Criminalist job description.
A criminalist applies scientific methods to analyze physical evidence collected from crime scenes, working in a forensic laboratory to identify, compare, and interpret materials such as trace evidence, biological samples, and impressions. They document findings, maintain chain of custody, and prepare reports that support criminal investigations and courtroom testimony. The role requires rigorous laboratory technique, objectivity, and the ability to explain complex findings to non-scientific audiences.
The Criminalist job description · $29
The full editable .docx — role summary, 9 worked responsibilities, qualifications, and skills, formatted for your letterhead. Delivered to your inbox within 24 hours — usually instantly.
Role: Criminalist Reports to: Crime Lab Supervisor
A criminalist applies scientific methods to analyze physical evidence collected from crime scenes, working in a forensic laboratory to identify, compare, and interpret materials such as trace evidence, biological samples, and impressions. They document findings, maintain chain of custody, and prepare reports that support criminal investigations and courtroom testimony. The role requires rigorous laboratory technique, objectivity, and the ability to explain complex findings to non-scientific audiences.
- Analyze physical evidence such as trace materials, fibers, and biological samples
- Conduct comparative examinations of impressions, tool marks, and firearms evidence
- Follow strict laboratory protocols to maintain evidence integrity and chain of custody
What's inside the document.
One-paragraph plain-English explanation of the role's outcome and scope.
9 responsibilities phrased the way the work is actually done.
5 qualifications a candidate must have to perform on day 30.
3 qualifications that would make a candidate excellent in year two.
6 skill chips you can copy directly into your ATS.
Crime Lab Supervisor
A complete document set.
- Word document (.docx) — fully editable
- PDF — signature-ready
- Google Docs — one-click copy to your Drive
- 12 months of updates to this document
- Commercial-use licence for internal and client work
The work, not the title.
- Analyze physical evidence such as trace materials, fibers, and biological samples
- Conduct comparative examinations of impressions, tool marks, and firearms evidence
- Follow strict laboratory protocols to maintain evidence integrity and chain of custody
- Document methodology, observations, and results in detailed laboratory reports
- Operate and maintain forensic laboratory instruments and equipment
- Collaborate with investigators and prosecutors on evidence interpretation
- Testify as an expert witness in court proceedings
- Participate in proficiency testing and laboratory accreditation requirements
- Stay current on forensic science methods and best practices
Required — and what would make a candidate excellent.
- Bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or related field
- Training in evidence handling, chain-of-custody, and laboratory safety protocols
- Strong analytical and scientific reasoning skills
- Ability to testify clearly and credibly in court
- Meticulous attention to detail and documentation accuracy
- Master's degree in forensic science
- Certification from a recognized forensic science board
- Experience with specific evidence disciplines (e.g., DNA, ballistics, trace evidence)
Eight steps from download to publish.
- 01Open the Criminalist job description in Word or your one-click Google Docs copy.
- 02Replace placeholders for company name, reporting line, and location with your specifics.
- 03Tighten the summary to one paragraph that names the team's outcome, not just the role.
- 04Edit the responsibilities to match the actual scope of the seat — aim for 6 to 8 items, not 12.
- 05Separate required qualifications from preferred. Required is what a candidate must have to do the work on day 30; preferred is what would make them excellent in year two.
- 06Add salary range guidance using BLS, Payscale, or your own band data — do not copy generic figures.
- 07Have the hiring manager and one peer read it. Cut anything that wouldn't survive a candidate question.
- 08Publish to your ATS, intranet, and external careers page.
The right document at the right moment.
Use this Criminalist job description any time you are opening or reopening a seat at this level. The mid band sets the calibration — copy the document, tighten it to your specific scope, and circulate to the hiring panel before the first interview.
The reporting line (Crime Lab Supervisor) and skills list are starting points. Override either if your org structure or stack differs from the norm — the template is a draft, not a contract.
Honest answers before you download.
- What education does a criminalist need?
- Most employers require a bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a closely related scientific field.
- Will a criminalist need to testify in court?
- Yes, criminalists are often called as expert witnesses to explain their laboratory findings and methodology during criminal trials.
Other documents in this neighbourhood.
Forensic Science Technician
A Forensic Science Technician collects and analyzes physical evidence from crime scenes to support criminal investigations.
Forensic Scientist
A forensic scientist analyzes physical evidence from crime scenes, such as DNA, fibers, and toxicology samples, using laboratory techniques to support criminal investigations and legal proceedings.
Crime Scene Investigator
A Crime Scene Investigator documents, collects, and preserves physical evidence at crime scenes for forensic analysis and legal proceedings.
This Criminalist job description is a professionally drafted starting point for your hiring process and is not legal advice. Hiring practice varies by jurisdiction (e.g. pay-transparency laws differ across US states and AU jurisdictions). Adapt this document for your specific location and have employment counsel review any clauses you add before publishing. Salary varies by region, employer type, and experience. Reference BLS or current industry surveys for ranges. Full disclaimer.