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Police Forensics Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

All JobsPolice Forensics JobsPolice Forensics Jobs in Riverside, CA

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 Aug 20, 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 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 Riverside, CA?

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

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:

Police Forensics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Police Forensics job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,445 per year, or $57.9 per hour.

Police Department General Assistant (Part-time)

City of Corona

Corona, CA • On-site

$2.9K - $3.5K/mo

Part-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

DESCRIPTION The City of Corona Police Department is looking for a dependable, motivated, and community-driven individual to join our team as a part-time General Assistant. This is a great opportunity to get hands-on experience supporting law enforcement behind the scenes while contributing directly to the safety, efficiency, and daily operations of our department. If you're organized, proactive, and eager to make a difference in your community, we encourage you to apply.

Our department includes over 250 dedicated professionals across Field Services, Investigative Services, and Support Services. We are committed to protecting our community while strengthening trust through transparency. As a General Assistant, you'll have the chance to support a variety of specialized assignments such as Animal Control, Records, Forensics, the Detective Bureau, Personnel and Training, and Patrol - offering a unique look into many areas of public safety.

This part-time role allows for up to 19 hours per week with potential assignments that include different shifts, holidays, and weekends. If you're looking to build experience, learn from seasoned professionals, and be part of a mission-driven organization, this role offers an excellent entry point into an exciting and meaningful career path. EDUCATION & EXERIENCE Education: Must be within one semester of satisfactory completion of high school or have attained high school graduation or equivalent (G.E.D.)

Experience: Experience and/or classes in the police field, or similar setting, is desirable. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS Age: Must be at least 18 years old at the time of appointment. License: A valid California, Class C Driver's License and a reasonable driving record is required as a condition of employment and continued employment.

Background: As part of our hiring process, selected candidates will undergo comprehensive fingerprinting and background checks at both the State and Federal level, as permitted by California law. Applicants must have no convictions for serious offenses or a history of multiple minor offenses. Additionally, any established credit history must meet satisfactory standards in accordance with state guidelines.

Skills & Abilities Ability to performs various clerical and routine office duties including conducting surveys and writing reports. Handles public inquiries and relieves sworn officers of non-sworn police officer duties. Operates public safety communication equipment.

Performs janitorial duties which may include kennel maintenance depending on assignment. Performs other related duties as required. Characteristics Accountability- The Corona Police Department is a professional police agency staffed by individuals who cherish and maintain the highest standards of conduct and performance.

Integrity- Being truthful and ethical in what we do, what we say, and what we say we do in both our personal and professional lives. Respect- We are committed to our profession and will always respect one another and the community that we serve. Inclusion- We are not just diverse; we are welcoming to all.

Teamwork- When we work together to achieve our mission, the department and community will grow stronger. Together, we are better. Innovation- We provide modern police services and are committed to always improve our organizational practices.

This position is FLSA Non-Exempt eligible for overtime compensation. To view the full job description, click here. APPLICATION PROCESS Applications will be accepted through Wednesday, August 19, 2029, at 5:00PM.

Applicants are encouraged to apply early. Depending on the number of qualified candidates, candidates may be invited to take a virtual interview through the HireVue platform. The top scoring candidates from the virtual HireVue interview will be invited for an in person oral interview.

Those who pass the oral interview will be placed on an eligibility list and will be contacted by the department to start the background process as vacancies arise. The selected candidate will undergo a thorough background investigation and medical exam with the Corona Police Department. Background investigation will include but is not limited to the following: No felony conviction(s).

Submit to a fingerprint and criminal history check - State and Federal Bureaus. Good moral character as determined by a thorough background investigation. United States high school graduate, GED, or equivalent.

No conviction(s) of a serious offense, or numerous convictions of minor offenses. Submit to a polygraph examination. Successfully pass a medical examination.

Credit history check, if established, must be satisfactory. COMMUNITY A City whose heritage spans more than a century, the City of Corona, located in Riverside County, California, encompasses around 40 square miles and has a vibrant, culturally diverse population of approximately 168,100 residents. Residents of Corona enjoy a variety of cultural, recreational, and educational opportunities that provide a first-rate quality of life for its residents and visitors.

Within an hour's travel time, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy such winter activities as snowboarding and skiing and such summer activities as surfing, boating, or simply relaxing on a beach. Corona's economy is strong and getting stronger; more than 84,000 people work here. Our retail, commercial, and housing areas are expanding, and office development continues to be strong.

THE ORGANIZATION The City of Corona is a General Law city operating under a Council-Manager form of government. Policymaking and legislative authority is vested in the City Council, consisting of a Mayor and four Council Members. Members of the City Council are elected by District to a four-year term.

The Mayor is selected by the Council and serves as the presiding officer for one year. The City is organized into the following departments/organizational units: Community Services, City Manager's Office, Economic Development, Finance, Fire, Human Resources, Information Technology, Legal and Risk Management, Police, Planning & Development, Public Works and Utilities. Oversight of these departments is divided between the City Manager and two Assistant City Managers.

The City's total operating budget for Fiscal Year 2026 is $422.7 million with a General Fund operating budget of $231.3 million. Corona enjoys a workforce of 935 dedicated employees who provide high-quality services to its residents and visitors each day. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES To view all essential duties and responsibilities, click here

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDELINES To view the qualification guidelines, click here. PHYSICAL/MENTAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT To view the physical/mental demands and work environment, click here.

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