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Forensics Psychologist Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

WI · On-site

$89 - $91/hr

Due to the unique nature of our work, this role would suit someone from an education, counselling or forensic psychology background if you are looking for a rewarding, impactful and The primary ...

New

WI · On-site

$99 - $121/hr

... or other forensic or occupational psychology settings will be particularly successful in this ... position. We're seeking professionals who value collaboration, continuous learning, and quality ...

Evaluating patients admitted under emergency detention (WSS §51.15) and forensic commitments (WSS ... Participating in psychological department activities such as peer review, quality assurance, and ...

... forensic evaluation, and civil commitment. Qualifications Education * Masters in clinical or counseling psychology or in social work from an accredited college or university. Experience * At least ...

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Showing results 1-20

Forensics Psychologist information

See Wisconsin salary details

$11.1K

$93.7K

$402.2K

How much do forensics psychologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensics psychologist in Wisconsin is $93,681.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,100.00 and $118,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a forensic psychologist do?

A forensic psychologist applies psychological principles to legal issues, often working within the criminal justice system. They may assess the mental state of criminal defendants, provide expert testimony in court, assist in jury selection, and offer recommendations regarding sentencing or treatment. Forensic psychologists also work with victims, conduct risk assessments, and may help develop criminal profiles. Their work bridges psychology and law, ensuring that psychological considerations are accurately represented in legal contexts.

What types of cases does a forensic psychologist typically work on, and how do they collaborate with legal professionals?

Forensic psychologists are often involved in a variety of cases, including criminal evaluations, child custody disputes, competency assessments, and risk assessments for violent behavior. They regularly collaborate with attorneys, judges, law enforcement, and correctional staff by providing psychological expertise, preparing written reports, and offering expert testimony in court. Effective communication and the ability to clearly explain complex psychological concepts to non-experts are essential in this role. The work can be challenging due to high-stakes decisions and emotionally charged cases, but it also offers opportunities to make a significant impact in the justice system.

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

To thrive as a Forensic Psychologist, you need a solid background in psychology, a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.), and specialized training in forensic assessment and legal procedures. Familiarity with psychological testing tools, risk assessment instruments, and case management systems is typically required. Excellent critical thinking, objectivity, and strong verbal and written communication skills distinguish top professionals in this role. These competencies are crucial for providing accurate evaluations, credible testimony, and effective collaboration with legal and law enforcement agencies.

What is the difference between Forensics Psychologist vs Criminal Psychologist?

AspectForensics PsychologistCriminal Psychologist
CredentialsDoctoral degree in psychology, licensure, specialized training in forensic settingsDoctoral degree in psychology, licensure, focus on criminal behavior analysis
Work EnvironmentCourts, law enforcement agencies, correctional facilitiesResearch settings, law enforcement, clinical practice with offenders
Employer & IndustryLegal system, government agencies, forensic labsResearch institutions, law enforcement, mental health clinics
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for legal cases, assessments, expert testimonyFocused on understanding criminal minds, offender profiling

While both roles involve understanding criminal behavior, Forensics Psychologists primarily work within the legal system conducting assessments and providing expert testimony, whereas Criminal Psychologists focus more on studying criminal minds and behavior patterns, often in research or clinical settings.

How much money do forensic psychologists make?

Forensic psychologists typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $100,000, with experienced professionals or those working in high-demand areas earning higher wages. Salaries can vary based on education, certification, location, and work setting, such as courts, law enforcement agencies, or private practice.

What careers can you get with forensics psychologist?

A forensics psychologist can pursue careers in criminal justice, law enforcement agencies, correctional facilities, or private consulting. They often work as expert witnesses, assessment specialists, or in research roles, utilizing psychological testing, interview techniques, and knowledge of the legal system.

What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Forensics Psychologist jobs?

Cities in Wisconsin with the most Forensics Psychologist job openings:

Infographic showing various Forensics Psychologist job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,681 per year, or $45 per hour.

Forensic Psychologist - SVP Evaluator

State of Wisconsin

Mauston, WI • On-site

$132K - $147K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Conduct forensic evaluations of patients including Sexually Violent Person evaluations, Competency to Stand Trial evaluations, violence risk assessments, guardianship evaluations, psychopathy assessments, treatment evaluations, and general psychological evaluations.

  • Perform direct evaluations and write reports based on assessment findings.

  • Provide expert testimony related to forensic evaluations and assessments.


State Of Wisconsin rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 130 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 50 rated states


Job description

Introduction
Sand Ridge Secure Treatment Center (SRSTC) within the Department of Health Services (DHS) is currently hiring multiple Forensic Psychologists.
Typical work hours are Monday through Friday between 8:00am - 4:30 pm, with some flexibility.
These positions require up to 20% travel throughout the state to provide court testimony or conduct evaluations with some overnight stays as necessary.
These positions will be headquartered out of Mendota Mental Health Institute located at 301 Troy Drive in Madison.
SRSTC opened in 2001 and provides care and treatment for several different patient populations. The center houses Wisconsin's Sexually Violent Persons Program, provides care and treatment for persons found not guilty by reasons of mental disease or mental defect, and provides court ordered treatment, testing, and education to patients found not competent to stand trial. SRSTC is a 500-bed treatment facility and is part of the Division of Care and Treatment Services (DCTS). Watch this video to learn more about the work of DCTS .
As an employee of the State of Wisconsin, you'll have access to an amazing benefits package , including:
  • 3.5 weeks of vacation, 9 paid holidays and ample sick time ; limitations may apply for leave time usage in the first six months.
  • Top rated health plan options starting at $47/month for single plans and $117/month for family plans, after 2 months of state service.
  • Exceptional pension plan with a 7.2% employer match in 2026 with lifetime retirement payment. Plus, a tax advantaged supplemental retirement savings plan which allows you to save money directly from your paycheck for retirement. Use this Total Rewards Calculator to see the total value of our competitive benefits package!
  • Several flex spending accounts: medical, dependent care, commuter, parking and High-Deductible Health Savings.
  • Well Wisconsin Wellness Program.
  • A free and confidential employee assistance program that offers employees and their immediate family dependents a variety of tools, resources, and professional consultation services to support their health, goals, and overall well-being.
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program employer.

Position Summary
As a Forensic Psychologist you will be responsible for the following duties:
  • Conducting a variety of forensic evaluations of patients admitted under Chapter 980 and other Wisconsin State Statutes including but not limited to Sexually Violent Person evaluations, Competency to Stand Trial evaluations, violence risk assessments, guardianship evaluations, assessing psychopathy, treatment evaluation, and general psychological evaluations.
  • Performing direct evaluations.
  • Writing reports and providing expert testimony.
Additionally, as an expert in assessment of sex offenders and sex offender treatment and forensic assessments, these positions will also provide training and consultation to other staff as needed.
Salary Information
The starting pay is between $63.59 and $71.02 per hour (approximately between $132,200 and $147,700 per year), depending on qualifications, plus excellent benefits. A 12-month probationary period is required.
Pay for current or former state employees will be set based on the rules that apply to compensation for the applicable transaction. This position is classified as a Psychologist Licensed Chapter 980 and is in pay schedule and range 12/80.
Job Details
All applicants who may be appointed to this position will be required to allow DHS to conduct a background check to determine whether the circumstances of any conviction may be related to the job being filled.
DHS does not sponsor work visas for this position, thus, in compliance with federal law, selected candidates will be required to verify eligibility to work in the United States by completing the required I-9 form upon hire. DHS is not an E-Verify employer nor a STEM-OPT eligible employer.
This position requires the ability to drive a State vehicle or the ability to provide one's own transportation. In order to become authorized to drive a State vehicle, you must meet the requirements for the State of Wisconsin Fleet Vehicle policy, which are:
  • Must have a valid driver's license;
  • Must have minimum of two years non-probationary licensed driving experience with a regular (Class D) driver's license;
  • Must be 18 years of age.
Additionally, your driving record MUST NOT reflect any of the following conditions:
  • Three or more moving violations and/or at-fault accidents in the past two years;
  • Operating While Intoxicated (OWI)/Driving Under the Influence (DUI) citation within the past 12 months;
  • Suspension or revocation of driver's license.

Qualifications
Minimally qualified applicants will have all of the following:
  • Licensure or eligibility** to obtain licensure as a Psychologist in the State of Wisconsin. Licensure must be obtained by time of appointment. Please refer to the WI Department of Safety and Professional Services website for more information on licensing. Those who are not licensed in Wisconsin but are license eligible are strongly encouraged to apply. Eligible is defined as: you have completed your postdoctoral training and are able to obtain licensure in the State of Wisconsin, or are currently licensed in another state. Licensure must be obtained at the time of appointment.
  • Experience completing psychological evaluations and at least one type of forensic evaluation.
  • Experience providing legal testimony.

Well-qualified applicants will also have one or more of the following:
  • Experience conducting a variety of forensic evaluations .
  • Experience conducting general psychological evaluations in an institutional setting.
Your letter of qualifications is limited to 2 pages. For a guide on developing your resume and letter of qualifications and what should be included in these materials, click here .
How To Apply
Applying is easy! Click "Apply for Job" to start your application process. Sign into your account or create an account before applying for the job. Follow the steps outlined in the application process to submit your application.
Helpful Information:
  • Once your application is submitted, no changes are allowed. Click "Save" to allow changes to your application as needed before submitting by the deadline.
  • You may want to save a copy of the job posting for referencing after the deadline.
  • Submitted materials will be evaluated by a panel of job experts according to the qualifications above.
  • Please monitor your email for communications related to this position.
  • Current or former permanent, classified, state employees must complete the online application process to be considered.
  • If viewing through an external site, please apply directly at Wisc.Jobs .
  • For technical assistance and general information, please see Frequently Asked Questions . For questions about the position or for other employment inquiries, please contact Katie Hartmann in Human Resources at Katherine.hartmann@dhs.wi.gov
DHS is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. Veterans are encouraged to apply. For complete information on Veterans' hiring programs with the WI Department of Veteran's Affairs, click here .
You will be required to attach your current resume in a Word or PDF compatible format and answer one or more questions.
Deadline to Apply
Applications will be accepted until the positions have been filled.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to allow ample time to finalize their applications keeping in mind that technical assistance is only available Monday through Friday 7:45 am - 4:30 pm. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.

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