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Trace Evidence Analyst Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of San Diego

Criminalist II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120K - $145K/yr

Blood Alcohol Analysis Computer Forensics Crime Scene Reconstruction Digital Forensics Firearms Identification Forensic Biology Narcotic Analysis Toxicological Analysis Trace Evidence Analysis NOTES:

City of San Diego

Criminalist I

San Diego, CA

$90K - $109K/yr

Blood Alcohol Analysis Computer Forensics Crime Scene Reconstruction Digital Forensics Firearms Identification Forensic Biology Narcotic Analysis Toxicological Analysis Trace Evidence Analysis ...

City of San Diego, CA

Criminalist II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120K - $145K/yr

Trace Evidence Analysis NOTES: * Experience performing comparative analysis of handwriting or latent prints ONLY is NOT considered qualifying. * Additional qualifying experience may NOT be used to ...

City of San Diego, CA

Criminalist I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$90K - $109K/yr

Trace Evidence Analysis COURSEWORK: Completion of the following college-level coursework: * 8 semester/12 quarter college-level units in general chemistry. * 3 semester/4 quarter college-level units ...

Eagle Harbor, LLC

Gun Crime Analyst #5857

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

Analyze e-Trace data for firearms trafficking * Utilizing NESS for daily entry of local RMS event info associated with ballistic evidence entered into NIBIN, analysis and triage of all NIBIN leads ...

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Trace Evidence Analyst information

See California salary details

$31.6K

$83.1K

$131.8K

How much do trace evidence analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for trace evidence analyst in California is $83,104.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,100.00 and $97,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a trace evidence analyst?

A Trace Evidence Analyst is a forensic scientist who examines small materials—such as hair, fibers, paint, glass, and gunshot residue—left at crime scenes to help identify suspects or reconstruct events. They use microscopy, spectroscopy, and chemical analysis to compare evidence with known samples. Their findings can link a suspect to a scene, confirm or refute witness statements, and provide crucial information for criminal investigations. Analysts often prepare detailed reports and may testify as expert witnesses in court.

What types of trace evidence does a trace evidence analyst examine, and what does a typical day look like?

A Trace Evidence Analyst frequently examines materials such as fibers, hair, paint, glass, and gunshot residue that can be transferred during the commission of a crime. On a typical day, analysts receive and catalog evidence, conduct meticulous microscopic and chemical analyses, interpret findings, and prepare detailed reports. They may also consult with investigators or testify as expert witnesses in court. The work is detail-oriented, requiring careful adherence to laboratory protocols and close collaboration with other forensic specialists and law enforcement professionals.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a trace evidence analyst?

To thrive as a Trace Evidence Analyst, you need a solid background in forensic science, chemistry, and microscopy, often backed by a bachelor's degree in a related field. Experience with laboratory instruments such as comparison microscopes, FTIR spectroscopy, and knowledge of forensic laboratory information management systems is essential, along with certifications like those from the American Board of Criminalistics. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong written and verbal communication skills are important soft skills for this role. These abilities are crucial for accurately analyzing minute evidence, effectively reporting findings, and collaborating with law enforcement agencies.

What are popular job titles related to Trace Evidence Analyst jobs in California?

For Trace Evidence Analyst jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Trace Evidence Analyst jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Trace Evidence Analyst jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Trace Evidence Analyst jobs?

Cities in California with the most Trace Evidence Analyst job openings:

Trace Evidence Analyst jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trace Evidence Analyst job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,104 per year, or $40 per hour.

PLM/PCM Laboratory Analyst

LIBERTY ENVIROLAB LLC

Cerritos, CA • On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Competitive salary
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

Rare opportunity to learn and grow with our company! Liberty EnviroLab is currently seeking Full Time Experienced Laboratory Analysts specializing in wildfire, structure fire, asbestos, and mold analysis. 
Liberty EnviroLab is located in San Marcos in the northern San Diego County. Liberty offers a variety of analytical testing services to support environmental investigations focused on wildfire, structure fire, asbestos, mold (microbiology). Our management team has over 71 years of combined experience in particulate analysis and trace evidence examination. We believe in empowering our customers with accurate and defensible analytical results. 
Some Responsibilities Include:

·         Safely perform analyses on samples according to Liberty’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) using advanced instruments. 
·         Follow all laboratory QA/QC requirements
·         Record data using computer software and programs. 
·         Maintain equipment according to manufacturer guidelines and company procedures. 
·         Perform other assigned duties, as requested by supervisor.
Requirements:

·         Associates or Bachelor’s Degree in a life science (biology, chemistry, environmental science, etc.) preferred.  
·         1-2 years of Polarized light microscopy (PLM) experience required.
·         1 year of Phase contrast microscopy (PCM) experience required.
·         Self-motivated, independent, and team oriented.
·         Must be able to work in a fast-paced setting, multi-task, and prioritize assignments. 
·         Good communication, computer, typing, and organizational skills. .
Visit our website for more information about our company. www.libertyenvirolab.com
Please submit your resume, or call us at 760-539-7024 for assistance!
About UsOur experience and cutting-edge, high-performance instruments combined with our solutions-focused customer service empower our clients with accurate and defensible analytical results.
We Don’t Settle For Anything But The Best
Our investment employing the most advanced, state-of-the-art instruments and uniquely experienced scientists and analysts, provides an unparalleled opportunity and experience for our customers.
Our court approved experts have decades of experience in particulate analysis and trace evidence examination using various techniques of light microscopy, electron microscopy, infrared microspectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy. Our highly experienced staff have instructed forensic microscopy courses in university science graduate programs and have distinguished careers in developing and implementing quality assurance/quality control programs for laboratories across the nation.