1

State Crime Lab Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

PCS Lab Technician

Center, CO · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

... State of Colorado to provide research information, conduct extension education and seed ... to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or ...

Lab Technician

Denver, CO · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Cover Letter, Resume/CV Employee Benefits Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it's a ... to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or ...

Cover Letter, Resume/CV Employee Benefits Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it's a ... to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or ...

Primary City/State: Greeley, Colorado Department Name: Work Shift: Day Job Category: Nursing $20 ... An Arizona Criminal History Affidavit must be signed upon hire. Employees working at BUMCS in a ...

Primary City/State: Greeley, Colorado Department Name: Work Shift: Day Job Category: Nursing $20 ... An Arizona Criminal History Affidavit must be signed upon hire. Employees working at BUMCS in a ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

State Crime Lab information

Can I be a CSI without being a cop?

A Crime Scene Investigator (CSI) is a specialized forensic professional who collects and analyzes evidence from crime scenes. CSIs are often civilian employees and do not need to be law enforcement officers, but they typically require training in forensic science, evidence collection, and may need certifications or degrees in related fields. Law enforcement officers may also serve as CSIs, but the roles are distinct, and civilian CSIs do not perform police duties.

How much does a crime lab scientist make?

The average salary for a crime lab scientist typically ranges from $45,000 to $75,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries. Salaries often include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans, and the role may require working in a laboratory environment with standard business hours or shift work.

Do you need a degree to work in a crime lab?

A degree is typically required to work as a crime lab analyst or technician, with many positions requiring at least a bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Additional certifications and laboratory skills are often preferred or necessary for advancement.

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.

How do you get to work in a crime lab?

To work in a 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. Gaining laboratory experience, passing background checks, and obtaining certifications like the ASCLD-LAB accreditation can improve job prospects. Entry-level positions often require strong analytical skills and familiarity with laboratory equipment and procedures.

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 Colorado? For State Crime Lab jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching State Crime Lab jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for State Crime Lab jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for State Crime Lab jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most State Crime Lab job openings:
Deputy District Attorney - County Court

Deputy District Attorney - County Court

Douglas County, CO

Castle Rock, CO

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Douglas County (Nebraska) rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

74th of 668 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Our Jurisdiction - Explore All Colorado Has to Offer:

The 23rd is the newest DA's Office in the state, representing three counties and almost 400,000 Coloradoans.

We are perfectly situated to the east of the mountains and between Colorado's two largest cities. To the north is Denver, offering nightlife, performing arts venues, and all 5 major professional sports teams. Directly to the west are the Rocky Mountains, home to world class ski resorts, hiking, mountain biking, and rafting. Directly to the south is Colorado Springs, home to the Garden of the Gods, the Air Force Academy, Olympic Training Center, and Pikes Peak. 

Douglas County is recognized as offering a quality of life unmatched elsewhere in the state. In 2024, Douglas County was named the 3rd Healthiest Community in America according to the U.S. News and World Report, which measures health and wellness across 10 categories (population health, equity, education, economy, housing, food & nutrition, environment, public safety, community vitality, and infrastructure).

Our 3 counties (Douglas, Elbert, and Lincoln) are home to hundreds of miles of trails, countless city parks and open space. We have more than 146,000 acres of Pike National Forest, Roxborough State Park, Castlewood Canyon State Park, and a boating reservoir at Chatfield State Park. Our large jurisdiction spans urban, suburban, and rural areas, offering a variety of communities to fit your individual or family needs.

Gain Unparalleled Legal Experience:

A Deputy District Attorney in County Court is the starting point for a career as a prosecutor in the 23rd. We pride ourselves in our dedication to training and preparing Deputy District Attorneys to excel as trial attorneys, courtroom advocates, and most importantly, "ministers of justice." A Deputy District Attorney in county court handles a docket of traffic and misdemeanor cases ranging from DUI, child abuse, domestic violence, property crimes, and sex offenses. This includes initial and on-going case review, follow-up with law enforcement agencies, negotiations with defense counsel, meeting with witnesses and victims, preparing and conducting motions and trial. Deputy District Attorneys who excel in County Court have opportunities to promote to District Court, Juvenile Court, and Specialty Units within the office.

Office Benefits and Culture - More Than Just a Workplace:

Our office offers health, dental, and vision insurance, 401(a) and 457 retirement plans (both with generous employer matches), paid time off and sick leave. But our office is more than just a place to work: it's a place you want to work. Just some of our office events are a yearly chili cook-off challenge, a cornhole tournament, and wildlife photo contest. We have an office softball and golf team. We hold an annual winter holiday party, trick-or-treat street, and frequent summer BBQs on our office grill. View the full Employee Benefits Guide

Skills and Expertise - Learn from Experience:

To be the best, you should learn from the best. Our office is staffed with experienced prosecutors who have tried some of the highest profile and most complex cases in Colorado history. You'll find our prosecutors teaching at both statewide and national conferences, law schools, and authoring statewide manuals on prosecution.

Prosecutors working at our office have been two-time winners of the Colorado Trial Team of the Year, Colorado Prosecutor of the Year, Colorado Prosecutor Trainer of the Year, and a host of other individual awards.

Our office strives to be at the forefront of prosecution. From leading the state in giving the public an unprecedented level of insight into our office with our data dashboards, solving decades old cold case murders through DNA analysis from our dedicated forensic crime lab, to solving crimes through digital data analysis of cellphones and geo-location analysis.

We pride ourselves in training Deputy District Attorneys in County Court on the skills and knowledge to excel at handling criminal caseloads and trying jury trials. We provide weekly trainings, daily guidance and supervision from Deputy District Attorneys in the courtroom, and one-to-one mentorship from the County Court Chief Deputy District Attorney and
Senior Deputy District Attorney. Our leaders are seasoned trial attorneys, experienced in handling some of the highest profile cases in the state, and versed in cutting edge trial presentation and technology.


What Douglas County (Nebraska) employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom