certain positions require a Level 2 background screening. Employment offers are contingent upon meeting applicable requirements. For more details on Level 2 background screening requirements, please visit: Florida Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse
LifeStream is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any applicant based on age, citizenship, color, covered veteran status, disability, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or other protected status in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

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