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Part Time Forensic Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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All JobsPart Time Forensic Science JobsPart Time Forensic Science Jobs in California

Part Time Forensic Science information

See California salary details

$35K

$51.7K

$77.5K

How much do part time forensic science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for part time forensic science in California is $51,711.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,900.00 and $54,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the easiest forensic job to get?

Entry-level forensic science positions such as laboratory assistants or evidence technicians are generally easier to obtain than specialized roles like forensic toxicologists or DNA analysts. These roles often require basic knowledge of lab procedures and may not require advanced degrees, making them accessible for newcomers to the field.

What are 5 potential jobs for forensic science?

Forensic science graduates can pursue roles such as forensic scientist, crime scene investigator, forensic technician, forensic analyst, and laboratory analyst. These positions typically involve collecting, analyzing, and presenting evidence using scientific methods and tools like microscopes and DNA analysis equipment in laboratory or crime scene environments.

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. While some CSIs are law enforcement officers, many are civilian forensic specialists with backgrounds in biology, chemistry, or criminal justice, and do not need to be police officers. Certification and training in forensic techniques and evidence handling are often required regardless of law enforcement status.

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

To thrive as a Part Time Forensic Scientist, you need a strong background in biology, chemistry, or criminal justice, typically supported by a relevant degree or laboratory experience. Familiarity with forensic laboratory equipment, evidence analysis software, and chain-of-custody procedures is essential. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are vital soft skills for accurate evidence processing and courtroom testimony. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the integrity of investigations and supporting the justice system with reliable scientific findings.

What are part-time forensic science jobs?

Part-time forensic science jobs involve working fewer hours than a full-time role, typically assisting in the collection, analysis, and interpretation of physical evidence related to criminal investigations. These positions may be found in crime laboratories, police departments, or private forensic firms. Part-time forensic scientists may process evidence, prepare reports, and sometimes provide expert testimony in court. The flexible schedule can be ideal for students, professionals seeking additional experience, or those balancing other responsibilities.

What is the difference between Part Time Forensic Science vs Part Time Crime Scene Technician?

AspectPart Time Forensic SciencePart Time Crime Scene Technician
Required CredentialsForensic science degree or certificationCrime scene investigation training or certification
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, offices, crime labsOn-site at crime scenes, labs, and field locations
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, forensic labsPolice departments, crime scene units
Common Search & ComparisonPart Time Forensic Science vs Part Time Crime Scene Technician

Part Time Forensic Science roles typically involve laboratory analysis and report writing, while Part Time Crime Scene Technicians focus on collecting evidence at crime scenes. Both roles require relevant certifications and work within law enforcement or forensic industries, but their work environments and daily tasks differ significantly.

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 expertise, critical thinking, and courtroom testimony provided by forensic scientists. Human judgment remains essential in interpreting evidence and making complex decisions. Forensic science professionals will continue to work alongside AI tools to improve accuracy and efficiency.

What are some common challenges faced by part-time forensic scientists, and how can they effectively manage workload and case responsibilities?

Part-time forensic scientists often face the challenge of balancing multiple case assignments within limited working hours, which can lead to pressure during peak periods or urgent requests. Effective time management, clear communication with supervisors, and prioritizing tasks based on deadlines are crucial strategies for success. Additionally, collaborating closely with full-time team members ensures continuity and proper handoff of cases. Regular updates and documentation help maintain case integrity and ensure seamless workflow even when not on-site.
What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Science jobs in California? The most popular types of Forensic Science jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Part Time Forensic Science jobs in California? For Part Time Forensic Science jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Part Time Forensic Science jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Part Time Forensic Science jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Part Time Forensic Science jobs? Cities in California with the most Part Time Forensic Science job openings:
Part Time Forensic Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Part Time Forensic Science job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,711 per year, or $24.9 per hour.
Part-time Faculty, Forensic Technology (Administration of Justice)

Part-time Faculty, Forensic Technology (Administration of Justice)

Palomar College

San Marcos, CA • On-site

$75.81 - $119.20/hr

Part-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Position Title
Part-time Faculty, Forensic Technology (Administration of Justice)
Department
Public Safety Programs
Primary Location
San Marcos Campus
Location Details
A part-time faculty member's assignment may include day, evening and/or weekend work, and work at more than one location (San Marcos campus and/or off-campus locations, as well as distance education classes).
Projected Start Date
Current and Continuous Application Pool
Full or Part Time
Part-time
Category
Academic
Hours per week
Part-time faculty members are not to exceed a load of 67%.
Work Schedule
A part-time faculty member's assignment may include day, evening and/or weekend work, and work at more than one location (San Marcos campus and/or off-campus locations, as well as distance education classes).
Salary/Wage
Initial Placement Hourly Range: $75.81 - $119.20 (instructional); $74.60 - $117.69 (non-instructional)
For salary and placement information, visit www.palomar.edu/hr/employees/classifications/salary/ and use the links in the Part-time Faculty section.
Salary/Wage Frequency
Hourly
Benefits
For information about part-time faculty health benefits, visit https://www.palomar.edu/hr/employees/benefits-2/ and click on Part-time Faculty Benefits.
Part-time faculty employees are eligible to elect membership in one of the following retirement plans:
  • CalSTRS (California State Teachers Retirement System)
  • APPLE (Accumulation Program for Part-Time Limited-Service Employees)

Job Duties
The Public Safety Programs department is seeking qualified part-time instructors to teach Administration of Justice - Fingerprint Analysis in our new Forensics program. Teaching assignment(s) may include any of the curriculum approved courses within the discipline of Administration of Justice - Forensic Technology, including Beginning and Advanced Fingerprint Analysis courses, Introduction to Forensic Science, and Introduction to Crime Scene Investigation.
Minimum Qualifications
Must meet one of the sets of qualifications listed under 1) through 3):
  1. Any bachelor's degree or higher AND two years of professional experience.
  2. Any associate degree AND six years of professional experience.
  3. A combination of education and experience that is at least the equivalent of the qualifications in either 1) or 2) above. You must complete and attach the Application for Equivalency form (www.palomar.edu/hr/equivalency-app/), if you do not possess the specific minimum qualifications as stated above, which includes degrees that have not been awarded at the time of submitting the application.

Only coursework completed at, and degrees awarded by, accredited institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education will be considered as satisfying the minimum qualifications. Coursework and degrees that are completed outside of the United States are required to have transcripts evaluated (evaluation to U.S. equivalency and a course by course analysis) by an appropriate U.S. credentials evaluation service. For a list of credentials evaluation agencies accepted by Palomar College, visit the National Association of Credentials Evaluation Services (NACES) website at https://www.naces.org/members, or the Association of International Credential Evaluators, Inc. (AICE) website at http://aice-eval.org/.
NOTE: For professional experience, a "year" is defined as equivalent to 40 hours per week for 10 months.
Preferred Qualifications:
  1. Recent experience in a forensic laboratory.
  2. Professional expertise in Forensic Science and Fingerprint Analysis - evidence of current knowledge, training, or field experience in latent print examination, crime scene processing, and forensic technology, including current techniques and best practices used by California law enforcement and crime laboratories.
  3. Strong academic preparation in criminal justice, forensic science, or related disciplines, as demonstrated by upper-division and/or graduate-level coursework addressing crime, justice, and forensic analysis.
  4. Demonstrated ability to integrate hands-on learning, scenario-based training, and laboratory or mock crime scene exercises into classroom instruction.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility and Antiracism (DEIAA) Statement
Palomar College serves over 30,000 students from a variety of backgrounds and we are proud to be a Hispanic Serving Institution. Our student body is rich in its diversity. Click here to see a quick overview of our student demographics on our recent Student Fact Sheet.
Palomar College is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility and antiracism (DEIAA). We are dedicated to empowering students to succeed and are guided by our core values; some of which are the following:
  • Access - We make education possible for everyone.
  • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion - We recognize and respect diversity, seek to foster a culture of inclusion and belonging, and strive to address inequities.

All positions require cultural competency which includes the sensitivity to and understanding of the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, and ethnic backgrounds of community college students, faculty, and staff.
Licenses and/or Certificates
A Certified Latent Print Examiner (CLPE) certificate meeting the requirements set forth by the International Association for Identification (IAI) is preferred but not required.
Supervision Received
Part-time faculty members receive supervision from the Division Dean and direction from the Department Chair.
Working Conditions
Complete working conditions may be viewed at https://www.palomar.edu/hr/employees/personnel/ (use the link for the Palomar Faculty Federation Agreement).
Terms of Employment
Part-time faculty members are not to exceed a load of 67%.
The person selected for hire will be required to complete the following pre-employment requirements: live scan/fingerprinting, official transcript(s), TB risk assessment, and employment verification(s). Other pre-employment requirements may be required depending on the position (i.e. certifications or licenses; see applicable job posting section for details). Successful completion of all pre-employment requirements is mandatory to be eligible for employment. These requirements are in accordance with the following Administrative Procedures and Board Policies: AP 7120, AP 7120a, AP 7125, AP 7126, AP 7127, AP 7330, BP 7330, AP 7336, AP 7337, and BP 7335.
Complete terms of employment may be viewed at https://www.palomar.edu/hr/employees/personnel/ (use the link for the Palomar Faculty Federation Agreement).
Posting Detail Information
Open Date
11/03/2025
Close Date
11/03/2027
Open Until Filled
No
Posting Number
P0407T
Additional Application Information
  • For more information regarding the position, contact Michelle Soria, Lead Administration of Justice Faculty at 760-744-1150, ext. 2961 or via email at msoria@palomar.edu.
  • This posting is to fill current openings and for an application pool. Should more openings come up in the future, the department will contact those that they are interested in.

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