1

State Crime Lab Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AFIS Operator

Columbus, OH

$17.25 - $21/hr

The Bureau of Criminal Investigation, known as BCI, is the state's official crime lab serving the criminal justice community and protecting Ohio families. BCI also provides expert criminal ...

Paralegal

Woburn, MA · On-site

Responsibilities Paralegals are the central liaison for local police departments, the Massachusetts State Police (MSP), the MSP Crime Lab and other state and federal agencies. Paralegals support ...

AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS The College of Agricultural Sciences Animal Science Meats Lab is seeking ... Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual ...

Evidence Intake Technician-AG

London, OH · On-site

$25.13 - $31.70/hr

The Bureau of Criminal Investigation, known as BCI, is the state's official crime lab serving the criminal justice community and protecting Ohio families. BCI also provides expert criminal ...

Assisting other lab members in traveling to field sites * Carrying equipment to stream research ... Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual ...

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

... a Lab Prep Crew member to work within the department of Biology for the 2026-2027 academic year ... Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual ...

AFIS Operator

Columbus, OH · On-site

$17.25 - $21/hr

The Bureau of Criminal Investigation, known as BCI, is the state's official crime lab serving the criminal justice community and protecting Ohio families. BCI also provides expert criminal ...

Evidence Technician (SO)

Golden, CO · On-site

$26.70 - $40.05/hr

... State law. * Receive and maintain evidence using a computerized inventory system. Maintain the ... Crime Lab. Resolve submittal issues as needed. * Administer evidence management processes ...

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

... Lab Attendant to work in the Assmann research lab within the department during the 2026-2027 ... Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual ...

$15/hr

The Boyle lab is seeking to hire a highly motivated undergraduate for Spring 2025 to assist with an ... Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual ...

Showing results 41-60

State Crime Lab information

See salary details

$9

$25

$45

How much do state crime lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for state crime 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 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 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 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 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.

More about State Crime Lab jobs

What cities are hiring for State Crime Lab jobs?

Cities with the most State Crime Lab job openings:

What states have the most State Crime Lab jobs?

States with the most job openings for State Crime Lab jobs include:

Infographic showing various State Crime Lab job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, and 38% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,516 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

$17.25 - $21/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

What you'll do:

The Ohio Attorney General's Office is currently seeking a AFIS Operator in the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) Section. This position will report to the BCI Headquarters daily, London, OH. The Bureau of Criminal Investigation, known as BCI, is the state's official crime lab serving the criminal justice community and protecting Ohio families. BCI also provides expert criminal investigative services to local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies upon request. With offices throughout the state, BCI stands ready to respond 24/7 to local law enforcement agencies' needs at no cost to the requesting agency.

Staff at BCI work every day to provide the highest level of service. This includes special agents who are on call 24/7 to offer investigative assistance at crime scenes, knowledgeable scientists and forensic specialists using cutting-edge technology to process evidence to bring criminals to justice, and criminal intelligence analysts and identification specialists who help local law enforcement solve cases. Experienced special agents, forensic scientists, and other law enforcement experts' staff BCI's three main divisions: 1) Identifications 2) Investigations and 3) Laboratory.

The duties of this position include but are not limited to the following:

  • Processes either civilian or criminal information using Automated Fingerprint Identification System (CAFIS).
  • Enters information into AFIS using multiple input devices (i.e., keyboard, bar code reader/printer, scanner).
  • Opens mail and prepares civilian or criminal fingerprint cards for scanning, scans fingerprint, enters demographic information from fingerprint cards and files the cards accordingly.
  • Enters demographic information from applicant fingerprint cards and enters demographic information for updated background checks.
  • Generates and prepares various documents and applicant letters for mailing.
  • Retrieves data from Computerized Criminal History (CCH) and Interstate Identification Index (III).
  • Trains other AFIS operators on the various Identification systems and processes.
  • Contacts/provides information to the Quality Assurance unit with information regarding data submitted from agencies that need correction or agencies that need training. If in the Civilian Unit:
  • Submits Webcheck (electronic background check) transactions for walk in applicants.
  • Answers phone calls from the public regarding applicant background checks.
  • Responds to questions from walk-in constituents.

 If in the Criminal Unit:

  • Researches and verifies accuracy of demographic and arrest record information.
  • Researches disputes, pulls files, and verifies applicant and/or arrest or disposition information.
  • Answers and makes phone inquiries regarding arrest information and court dispositions.

Formal education in arithmetic that includes addition, subtraction, multiplication and division and in writing and speaking common English vocabulary; 12 months experience or 12 months training in use of AFIS or CCH equipment or equivalent; typing skill of 45 words per minute. 
-Or equivalent of Minimum Class Qualifications For Employment noted above 
Job Skills: Clerical/data entry, Attention to Detail, Customer Focus, Collaboration, Responsiveness, Results Oriented