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Forensics Psychologist Jobs in Racine, WI (NOW HIRING)

Forensics Psychologist information

See Racine, WI salary details

$10.3K

$87K

$373.7K

How much do forensics psychologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensics psychologist in Racine, WI is $87,029.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,400.00 and $109,700.00 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 near Racine, WI are hiring for Forensics Psychologist jobs?

Cities near Racine, WI with the most Forensics Psychologist job openings:

Infographic showing various Forensics Psychologist job openings in Racine, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,029 per year, or $41.8 per hour.

Psychological Associate

State of Wisconsin

Union Grove, WI • On-site

$92K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Key responsibilities

  • Provide psychological services including evaluations, assessments, and treatment plan development.

  • Conduct complex psychological evaluations and behavioral assessments.

  • Offer mental health consultation to the interdisciplinary team, psychology staff, and community providers.


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
The Department of Health Services (DHS) , Southern Wisconsin Center (SWC) is recruiting for a Psychological Associate.
This position will be scheduled 7:45am - 4:30pm, Monday through Friday.
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.
  • Premium pension plan with a 7.2% employer match in 2026. 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.
SWC is a state run, licensed and certified Intermediate Care Facility for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (ICF/IDD). SWC provides a wide variety of programs and services designed to assist and prepare individuals to live successfully in the setting that best meets their needs. Located in Southeastern Wisconsin in Union Grove, SWC brings together a rich history of providing exceptional services and state of the art treatment approaches for the new millennium. Union Grove is a growing community with small town charm and easy access to Milwaukee and Chicago. Our workers love what they do. But don't take our word for it. Hear from our employees
Position Summary
As a Psychological Associate at SWC, you will provide psychological services which may include complex psychological evaluations, assessment of mental health symptoms, behavioral assessments, and integrated treatment plan development and implementation. In addition, this position provides mental health consultation to the Unit's interdisciplinary team, other psychology department staff and community providers.
Salary Information
The starting pay is $44.54 per hour (approximately $92,600 per year), plus excellent benefits. A 12-month probationary period is required. An additional hourly add-on may also be available for the following:
  • $6.00 per hour for a recognized Doctorate in Psychology or a related field such as Behavioral Disabilities
  • $3.00 per hour for a total of $9 in add-ons for an Interim Psychologist Licensure$
  • 5.00 per hour for a total of $11 in add-ons for a Permanent Psychologist Licensure
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 in pay schedule and range 12/63.
Job Details
All applicants who may be appointed 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.
All appointees will be required to receive a TB test, which will be administered by SWC or medical personnel approved by the facility prior to their start date.
This position has physical requirements which may include but are not limited to lifting and carrying up to 55 lbs, bending, kneeling, crawling, twisting, and balancing. Applicants may need to pass a physical evaluation to assess these requirements.
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.
Qualifications
Minimum qualifications include all of the following:
  • A Master's degree in Psychology (Clinical Psychology, Behavior Psychology, Forensic Psychology, etc.) or related mental health field (Applied Behavior Analysis, Mental Health Counseling, Clinical Social Work, etc.) from an accredited program. Note: a copy of your transcripts will be required prior to appointment to this position.
  • Training or experience working with individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Well-qualified applicants will also have one or more of the following:
  • Experience working within an interdisciplinary team.
  • Experience working with individuals dually diagnosed with intellectual disabilities and mental health or maladaptive behavior disorder.
  • Experience completing behavioral or mental health assessments.
  • Experience collecting and analyzing data for clinical interpretations.
  • Experience developing behavioral intervention treatment plans.
  • Experience using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other therapeutic models.
  • Experience instructing others in diagnostic, therapeutic, and counseling techniques.
For a guide on developing your resume and what should be included, 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.
  • 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 DHSSWCHumanResources@dhs.wisconsin.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 .
Deadline to Apply
The deadline to apply is September 15 th at 11:59pm. 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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