1

Police Evidence Technician Jobs in Riverside, CA

Police Evidence Technician information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$11

$22

$33

How much do police evidence technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for police evidence technician in Riverside, CA is $22.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $25.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a police evidence technician?

Police Evidence Technicians are professionals who collect, process, and preserve physical evidence from crime scenes to assist in criminal investigations. They are responsible for documenting, packaging, and maintaining the integrity of evidence, ensuring that proper chain of custody is followed. Their work often includes photographing scenes, dusting for fingerprints, and preparing evidence for analysis or court proceedings. Evidence Technicians play a crucial role in supporting law enforcement and helping to solve crimes.

What does a police evidence technician do?

As a police evidence technician, you use forensic procedures to collect and preserve evidence at a crime scene. Your responsibilities involve performing lab tests and analyzing each sample to establish connections between suspects and criminal activities. You investigate and document the state of a crime scene using sketches, photos, measurements, and specialized software, and you create an index of the individual evidence items you collect. You safely transport evidence to the crime lab for further analysis, and you write detailed reports to document your findings. As needed, you also collaborate with forensic experts to evaluate evidence and verify test results.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a police evidence technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Police Evidence Technician, you need a solid understanding of evidence handling, crime scene processing, and chain of custody protocols, typically supported by an associate or bachelor's degree in criminal justice or a related field. Familiarity with evidence management software, digital imaging tools, and forensic lab equipment is commonly required. Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and integrity help ensure accuracy and reliability in evidence management. These skills and qualities are crucial to maintaining the integrity of criminal investigations and supporting successful prosecutions.

What are some common challenges faced by police evidence technicians in maintaining the integrity of evidence?

Police Evidence Technicians often encounter challenges such as ensuring the proper documentation, chain of custody, and secure storage of evidence to prevent contamination or loss. Attention to detail is critical, as even minor errors can compromise criminal cases. Technicians must also stay current with evolving procedures and technologies, and frequently coordinate with law enforcement officers, forensic analysts, and legal professionals to ensure evidence is handled and transferred correctly. Maintaining organization in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment requires strong time management and communication skills.

What is the difference between Police Evidence Technician vs Crime Scene Investigator?

AspectPolice Evidence TechnicianCrime Scene Investigator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certifications in evidence handlingTypically requires a degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or related field
Work EnvironmentPolice stations, evidence storage facilitiesCrime scenes, laboratories, outdoor locations
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, police departmentsLaw enforcement agencies, forensic labs, crime scene units
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

While both roles support law enforcement, Police Evidence Technicians primarily handle evidence collection, preservation, and storage within police facilities. Crime Scene Investigators often visit crime scenes to document, collect, and analyze evidence on-site. The roles overlap in evidence handling but differ in work environment and specific responsibilities.

Are police evidence technicians in demand?

Police evidence technicians are in steady demand due to the need for specialized skills in handling, cataloging, and preserving evidence. Employment opportunities often depend on law enforcement agency budgets and crime rates, and the role typically requires attention to detail and knowledge of forensic procedures. As crime investigation continues to evolve, the demand for trained evidence technicians remains consistent in many regions.

How much does a police evidence technician make in Illinois?

In Illinois, police evidence technicians typically earn an average salary ranging from $40,000 to $55,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced technicians with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Salaries are often complemented by benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

What are popular job titles related to Police Evidence Technician jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Police Evidence Technician jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Police Evidence Technician jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Police Evidence Technician jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Police Evidence Technician jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Police Evidence Technician job openings:

Infographic showing various Police Evidence Technician job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,830 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Senior District Attorney Investigator A/B

County of Riverside

Riverside, CA

$115K - $177K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

For questions regarding this position, please contact the Recruiter listed in the Supplemental Information section. ABOUT THE POSITION The Riverside County District Attorney's Office seeks Senior District Attorney Investigator A and B levels to fill multiple vacancies throughout Riverside County. Incumbents of this journey level class are peace officers who perform the full range of investigative work within the Bureau of Investigation.

There are a variety of office locations including: Riverside, Murrieta, Banning, Indio, Blythe and other Task Force locations. Available work schedules include: 9/80, 4/10 and 5/40 schedules. The assignments vary with Specialty Task Forces, Fraud and Bureau Assignments.

Higher salary ranges may be available based on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certificates. in addition promotional opportunities exist to the Senior District Attorney Investigator II and III levels. All applicants must submit a resume in order to be considered for the position.

EDUCATION INCENTIVE PAY Bachelor Degree - 2.5% of base pay paid as premium Masters Degree - 5.0% of base pay paid as premium Under direction, to conduct criminal investigations involving the gathering of evidence for the apprehension and prosecution of persons suspected of violating the law; and to do other work as required. Incumbents of this journey level class are peace officers who perform the full range of investigative work within the Office of the District Attorney. This class is distinguished from Supervising District Attorney Investigator in that incumbents in the latter class are responsible for supervising a specialized unit or units within the investigative bureau

The Senior District Attorney Investigator class differs from the lower level District Attorney Investigator class in that incumbents in the latter class perform routine and less complex investigative work under general supervision. Meet the Team. The District Attorney of Riverside County, as the public prosecutor acting on behalf of the People, vigorously enforces the law, pursues the truth, protects those victimized by crime, exonerates the innocent, and safeguards the rights of all to ensure that justice is done on behalf of our community.

The office's staff of over 700 is comprised of prosecuting attorneys, sworn investigators, victim-witness advocates, paralegals, investigative technicians, forensic analysts, and a wide range of information technology and supporting staff all committed to excellence and integrity in public service. We are, and we seek to maintain, a diverse workforce to match a diverse county. EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES Investigates actual and suspected law violations, including cases of a difficult and complex nature; gathers, preserves, analyzes, and reports evidence; conducts field investigations and searches crime scenes; interviews and interrogates complainants, suspects, witnesses, and other persons to obtain information; recommends to attorneys the filing of criminal complaints; writes reports, and assists attorneys in the preparation of cases for trial; investigates the personal background of complainants, suspects, and witnesses; testifies in court regarding evidence and investigations; arrests suspected criminals.

Conducts investigations for the Grand Jury and background investigations of applicants for employment with the District Attorney's Office; Conducts live and photo identification line-ups. Executes search warrants and court orders upon criminal suspects to secure blood/bodily fluid samples for evidence and determination of infection for HIV and other communicable diseases. Participates in, executes, and conducts search warrant operations, surveillances and undercover investigations; travels via automobile, air, and other modes of public transportation, out of state and out of the country with little notice; assists in the transportation of prisoners, witnesses, and victims over long distances.

Sends and receives teletype printouts; operates radio, mobile and base station police radio equipment, mobile and land line telephones and paging equipment and operates the District Attorney's Command/Dispatch Center. Loads, transports, and stores evidence; operates technical investigative equipment such as tape recorders, cameras, and electronic sound equipment. Explains District Attorney policies, procedures as well as applicable laws and regulations to the public, other government agencies, witnesses, suspects, and victims.

Prepares and maintains statistical and operational logs, records, reports, and maintains computer data bases relevant to assignments. Monitors and responds to security alarms located in assigned county facilities. Assigned full or part-time staff assignments including law enforcement liaison, range master, training officer, personnel background investigator, criminal justice instructor, coordinator of the District Attorney's hazardous materials task force, and bureau security officer.

Assigned periodically as Bureau Officer of the Day; may be assigned to investigate police officer-involved incidents, consumer and insurance fraud, hazardous materials violations, child abduction and criminal/grand jury investigations involving public officials; may be assigned to drug and other law enforcement multi-agency task forces, criminal intelligence and organized crime, and other specialized units within the Bureau of Investigation. Investigate family support cases and apprehend persons suspected of violating family support laws. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Education: Completion of 30 semester or 45 quarter units at an accredited college, including 12 semester or 18 quarter units in Criminal Justice, Administration of Justice, Criminology, Law Enforcement or a closely related field.

OPTION I Experience: Three years of criminal investigative experience, in a sworn status, in a civilian governmental law enforcement agency which included as a primary responsibility the performance of field investigations. OPTION II Experience: Two years of experience as a District Attorney Investigator with the County of Riverside. Knowledge of: The principles and techniques of crime investigation; criminal law, including the rules of evidence, arrest, search and seizure; the techniques of interviewing and interrogating witnesses and suspects.

Ability to: Gather, preserve, analyze, and report evidence; draw logical conclusions and formulate sound recommendations; communicate effectively in oral and written form; establish and maintain effective working relationships with the members of the public and other law enforcement personnel. Other Requirements License/Certificate: (Depending on Assignment) Possession of a valid California, Arizona or Nevada Driver's License. Possession of a valid Intermediate P.O.S.T

Certificate defined by 830.1 is minimally required. An Advanced P.O.S.T. is preferred

Must be able to pass an extensive background check. SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION Please note this is a continuous recruitment, so candidates are reviewed at the request of the department. For questions regarding this recruitment: Please contact Mary Miller at 951-955-3464 or mmiller@rivco.org

Please allow 1-2 business days for a response to general inquiries. ________________________________________________________________________________________ APPLICATION INFORMATION Veteran's Preference The County has a Veterans Preference Policy applicable to new hires. To qualify, attach the required documents to your job application.

Documents include a copy of your (or your spouse's) Member-4 Form DD-214 indicating dates of service. For spousal preference, and as applicable, the following documents: a copy of your marriage certificate, spouse's death certificate, a letter of spouse's disability and/or letter of service-related death (if available) from the U.S. Veteran's Administration

For privacy reasons, it is recommended that you remove your social security information from the document(s). A Human Resources Representative will review the materials and determine if you qualify for veterans' preference. For complete details and documentation requirements, please review the Veterans Preference Policy, C-3 here: https://rivcocob.org/board-policies Reasonable Accommodations The County of Riverside is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to applicants as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA)

Qualified individuals with disabilities who need a reasonable accommodation during the application or selection process should contact the recruiter for the position noted above. For additional information and/or to obtain the appropriate form for requesting a reasonable accommodation, please visit the Disability Access Office web page located at: https://rc-hr.com/disability Work Location and Telework In-person attendance is the standard work expectation for County of Riverside assignments. Certain assignments may be eligible for a hybrid telework schedule; however, telework arrangements are subject to management approval, operational needs, and/or may be modified or discontinued at any time

Employees who telework are expected to be able to report to their assigned worksite on short notice or as operational needs require. Unless otherwise specified for a particular position, employees are expected to reside in California following appointment. Limited exceptions may apply.

Applicants should contact the assigned recruiter for additional information regarding work location expectations, telework eligibility, and residency requirements. Proof of Education If using education to qualify or when requested by the recruiter, upload a copy of any license(s), official/unofficial transcript(s), degrees, and/or related employment documents to your NeoGov account at the time of application and before the closing date. Official or unofficial transcripts will be accepted.

If your education was completed outside of the United States, you will need to provide a copy of your Foreign Education Equivalency evaluation from a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) or Association of International Credential Evaluators, Inc. (AICE). Work Authorization Requirement Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of application.

The County of Riverside does not participate in visa sponsorship programs, including H1-B visas, and will not provide sponsorship for any employment-based visas. Equal Opportunity Employer The County of Riverside is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is the policy of the County of Riverside to provide equal employment opportunities for all qualified persons.

All applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, ancestry, medical condition (cancer and genetic characteristics), genetic information, or denial of medical and family care leave, or any other non-job-related factors. Pre-Employment All employment offers are contingent upon successful completion of pre-employment requirements including a criminal background investigation, which involves fingerprinting. (A felony or misdemeanor conviction may disqualify the applicant from County employment).

A pre-employment physical examination and background check may be required. Probationary Period As an Approved Local Merit System, all County of Riverside employees, except those serving "At Will," are subject to the probationary period provisions as specified in the applicable Memorandum of Understanding, County Resolution, or Salary Ordinance. Temporary and Per Diem employees serve at the pleasure of the agency/department head.

General Information Current County of Riverside and/or current employees of the hiring department may receive priority consideration. Qualified candidates may be considered for future County vacancies. Job postings may close without notice based on application volume.

Submit your complete application by the recruitment close date; no late applications are accepted. Ensure all relevant experience/education is reflected on your application/resume, as a failure to demonstrate position requirements may disqualify applicants. A description of job duties directly copied from the job classification or job posting will not be considered.

Please read and follow any special application instructions on this posting. Click the 'Apply' link located on this page to submit your application. For additional instructions on the application process, examinations, Veteran's preference, pre-employment accommodation or other employment questions, please refer to our web site, www.rc-hr.com

If you are experiencing technical problems, you may contact the governmentjobs.com applicant support desk Monday through Friday, 6 am to 5 pm Pacific Time at support@governmentjobs.com or toll-free 1-855-524-5627.