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Unlicensed Forensic Psychologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NYC Health Hospitals

Psychologist - Level I

New York, NY · On-site

$106K/yr

... Forensic Psychiatric Evaluation Court Clinics (FPECC), which may include participation in the ... Unlicensed individuals must work under the supervision of a New York State licensed and currently ...

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Unlicensed Forensic Psychologist information

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$41K

$87.9K

$137K

How much do unlicensed forensic psychologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for unlicensed forensic psychologist in the United States is $87,877.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,500.00 and $111,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is there a shortage of unlicensed forensic psychologists?

Unlicensed forensic psychologists are generally in demand due to the specialized nature of their work in legal settings, but shortages can vary by region and specific employer needs. The field often requires advanced training, strong assessment skills, and knowledge of legal procedures, which can influence job availability and competition.

What are the typical responsibilities and limitations for an unlicensed forensic psychologist working under supervision?

As an unlicensed forensic psychologist, you will typically assist in conducting psychological assessments, gathering relevant case information, and preparing reports under the direct supervision of a licensed psychologist. While you can contribute significantly to casework and may observe or participate in court proceedings, you are not authorized to provide independent diagnoses, expert testimony, or make final recommendations. The role offers valuable experience in forensic settings and can be an essential step toward full licensure, allowing you to gain hands-on exposure while learning to navigate the legal and ethical complexities of forensic work.

Is it hard to get hired as a unlicensed forensic psychologist?

Getting hired as an unlicensed forensic psychologist can be competitive, as many positions require relevant education, such as a master's or doctoral degree, and experience in forensic settings. Employers often look for strong analytical skills, knowledge of legal procedures, and familiarity with psychological assessment tools, which can influence hiring difficulty.

What is the difference between Unlicensed Forensic Psychologist vs Forensic Psychologist?

AspectUnlicensed Forensic PsychologistForensic Psychologist
CredentialsTypically no state licensure; may have relevant education or certificationLicensed psychologist with state certification
Work EnvironmentLegal settings, assessments, research, often without direct client therapyLegal settings, clinical assessments, therapy, expert testimony
Employer & Industry UsageLegal agencies, research institutions, forensic consultingCourts, law enforcement, mental health facilities

Unlicensed Forensic Psychologists often work in forensic settings without licensure, focusing on assessments and research. Licensed Forensic Psychologists have formal licensure, enabling them to provide therapy and expert testimony. The main difference lies in licensure status and scope of practice within the forensic field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an unlicensed forensic psychologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Unlicensed Forensic Psychologist, you typically need a solid academic background in psychology or forensic psychology, research skills, and a thorough understanding of legal and psychological concepts. Familiarity with psychological assessment tools, data analysis software, and case management systems is often expected. Strong critical thinking, ethical judgment, and effective communication are vital soft skills for working with diverse stakeholders and handling sensitive information. These skills and qualities are crucial for supporting forensic evaluations, contributing to legal processes, and ensuring the integrity of psychological assessments.

Is there a high demand for unlicensed forensic psychologists?

Unlicensed forensic psychologists typically have limited job opportunities, as licensing is often required for independent practice and credibility in the field. However, there may be some demand for entry-level or support roles in forensic settings, but overall, licensed professionals are in higher demand due to regulatory requirements and specialized skills.

What is an unlicensed forensic psychologist?

An unlicensed forensic psychologist is someone who has advanced training in forensic psychology but has not yet obtained a professional license to practice independently. They may work under the supervision of a licensed psychologist, assisting with psychological assessments, research, or evaluations related to legal cases. Their duties are limited by law, and they cannot provide certain services, such as independent court testimony or official diagnoses, without supervision. Unlicensed forensic psychologists are often gaining required experience or completing postdoctoral training necessary for licensure.
More about Unlicensed Forensic Psychologist jobs
What cities are hiring for Unlicensed Forensic Psychologist jobs? Cities with the most Unlicensed Forensic Psychologist job openings:
What states have the most Unlicensed Forensic Psychologist jobs? States with the most job openings for Unlicensed Forensic Psychologist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Unlicensed Forensic Psychologist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Unlicensed Forensic Psychologist jobs are:
Unlicensed Forensic Psychologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Unlicensed Forensic Psychologist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $87,877 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Forensic Evaluation Manager

GATEWAYS HOSPITAL & MENTAL HEALTH CENTER

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$121K - $136K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Title of Position: Forensic Evaluation Manager Location: Los Angeles Exempt/Non-Exempt: Exempt Union/ Non-Union: Non-Union Supervisor: Director of Evaluations
SUMMARY OF POSITION
Gateways Hospital and Mental Health Centers is seeking a licensed Psychologist to serve as the Forensic Evaluation Manager for the Conditional Release Program (CONREP) in Los Angeles and San Diego Counties. CONREP provides court- and parole-mandated treatment and supervision to individuals transitioning from the Department of State Hospitals to the community.
As part of the Evaluation Unit, the Evaluation Manager oversees operations and assessments related to individuals deemed Incompetent to Stand Trial (IST). This role provides clinical leadership, operational oversight, and staff supervision to ensure timely, high-quality forensic evaluations that inform legal decision-making regarding treatment placement, risk level, and community readiness.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
  • Oversee and coordinate evaluations for individuals found IST, ensuring accuracy, quality, and timeliness
  • Assign and manage court-ordered evaluations and monitor workflow and productivity
  • Supervise, mentor, and evaluate licensed and unlicensed forensic evaluators and trainees
  • Provide ongoing training, coaching, and performance management to evaluation staff
  • Conduct and review comprehensive forensic evaluations, including violence risk assessments (e.g., HCR-20)
  • Evaluate competency, malingering, psychiatric disorders, and cognitive functioning
  • Prepare and review detailed forensic reports for courts and legal stakeholders
  • Maintain accurate documentation, case records, and evaluation data
  • Provide expert testimony in court and defend findings under cross-examination
  • Consult with judges, attorneys, treatment teams, and external stakeholders
  • Serve as liaison between CONREP, the courts, Department of State Hospitals, and community providers
  • Lead quality assurance initiatives and continuous process improvement efforts
  • Ensure compliance with legal, ethical, and organizational standards
  • Assist the Director of Evaluations with program development and operational needs
  • Maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions
  • Perform other duties as assigned

ESSENTIAL SKILLS
  • Strong leadership and supervisory skills, with the ability to manage and develop staff
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a high-demand environment
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, particularly in legal contexts
  • Ability to synthesize complex clinical and legal information
  • Effective collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and external stakeholders

EDUCATION & CERTIFICATES
  • Doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in Psychology
  • Active license as a Psychologist issued by the California Board of Psychology

EXPERIENCE/QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience conducting forensic assessments, including violence risk evaluations
  • Strong knowledge of DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria and forensic populations
  • Experience working with individuals with severe mental illness and substance use disorders
  • Management or supervisory experience in a forensic or clinical setting preferred
  • Prior experience providing court testimony preferred

REQUIREMENTS
  • Must pass Department of Justice (DOJ), Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), and Community Care Licensing (CCL) background clearance.
  • Valid California Driver's license.
  • TB clearance.
  • Driving record acceptable for coverage by Gateways insurance carrier.

Gateways Hospital and Mental Health Center provides a supportive yet stimulating and creative environment where professionals are valued and given opportunities to develop their skills. Some of the many exciting ways Gateways invests in its employees include:
  • Student loan forgiveness qualifying employer
  • Option of a flexible work schedule (9/80)
  • Medical insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Retirement plan with employer matching
  • Cell phone reimbursement pay
  • Vacation, sick time, bereavement, and personal holidays
  • Bilingual pay, when applicable
  • Ongoing training in forensic mental health through a robust didactic training program, the Department of State Hospitals trainings, and the Forensic Mental Health Association of California Annual Conference
  • Employee appreciation events throughout the year

Apply