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Police Forensics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Supervisor Forensic Services

Albany, NY ยท On-site

$96K - $121K/yr

Duties Description The Supervisor Forensic Services assigned to the Toxicology section at the ... Additional Comments The New York State Police will not offer permanent employment to any candidate ...

POLICE OFFICER City of Salina, Kansas Police Department Police Officer Video The role of a Police ... Uses forensic tools & methods to support the investigation of crime scenes beyond basic ...

Police Officer Recruit

Buena Park, CA ยท On-site

$109K - $144K/yr

Police Officer Salary up to $137,467 Annually (Plus Academy Costs/expenses while a Recruit) 5% ... Forensics Regional Narcotics Suppression Program, Gang Unit, Community Impact Team (CIT), Gang ...

Police Officer Lateral

Buena Park, CA ยท On-site

$109K - $144K/yr

Police Opening Date: 01/08/2026 Closing Date: Continuous JOB BULLETIN Applications will be accepted ... Crime Prevention, Investigative Services Bureau, and Forensics * Regional Narcotics Suppression ...

Police Officer Lateral

Buena Park, CA ยท On-site

$109K - $144K/yr

... Forensics Regional Narcotics Suppression Program, Gang Unit, Community Impact Team (CIT), Gang ... The Buena Park Police Department believes in investing in partnerships with the community and ...

Police Officer Recruit

San Marino, CA ยท On-site

$5.8K - $7.1K/mo

The San Marino Police Department's motto is Pride in Service - join a team that cares about ... Demonstrating the ability to learn and implement crime scene management, forensics, collection ...

Police Officer

Huntersville, NC ยท On-site

$62K - $93K/yr

Police Full Time Job Number: 202600186 Department: HUNTERSVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT Opening Date: 07 ... forensics, crime scene technology, and other specialized investigations. * Executes warrants ...

Police Officer

Pilot Point, TX ยท On-site

$72K/yr

Police Operations Opening Date: 07/28/2025 FLSA: Non-Exempt Description About Us: Welcome to the ... Understanding of investigative methods, evidence collection, forensic procedures, and case ...

Showing results 21-40

Police Forensics information

See salary details

$43.5K

$115.4K

$167.5K

How much do police forensics jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for police forensics in the United States is $115,449.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,000.00 and $134,500.00 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.
More about Police Forensics jobs

What cities are hiring for Police Forensics jobs?

Cities with the most Police Forensics job openings:

What states have the most Police Forensics jobs?

States with the most job openings for Police Forensics jobs include:

Infographic showing various Police Forensics job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,449 per year, or $55.5 per hour.

Hospital Police Officer

Department of State Hospitals

Sacramento, CA โ€ข On-site

$6.1K - $7.7K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

The Department of State Hospitals is accepting applications for permanent full-time Hospital Police Officer positions. Vacancies exist in our Hospital Police Department at the following locations only: Napa . Candidates will choose their preferred location during the background process.
Apply through your CalCareer account is highly recommended. Your application will be received and processed faster than other methods of filing. If you previously applied for a position, you are still being considered and do not need to reapply. Contact Recruit@joindsh.com for your application status.
Applications will be considered monthly and the cut-off date is the first Friday of each month.
Working Conditions
The California Department of State Hospitals is the largest forensic mental health hospital system in the nation. Hospital Police Officers are responsible for the supervision and security of individuals and property, ensuring policies and procedures relating to safety and security are followed and maintaining a secure and safe operation. Hospital Police Officers maintain law and order on hospital grounds, patrolling and protection of hospital buildings, and monitoring the activity and movement of patients and visitors ensuring compliance with all applicable laws, rules, regulations and policies.
Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
  • HOSPITAL POLICE OFFICER
Additional Documents
  • Job Application Package Checklist

Position Details Job Code #:
JC-510910
Position #(s):
455-000-1937-XXX
Working Title:
Hospital Police Officer
Classification:
HOSPITAL POLICE OFFICER $6,154.00 - $7,719.00
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
Multiple
Work Location:
United States
Telework:
In Office
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Department Information
Vision: Caring Today for a Safe and Healthy Tomorrow.
Mission: To provide evaluation and treatment in a safe and responsible manner, by leading innovation and excellence across a continuum of care and settings.
Goals: Safe Environment. Organizational and Operational Excellence. Innovative Treatment and Forensic Evaluation. Integrated Behavioral Health System.
Values: Safety. Treatment. Responsibility. Empowerment. Respect. Communication.
The Department of State Hospitals (DSH) manages the California state hospital system, which provides mental health services to patients admitted into DSH facilities. The department strives to provide effective treatment in a safe environment and in a fiscally responsible manner.
There are five state hospitals - Atascadero, Coalinga, Metropolitan (in Los Angeles County), Napa and Patton and all facilities are fully licensed by the California Department of Public Health, and must regularly meet or exceed regulatory standards to continue providing care. Click HERE to find additional information about the California state hospital system.
Department Website: http://www.dsh.ca.gov
Special Requirements
  • The position(s) require(s) a Drug Screening be passed prior to being hired.
  • The position(s) require(s) a Background Investigation be cleared prior to being hired.
  • The position(s) require(s) Medical Clearance prior to being hired.
  • The position(s) require(s) Psychological Evaluation clearance prior to being hired.
  • The position(s) require(s) a valid California Driver's License (CDL). You must answer the questions addressing your CDL on your application. Ensure you provide your CDL number, class, expiration date, and any endorsements and/or restrictions.
  • The position(s) require(s) a Drug Screening be passed prior to being hired.
  • The position(s) require(s) a Background Investigation be cleared prior to being hired.
  • The position(s) require(s) Medical Clearance prior to being hired.
  • The position(s) require(s) Psychological Evaluation clearance prior to being hired.

Application Instructions
Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: Until Filled
Who May Apply
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply. Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Department of State Hospitals
Selection Services
Attn: Selection Services
1215 O Street, MS-14
Sacramento , CA 95814
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Department of State Hospitals
Selection Services
Selection Services
1215 O Street, MS-14
Sacramento , CA 95814
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
  • Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
  • Resume is optional. It may be included, but is not required.
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.
Benefits
Benefits information may be obtained by going to the California Department of Human Resources website at www.calhr.ca.gov and to the California Public Employees' Retirement System website at www.calpers.ca.gov .
Special Physical Requirements
Possession and maintenance of sufficient strength, agility, and endurance to perform during physically, mentally, and emotionally stressful and emergency situations encountered on the job; and sufficient hearing and vision to effectively perform the essential functions of the job.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.