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Forensic Unit Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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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 Aug 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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a forensic unit?

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.

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 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 does a forensic unit do?

A forensic unit investigates crimes by collecting, analyzing, and preserving physical evidence such as fingerprints, DNA, and trace materials. Forensic professionals often work in labs or crime scenes, using specialized tools and techniques to support criminal investigations and court cases.
More about Forensic Unit jobs

What states have the most Forensic Unit jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Forensic Unit job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,877 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Registered Nurse, (RN) Behavioral Health - Forensic Unit

Lifepoint Health

Holyoke, MA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


LifePoint Health rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 272 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

764th of 893 rated healthcare providers


Job description


Registered Nurse (RN) - Behavioral Health Forensic Unit
Your experience matters
Valley Springs Behavioral Health Hospital is operated jointly with Lifepoint Health and Baystate Health. We are driven by a profound commitment to prioritize your well-being so you can provide exceptional care to others. As a Registered Nurse (RN) joining our Forensic Unit team, you're embracing our promise to provide superior patient care that exceeds industry standards as well as patient expectations. Join us on this meaningful journey where your compassion, clinical expertise, and dedication will make a remarkable difference in the lives of those we serve.
More about our team
Our Behavioral Health team operates within a 150-bed inpatient facility focused on healing, safety, and innovation. The Forensic Unit provides specialized care for individuals involved with the legal and criminal justice systems who require behavioral health treatment in a secure therapeutic environment. Our team works collaboratively to deliver patient-centered, trauma-informed care while maintaining safety, dignity, and recovery-focused outcomes.
How you'll contribute
A Registered Nurse (RN) who excels in this role will:
  • Assess, plan, implement, and evaluate individualized patient care plans
  • Monitor patients' physical and behavioral health status and respond appropriately to changes in condition
  • Administer medications and treatments in accordance with physician orders and facility policies
  • Collaborate with psychiatrists, physicians, therapists, social workers, and interdisciplinary team members
  • Maintain accurate and timely documentation in the electronic medical record
  • Support a safe and therapeutic environment through effective de-escalation and crisis intervention techniques
  • Participate in treatment team meetings and discharge planning activities
  • Educate patients and families regarding treatment plans, medications, and recovery goals
  • Ensure compliance with hospital policies, regulatory standards, and patient safety initiatives
  • Serve as a patient advocate while promoting recovery-oriented care

What we're looking for
Applicants should have a current RN license in the state of Massachusetts and graduate from an accredited nursing program. Additional requirements include:
  • Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) required; Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) preferred
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required within 30 days of hire
  • Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nursing, Corrections, or Forensic Nursing experience preferred
  • Strong assessment, communication, and critical thinking skills
  • Ability to effectively manage challenging patient behaviors in a therapeutic manner
  • Experience with crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques preferred
  • Commitment to patient-centered and trauma-informed care

Schedule
Job Type: Full-Time
Shift: Evening Shift (3P-11P)
Schedule: 8-Hour Shifts
Hourly Range
$42.55 - $57.45 per hour
Up to $15,000 Sign on Bonus
Why join us
We believe that investing in our employees is the first step to providing excellent patient care. In addition to your base compensation, this position also offers:
Comprehensive Benefits: Multiple levels of medical, dental, and vision coverage for full-time and part-time employees
Financial Protection & PTO: Life, accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity insurance, short- and long-term disability, paid family leave, and paid time off
Financial & Career Growth: Tuition assistance, certification support, loan assistance, and 401(k) with company match
Employee Well-being: Mental, physical, and financial wellness programs, including gym memberships, virtual care, and mental health services
Professional Development: Ongoing learning and advancement opportunities
Connect with a Recruiter
Not ready to apply or have questions? Contact DK Lyons at 850-842-8832.
More about Valley Springs Behavioral Health Hospital
Valley Springs Behavioral Health Hospital is a 150-bed inpatient behavioral health hospital serving the Western Massachusetts community. We provide comprehensive mental health and addiction treatment services in a modern, patient-centered environment. As a joint venture between Lifepoint Health and Baystate Health, we are committed to making communities healthier® through teamwork, compassion, and clinical excellence.
EEOC Statement
Valley Springs Behavioral Health Hospital is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Valley Springs Behavioral Health Hospital is committed to Equal Employment Opportunity for all applicants and employees and complies with all applicable laws prohibiting discrimination and harassment in employment.
About Us
Lifepoint Health is a leader in community-based care and driven by a mission of Making Communities Healthier. Our diversified healthcare delivery network spans 29 states and includes 63 community hospital campuses, 32 rehabilitation and behavioral health hospitals, and more than 170 additional sites of care across the healthcare continuum, such as acute rehabilitation units, outpatient centers and post-acute care facilities. We believe that success is achieved through talented people. We want to create places where employees want to work, with opportunities to pursue meaningful and satisfying careers that truly make a difference in communities across the country.
About the Team
We employ and provide care to people from all walks of life. We are committed to promoting healing, providing hope, preserving dignity and producing value with an inclusive workforce in which diversity is leveraged, respected, and reflective of the patients, family members, customers and team members we serve.

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About LifePoint Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Lifepoint Health serves patients, clinicians, communities and partners across the healthcare continuum. Our diversified healthcare delivery network extends from coast to coast, consisting of community hospitals, rehabilitation and behavioral health hospitals, and additional sites of care.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Brentwood, TN, US

Year founded

1999

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