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Temporary Crime Scene Photographer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Crime Scene Tech

Center, TX

$23.53 - $38.19/hr

Conducts latent prints development and preservation, photography, video, sketching, crime scene search, evidence collection and preservation in support of law enforcement. Position requires working ...

Crime Scene Technician

GA · On-site

$45K/yr

Continuous Summary The Crime Scene Technician position is under general supervision of the ... Documents crime and accident scenes; takes photographs and videos of crime and accident scenes ...

... scene calls, including but not limited to homicides, unattended deaths, suicides, fatality ... and property crimes Photographs scenes, collects, processes and properly packages evidence ...

Crime Scene SupervisorSummary: Under close supervision, performs a wide variety of tasks associated ... Assists with documenting crime scenes by taking photos and video as directed by OPD Officers and ...

Document scenes and associated evidence utilizing notes, digital video, and specialized photography ... International Association for Identification (IAI) Crime Scene Certification Level I within three ...

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Temporary Crime Scene Photographer information

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How much do temporary crime scene photographer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary crime scene photographer in the United States is $20.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a temporary crime scene photographer?

Temporary crime scene photographers are professionals hired on a short-term basis to document crime scenes using photographs. Their primary role is to capture detailed and accurate images of evidence, the scene layout, and any relevant items that may be important for investigations or court proceedings. These photographers may be brought in to assist during periods of high case volume or to cover for permanent staff absences. They typically work closely with law enforcement, following strict protocols to ensure images are admissible in court. Experience in photography and knowledge of forensic procedures are often required for this position.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a temporary crime scene photographer?

To thrive as a Temporary Crime Scene Photographer, you need a solid understanding of photography techniques, attention to detail, and familiarity with crime scene protocols, often supported by relevant coursework or experience in forensic photography. Proficiency with digital cameras, photo editing software, and evidence management systems is typically required. Strong observational skills, discretion, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure accurate, thorough documentation of crime scenes, which is critical for investigations and legal proceedings.

What are some typical challenges faced by a temporary crime scene photographer, and how can they be managed?

Temporary Crime Scene Photographers often face the challenge of working under pressure to quickly and accurately document evidence at unpredictable hours and locations. Adapting to rapidly changing environments, following strict evidence-handling protocols, and maintaining composure in potentially distressing situations are all part of the job. To manage these challenges, it’s crucial to stay organized, communicate closely with investigative teams, and continually review best practices for crime scene documentation. Building strong attention to detail and flexibility will also help ensure high-quality results and support team objectives.

What is the difference between Temporary Crime Scene Photographer vs Forensic Photographer?

AspectTemporary Crime Scene PhotographerForensic Photographer
CredentialsPhotography skills, possibly law enforcement clearancePhotography skills, law enforcement or forensic certifications
Work EnvironmentCrime scenes, outdoor and indoor locationsCrime labs, field scenes, courtrooms
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, crime scene unitsLaw enforcement, forensic labs, legal proceedings

Temporary Crime Scene Photographers focus on capturing images at crime scenes temporarily, often without extensive forensic training. Forensic Photographers typically have specialized certifications and work in more controlled environments like labs or courtrooms. Both roles require strong photography skills and work within law enforcement or forensic industries, but forensic photographers often have additional forensic training for detailed evidence documentation.

How do I become a temporary crime scene photographer?

To become a temporary crime scene photographer, you typically need a background in photography or forensic science, proficiency with camera equipment and photography techniques, and knowledge of crime scene protocols. Relevant certifications, such as forensic photography courses, can enhance your qualifications, and experience working in law enforcement or forensic environments is often preferred.

How much do temporary crime scene photographers get paid?

Temporary crime scene photographers typically earn an hourly wage ranging from $15 to $30, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the assignment. Pay rates may also vary based on whether the position is freelance or through a staffing agency, and the job often requires knowledge of photography equipment and crime scene protocols.

Is it easy to get hired as a Temporary Crime Scene Photographer?

Getting hired as a Temporary Crime Scene Photographer can be competitive and often requires relevant experience in photography, knowledge of crime scene protocols, and sometimes specialized training or certifications. Employers typically look for strong technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in sensitive environments, which can influence the ease of securing such a position.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Crime Scene Photographer jobs?

The most popular types of Crime Scene Photographer jobs are:

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States with the most job openings for Temporary Crime Scene Photographer jobs include:

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The top searched job categories for Temporary Crime Scene Photographer jobs are:

Infographic showing various Temporary Crime Scene Photographer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,345 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

$23.53 - $38.19/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

NOTICE TO APPLICANT

This position will close at 12:00AM MST on the End Date.
You must ensure your application reflects the correct and current information for your work experience, hours worked per week per position, education, personal information, etc.
Only the information provided on this application is evaluated when determining compensation.

Job Description

PURPOSE SUMMARY.

Under general supervision, responds to scenes as requested by Evidence Supervisor, Field supervisor, or CID supervisor. Conducts latent prints development and preservation, photography, video, sketching, crime scene search, evidence collection and preservation in support of law enforcement. Position requires working rotating shifts and on-call duty.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES.

  • Inspects and visually investigates crime scenes for the collection and preservation of evidence to include all trace and physical evidence such as body fluid (blood, saliva, etc.), hair, fibers, weapons, shoe impressions.

  • Uses digital camera, video equipment and measurement and diagraming techniques.

  • Collects DNA and utilizes Rapid DNA for results.

  • Serves as specialist in firearms examination and National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) acquisitions. Safely handle, examine, operate, and test fire a variety of firearms and ammunition.

  • Produces print and impression evidence by casting and/or photographing to scale impressions to use physical evidence as investigative aid.

  • Processes evidence using powders, chemicals, and alternative light sources for latent prints.

  • Packages evidence in accordance with policy and procedure.

  • Prepares detailed reports of all activities in reference to crime scene.

  • Operates basic power tools, hand tools and equipment.

  • Properly uses specialized equipment on crime scene vehicle.

  • Maintains confidentiality with regard to information received on cases and is responsible for knowing and abiding by all department and county policies and procedures.

  • Trains new technicians as necessary.

  • Assists supervisor in conducting educational training and discussions and mock scenes for academies, citizens and LEO's.

  • Works rotating shifts and on-call duties.

ADDITIONAL DUTIES. Performs other related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS.

A. Education. Associate's degree in criminal justice, evidence collection, forensics, or related field.

B. Experience. Two (2) years' experience in evidence collection, crime scene processing, forensics, photography/videography. Basic crime scene investigation and photography course preferred.

C. Education/Experience substitution. In accordance with County policy.

D. Licenses/Certifications. A valid Driver's License is required. Must maintain a satisfactory driving record in accordance with County policy. Must have or successfully complete a basic crime scene processing class and photography training course within 1 year of hire.

E. Other (e.g., post-offer medical exam, polygraph, background check, driver's license record, etc.). Must pass background check and driver's license check. No Felony convictions.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED BY THE POSITION:

Must have knowledge of inventory maintenance practices for a wide variety of property; strict security and administrative controls for classification and storage of items, such as evidence for law enforcement purposes; the rules of evidence and chain of custody procedures; record keeping; and some knowledge of computerized inventory record keeping procedures; pertinent Federal, State, and County laws; photography, and lighting techniques.

Must have skills to follow the legal chain-of-custody and property disposal procedures; accurately and legibly post and maintain inventory records and documents, identify and reconcile related discrepancies; operate motor vehicle, personal computer and applicable software, and material handling equipment; properly photograph elements of a crime scene; photograph crime scene by taking close-up, mid-range, and overall pictures; and photograph nighttime crime scenes.

Must have ability to work rotating shifts and be on-call; communicate clearly and concisely orally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships with fellow employees, supervisors, Sheriff's deputies, and members of the public; operate basic power tools, hand tools, and digital camera; respond to crime scenes in a timely manner; work safely by wearing personal protective equipment (PPE); train new technicians; work with outside agencies referencing crime scene processing; work with specialized crime scene equipment; conduct educational training and discussions and mock scenes for academies, citizens and LEO's; and work closely with the case agent to gain relevant information for crime scene investigation.

Compensation Range

$23.53 - $38.19

Dona Ana County is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. It is our policy to abide by all federal and state laws prohibiting employment discrimination on the basis of a person's race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, disability, serious medical condition, genetic information, ancestry, spousal affiliation, gender identity, sexual orientation or any other unlawful criteria, except where a reasonable Bona Fide Occupational Qualification exists.

Dona Ana County will make reasonable accommodation(s) for the known physical or mental limitations of an applicant with a disability, upon request, unless the accommodation(s) would cause an undue hardship on the operation of the County. Please seehttp://www.donaanacounty.org/ada/for our Public Notice and to get the Testing/Interview Accommodation Request Form or call 575-647-7210 for assistance.