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Independent Contractor Forensic Science Jobs in Minnesota

Osaic

Incident Responder II

Oakdale, MN · Hybrid

$75K - $94K/yr

Current Employees and Contractors Apply HereOsaic Careers IT Opportunity in Financial Services ... As an Incident Responder II, you will be expected to work independently and proactively. Education ...

Skin Clique

Aesthetic Physician Assistant

Saint Paul, MN

$101K - $137K/yr

Rooted in science and evidence-based care, Skin Clique integrates skin health into the broader ... The Opportunity This is a 1099 independent contractor role. You bring your clinical excellence ...

Eurofins Scientific

Technologist I

Minneapolis, MN

$20 - $23.50/hr

... forensics, advanced material sciences and in the support of clinical studies, as well as having an ... Ability to work independently and as part of a team, self-motivation, adaptability, and a positive ...

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Independent Contractor Forensic Science information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Independent Contractor Forensic Scientist, and why are they important?

To excel as an Independent Contractor Forensic Scientist, you typically need a degree in forensic science or a related field, strong analytical skills, and experience in evidence handling. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, forensic analysis software, and relevant certifications such as ABFDE or ABC are commonly required. Excellent attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work independently are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accuracy, reliability, and credibility in legal investigations and expert testimony.

What is an Independent Contractor Forensic Scientist?

An Independent Contractor Forensic Scientist is a professional who provides forensic science services on a contractual basis rather than as a full-time employee of a single organization. These contractors may work with law enforcement agencies, legal teams, private companies, or individuals to analyze evidence, provide expert testimony, or consult on forensic matters. Their expertise can include areas such as DNA analysis, toxicology, digital forensics, and crime scene investigation. As independent contractors, they often manage their own schedules and client relationships, allowing for flexibility and diverse work opportunities.

What is the difference between Independent Contractor Forensic Science vs Forensic Laboratory Technician?

AspectIndependent Contractor Forensic ScienceForensic Laboratory Technician
CredentialsVaries; often requires specialized certifications or degrees in forensic scienceTypically requires an associate's or bachelor's degree in forensic science or related field
Work EnvironmentSelf-employed, often working on contract basis, may work at multiple locationsEmployed by a forensic lab, working primarily in a laboratory setting
Employer & Industry UsageContracted by law enforcement agencies, private firms, or legal entitiesEmployed by government or private forensic labs, supporting criminal investigations
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for freelance forensic work or consulting rolesCompared for routine lab analysis and evidence processing

In summary, Independent Contractor Forensic Science professionals typically work independently on a contractual basis, often requiring specialized certifications, while Forensic Laboratory Technicians are employed by labs, working in a structured environment with specific educational requirements.

Will AI replace forensic scientist?

AI can assist forensic scientists by analyzing large datasets, identifying patterns, and automating routine tasks, but it is unlikely to fully replace the role. Forensic science requires critical thinking, interpretation of evidence, and expert judgment that AI cannot replicate entirely. Forensic scientists will continue to play a vital role in evidence analysis and case investigation, often using AI tools as part of their workflow.

What are some common challenges faced by independent contractor forensic scientists, and how can they be addressed?

Independent contractor forensic scientists often face challenges such as managing unpredictable workloads, ensuring access to necessary lab resources, and maintaining up-to-date credentials. Unlike those working within an agency, contractors may need to secure their own equipment or laboratory partnerships and handle administrative tasks like invoicing and client communication. To address these hurdles, building strong professional networks, staying organized, and investing in continuing education are essential. These steps help ensure consistent work quality and professional growth in a dynamic field.

What are 5 potential jobs for forensic science?

Forensic science professionals can work as crime scene investigators, forensic analysts, forensic toxicologists, fingerprint examiners, and forensic pathologists. These roles involve collecting, analyzing, and interpreting evidence, often requiring specialized training and certification. They typically work in laboratories, crime scenes, or medical examiner offices to support criminal investigations.

Is it easy to get hired as a CSI?

Getting hired as a forensic science crime scene investigator (CSI) typically requires relevant education, such as a degree in forensic science, criminal justice, or a related field, along with experience in crime scene analysis and evidence collection. Competition can be high, and candidates often need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and certifications to improve their chances of employment.

Can I be a CSI without being a cop?

A Crime Scene Investigator (CSI) is a forensic science professional who collects and analyzes evidence from crime scenes. CSIs are typically not law enforcement officers but often work closely with police; however, they do not need to be police officers themselves and usually require specialized training or certification in forensic science or crime scene investigation.
What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Science jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Forensic Science jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Independent Contractor Forensic Science jobs in Minnesota? For Independent Contractor Forensic Science jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Forensic Science jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Forensic Science jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Independent Contractor Forensic Science jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Independent Contractor Forensic Science job openings:
Independent Contractor Forensic Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Forensic Science job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Forensic Structural Engineer, Minnesota III

Salas O'Brien, Inc.

Minneota, MN • On-site, Remote

$125K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Salas O'Brien rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

154th of 438 rated engineering

Job description

Forensic Structural Engineer, Minnesota III

At Haag, a Salas O’Brien company, we’ve been a trusted leader in forensic engineering and consulting since 1924, helping clients solve complex, high-stakes problems when it matters most. We’re known for technical excellence, integrity, and clear, defensible conclusions. We’re equally committed to building a career environment where talented engineers can do their best work, grow their expertise, and make a real impact.

In June 2024, Haag merged with Salas O’Brien, expanding what’s possible for our team. Haag remains focused on forensic engineering, and we now offer the added strength of a broader, employee-owned organization. This brings deeper technical resources, expanded collaboration, and more opportunities to build your career across a wide range of disciplines and industries.

Founded in 1975, Salas O’Brien is an employee-owned engineering and professional services firm focused on achieving impact for our clients, our team, and the world. We are engineered for impact, and we bring that same commitment to our people as we do to our projects. We live our values every day: Inspire, Achieve, and Connect, as shared owners of our success with a focus on a sustainable future.

We work across a variety of industries providing integrated engineering and consulting services. Our specialized experience includes design for energy, manufacturing and industrial process, data centers, healthcare, science and technology, high-rise buildings, education, and other building types as well as structural and building sciences, infrastructure asset management, advanced robotics, and more. Our technical expertise is paired with an exceptional team of business development, human resources, finance and accounting, information technology, and marketing professionals, all of whom play a key role in bringing our commitments to deliver outstanding client outcomes and build long-term careers.

Job Summary: We’re seeking a Forensic Structural Engineer ideally in the Minneapolis, MN area. In this remote/home office role, you will investigate and evaluate the cause and extent of structural damage resulting from storms, natural disasters, fires/explosions, construction/design defects, accidents, foundation movement, and more.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Forensic Investigations: Conduct site inspections to determine the cause, origin, and extent of structural damage; evaluate failure modes and contributing factors.
  • Analysis & Reporting: Develop clear, well-supported conclusions and produce high-quality technical reports, documentation, and deliverables.
  • Client Communication: Provide timely, professional updates to clients, contractors, and internal stakeholders; proactively close communication gaps and manage expectations.
  • Collaboration & Independence: Work independently from a home office while leveraging internal experts and resources; build long-term relationships with colleagues, clients, and partners.
  • Project Ownership: Drive issues to resolution with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring deliverables meet or exceed customer expectations and applicable standards.
  • Continuous Improvement: Contribute ideas that strengthen processes, tools, and customer outcomes; help others navigate change and adopt improvements.

Qualifications and Experience

Experience:

  • 2+ years of forensic engineering experience required.
  • Must be able to work independently and with a cross-functional team of experts.
  • Strong technical writing skills are required; the ability to write effective reports is critical. Strong verbal communication skills are necessary; you should be an effective communicator in face-to-face interactions.
  • The ability to provide the utmost in customer service to our clients is a must.
  • Technical proficiency with computers, phones, cameras, etc.
  • Expert Witness experience is preferred.
  • You must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship or any restrictions.

Licensure:

  • Professional Engineer (P.E.) license in MN is required, or eligible by reciprocity.

Physical & Travel Requirements:

  • Ability to perform fieldwork, including confined spaces and roof inspections.
  • Must be able to carry ladders and operate required equipment.
  • Willingness to travel locally, regionally, and nationally by vehicle or plane as needed.
  • Some overnight travel will be required. However, most investigations can be done without overnight travel.

Education:

  • Bachelor of Science degree in Civil or Structural Engineering or a closely related degree from an ABET-accredited university required.
  • Master of Science Degree in Civil or Structural Engineering preferred.

Location:

  • Remote (home office) – ideally in the Minneapolis, MN area.

Compensation & Benefits:

  • Base salary range: $125,000 – $185,000 per year.
  • In addition to the base salary, the compensation plan includes additional, nondiscretionary compensation based on billable productivity above a minimum threshold. Employees may elect at any time to transition to a model based primarily on a higher percentage of their billable rate applied to all billable hours worked. In practice, most employees choose to transition between approximately one and three years, once their billable hours support consistently higher earnings under this model.

This role is also eligible for a comprehensive U.S. based benefits package, including:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off and company holidays
  • Wellness programs and employee assistance resources
  • Professional development support

For more information, visit our full benefits overview here.

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement

Salas O’Brien provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, colour, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, or local laws. Salas O’Brien will accommodate the disability-related needs of applicants as required by law.

Third-Party Agency Notice
We do not accept unsolicited resumes from external recruiters or agencies. We only work with approved partners engaged directly by our Talent Acquisition team for specific searches. Unsolicited submissions will not be eligible for placement fees.

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