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Police Chemist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$2.1K/wk

... police, athletics coaches, academic advisors, and more. William Paterson University supports a ... Organic Chemistry Lectures and Labs * Chemistry for Health Sciences * Biomaterials Chemistry

Job Title Visiting Faculty - Chemistry Department Mathematical and Physical Science Department JM ... Police Department at 513-529-2223. Labor Law Posters for Applicants Please visit our Labor Law ...

Job Title Visiting Faculty - Chemistry Department Mathematical and Physical Science Department JM ... Police Department at 513-529-2223. Labor Law Posters for Applicants Please visit our Labor Law ...

Additionally, a team of scientists is trained to assist police officers in clandestine laboratory seizures as well as educate law enforcement. For additional information on the Chemistry Evidence ...

Additionally, a team of scientists is trained to assist police officers in clandestine laboratory seizures as well as educate law enforcement. For additional information on the Chemistry Evidence ...

$63K/yr

Additionally, a team of scientists is trained to assist police officers in clandestine laboratory seizures as well as educate law enforcement. For additional information on the Chemistry Evidence ...

Additionally, a team of scientists is trained to assist police officers in clandestine laboratory seizures as well as educate law enforcement. For additional information on the Chemistry Evidence ...

Additionally, a team of scientists is trained to assist police officers in clandestine laboratory seizures as well as educate law enforcement. For additional information on the Chemistry Evidence ...

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Police Chemist information

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$17

$30

$52

How much do police chemist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for police chemist in the United States is $30.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $35.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a police chemist?

Police chemists are forensic scientists who analyze physical evidence collected from crime scenes to help law enforcement solve cases. They use chemical techniques and laboratory equipment to examine substances such as drugs, blood, fibers, and other trace materials. Their findings can assist in identifying suspects, determining causes of death, and supporting criminal investigations. Police chemists often work closely with detectives, attorneys, and other forensic experts, and may be required to testify in court about their analyses.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a police chemist?

To thrive as a Police Chemist, you need a strong background in chemistry or forensic science, typically with a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, analytical techniques (like GC-MS or HPLC), and certifications in forensic analysis are commonly required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and clear written and verbal communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting results and testifying in court. These skills ensure accurate, reliable evidence analysis, supporting criminal investigations and the justice system.

What are some common challenges a police chemist might face when analyzing forensic evidence?

Police Chemists often encounter challenges such as handling limited or degraded samples, maintaining the integrity of evidence, and ensuring analysis meets strict legal standards. They must work meticulously to avoid contamination and produce results that can withstand scrutiny in court. Additionally, balancing urgent casework with thorough, methodical testing can be demanding, especially when collaborating with law enforcement and legal teams under tight deadlines.

What is the difference between Police Chemist vs Forensic Scientist?

AspectPolice ChemistForensic Scientist
CredentialsRelevant chemistry certifications, forensic science degreesForensic science degrees, specialized certifications
Work EnvironmentCrime labs, police stationsCrime scenes, labs, courtrooms
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, police departmentsLegal system, forensic labs, government agencies
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles within law enforcementBroader forensic analysis and casework

Police Chemists primarily analyze evidence for law enforcement agencies, focusing on chemical analysis related to crimes. Forensic Scientists have a broader role, including analyzing physical evidence, DNA, and providing expert testimony. While both roles require similar credentials and work in related environments, Police Chemists are more specialized in chemical testing within police labs, whereas Forensic Scientists cover a wider range of forensic disciplines.

More about Police Chemist jobs
What cities are hiring for Police Chemist jobs? Cities with the most Police Chemist job openings:
What states have the most Police Chemist jobs? States with the most job openings for Police Chemist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Police Chemist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,466 per year, or $31 per hour.

Forensic Technician 1 (Biology) (Grant Funded)

West Virginia State Police

South Charleston, WV โ€ข On-site

$53K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Salary: $53,050.00 Annually
Location : South Charleston, WV, WV
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 8837
Department: CIB Forensic Laboratory
Opening Date: 08/03/2026
Description
Under general supervision, at the full-performance level, performs laboratory testing and associated recordkeeping for Forensic Scientists in the West Virginia State Police Forensic Laboratory (WVSPFL). Responsible for conducting tests for laboratory scientists and maintaining detailed records including case file worksheets, chain of custody records and associated technical and administrative documentation. Performs related work as required.
Job Duties
Examines, organizes, inventories, tests forensic evidence ensuring integrity of the evidence at all times in accordance with established laboratory standards. Develop an understanding of discipline and lab-related protocols and procedures. Learn and apply methodology in critical analysis of evidence in criminal cases. Maintain the chain of custody on submitted evidence. Under guidance of a Forensic Scientist, conducts basic examinations of suspected evidence. Prepares various technical and administrative records in accordance with established laboratory standards. Submits all records as required by WVSPFL rules, regulations or other directives. Assists and performs various administrative support tasks in work area. Responsible for general appearance, maintenance and security of any assigned office or laboratory area. Responsible for the proper use, maintenance, necessary replacement and security of all personal and individual issue equipment. Responsible for the proper use, care and maintenance of all Division owned or maintained, assigned or utilized transportation equipment. Responsible for the proper documentation, routing and dissemination of all messages and information as received. Provides courtroom testimony as necessary. Handles hazardous materials and/or waste in compliance with established regulations and procedures.
Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university with a major in chemistry, biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, forensic sciences, natural sciences, or related field. Discipline specific educational requirements as specified.
Special Requirements: Ability to complete a successful background check and polygraph examination. Possession of valid driver's license.
Additional Information
Paygrade: $53,050 (entry)
As an agency of State Government, the West Virginia State Police provides a wide variety of benefits to it's employees. As a WV public employee, some benefits are mandatory to all public employees, while some are completely voluntary. Some benefits are free to employees while others require a monthly premium.
Current year details regarding plan options and monthly premium costs can be obtained by logging onto the PEIA website at
Life Insurance:
  • PEIA offers $10,000 life insurance policies for all fulltime employees. PEIA also offers Optional Life Insurance of varying amounts that include $5,000 to $500,000 worth of coverage, subject to an insurability screening. For first time PEIA participants, PEIA allows up to $100,000 of Optional Life Insurance coverage for employees to enroll without the insurability screening. PEIA offers Dependent Life coverage, please visit the PEIA website for plans and pricing
  • The WV State Police also offers a $4,000 life insurance policy through UNUM Provident Life Insurance.

Retirement Plan:
  • As WV public employees, all full-time public employees are required to participate with the Public Employees Retirement Plan, regulated by the Consolidated Public Retirement Board. Employees hired on or after July 1, 2015 will be members of the PERS II plan, contributing 6% of their gross monthly salary. WV State Police contributes 10% of the member's gross monthly salary for a combined total of 16%. Please visit to explore the Retirement Benefits and Requirements.
  • An additional retirement option is available with Empower Retirement and functions as a 457 Retirement Plan. Please visit to learn more about the retirement options for both pre- and post- tax contributions.

Additional Benefits:
  • Mountaineer Flexible Benefits offers additional insurance such as Dental, Vision, Hearing, Legal, Short- and Long-term disability, Flexible Spending Accounts, and Health Savings Accounts (for qualifying employees who enroll in the PPB Plan C Health Plan offered by PEIA). To explore the variety of plans and prices, please visit
  • All full-time employees for the WV State Police recieve a yearly $500 longevity salary increase.
  • All full-time employees earn 15-24 paid vacation days per year depending on longevity.
  • All full-time employees earn 1.5 sick days per month.
  • The state offers 12 paid holidays a year (for full-time employees).

about WV State employee benefits.
-WVSP is an Equal Opportunity Employer-