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Police Lab Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Suffolk, VA

Police Officer (Recruit)

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$55K - $84K/yr

POLICE Opening Date: 07/06/2026 Closing Date: 8/2/2026 11:59 PM Eastern Description *** SIGNING ... the lab; interrogates suspects and makes arrests; prepares investigation reports. * Serves legal ...

City of Suffolk

Police Officer (Recruit)

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$55K - $84K/yr

The Suffolk Police Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Essential Job Functions Job ... the lab; interrogates suspects and makes arrests; prepares investigation reports. Serves legal ...

City of Appleton, WI

Police Officer

Appleton, WI · On-site

$34.90/hr

Read manuals, correspondence, investigative reports, follow-up reports, lab reports, policies and any other job-related documents relevant to the requirements of the police officer position.

City of Suffolk

Police Officer (Recruit)

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$55K - $84K/yr

The Suffolk Police Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Essential Job Functions Job ... the lab; interrogates suspects and makes arrests; prepares investigation reports. Serves legal ...

City of Fontana, CA

Police Cadet

Fontana, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $20.56/hr

Police Opening Date: 01/16/2026 Closing Date: Continuous Definition The Cadet Program is designed ... crime lab, appear in court to testify regarding the validity of evidence. * Provide support ...

City of Fontana

Police Cadet

Fontana, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $20.56/hr

... crime lab, appear in court to testify regarding the validity of evidence. Provide support ... Learn, understand, interpret and apply Police Department policies and procedures. Understand and ...

City of Deer Park

Police Officer

Deer Park, TX

$35.13 - $51.58/hr

Crime Scene Investigator/Crime Lab Officer; School Resource Officer; Crime Prevention Officer ... Texas police officers; 60 college hours, a current TCOLE license and at least two years of ...

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Police Lab information

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$25

$45

How much do police lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for police lab in the United States is $25.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Police Lab?

A Police Lab, also known as a forensic laboratory, is a specialized facility where scientific techniques are used to analyze physical evidence collected from crime scenes. These labs are staffed by forensic scientists and technicians who examine evidence such as fingerprints, DNA, drugs, firearms, and other materials to assist law enforcement in criminal investigations. The findings from police labs can be crucial in identifying suspects, supporting prosecutions, and exonerating the innocent. Police labs play a vital role in modern policing by providing objective, scientific support to solve crimes.

What is the difference between Police Lab vs Crime Scene Technician?

AspectPolice LabCrime Scene Technician
Required CredentialsForensic science degree, certifications in forensic analysisHigh school diploma or associate degree, training in evidence collection
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, offices, sometimes crime scenesCrime scenes, outdoor and indoor environments
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement agencies, forensic labsPolice departments, crime scene units
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for forensic analysis rolesFocuses on evidence collection at scenes

The Police Lab primarily conducts forensic analysis in labs, requiring specialized degrees and certifications. Crime Scene Technicians focus on collecting evidence at crime scenes, often with less formal education. Both roles support law enforcement but differ in work environment and responsibilities.

How to get a job in a crime lab?

To work in a crime lab, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory techniques, and familiarity with forensic tools and software; some positions may require certification or experience in evidence analysis. Applying through government agencies or law enforcement departments and gaining laboratory experience can improve job prospects.

What are the typical responsibilities of a Police Lab technician during a criminal investigation?

Police Lab technicians play a crucial role in criminal investigations by analyzing physical evidence such as fingerprints, DNA, fibers, and chemical substances. They are responsible for maintaining the integrity of evidence, conducting various laboratory tests, documenting results, and preparing detailed reports for law enforcement and court proceedings. Collaboration is common, as technicians often work closely with detectives, prosecutors, and sometimes testify in court as expert witnesses. The role requires meticulous attention to detail and adherence to strict protocols to ensure the validity and reliability of results.

What is the highest paid forensic job?

The highest paid forensic job is typically a forensic laboratory director or senior forensic scientist, who oversee lab operations and manage complex investigations. These roles often require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and certifications, and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on the location and organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Police Lab Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Police Lab Technician, you need a solid background in forensic science, chemistry, or biology, often supported by a relevant degree and laboratory experience. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, evidence management systems, and certifications such as those from the American Board of Criminalistics are typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong written communication skills help you accurately process evidence and convey findings. These competencies are crucial for ensuring evidence integrity and supporting law enforcement investigations with scientifically sound results.

How do you become a crime lab technician?

To become a crime lab technician, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory procedures, and proficiency with scientific tools and techniques; some positions may require certification or on-the-job training. Entry often involves passing background checks and working in a laboratory environment under supervision before advancing to independent roles.

Do police departments have labs?

Police labs are specialized facilities within police departments that analyze evidence such as DNA, fingerprints, drugs, and ballistics. Crime scene investigators and forensic scientists typically work in these labs, using tools like microscopes and chemical analysis equipment to support investigations.
More about Police Lab jobs
What cities are hiring for Police Lab jobs? Cities with the most Police Lab job openings:
What states have the most Police Lab jobs? States with the most job openings for Police Lab jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Police Lab jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Police Lab jobs are:
Police Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Police Lab job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,516 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Police Officer-Lateral

Tulalip Tribal Police Department

WA • On-site

$76K - $114K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Salary : $76,668.80 - $114,982.40 Annually
Location : Tulalip
Job Type: Full-Time
Department: Tulalip Police Department
Division: Police Officer-Patrol
Opening Date: 04/01/2026
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Job Summary
The Lateral Officer will serve as a guardian and protector of the Tulalip community, provides community-oriented policing and problem-solving strategies while serving the residents and visitors of the Tulalip Reservation. Patrols within the exterior boundaries of the reservation, prevents crime, and enforces Tribal, State, and Federal Laws. Conducts thorough and objective criminal investigations, solves crimes, uses judgement to determine probable causes for arrests, writes complete and well documented incident reports using correct grammar, punctuation, and spelling. Writes search warrant affidavits, serves search warrants, collects evidence, serves criminal summons, issue traffic citations. Conducts interviews with victims, witnesses, suspects, obtaining statements, and documenting interviews in reports. Participates in community service-crime prevention and youth programs. Provide support and back-up to other Tribal, City, County, State, and Federal agencies, as well as Tribal Gaming Agents and other Tribal programs. Demonstrates cultural competency and a commitment to upholding Tulalip Tribal Sovereignty, Treaty Rights, Tribal Constitution, Tribal laws, and ordinances.
COMPLETED and PASSED the written test with Public Safety Testing and selected Tulalip Police Department. Website
Essential Duties
  1. Patrol all tribal residential areas, business locations, marinas, docks, roadways, and tribal administration buildings.
  2. Take active part in crime prevention programs that include drug awareness, alcohol awareness, school programs, educational programs, Boys and Girls Club activities, Teen Center, and youth sports activities.
  3. Enforce traffic codes, write citations, civil infractions, arrest intoxicated drivers, and conduct traffic education programs reservation wide.
  4. Investigate illegal drug activities, arrest violators, and serve search warrants upon a showing of probable cause to the Tulalip Tribal Court on drug dealers.
  5. Assist with drug education programs with youth and adults.
  6. Operate patrol video camera, video evidence cameras, police service video cameras monitoring tribal buildings / marina, and maintain chain of custody for video evidence.
  7. Provide first aid / EMS response, CPR, and natural disaster response during emergency conditions.
  8. Arrest criminal violators, write criminal investigative reports, search warrant, arrest warrants, prepare probable cause statements, patrol logs, and prepare required reports of the RMS computer system.
  9. Provide mutual aid according to policy and to support City, County, State, Federal, and other tribal enforcement agencies within the guidelines of the tribal codes.
  10. Testify in Tribal, State, and Federal courts and act as bailiff during tribal hearings.
  11. Transport prisoners to and from court appearances, during arrest and bookings, and to court directed appointments.
  12. Maintain their assigned patrol vehicle ensuring maintenance is completed daily, keeping vehicle clean and professional in appearance, and operating the patrol vehicle according to tribal and state traffic codes.
  13. Qualify with all defensive equipment, including firearms, taser, chemical agent, baton, handcuffs, and restraining devices.
  14. Collect criminal evidence; maintain the chain of custody by following the guidelines of the rules of evidence, preserving, and gathering evidence according to Washington State Crime Lab standards.
  15. Follow all guidelines contained in the Tulalip Tribal Police Department Policy and Procedures manual
  16. Regular and satisfactory attendance and punctuality.
  17. Other related job duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Minimum Education Required
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Passed and completed a basic law enforcement academy recognized by the Department.
  • College level course work is preferred.

Minimum Related Experience
  • Completion of either the Bureau of Indian Affairs Police Academy or a recognized state law enforcement academy with ability to become a certified tribal law enforcement officer in the state of Washington.
  • Demonstrated work experience in tribal government, assisting the public, youth services, customer service, security, and problem solving preferred.

Required Licenses/Certifications/prerequisites
  • Must be a United States Citizen or an enrolled member of a Federally Recognized Tribe.
  • WA State Driver's License.
  • Must adhere to the Tribal Insurance Policy. (Abstract Required)
  • Must have current First Aid and CPR certifications. *Will allow six (6) months to obtain.
  • Never been arrested or convicted of any crimes of violence; which any disposition exists except not guilty.
  • Never been convicted of any felony crimes or been convicted of domestic violence.
  • No restrictions on your ability to carry or use a firearm; such as being named as a respondent on a protection order, restraining order, or anti-harassment order.
  • Must disclose all traffic infractions and vehicle collisions.
  • Must disclose any use, possession, or sale of any illegal drugs during your lifetime.
  • Must pass all TPD Police Background Investigation, polygraph, psychological, personal history packet, medical examination and credit check.
  • Employment is contingent upon successful completion of the Tulalip Police Department pre-employment background check.
  • Applicant's qualifications and suitability will be assessed by the Chief of Police for hire.
  • An applicant's Employment history will be assessed by TPD.

Knowledge and Abilities
Knowledge of
  • Office practices and procedures.
  • Principles and practices of tribal government management.
  • Internal and operational control concepts, techniques, and relationships.
  • IT systems policies, security, and protocols.
  • Applicable Tribal, Federal, State, and local laws, regulations, codes, and/or statutes.
  • MS Office Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook, Internet etc.

Able to
  • Must successfully pass the WA State Criminal Justice Training Commission Equivalency requirements (required of out of state Lateral Officer candidates).
  • Work effectively in a culturally diverse environment.
  • Maintain confidentiality and communicate with tact and discretion.
  • Organize, plan, coordinate, and carry-out assigned tasks with accuracy and attention to detail.
  • Provide excellent customer service and problem solve effectively.
  • Learn, interpret, and apply codes, policies, procedures, and other written materials.
  • Continually learn and utilize a variety of information systems and software.
  • Handle upset, angry, frustrated, and emotional clients, customers, or community members.
  • Demonstrate excellent communication skills both verbal and written.
  • Have excellent proofreading, grammar, punctuation, spelling, written, and verbal skills.
  • Adhere to the direction provided in the Tulalip Police Department (TPD) Policy and Procedures.
  • Always maintain a professional appearance. TPD has the sole discretion in determining what is professional as it relates to the position. Tattoos, branding, voluntary disfigurement, or scarification shall be reviewed by TPD on a case-by-case basis.
  • Successfully pass all in-service Training administered by the Department.
  • Reside within a 30-minute response time to the Tulalip Police Department. *Required within twelve (12) months of hire.
  • Successfully pass a twelve (12) month probationary period, after completion of the Field Training Program.
  • Work a flexible and extended schedule to include, any shift assigned; days, swing, grave, weekends and/or holidays.

Physical Requirements
  • Dexterity for the operation of a computer, office machines, routine paperwork and issued equipment.
  • Must be able to access all areas terrain of inspection site, in all types of weather conditions.
  • Must have adequate vision and hearing, with or without reasonable accommodation, to effectively perform the essential duties of a law enforcement officer.
  • Frequently required to sit and talk or hear, use hands to finger, handle, feel or operate objects, tools, or controls, and reach with hands and arms.
  • Stamina & mobility to sit or stand for prolonged periods of time, to bend, kneel, crouch, reach overhead, above the shoulders and horizontally stoop, and/or climb stairs and in and out of truck.
  • Strength to lift objects weighing 100 lbs. occasionally and 40lbs. frequently

The Tulalip Police Department is proud to provide employees with excellent comprehensive benefits, including:
  • Base Salary
  • Medical
  • Prescription Drug Coverage
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Dependent Coverage
  • Life Insurance
  • Optional Flexible/Spending Accounts
  • Training Opportunities
  • Paid Education Leave
  • Paid Holidays
  • Vacation
  • Sick Leave
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Jury Duty
  • Volunteer Leave
  • 401K Savings Plans
  • Employee Discount Program
  • 24 Hours Wellness Leave
  • Take Home Car
  • Off-Duty Overtime Opportunities
  • Education Incentive

01
Are you able to work a flexible work schedule that includes nights, weekends, holidays, and includes varying shifts?
  • Yes
  • No

02
How many years of professional law enforcement experience do you have?
  • No experience
  • Less than 1 year of experience
  • 1 year but less than 2 years of experience
  • 2 years but less than 3 years experience
  • 3 or more years of experience

03
Do you have a High School diploma or GED?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Have you gone to and successfully passed a law enforcement academy?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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