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Forensics Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Maricopa County

Forensic Scientist

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$36.90 - $45/hr

Performs comparative analysis in various forensics, including latent comparisons, shoe impressions ... Operating and maintaining scientific instruments and apparatus used in a crime laboratory.

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How much do forensics scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensics scientist in the United States is $79,408.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,500.00 and $93,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Forensics Scientists face when analyzing evidence in the lab?

Forensics Scientists often encounter challenges such as handling degraded or contaminated samples, interpreting complex data, and ensuring the chain of custody is meticulously maintained. Working under tight deadlines to deliver accurate results for ongoing investigations can add pressure, especially when court dates approach. Collaboration with law enforcement, attorneys, and other specialists is frequent, requiring clear communication and documentation to ensure findings are properly understood and utilized. Attention to detail and adherence to strict protocols are crucial to prevent errors that could impact legal outcomes.

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

To thrive as a Forensics Scientist, you need a solid background in biology, chemistry, or forensic science, often supported by at least a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, analytical instruments (like GC-MS and DNA sequencers), and forensic software is essential, and certifications such as those from the American Board of Criminalistics can be advantageous. Strong attention to detail, critical thinking, and clear communication skills are crucial for analyzing evidence and presenting findings in reports or court. These skills and qualifications ensure accurate, reliable analysis that supports criminal investigations and upholds the integrity of the justice system.

What does a Forensics Scientist do?

A Forensics Scientist analyzes physical evidence from crime scenes to help solve criminal cases. Their work involves collecting samples, performing laboratory tests, interpreting results, and providing expert testimony in court. They may work with biological evidence like blood or DNA, chemical substances, or trace materials such as hair and fibers. Forensics Scientists play a critical role in the criminal justice system by providing scientific support to law enforcement agencies.

What is the difference between Forensics Scientist vs Crime Scene Investigator?

AspectForensics ScientistCrime Scene Investigator
CredentialsBachelor's or master's in forensic science, chemistry, biologyHigh school diploma or associate's; specialized training
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilitiesCrime scenes, field investigations
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, private labsPolice departments, law enforcement
Primary FocusAnalyzing evidence, lab testingCollecting evidence at crime scenes

While both roles support criminal investigations, Forensics Scientists focus on laboratory analysis of evidence, whereas Crime Scene Investigators primarily gather evidence at crime scenes. Both careers require specialized training and are essential in the forensic process, but they differ in work environment and daily tasks.

More about Forensics Scientist jobs
What cities are hiring for Forensics Scientist jobs? Cities with the most Forensics Scientist job openings:
What states have the most Forensics Scientist jobs? States with the most job openings for Forensics Scientist jobs include:
Forensics Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensics Scientist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,408 per year, or $38.2 per hour.
FORENSIC SCIENCE ADMINISTRATOR I - DRUG CHEMISTRY GROUP SUPERVISOR

FORENSIC SCIENCE ADMINISTRATOR I - DRUG CHEMISTRY GROUP SUPERVISOR

State of Illinois

Chicago, IL

$8.5K - $12K/mo

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

State Of Illinois rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 74 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 50 rated states

Job description

Job Requisition ID: 57406 
Opening Date: 07/09/2026
Closing Date: 07/23/2026
Agency: Illinois State Police
Class Title: FORENSIC SCIENCE ADMINISTRATOR 1 - 15911 
Skill Option: None 
Bilingual Option: None
Salary: Anticipated Starting Salary $8,559 monthly; Full Range $8,559 - $12,646 monthly
Job Type: Salaried
Category: Full Time 
County: Cook
Number of Vacancies: 1
Bargaining Unit Code: VR704 Departments of Corrections, Financial and Professional Regulation, Juvenile Justice and State Police Supervisors Laborers' International Union of North America - ISEA, Local 2002; Southern and Central Illinois Laborers' District Council
Merit Comp Code: 

This position is a union position; therefore, provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position.

All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the illinois.jobs2web.com website. State of Illinois employees should click the link near the top left to apply through the SuccessFactors employee career portal.

Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered.

 

Position Overview: 

The Group Supervisor of the Forensic Drug Chemistry Section at the Forensic Science Center at Chicago provides technical leadership and operational oversight for all Drug Chemistry casework. This role ensures highquality, timely laboratory results through expert review of analytical reports and effective management of equipment, supplies, and staffing resources. Serving as the section's primary technical authority, the supervisor guides personnel in resolving complex analytical challenges and maintains rigorous scientific standards. The position also stays current with emerging technologies and methodologies by participating in professional meetings, ensuring the section delivers reliable, modern forensic drug analysis to support Chicago-area agencies and courts.

The Illinois State Police offers a robust benefit package including: 

  • Health, life, vision, and dental insurance. 

  • 12 weeks paid maternity/paternity leave. 

  • Pension Plan 

  • Deferred Compensation, and other pre-tax benefit programs. 

  • Employees earn twelve (12) paid sick days annually. 

  • Ten to twenty-five (10-25) paid vacation days based on years of service. 

  • Employees earn three (3) paid personal days pro-rated based on start date. 

  • Thirteen-Fourteen (13-14) paid state holidays annually. 

Why Work for Illinois? 

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you're helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you're part of something bigger-something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home. 

No matter what state career you're looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule-flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois. 

Essential Functions
  • Performs technical and supervisory duties as the group supervisor of the Forensic Drug Chemistry section at Forensic Science Center at Chicago. 
  • Technically reviews and evaluates Drug Chemistry laboratory reports.    
  • Ensures that the Drug Chemistry section personnel have sufficient equipment, supplies, and commodities to complete their coursework responsibilities. 
  • Ensures quality Drug Chemistry casework is provided in a timely manner to all Chicago Laboratory user agencies and courts. 
  • Provides technical expertise; in particular, provides expertise to section personnel in troubleshooting problems of a difficult nature.    
  • Attends professional meetings in order to stay abreast of the latest technology for Drug Chemistry analysis. 
  • Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Requires a bachelor's degree in a natural or forensic science, preferably supplemented by a master's degree in one of the biological, natural, physical or forensic sciences, or related discipline. 
  • Requires two (2) years of professional forensic science work experience such as would be gained at the advanced caseworker level. 
Conditions of Employment
  • Successful completion of initial and on-going, random, alcohol and drug screens. 
  • Successful completion of a background investigation. 
  • Successful completion of a polygraph examination. 
  • Ability to maintain credibility in providing courtroom testimony. 
  • Ability to adhere to Illinois State Police's ethical standards. 
  • Ability to adhere to Illinois State Police's policies and procedures. 
  • Requires ability to travel in the performance of duties, with overnight stays as appropriate. 
  • Ability to maintain proficiency in forensic science casework on an as-needed basis. 
  • Requires valid driver's license. 
  • Certain provisions of the revolving door restrictions contained in 5 ILCS 430/5-45 apply to this position. As a result, the employee should be aware that if offered nonstate employment during state employment or within one year immediately after ending State employment, the employee shall, prior to accepting any such nonstate employment offer, notify the Office of the Executive Inspector General for the Agencies of the Illinois Governor (OEIG) or may be subject to a fine. 

 The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job descriptions. 

About the Agency

The Illinois State Police strives for excellence seeking to be one of the premiere policing agencies in the country. Our core values are Integrity, Service, and Pride. We are seeking individuals with similar values to join us on our mission to promote public safety. 

Work Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30am-5:00pm
Headquarter Location: 1941 W Roosevelt Rd, Chicago, Illinois, 60608-1248
Work County: Cook
Email: ISP.JobPostings@illinois.gov
Posting Group: Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics

This position [DOES NOT] contain "Specialized Skills" (as that term is used in CBAs).

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Use the "Apply" button at the top right or bottom right of this posting to begin the application process.

If you are not already signed in, you will be prompted to do so. 

State employees should sign in to the career portal for State of Illinois employees - a link is available at the top left of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon. 

Non-State employees should log in on the using the "View Profile" link in the top right of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon.  If you have never before signed in, you will be prompted to create an account.

If you have questions about how to apply, please see the following resources:

State employees: Log in to the career portal for State employees and review the Internal Candidate Application Job Aid

Non-State employees: on Illinois.jobs2web.com - click "Application Procedures" in the footer of every page of the website.

The main form of communication will be through email. Please check your "junk mail", "spam", or "other" folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:

  • donotreply@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
  • systems@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com

What State Of Illinois employees say

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State of Illinois logo

About State of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Illinois is not a traditional company, but rather a governmental entity encompassing diverse agencies and departments that serve the constituents of Illinois. Based in Illinois, United States, this governmental body communicates with its citizens through the official website illinois.gov. The website is a one-stop resource for Illinois residents to access information about the state's services, including education, healthcare, transportation, and public safety, among others.

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Springfield, IL, US

Year founded

2009

Social media

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