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Police Forensics Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

US Department of the Army

$61K/yr

... investigations, forensics, data analysis, administration, community outreach, and tactical ... Creditable specialized experience may have been gained in work on a police force; through service ...

US Department of the Army

$61K/yr

... investigations, forensics, data analysis, administration, community outreach, and tactical ... Creditable specialized experience may have been gained in work on a police force; through service ...

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

$61K/yr

... investigations, forensics, data analysis, administration, community outreach, and tactical ... Creditable specialized experience may have been gained in work on a police force; through service ...

City of San Diego, CA

Criminalist I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$90K - $109K/yr

SI-T11914-202608 Business Area: 1914 - Police Opening Date: 08/28/2026 Closing Date: 9/21/2026 11 ... Computer Forensics * Crime Scene Reconstruction * Digital Forensics * Firearms Identification

City of San Diego, CA

Criminalist II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120K - $145K/yr

SI-T11915-202608 Business Area: 1914 - Police Opening Date: 08/28/2026 Closing Date: 9/21/2026 11 ... Forensic Biology * Narcotic Analysis * Toxicological Analysis * Trace Evidence Analysis NOTES:

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All JobsPolice Forensics JobsPolice Forensics Jobs in California

Police Forensics information

See California salary details

$42.9K

$113.9K

$165.3K

How much do police forensics jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for police forensics in California is $113,938.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,700.00 and $132,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is police forensics?

Police forensics, also known as forensic science, involves the application of scientific methods and techniques to assist law enforcement in solving crimes. Forensic specialists collect, preserve, and analyze physical evidence from crime scenes, such as fingerprints, DNA, blood samples, and digital data. Their findings can help identify suspects, support criminal investigations, and provide critical evidence in court cases. Police forensics plays a vital role in ensuring that justice is served based on reliable and objective analysis.

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

To thrive in Police Forensics, you need a solid background in forensic science, criminal justice, and evidence analysis, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, crime scene investigation tools, and specialized software for evidence processing is essential. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for handling complex cases and presenting findings. These skills ensure accurate evidence collection, analysis, and testimony, which are vital for supporting criminal investigations and securing convictions.

What are some common challenges faced by police forensic professionals when working at crime scenes?

Police forensic professionals often encounter challenges such as preserving evidence integrity in dynamic or contaminated environments and working under tight timelines. They must meticulously document and collect evidence while ensuring it is not compromised, often in stressful or high-pressure situations. Collaboration with detectives and legal teams is essential, as forensics must communicate findings clearly and support investigations throughout the legal process. Adaptability and attention to detail are key to navigating these challenges and contributing effectively to case outcomes.

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

AspectPolice ForensicsCrime Scene Investigator
Required CredentialsForensic science degree, certifications in forensic analysisForensic science or criminal justice degree, certification in crime scene processing
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, crime scenes, courtroomsCrime scenes, laboratories, police stations
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, forensic labsLaw enforcement agencies, crime units
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for crime scene analysis rolesFocuses on scene processing and evidence collection

Police Forensics and Crime Scene Investigators both work within law enforcement to analyze evidence, but Police Forensics often emphasizes laboratory analysis and forensic testing, while Crime Scene Investigators focus more on collecting evidence at crime scenes. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, and they frequently collaborate during criminal investigations.

How to become a police forensics specialist?

To become a police forensics specialist, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in forensic science, criminal justice, or a related field. Relevant skills include knowledge of laboratory techniques, evidence collection, and analysis, often supplemented by certifications such as the Certified Criminalist credential. Prior law enforcement experience or internships can also enhance job prospects.

What does a police forensics officer do?

A police forensics officer collects, analyzes, and preserves physical evidence from crime scenes to help solve crimes. They use laboratory tools and techniques such as fingerprint analysis, DNA testing, and ballistics to support investigations and ensure evidence integrity.

What are popular job titles related to Police Forensics jobs in California?

For Police Forensics jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Police Forensics jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Police Forensics jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Police Forensics jobs?

Cities in California with the most Police Forensics job openings:

Police Forensics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Police Forensics job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,938 per year, or $54.8 per hour.

Supervisory Police Officer

US Department of the Army

On-site

$61K/yr

Full-time

PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

United States Army rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 495 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Personnel of the DoD Workforce to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service.
About the Position: The U.S. Army Installation Management Command (IMCOM) handles the day-to-day operations of Army installations.Qualifications:****This is an open continuous announcement. We accept applications on an ongoing basis. Applications will be reviewed bi-weekly and referred for selection as vacancies occur within the organization.****
Recruitment and relocation incentives may be authorized.
Salary negotiations for those candidates who are new to Federal service or have a break in service may be authorized.
Credit for prior non-Federal work experience and certain military service for determining annual leave accrual rate may be authorized.
Who May Apply: US Citizens
In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.
Specialized Experience: One year of specialized experience which includes: 1) Performing law enforcement activities such as patrol, criminal investigations, forensics, data analysis, administration, community outreach, and tactical operations; 2) Providing training and guidance on law enforcement regulations and procedures; and 3) Leading security or law enforcement teams. This definition of specialized experience is typical of work performed at the next lower grade/level position in the federal service (GS-08).
Creditable specialized experience may have been gained in work on a police force; through service as a military police officer; in work providing visitor protection and law enforcement in parks, forests, or other natural resource or recreational environments; in performing criminal investigative duties; or in other work that provided the required knowledge and skills.Education:Some federal jobs allow you to substitute your education for the required experience in order to qualify. For this job, you must meet the qualification requirement using experience alone -- no substitution of education for experience is permitted.Employment Type: OTHER

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Industry

National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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