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Forensics Psychologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Our team is looking to add a full-time Forensic Psychologist to our team for coverage at Lynn District Court in Lynn, MA and Haverhill District Court in Haverhill, MA. As part of the Court Clinic ...

Possession of a doctorate in psychology from an accredited university. Other Requirements ... Certification Division of Planning, Research, and Forensics to perform forensic evaluations is ...

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Forensics Psychologist information

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$11K

$92.8K

$398.5K

How much do forensics psychologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensics psychologist in the United States is $92,813.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,500.00 and $117,000.00 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 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.

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.

Can a psychologist work in forensics?

A forensics psychologist is a mental health professional who applies psychological principles to legal and criminal justice settings. They often conduct assessments of offenders, provide expert testimony, and work with law enforcement, requiring specialized training and knowledge of the legal system.

What do psychologists do in the forensic field?

Forensic psychologists apply psychological principles to legal issues, often evaluating individuals involved in criminal cases, providing expert testimony, and assessing mental competency. They may also work in criminal profiling, treatment of offenders, and consulting with law enforcement agencies, requiring skills in assessment tools and knowledge of the legal system.

What careers can you do with forensic psychology?

Forensic psychologists can work in criminal justice settings as evaluators, expert witnesses, or treatment providers. They may also work in research, law enforcement, correctional facilities, or private consulting, applying psychological principles to legal issues and criminal behavior analysis.

What do you do in a forensic psychology degree?

A forensic psychology degree prepares individuals to apply psychological principles to legal and criminal justice settings. It involves studying topics such as criminal behavior, assessment of mental health, and legal procedures, often requiring skills in evaluation, report writing, and courtroom testimony. Graduates may work in prisons, law enforcement, or as expert witnesses, and often need licensure or certification depending on their role.
What cities are hiring for Forensics Psychologist jobs? Cities with the most Forensics Psychologist job openings:
What states have the most Forensics Psychologist jobs? States with the most job openings for Forensics Psychologist jobs include:
Forensic Psychologist (Outpatient) - East

Forensic Psychologist (Outpatient) - East

State of Georgia

Augusta, GA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


State Of Georgia rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 82 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

31st of 50 rated states


Job description

Forensic Psychologist (Outpatient) - East
Any given position will close when we determine an adequate candidate pool has been received.
Due to the high volume of resumes/applications received, we are unable to provide the status on each applicant by phone or email. However, please be assured that your resume/application will be evaluated, and we will contact you if you are selected for an interview or we need further clarification/information.
Job Description:
The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Outpatient Forensic Psychologist. Under supervision of a hospital forensic director, the successful candidates will be responsible for the completion of criminal forensic evaluations.
Knowledge of abnormal psychology, pertinent statutes and case law related to the practice of forensic psychology, malingering assessment tools, intellectual testing, personality assessment, best practices in mental health treatment, and ethical/professional guidelines for the practice of forensic psychology is required.
Job duties include the completion of face-to-face forensic mental health evaluations to determine competency to stand trial and criminal responsibility, report preparation, expert testimony, and related work as assigned. The work requires travel within assigned catchment area. Completion of the state's Competency to Stand Trial Certification process within one year of hire is required for continued employment.
Qualifications
Doctoral degree from an American Psychological Association accredited psychology program, licensure or license eligibility in Georgia, familiarity with diagnostic criteria for severe mental illness and intellectual disability.
Preferred Qualifications
  • One year of experience working as an inpatient psychologist.
  • Completion of a predoctoral internship or postdoctoral fellowship, or both with a focus on the practice of criminal forensic psychology.
  • One year of post-licensure experience conducting competency to stand trial and criminal responsibility evaluations.
  • Experience providing expert testimony in forensic mental health.

Benefits
In addition to a competitive salary & benefits, GA Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities is part of a statewide initiative called Total Rewards that seeks to attract and retain employees by supplementing their base pay and benefits with programs designed to improve the quality of their work environment and lead to greater job satisfaction and work/life balance. Eligible employees are offered generous benefits, including health and dental insurance; retirement and savings plan options; and paid holidays, vacation and sick leave. For more information, visit https://careers.ga.gov/employee-benefit
Employment Requirements
To ensure the safety and wellbeing of our employees, individuals and communities we serve, certain positions within DBHDD may require evaluations, vaccinations, professional licensure and certifications. Licenses must be current and enable providers to practice within the State of Georgia.
The following are a listing of evaluations and vaccinations that may be required for employees, including those not involved with direct care:
- Drug Screening
- TB Evaluation
- Annual Influenza*
*Limited exemptions may be made for documented medical contraindications or religious beliefs that object to vaccinations.
DBHDD is an Equal Opportunity Employer
It is the policy of DBHDD to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.
Due to the volume of applications received, we are unable to provide information on application status by phone or e-mail. All qualified applicants will be considered but may not necessarily receive an interview. Selected applicants will be contacted by the hiring agency for next steps in the selection process.
This position is subject to close at any time once a satisfactory applicant pool has been identified.
When applying for this position, you will be asked if you meet the minimum qualifications for this position as stated below and may possibly be presented with additional questions to assess preferred qualifications. Preference will be given to applicants who meet one or more of the preferred qualifications and have demonstrated relevant experience clearly indicated in their work history.
FOR THIS TYPE OF EMPLOYMENT, STATE LAW REQUIRES A NATIONAL AND STATE BACKGROUND CHECK AS A CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT
B9876
Doctorate degree in clinical or counseling psychology from an American Psychological Association (APA) accredited college or university AND current Georgia license to practice psychology AND One year of experience at the lower level Psychologist 1 (HCP140) or equivalent. Note: License may be temporary, provisional, or permanent.

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