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Trace Evidence Examiner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Boston

Director, Forensic Lab

Boston, MA · On-site

$117K - $153K/yr

Authorize priority examinations and analysis as needed. * Annually review and evaluate the ... Trace Evidence, and Crime Scene Investigation. * Must understand relevant tools, equipment, and ...

City of Fort Myers, FL

Digital Forensic Examiner

Fort Myers, FL · On-site

$2.6K - $4.0K/wk

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

They will also assist with the collection, preservation, and documentation of digital evidence in ... Investigate network traffic, logs, and communication records to trace the origin and transmission ...

City of Fort Myers

Digital Forensic Examiner

Fort Myers, FL

$33.56 - $50.76/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

They will also assist with the collection, preservation, and documentation of digital evidence in ... Investigate network traffic, logs, and communication records to trace the origin and transmission ...

Georgia

GBI 2027 Spring Internship (Unpaid)

Decatur, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

Trace Evidence * Toxicology * Impressions * Firearms -Public Affairs Office -Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC) -Medical Examiner's Office -Child Fatality Review Unit Failure to complete and ...

MyFlorida

CRIME LABORATORY POSITIONS - 71002590

Orlando, FL

$25K/mo

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Crime Laboratory Analysts perform scientific examinations of physical evidence, prepare ... Fort Myers, Jacksonville, Orlando, Pensacola, Tampa Trace Materials: Orlando Toxicology: Orlando ...

MyFlorida

CRIME LABORATORY POSITIONS - 71002590

Tallahassee, FL · On-site

$25K/mo

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Crime Laboratory Analysts perform scientific examinations of physical evidence, prepare ... Fort Myers, Jacksonville, Orlando, Pensacola, Tampa Trace Materials: Orlando Toxicology: Orlando ...

MyFlorida

CRIME LABORATORY POSITIONS - 71002590

Tallahassee, FL · On-site

$25K/mo

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Crime Laboratory Analysts perform scientific examinations of physical evidence, prepare ... Fort Myers, Jacksonville, Orlando, Pensacola, Tampa Trace Materials: Orlando Toxicology: Orlando ...

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Trace Evidence Examiner information

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How much do trace evidence examiner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 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 is a trace evidence examiner?

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.

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 skills and qualifications are needed to be a trace evidence examiner?

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 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.

How much does a trace evidence examiner make?

The average salary for a trace evidence examiner typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level examiners may earn closer to the lower end, while those with advanced certifications or extensive experience can earn higher salaries. Many positions also require proficiency with forensic tools and adherence to strict laboratory protocols.

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.
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Trace Evidence Examiner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trace Evidence Examiner job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,362 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Director, Forensic Lab

City of Boston

Boston, MA • On-site

$117K - $153K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

City Of Boston rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

451st of 846 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Overview:
Under the direct supervision of the Commander of the Forensic Laboratory, the Director authorizes, approves, coordinates, and supervises administrative and technical operations of the Boston Police Department Forensic Laboratory. The Director shall determine relevant laboratory objectives and communicate those objectives to staff; ensure compliance with current accreditation standards; Work in collaboration with the management team of the Forensic Laboratory; ensure that clearly written procedures are followed for technical operations, handling, and preserving the integrity of evidence, case records, lab security, and safety.
Responsibilities:
  • Liaise with the Commander of the Forensic Laboratory to coordinate administrative and technical functions of personnel.
  • Directs and implements the strategic plan, standards, and practices that guide and support the delivery of high-quality forensic laboratory operations.
  • Determine relevant laboratory objectives, communicate those objectives to staff, and ensure compliance.
  • Advises on scientific and technical quality across the department and ensures alignment and integration with strategic priorities, capabilities, and initiatives.
  • Assess new techniques and procedures for potential implementation in the laboratory.
  • Develop and maintain criteria used to assess the level of performance and strengthen the operation of the laboratory.
  • Authorize priority examinations and analysis as needed.
  • Annually review and evaluate the laboratory management system, including the allocated budget, grant proposals, and other related resources.
  • Lead and oversee the recruitment, selection, and strategic workforce planning efforts for Laboratory personnel, ensuring the acquisition and retention of highly qualified forensic professionals.
  • Direct and manage all personnel operations for the Laboratory, including performance management, workforce development, succession planning, employee relations, and organizational leadership initiatives.
  • Provide executive leadership with complex statistical analyses, operational metrics, forensic case data, and strategic recommendations to support departmental planning, budget development, grant funding initiatives, staffing models, and resource allocation decisions.
  • Develop, direct, and authorize comprehensive professional development and continuing education initiatives to ensure Laboratory personnel maintain technical competency, industry best practices, and compliance with evolving forensic science standards.
  • Serve in a senior leadership capacity on promotional review and evaluation panels, providing strategic oversight and recommendations regarding advancement, leadership development, and succession planning for Laboratory personnel.
  • Direct and ensure Laboratory-wide compliance with all applicable accreditation standards, regulatory requirements, quality assurance protocols, and forensic science best practices, including oversight of audit preparation, corrective actions, and continuous quality improvement initiatives.
  • Performs related work as required.

Minimum Entrance Qualifications:
Experience:
  • Should have knowledge of forensic science and the management and operations of a forensic laboratory; rules of evidence, proper handling and documentation; legal/courtroom proceedings; accreditation standards; forensic testing methods and reporting.
  • Ability to compile, analyze, and prepare statistical reports; communicate clearly and effectively; create and manage an operational budget; and supervise and make managerial decisions.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Bachelor's degree in a natural science, forensic science, or closely related field required. Master's or PhD degree in a natural science, forensic science, or closely related field preferred. Certification in a forensic discipline is preferred.
  • Applicants must have ten (10) years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional/forensic laboratory experience with three (3) years of supervisory experience.
  • Experience in lab management and supervision is strongly preferred; familiar with management methods, practices, and procedures, including quality (technical and administrative), planning, scheduling (logistics), purchasing, data gathering, mentoring, and supervising.
  • Professional experience in an accredited laboratory is preferred.
  • Knowledge of forensic laboratory scientific disciplines, including, but not limited to, DNA/Biology, Firearms, Latent Prints, Trace Evidence, and Crime Scene Investigation.
  • Must understand relevant tools, equipment, and software used in the Forensic Laboratory.
  • Demonstrated ability to develop ideas, conflict resolution, and problem-solving initiatives to support the team.
  • Must possess strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Demonstrate organizational and time management skills.
  • Demonstrate accountability and motivation.
  • Full knowledge of the policies and procedures of the Boston Police Department Forensic Laboratory.
  • Full knowledge of forensic accreditation standards and supplemental requirements.
  • Ability to communicate, listen, and collaborate with a team.
  • Ability to be flexible and adapt to a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to troubleshoot and delegate tasks as needed.
  • Ability to write and review comprehensive administrative/statistical/technical reports.
  • Ability to evaluate, develop, write, and implement Standard Operating Procedures.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft applications and Google Suite.
  • Ability to exercise good judgment and focus on detail as required by the job.

CRIMINAL RECORD CHECK REQUIRED
PRE-EMPLOYMENT DRUG TEST AND PHYSICAL REQUIRED
BOSTON RESIDENCY REQUIRED
Terms:
Union/Salary Plan/Grade: Non-Union/MM-12
Hours per week: 35

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