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Police Forensics Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Forensic Specialist

Redlands, CA · On-site

$76K - $95K/yr

Police Opening Date: 07/21/2026 Closing Date: 8/4/2026 11:59 PM Pacific Description Under general ... Utilizes technical expertise in operating a forensic laser and uses chemical methods of fingerprint ...

Description Under general supervision, performs highly skilled technical work assisting police ... Utilizes technical expertise in operating a forensic laser and uses chemical methods of fingerprint ...

Police Forensics information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$45.4K

$120.4K

$174.7K

How much do police forensics jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for police forensics in Riverside, CA is $120,445.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,200.00 and $140,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What are 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, and why are they important?

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 job categories do people searching Police Forensics jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Police Forensics jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Police Forensics jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Police Forensics job openings:
Infographic showing various Police Forensics job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,445 per year, or $57.9 per hour.

Forensic Specialist

City of Redlands, CA

Redlands, CA • On-site

$76K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Salary : $76,979.00 - $95,964.00 Annually
Location : Redlands, CA
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 02121
Department: Police
Opening Date: 07/21/2026
Closing Date: 8/4/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
Under general supervision, performs highly skilled technical work assisting police officers in criminal investigations, the identification, collection and preservation of evidence at crime scenes, advanced photography and audio-visual services, and latent fingerprint processing; and performs related duties as assigned.
Examples of Duties
Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Utilizes various kinds of scientific instrumentation to analyze, compare, identify, and quantify materials of evidence;
  • Utilizes technical expertise in operating a forensic laser and uses chemical methods of fingerprint detection;
  • Collects, photographs, preserves, classifies and identifies fingerprints, palm prints and other types of body prints;
  • Evaluates, compares and identifies latent prints from objects, structures and other materials;
  • Conducts and properly documents crime scene investigations to recognize, search for, collect and preserve all types of evidence;
  • Operates digital recording equipment in the collection and presentation of crime scene evidence;
  • Maintains photographic equipment and supplies;
  • Prepares and maintains detailed reports and records;
  • Prepares in-depth reports and accompanying evidence for court presentations;
  • Reconstructs crime scenes for reports, court, etc;
  • May assist the property and evidence team in providing temporary and vacation relief as necessary in the maintenance and control of police property, evidence and supplies;
  • Creates composite images of suspects using specialized forensic software or hand drawings of suspects based on victim and witness identifications;
  • Tags, marks, and stores evidence collected;
  • Transports evidence for analysis or disposal;
  • Prepares evidence for presentation in criminal and other cases;
  • Provides testimony regarding evidence, chain of custody, suspect identification and other forensic related matters in criminal and non-criminal cases;
  • Works a flexible schedule that will require an on-call status;
  • Mixes and utilizes chemicals for job-related functions such as development and processing of fingerprints and photography;
  • Receives radio dispatches and drives to all calls within the City and surrounding area;
  • Documents crime scenes, training classes and special operations;
  • Requests Cal-ID searches from the crime lab;
  • Interviews witnesses to obtain information on crime scenes, evidence, etc;
  • Attends post-mortem examinations, collects, packages, and stores evidence
  • Photographs autopsies of criminal investigations;
  • Prepares photos for court presentations;
  • May testify in court; and
  • Performs related duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications
Education:
  • Equivalent to a high school diploma, supplemented by additional training in police science, photography or a related field.
  • An Associate's degree in criminology, administration of justice, police science, or a closely related field is highly desirable.

Experience:
  • A minimum of one year of experience conducting forensic specialist/technician duties, including experience or training in the field of photography with an emphasis on digital photography.

License or Certificate:
  • Possess and maintain a California Class C driver's license.

Special Requirements:
Essential functions and duties require the following physical abilities and work environment:
  • Must be able to withstand rigorous situations in court, handle violent crime scenes, and meet deadlines upon demand.
  • May be required to be on-call 24 hours a day, up to seven days a week.
  • Ability to perform on-site field inspections, including exertion of a moderate amount of physical effort to stoop, crouch, climb and lift in performance of assigned duties;
  • May be subject to uncomfortable working conditions including odors, toxic agents, machinery, explosives, bright or very dim light and possible violent situations;
  • Requires sufficient hand/eye coordination to perform semi-skilled repetitive movements, such as typing, filing, data entry, and/or use of a personal computer or other office equipment or supplies and operation of a motor vehicle; must be able to perceive color, shapes, and odors.

Supplemental Information
IMPORTANT APPLICATION INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTIONS
Candidates must clearly demonstrate through their application material that they meet the minimum qualifications of the position. All properly completed applications will be reviewed, and the most appropriately qualified individuals will be invited to continue in the selection process. Examinations for the positions may consist of any combination of written, performance, and oral exams to evaluate the applicant's skills, training, and experience for the position.
The employment application must be completed and submitted online. Applicants must list current and past work experience. Do not indicate "See Resume".
Proof of education, such as but not limited to university/college transcripts and degrees, must be submitted online with your application. Applicants are responsible for attaching proof of education, certification, and/or license to each position for which they apply.
An applicant with a college degree obtained outside the United States must have education records evaluated by a credentials evaluation service. This evaluation must be submitted by the application deadline.
Failure to provide all required documents may result in elimination from the selection process.
Please note that the City of Redlands' preferred method of communication with applicants is via e-mail. As such, please ensure you verify the e-mail address on your application and check your e-mail frequently, including your spam and junk folders.
The successful candidate will be required to undergo a reference/background check (including a conviction record) and pass a post-offer pre-employment medical examination (which may include a drug/alcohol screening, depending on job classification). The City of Redlands utilizes E-Verify, and new employees must provide documentation to establish both identity and work authorization.
For questions regarding this recruitment, please contact Julie Maher at or Sophia Diaz at
Benefits associated with this position include:
  • Medical Insurance - City pays premium of $800 up to $2,100 /mo for employees and eligible dependents, depending upon coverage level
  • Dental Insurance - City pays monthly premium for employees and eligible dependents; 2 plans
  • Vision Reimbursement - up to $300 per year
  • Life Insurance - $25,000
  • Accidental Death & Dismemberment - $25,000
  • Deferred Compensation - $1560 per year
  • Public Employees Retirement System (PERS)
  • The City participates in Social Security
  • Vacation Leave - 80 hours accrued in first year
  • Sick Leave - 96 hours annually
  • Clothing or Uniform allowance, depending upon position
  • City contribution to a 401(a) plan $870 or $1560 per year depending upon assignment
  • 14 Paid Holidays per year
  • 2 Floating Holidays per year
  • 20 hours of Additional Floating Holidays per calendar year
  • Credit Union
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program - $5000 per fiscal year
  • Education Incentive Pay - 3% for a Master's or Doctoral Degree
  • Mobile Device Pay - $100 per month (for select positions)
  • Shift Differential Pay - 5% (subject to the terms of the RCSEA MOU)

  • Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) - 2% @ 55 for employees who are considered a "classic" member of Cal PERS or a current member of another California public retirement system who is hired on or after January 1, 2013;
  • Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) - 2% @ 62 for an employee who becomes a "new" member of Cal PERS for the first time on or after January 1, 2013 (and who was not a member of another California public retirement system prior to that date.)

01
How many years of experience do you have conducting forensic specialist or technician duties?
  • Less than 1 year
  • 1 year
  • 2 years
  • 3 years
  • 4 or more years

02
How many years of experience or training in the field of photography, with an emphasis on digital photography, do you have?
  • Less than 1 year
  • More than 1 year but less than 2.
  • More than 3 years but less than 4
  • 4 years or more

03
What is the extent of your formal education?
  • None
  • High School or Equivalent
  • AS/AA (Associate Degree)
  • BS/BA (Bachelors Degree)
  • MA/MS (Masters Degree) or Higher

04
Please list any additional training in police science, photography, forensic science, crime scene investigation, or a related field you have completed.
05
Do you currently possess, or have the ability to obtain upon appointment, a valid California drivers license?
  • Yes, currently possess
  • No, but have the ability to obtain upon appointment
  • No

Required Question