Forensic Scientist job description.
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. They document findings, maintain chain of custody, and often provide expert testimony in court.
The Forensic Scientist job description · $29
The full editable .docx — role summary, 8 worked responsibilities, qualifications, and skills, formatted for your letterhead. Delivered to your inbox within 24 hours — usually instantly.
Role: Forensic Scientist Reports to: Laboratory Director or Crime Lab Supervisor
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. They document findings, maintain chain of custody, and often provide expert testimony in court.
- Analyze physical evidence using laboratory instruments and techniques
- Maintain strict chain of custody for all evidence handled
- Document test procedures, results, and findings accurately
What's inside the document.
One-paragraph plain-English explanation of the role's outcome and scope.
8 responsibilities phrased the way the work is actually done.
4 qualifications a candidate must have to perform on day 30.
3 qualifications that would make a candidate excellent in year two.
5 skill chips you can copy directly into your ATS.
Laboratory Director or 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 using laboratory instruments and techniques
- Maintain strict chain of custody for all evidence handled
- Document test procedures, results, and findings accurately
- Prepare detailed reports summarizing analytical conclusions
- Testify as an expert witness in court proceedings when required
- Follow accredited laboratory protocols and quality control standards
- Collaborate with law enforcement and legal teams on case findings
- Stay current on forensic science techniques and technology
Required — and what would make a candidate excellent.
- Bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or related field
- Experience with laboratory analysis techniques (DNA, toxicology, trace evidence)
- Strong attention to detail and documentation accuracy
- Ability to testify clearly and objectively in legal settings
- Master's degree in forensic science or related discipline
- Certification from a recognized forensic science board
- Experience in an accredited crime laboratory
Eight steps from download to publish.
- 01Open the Forensic Scientist 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 Forensic Scientist 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 (Laboratory Director or 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 educational background should we require for a forensic scientist?
- A bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, or biology is standard; a master's degree is often preferred for advanced casework.
- Will this role require courtroom testimony?
- Yes, forensic scientists are frequently called to testify as expert witnesses, so candidates should be comfortable communicating technical findings clearly under cross-examination.
Other documents in this neighbourhood.
Crime Scene Investigator
A Crime Scene Investigator documents, collects, and preserves physical evidence at crime scenes for forensic analysis and legal proceedings.
Detective
A detective investigates crimes by gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses and suspects, and building cases for prosecution.
Lab Assistant
A lab assistant supports laboratory operations by preparing samples, maintaining equipment, and assisting technicians or scientists with routine testing.
This Forensic Scientist 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.