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Trace Evidence Examiner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Columbia, SC

CRIME SCENE TECHNICIAN

Columbia, SC · On-site

$46K - $58K/yr

... trace evidence, DNA and other physical evidence; * Preparing casts, collecting, and preserving evidence from the crime scene in order to prepare evidence for submission to the Lab for examination;

City of Columbia

CRIME SCENE TECHNICIAN

Columbia, SC

$46K - $58K/yr

... trace evidence, DNA and other physical evidence; Preparing casts, collecting, and preserving evidence from the crime scene in order to prepare evidence for submission to the Lab for examination;

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$33.5K

$61.4K

$99K

How much do trace evidence examiner jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for trace evidence examiner in the United States is $61,362.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,000.00 and $69,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Trace Evidence Examiners?

Trace Evidence Examiners are forensic scientists who analyze small pieces of physical evidence, such as hair, fibers, glass, paint, and soil, typically collected from crime scenes. Their work helps establish connections between suspects, victims, and crime locations by identifying and comparing these minute materials. They use specialized instruments and techniques to examine evidence and may provide expert testimony in court regarding their findings. Trace Evidence Examiners play a critical role in criminal investigations by providing objective, scientific analysis that aids in solving crimes.

How much do forensic examiners get paid?

Forensic examiners, including trace evidence examiners, typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, often working in laboratory or law enforcement environments.

What is the difference between Trace Evidence Examiner vs Forensic Scientist?

AspectTrace Evidence ExaminerForensic Scientist
CredentialsForensic science degree, certification in trace evidence analysisVaries; often a forensic science degree, with or without specialized certification
Work EnvironmentCrime labs, crime scenes, courtroomsCrime labs, research facilities, courtrooms
Industry UsageSpecializes in analyzing trace evidence like fibers, hair, glassBroader role including biological, chemical, and physical evidence

While both roles work within forensic science, a Trace Evidence Examiner focuses specifically on analyzing trace materials, whereas a Forensic Scientist may handle a wider range of evidence types. The Trace Evidence Examiner's expertise is more specialized in trace evidence analysis, making it a more targeted career within forensic science.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Trace Evidence Examiner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trace Evidence Examiner, you need a solid background in chemistry, biology, or forensic science, often with a relevant bachelor's degree and specialized training in trace analysis. Familiarity with analytical instruments such as microscopes, gas chromatographs, and spectrometers, as well as accreditation from organizations like the American Board of Criminalistics, is typically required. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and clear written and verbal communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the accurate analysis and interpretation of evidence, which is vital for supporting criminal investigations and judicial processes.

What are some common challenges faced by Trace Evidence Examiners during casework?

Trace Evidence Examiners often work with extremely small or degraded samples, which can pose challenges in detection, collection, and analysis. Maintaining the integrity of evidence while preventing contamination is crucial and requires meticulous attention to detail. Additionally, balancing a high caseload with the need for thorough documentation and peer review can be demanding. Collaboration with law enforcement, attorneys, and other forensic specialists is frequent, requiring strong communication skills to ensure findings are clearly conveyed and understood.

What qualifications do I need to be a forensic examiner?

To become a trace evidence examiner, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory techniques, and experience with microscopy and chemical analysis; some positions may require certification from professional organizations. Advanced roles may require additional training or a master's degree.

How to become a trace evidence examiner?

To become a trace evidence examiner, typically a bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, or a related field is required. Candidates should gain experience in laboratory analysis, often through internships or entry-level positions, and may pursue certification from organizations like the American Board of Criminalistics to enhance their credentials.

How much does a trace evidence analyst make?

The average salary for a trace evidence examiner is typically between $40,000 and $70,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level analysts may earn lower wages, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, often working in forensic laboratories or law enforcement agencies.
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Trace Evidence Examiner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trace Evidence Examiner job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,362 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

PLM/PCM Laboratory Analyst

LIBERTY ENVIROLAB LLC

Cerritos, CA • On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Be an early applicant

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 Libertys 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 Bachelors 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 Dont 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.