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Crime Lab Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Police Officer

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$33.77 - $48.33/hr

Transports evidence to state crime lab for processing. * Interviews suspects, locates and interviews witnesses and serves arrest warrants on suspects already booked in jail. * Monitors and may ...

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crime lab information

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$25

$45

How much do crime lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for crime lab in the United States is $25.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a crime lab?

A crime lab, short for crime laboratory, is a scientific facility where forensic scientists analyze evidence collected from crime scenes. These laboratories use various techniques and technologies to examine physical evidence such as DNA, fingerprints, drugs, firearms, and other trace materials. The results from crime lab analyses help law enforcement agencies solve crimes, identify suspects, and support criminal prosecutions in court. Crime labs can be operated by local, state, or federal agencies, and often play a crucial role in the criminal justice system.

What are some of the common challenges faced by professionals working in a crime lab environment?

Working in a crime lab often involves handling sensitive evidence under strict protocols, meeting tight deadlines, and ensuring that all analyses are both accurate and legally admissible. Professionals must be detail-oriented and able to manage stress, as errors can have significant legal implications. Collaboration with law enforcement, attorneys, and other scientists is common, requiring strong communication skills and the ability to explain complex findings to non-experts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a crime lab technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Crime Lab Technician, you need a solid background in chemistry, biology, or forensic science, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory instruments, forensic analysis software, and evidence management systems is essential. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and clear communication are crucial soft skills for accurate analysis and reporting. These skills ensure reliable forensic results, support criminal investigations, and maintain the integrity of the justice process.

What is the difference between Crime Lab vs Forensic Technician?

AspectCrime LabForensic Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in forensic science, criminal justice, or a related field; certifications may enhance prospectsRequires a degree in forensic science, biology, chemistry, or related fields; certifications can be beneficial
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, crime scenes, courtroomsCrime scenes, laboratories, law enforcement agencies
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, government labsPolice departments, forensic labs, government agencies

Both Crime Lab professionals and Forensic Technicians work in forensic science, often within law enforcement settings. Crime Lab roles tend to involve more advanced analysis and testing, while Forensic Technicians often assist in collecting evidence and preparing samples. The roles are closely related, with overlapping credentials and work environments, making them common choices for those interested in forensic careers.

How much do you make in a crime lab?

Crime lab technicians and forensic scientists typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, education, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals or those with specialized skills can earn higher salaries.

What do you need to work in a crime lab?

To work in a crime lab, candidates typically need a relevant degree such as a bachelor's or master's in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and proficiency with laboratory equipment and techniques are essential; some positions may also require certification or security clearances.

What does a crime lab scientist do?

A crime lab scientist analyzes physical evidence collected from crime scenes, such as fingerprints, blood, and DNA, using specialized tools and techniques. They prepare reports, testify in court, and ensure evidence integrity while working in a laboratory environment that requires attention to detail and knowledge of forensic science methods.
More about crime lab jobs

What cities are hiring for Crime Lab jobs?

Cities with the most Crime Lab job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Crime Lab jobs?

The most popular types of Crime Lab jobs are:

What states have the most Crime Lab jobs?

States with the most job openings for Crime Lab jobs include:

Infographic showing various Crime Lab job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,516 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

DPS - CLD - Crime Lab Tech, SD (licensed) - 6122

CAPPS

Midland, TX • On-site

$4.3K - $6.2K/mo

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Job Description
Copies of Official Transcripts indicating conferred degree are required (Applications without copies of Official Transcripts indicating conferred degree attached at the time of application will be subject to rejection).
Visual acuity, Color vision acuity required.
Salary is dependent on obtaining required licensing within 180 days of employment.
PLEASE NOTE: All applications must contain complete job histories, which includes job title, dates of employment, name of employer, supervisor's name and phone number and a description of duties performed. If this information is not submitted, your application may be rejected because it is incomplete. Resumes do not take the place of this required information.
SUBMITTED THROUGH WORK IN TEXAS: Work In Texas (WIT) applicants must complete the supplemental questions to be considered for the posting. In order to complete the supplemental questions please go to CAPPS Recruit to register or login and access your profile. Go to CAPPS Recruit to Sign In https://erphcmprd.cpa.texas.gov/psc/candidateportal/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL?FOCUS=Applicant&
Condition of Employment:
Prior to employment, must provide documentation from a physician of:
1. Visual acuity, and
2. Color vision acuity for Seized Drugs (Options A and C) and Biology/DNA (Options B and C).
All acuity testing must have occurred prior to and within six (6) months of the start date.
Current employees, with no acuity testing on file, must provide documentation from a physician before starting in new position.
Required to obtain a forensic analyst license limited to a technician category in the related discipline from the Texas Forensic Science Commission in accordance with the Code of Criminal Procedure Title 1 Chapter 38.01. This applies to the following disciplines: Seized Drugs and Toxicology (Option A), and Biology/DNA (Option B).
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: Performs highly complex (seniorlevel) crime laboratory work. Work involves mixing of chemical reagents and performing a variety of technical, maintenance and troubleshooting activities in the crime laboratory, and other general laboratory duties. Works under limited supervision, with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.
The following Military Occupational Specialty codes are generally applicable to this position.
Crime Laboratory Specialist
Applicants must fully complete the summary of experience to determine if minimum qualifications are met.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES / RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. May prepare buffers, reagents, stock solutions, etc., as required by section analysts in the laboratory. Maintain proper stock of supplies in support of laboratory analysts.
2. Oversee the maintenance and handling of evidence, including receipt, bar coding, storage, return, destruction, and inventory within the laboratory section.
3. Monitor and maintain the laboratory section in a clean and orderly manner.
4. May enter and update sample inventory in a personal computer database.
5. May autoclave glassware, biohazardous waste, reagents, and plasticware as necessary.
6. May assist with supply and chemical ordering and maintenance of order records.
7. Assist with lab instrument and inventory transfers and install new or transferred equipment. May prepare and/or submit the annual property inventory checklist to the Manager/Supervisor of the Laboratory.
8. Perform section administrative duties related to case receipt.
9. May assist in the maintenance, and repairs to crime laboratory equipment, hardware, and apparatus.
10. May perform quality control testing on reagents and instruments.
11. Under the direction of a forensic scientist, may perform analytical work on case samples.
12. Attend work regularly and observe approved work hours in accordance with agency leave and attendance policies.
13. Perform other duties as assigned.
GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS and REQUIREMENTS:
Education : Crime Laboratory Technician, Seized Drug or Toxicology ¿ Licensed Minimum of an associate's degree or equivalent.
Experience Minimum of one (1) year experience in a laboratory environment performing similar tasks to those described above.
Substitution Note: A Bachelor of Science degree in a natural science (chemistry, biology, physics, etc.) with a minimum of 8 hours of Chemistry may be substituted for the experience. .
Licensure and/or Certification If driving is required, must possess a valid driver license from state of residence. A forensic analyst license from TFSC (Texas Forensic Science Commission) may be required.
Regulatory Knowledge Working knowledge of, or the ability to rapidly assimilate information related to TXDPS, State and Federal regulations, legislation, guidelines, policies and procedures related to laboratory operations.
Interpersonal Skills Must demonstrate an ability to exercise poise, tact, diplomacy and an ability to establish and maintain positive, working/professional relationships with internal/external customers.
Organizational and Prioritization Skills Must be organized, flexible, and able to effectively prioritize in a multidemand and constantly changing environment; able to meet multiple and sometimes conflicting deadlines without sacrificing accuracy, timeliness or professionalism.
Presentation/Communication Skills Must be able to construct and deliver clear, concise, and professional presentations to a variety of audiences and/or individuals.
Research and Comprehension Must demonstrate ability to quickly and efficiently access relevant information, and be able to utilize and/or present research and conclusions in a clear and concise manner.
Analytical Reasoning/Attention to Detail Must demonstrate an ability to examine data/information, discern variations/similarities, and be able identify trends, relationships and causal factors, as well as grasp issues, draw accurate conclusions, and solve problems.
Technology (computers/hardware/software/operating systems) Must possess appropriate levels of proficiency with utilized software and systems and be able to learn new software/systems. Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
Confidentiality and Protected Information Must demonstrate an ability to responsibly handle sensitive and confidential information and situations, and adhere to applicable laws/statutes/policies related to access, maintenance and dissemination of information.
Safety Must be able to work in safe manner at all times, avoiding shortcuts that have potential adverse results/risks, and must be able to comply with safety standards and best practices.
PHYSICAL and/or ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS:
The physical and environmental demands described here are representative of those encountered and/or necessary for the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job; reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Environment: Office, laboratory;
  • Ambulatory skills, e.g. stand, walk, sit;
  • Handeye coordination and arm/hand/finger dexterity;
  • Ability to accurately identify colors and discern differences in color, applicable only to Seized Drugs
  • Ability to transfer weights of forty (40) pounds anticipated for this position;
  • Driving requirements: Occasional (10%).

State of Texas Benefits and Retirement Information: https://www.ers.texas.gov/
Current DPS employees who submit applications for posted DPS positions shall notify their immediate supervisor in writing.
A DPS employee who is selected for a position in the same salary group and state title as their current position will be transferred with no salary change.
A DPS employee who is selected for a position in their current salary group with a new state title may receive an increase of no more than 3.4% over their current salary regardless of posted salary.
Salary is contingent upon qualifications and is subject to salary administration and budgetary restrictions.
DUE TO THE HIGH VOLUME OF APPLICATIONS WE DO NOT ACCEPT TELEPHONE CALLS. ONLY CANDIDATES SELECTED FOR INTERVIEW WILL BE CONTACTED.
State of Texas retirees may be rehired for fulltime, noncommissioned positions only under very specific circumstances.

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About CAPPS

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

A statewide software solution developed by the Texas Department of Information Resources, CAPPS consolidates financial management, HR, and payroll operations for state agencies. Designed as a unified enterprise resource system, CAPPS replaced legacy tools in the early 2000s with a scalable, integrated platform tailored to agencies of varied size and complexity.

Industry

Human resource programs administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Austin, TX, US