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State Crime Lab Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Private Investigator

Sacramento, CA ยท On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

ATF / US Border Patrol / State Crime Lab * Law / Paralegal / Legal Assistant * Security / Corporate Investigations * Investigative Journalism What a day in the life of an investigator looks like:

Sheriff's Records Specialist I/II

Redding, CA ยท On-site

$3.4K - $4.3K/mo

The Investigations Division includes the Major Crimes Unit, Crime Lab, Shasta Interagency Narcotics ... State, and national computer systems; confirm warrants; contact various agencies throughout the ...

... county, state, out-of-county, and federal prisoners who are ineligible to be assigned to ... The Investigations Division includes the Major Crimes Unit, Crime Lab, Shasta Interagency Narcotics ...

Adult Custody Cook I/II

Anderson, CA ยท On-site

$45K - $61K/yr

... county, state, out-of-county, and federal prisoners who are ineligible to be assigned to ... The Investigations Division includes the Major Crimes Unit, Crime Lab, Shasta Interagency Narcotics ...

Electronics Lab Technician

Palo Alto, CA

$27.24 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable. Equal ... An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

New

Electronics Lab Technician

Palo Alto, CA

$36.03/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable. Equal ... An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

New

2nd Shift Production Lab Technician

Los Angeles, CA

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable. Equal ... An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

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Showing results 1-20

State Crime Lab information

What is the difference between State Crime Lab vs Forensic Scientist?

AspectState Crime LabForensic Scientist
CredentialsRelevant degrees in forensic science, chemistry, biologySimilar degrees, often with specialized certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, law enforcement collaborationLaboratories, crime scenes, courtrooms
Employer & IndustryState government, law enforcement agenciesGovernment labs, private labs, law enforcement
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for roles in forensic analysisRelated but broader forensic roles

While a State Crime Lab is a facility that employs forensic scientists, the term 'Forensic Scientist' refers to the professionals working within these labs. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, and they operate in comparable environments. The main difference is that the State Crime Lab is the institution, whereas the forensic scientist is the individual performing analysis and investigations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a State Crime Lab analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as a State Crime Lab Analyst, you need a solid background in forensic science, chemistry, or biology, usually supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), analytical instrumentation like GC-MS or DNA sequencers, and sometimes certifications such as the American Board of Criminalistics (ABC) are typically required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and strong written and verbal communication are crucial soft skills for handling evidence and presenting findings. These skills ensure accurate analyses, reliable testimony, and the integrity of criminal investigations.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working at a State Crime Lab, and how can they prepare for them?

Professionals at a State Crime Lab often encounter challenges such as managing high caseloads, working under strict deadlines, and ensuring the accuracy and integrity of forensic evidence. Additionally, they must stay current with evolving scientific techniques and legal standards. To prepare, candidates should develop strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team. Regular training and continuing education are also important to maintain competency and adapt to new methodologies.

What qualifications do I need to work in a state crime lab?

To work in a state crime lab, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Relevant skills include laboratory techniques, attention to detail, and familiarity with scientific tools; some positions may require certification or advanced degrees for specialized roles.

How to get a job in a State Crime Lab?

To work in a State Crime Lab, candidates typically need a relevant degree such as a bachelor's or master's in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Relevant skills include laboratory techniques, attention to detail, and knowledge of forensic tools and procedures; some positions may require certification or experience in criminal justice or law enforcement environments.

What is a State Crime Lab?

A State Crime Lab is a government-operated laboratory that analyzes evidence from criminal investigations. These labs employ forensic scientists and technicians who perform tests on physical evidence such as DNA, fingerprints, drugs, firearms, and toxicology samples. Their analyses help law enforcement agencies and the courts solve crimes, identify suspects, and support criminal prosecutions. State Crime Labs often work closely with police departments, attorneys, and other agencies to ensure accurate and timely results.

What are popular job titles related to State Crime Lab jobs in California?

For State Crime Lab jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching State Crime Lab jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for State Crime Lab jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for State Crime Lab jobs?

Cities in California with the most State Crime Lab job openings:

Infographic showing various State Crime Lab job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Private Investigator

Digistream Investigations

Sacramento, CA โ€ข On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

DigiStream Investigations, a fast-growing, national private investigation firm, seeks a talented addition to our investigation team in the Sacramento, CA Region.
This isn’t your average desk job - being a Private Investigator means you’ll have a career with excitement, travel, autonomy, and purpose. This role is meant for an individual with an adventurous and curious spirit, and the drive to provide our clients with the evidence they need to defend their cases for potentially fraudulent worker's compensation claims.

Work Schedule: Full-time, 40-55 hours per week average, 10-11 hours per day average, depending on travel distance to the case and back to your home (commute time in the company vehicle is "on the clock")
Starting Hourly Pay Rate: $20 hourly (entry-level), frequent overtime
Employee Benefits: Health, Dental, Vision, and Life insurance offered, and 401(k) retirement plan with 4% Company Match offered


What you’ll get:

  • A foot in the door to the investigations/security/law enforcement fields
  • Experience conducting covert investigations
  • A job you’ll love going to - no one day is the same
  • Opportunities for growth within the company via our Private Investigator Promotion Track
  • Unlike most PI companies, DigiStream provides full benefits, a company vehicle, and paid travel
  • Professional, hands-on training program developed over the course of 25 years
  • Team-building events and comradery with fellow team members

Sky is the limit! The skills you learn here can lead to jobs in:

  • FBI / Law Enforcement
  • ATF / US Border Patrol / State Crime Lab
  • Law / Paralegal / Legal Assistant
  • Security / Corporate Investigations
  • Investigative Journalism

What a day in the life of an investigator looks like:

  • Monitoring, following, and videotaping subjects as they conduct their day-to-day activities
  • Vehicle and foot pursuit of subjects while maintaining cover
  • Activity varies from filming someone at a grocery store or restaurant to filming them at a sporting event or a casino
  • Crafting pre-surveillance strategies based on the setup location and case details
  • Detailed report writing on the activities observed/captured and submission of video evidence
  • Regular communication with team leader on setup positions, activity and tactics

What you’ll need to apply:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Must be 21 years or older
  • 50 hours per week on average (includes commute & drive time)
  • Willingness to travel and stay overnight on remote assignments (as needed)
  • Availability to work any day of the week, including weekends and holidays
  • Ability to start work as early as 5:00 am daily with occasional work into the evenings
  • Must currently live in the Sacramento, CA area
  • Ability to pass DMV check & background check
  • Confident driving skills

Compensation/benefits/promotions:

  • Starting pay: $20.00 per hour
  • Employee Benefits: Health, dental, vision, life insurance, and 401(k) with up to 4% company match
  • Performance incentives
  • Paid travel to and from local and remote assignments
  • Cellphone reimbursement
  • Equipment provided including video camera, laptop, tripod, fuel & maintenance card
  • Company-provided surveillance vehicle
  • We hire at the entry level and promote from within based on performance

Note: Position does not require daily commute to an office or motor pool as your surveillance vehicle is entrusted to you and is kept at your residence on a daily basis. Travel to and from assignments will begin and end at your residence.

**Only apply if you have availability to work any of the 7 days of the week, and only if you can work a 5 day per week schedule with an average of 10-12 hours per day, including weekends and holidays**