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Forensic Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Assisting Federal leads with overseeing and leading forensic teams at onsite engagements by coordinating data collection/acquisition operations * Providing technical assistance on data collection ...

Conduct forensic examinations of digital data from cellphones, tablets, computers, removable media, cloud sources, and other platforms. * Apply recognized scientific practices to identify, analyze ...

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Forensic information

See Virginia salary details

$25.3K

$60.6K

$93.7K

How much do forensic jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic in Virginia is $60,631.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,500.00 and $68,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are forensic scientists?

Forensic scientists are professionals who apply scientific principles and techniques to analyze physical evidence from crime scenes. Their work helps law enforcement agencies investigate crimes by identifying, collecting, and examining evidence such as fingerprints, DNA, and trace materials. Forensic scientists often specialize in areas like toxicology, biology, or digital forensics, and their findings may be presented in court as expert testimony. Their expertise is crucial in solving crimes and ensuring justice is served.

How do I start a career in forensics?

To start a career in forensics, obtain a relevant bachelor's degree such as criminal justice, biology, or chemistry, and gain experience through internships or entry-level positions in crime labs or law enforcement agencies. Advanced roles may require a master's degree or specialized certifications, and strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of forensic tools are essential.

What are different jobs in forensics?

Jobs in forensics include forensic scientist, crime scene investigator, forensic analyst, fingerprint examiner, and forensic toxicologist. These roles involve collecting, analyzing, and presenting evidence, often requiring knowledge of laboratory techniques, evidence handling, and certification in forensic science. Many positions require a background in biology, chemistry, or criminal justice, and work environments can include labs, crime scenes, and courtrooms.

What is the best forensic career?

Forensic careers include roles such as forensic scientist, forensic investigator, and crime scene analyst, which involve analyzing evidence, collecting data, and working in labs or field environments. Success in these careers often requires a degree in forensic science, criminal justice, or a related field, along with certifications and strong attention to detail.

What Are the Qualifications to Get a Forensic Job?

The qualifications to get a job in this field vary by career. A crime scene investigator, evidence photographer, data analyst, accountant, computer expert, and medical examiner can all be considered forensic roles. Crime scene photographers are often police officers with some postsecondary education who have the skills to photograph evidence. Lab analysts typically have a bachelor’s degree in forensic science, chemistry, or a closely related field, although advanced degrees are available. Computer and accounting investigators (whose responsibilities are to analyze financial data or other digital evidence) should have a background in IT, statistics, or accounting. In addition to education and formal training, strong analytical thinking and an interest in criminal justice are important in this field.

What is the difference between Forensic vs Crime Scene Technician?

AspectForensicCrime Scene Technician
Required CredentialsForensic science degree, certifications in forensic analysisHigh school diploma or associate degree, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, crime labs, courtroomsCrime scenes, outdoor and indoor locations
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, forensic labsPolice departments, crime scene units

Forensic professionals typically hold specialized degrees and certifications, working mainly in labs and courtrooms. Crime Scene Technicians focus on collecting evidence at crime scenes, often with less formal education. Both roles are essential in criminal investigations but differ in work setting and qualifications.

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 chemistry, biology, or a related field, typically supported by a relevant degree and laboratory experience. Familiarity with analytical instruments, forensic databases, and specialized software such as chromatography and DNA analysis tools is essential. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate evidence analysis and clear reporting, which are vital for supporting criminal investigations and judicial processes.

What are the 7 types of forensic science?

Forensic science encompasses several specialized fields, including DNA analysis, fingerprint analysis, toxicology, ballistics, trace evidence analysis, digital forensics, and forensic pathology. Forensic professionals often work with laboratory tools and require certifications to accurately analyze evidence in criminal investigations.

What are some common challenges faced by forensic professionals when working on criminal investigations?

Forensic professionals often encounter challenges such as managing large volumes of complex evidence, maintaining strict chain of custody protocols, and working under tight deadlines to provide timely results. They must also stay updated on evolving forensic technologies and adhere to rigorous ethical standards to ensure the integrity of their analyses. Collaboration with law enforcement, attorneys, and sometimes testifying in court can add additional pressure, making strong communication skills and attention to detail essential for success in the field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Forensic jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Forensic jobs in Virginia? For Forensic jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Forensic jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Forensic job openings:
Infographic showing various Forensic job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,631 per year, or $29.1 per hour.
Forensic Nurse Examiner

Forensic Nurse Examiner

Sentara Healthcare

Harrisonburg, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 hours ago


Sentara Health rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 392 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

449th of 886 rated healthcare providers


Job description

City/State
Harrisonburg, VA
Work Shift
First (Days)
Overview:
Overview
Sentara RMH Medical Center is now hiring a Forensic Nurse Examiner. Forensic Nurse Examiners ensure high quality and cost effective care to all forensic patients. Our FNEs maintain an atmosphere of positive group dynamics to promote patient, hospital, and community satisfaction with services provided, as well as promote professional growth and development of the Forensic Nursing program on a continuous basis.
Education
  • Associates or Bachelor's degree in Nursing (Required)

Certification/Licensure
  • Completion of Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner or Forensic Nurse Examiner training program(Required)

Experience
  • At least 1 year of acute care experience (required)

Benefits: Caring For Your Family and Your Career
Medical, Dental, Vision plans
• Adoption, Fertility and Surrogacy Reimbursement up to 10,000
• Paid Time Off and Sick Leave
• Paid Parental & Family Caregiver Leave
• Emergency Backup Care
• Long-Term, Short-Term Disability, and Critical Illness plans
• Life Insurance
• 401k/403B with Employer Match
• Tuition Assistance - 5,250/year and discounted educational opportunities through Guild Education
• Student Debt Pay Down - 10,000
• Reimbursement for certifications and free access to complete CEUs and professional development
• Pet Insurance
• Legal Resources Plan
• Colleagues may have the opportunity to earn an annual discretionary bonus if established system and employee eligibility criteria is met
Sentara RMH Medical Center, a Magnet designated hospital located in Harrisonburg VA, serves a seven-county area with a population of 218,000 residents, employing 2600 locals. The 238-bed community hospital has been serving Harrisonburg, Rockingham County and surrounding areas since 1912, then partnered with the Sentara Health System in May of 2011. Sentara RMH features the RMH Hahn Cancer Center, a state-of-the-art center equipped with the latest cancer fighting technologies available in the nation administrating more than 18,000 cancer treatments. With 1800 delivered babies, 60,000 emergency patients and 21,000 surgical procedures, Sentara has a position for you. We improve health every day, come be a part of the community.
Our Caring Workplace Environment
• A Caring Commitment serving our community for 100+ years
• Free and convenient parking
• Collaboration and shared governance
• CMS 5-Star and Magnet designated hospital
• EAP - 24 x 7
Sentara Health is an equal opportunity employer and prides itself on the diversity and inclusiveness of its close to an almost 30,000-member workforce. Diversity, inclusion, and belonging is a guiding principle of the organization to ensure its workforce reflects the communities it serves.
In support of our mission "to improve health every day," this is a tobacco-free environment.
For positions that are available as remote work, Sentara Health employs associates in the following states:
Alabama, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

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