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Forensic Unit Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Palm Careers

Physician - Psychiatry

Palestine, TX · Hybrid

$15K/mo

This is a unique opportunity to be part of a growing program that includes a newly launched hybrid long-term forensic unit for non-violent offenders. The ideal candidate will have an interest in both ...

Palm Health Resources

Psychiatry Physician

Palestine, TX · Hybrid

$15K/mo

This is a unique opportunity to be part of a growing program that includes a newly launched hybrid long-term forensic unit for non-violent offenders. The ideal candidate will have an interest in both ...

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Forensic Unit information

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$41K

$87.9K

$137K

How much do forensic unit jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic unit in the United States is $87,877.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,500.00 and $111,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a forensics unit do?

A forensics unit investigates crimes by collecting, analyzing, and preserving physical evidence such as fingerprints, DNA, and digital data. Forensic specialists often work in labs or crime scenes, using tools like microscopes and software, and may require certifications in forensic science or related fields. Their work helps establish facts and supports criminal investigations and court cases.

What are some of the typical challenges faced by professionals working in a forensic unit?

Professionals in a forensic unit often encounter challenges such as managing high caseloads, adhering to strict evidence handling protocols, and maintaining objectivity under pressure. The work can be emotionally demanding, particularly when dealing with sensitive or graphic crime scene materials. Additionally, collaboration with law enforcement and legal teams is crucial, requiring strong communication skills and the ability to clearly explain technical findings in both written reports and courtroom testimony.

What is the highest paying forensic job?

The highest paying forensic jobs are often forensic pathologists and forensic odontologists, with forensic pathologists earning salaries that can exceed $200,000 annually due to their medical training and responsibilities in conducting autopsies. These roles typically require advanced degrees, medical licenses, and specialized training, and they often work in medical examiner or coroner offices. Salary levels can vary based on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Forensic Unit, and why are they important?

Working in a Forensic Unit requires a solid background in forensic science, criminal justice, or a related field, often supported by relevant degrees or certifications. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, forensic analysis software, and chain-of-custody systems is crucial. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong written and verbal communication skills help professionals accurately process evidence and present findings. These competencies ensure the integrity of investigations and contribute to the fair administration of justice.

Can I be a CSI without being a cop?

A Crime Scene Investigator (CSI) is a specialized forensic professional who collects and analyzes evidence from crime scenes. CSIs are often employed by law enforcement agencies but are not always sworn police officers; they typically require training in forensic science, evidence collection, and may need certifications. While some CSIs are sworn officers, many are civilian employees focused on scientific analysis and scene processing.

What is a Forensic Unit?

A Forensic Unit is a specialized department within law enforcement or criminal justice agencies responsible for the collection, preservation, and analysis of physical evidence from crime scenes. The team typically includes forensic scientists, crime scene investigators, and technicians who use scientific methods to help solve crimes. Their work supports investigations by providing objective, scientific findings that can be used in court. Forensic Units may analyze fingerprints, DNA, drugs, trace evidence, and more. Their findings can play a crucial role in identifying suspects, exonerating the innocent, and securing convictions.

What is the difference between Forensic Unit vs Forensic Technician?

AspectForensic UnitForensic Technician
CredentialsForensic science degree, certifications in crime scene analysisForensic science or criminal justice degree, certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentCrime labs, crime scenes, hospitalsCrime scenes, laboratories, law enforcement agencies
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement, government agencies, crime labsLaw enforcement, crime labs, forensic laboratories
Job FocusOverseeing forensic investigations, managing teamsCollecting evidence, analyzing samples, supporting investigations

The Forensic Unit typically involves overseeing forensic investigations and managing teams, requiring advanced credentials. In contrast, Forensic Technicians focus on evidence collection and analysis, often with similar educational backgrounds but less managerial responsibility. Both roles are essential in forensic science and often work closely within law enforcement and crime labs.

What kind of jobs are in forensics?

Jobs in forensics include forensic scientists, crime scene investigators, forensic technicians, and forensic analysts. These roles involve collecting, analyzing, and presenting physical evidence, often requiring knowledge of laboratory techniques, evidence handling, and sometimes specialized certifications or training. Forensic professionals work in labs, crime scenes, or law enforcement agencies to support criminal investigations.
More about Forensic Unit jobs
What states have the most Forensic Unit jobs? States with the most job openings for Forensic Unit jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Unit jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Unit jobs are:
Forensic Unit jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Unit job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 15% As Needed, 12% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 71% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,877 per year, or $42.2 per hour.
Forensic Investigator Supervisor

Forensic Investigator Supervisor

Chesterfield County

Chesterfield, VA • On-site

$76K - $116K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's degree; three to five years of experience, including one to three years of experience in a supervisor or lead capacity; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Graduate of the Virginia Forensic Science Academy and/or an AFIS/MBIS Operator plus have five (5) years of crime scene experience preferred. This position requires knowledge of the techniques involved with general patrol functions, criminal investigations, forensic science, and the science of fingerprints.

Must also possess the skill and ability to apply this knowledge in a competent manner, including giving specific directions, general supervision, conducting a criminal investigation or a crime scene search. Must possess or be eligible for a Virginia driver's license with no more than six demerit points in the past twelve months or a DUI conviction within the past four years. Pre-employment drug testing, FBI criminal background check and education/degree verification required.

This position is considered Critical Safety Sensitive and is subject to random drug testing and alcohol testing. The use of illegal drugs, and/or the use of medical marijuana for this position is prohibited. Employees must not consume or be under the influence of alcohol while on duty, on work premises, or operating agency equipment.

This position is subject to working in high security areas governed by the US Department of Justice's "Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Security Policy" and therefore requires successfully passing a more stringent criminal background check. Must be a US citizen or be a lawful permanent resident eligible for naturalization. Duties The Forensics Unit seeks an experienced leader who is self-motivated and organized to lead a group of professional staff Forensic Investigators.

Manage the daily operation of the professional staff Forensic Unit, to insure there is adequate coverage to fulfill both citizen and police requests during business hours and to provide forensic personnel to respond to crime scenes (including after hours on-call) on a 24 hour/365-day basis. Direct supervision of the professional staff forensic investigators, other Forensic Professional Staff, and the review of all crime scene reports, and to ensure they are functioning as a cohesive group, able to effectively collect, document, and analyze evidentiary items. This position will also perform the functions of a forensic investigator as needed and will supervise major crime scenes.

Develop weekly, monthly, and quarterly Forensic Unit reports Ensuring compliance with all regulations, policies and laws pertaining to evidence collection and preservation Encouraging, mentoring, evaluating, and developing staff Overseeing forensic related training throughout the Department Testifying in court as needed Preparing and submitting purchase orders and receiving orders; maintaining an inventory of office supplies Must possess strong leadership skills, verbal and written communication skills, organizational skills Can work a flexible rotating schedule including evenings, weekends, and on-call hours (and OC) Performing other related duties as assigned Shift Work a flexible rotating schedule including evenings, weekends, and on-call hours (and OC). Work Location Police Chesterfield County is an Equal Opportunity Employer Committed to Workforce Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

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