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CO
County of Los Angeles
CRIMINALISTICS LABORATORY TECHNICIAN
Career Insights for Crime Scene / Forensic Science Technician
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What they do
A Crime Scene or Forensic Science Technician collects and analyzes physical evidence from crime scenes. Carefully documents a crime scene and catalogues evidence collected. Conducts laboratory analysis of evidence gathered, uses computer databases to identify evidence, and uses findings to reconstruct crime scenes.
$88,712 / year median in California
+9% projected growth
Job Description
TYPE OF RECRUITMENT
We welcome applications from anyone.FILING DATES
We will be accepting online applications from Thursday, August 20, 2026, at 8:00 A.M. (PT) until Thursday, September 17, 2026, 5:00 P.M. (PT). All applications must be received before 5:00 P.M. (PT) on Thursday, September 17, 2026, to be accepted.EXAM NUMBER
J4331C Check Out Our Outstanding Benefits! Los Angeles County offers one of the strongest public-sector benefits packages in the nation: https://hr.lacounty.gov/benefits/ Why work for us? With almost 10 million residents, Los Angeles County is the most populous county in the nation! As the largest employer in Southern California with over 100,000 employees in 39 departments, we provide vital and diverse public services like law enforcement, property assessment, public health protection, water conservation, and cultural activities. The County has more than 2,100 different job types, offering a lifetime of opportunities and careers! We are dedicated professionals committed to preserving the dignity and integrity of the workplace as well as protecting the rights of each employee. Join us and discover one of the strongest public-sector benefits packages in the county with a rich selection of health care options, robust retirement plans and the flexibility to work, relax , and rejuvenate to reach your fullest personal and professional potential. Prepares standard chemical solutions and reagents for use in forensic biological procedures. Performs routine chemical analyses on biological samples and bulk-controlled drug specimens and may perform special projects under close supervision. Operates a chromatograph for the routine analysis of specified classes of evidence submitted to the laboratory. Performs routine toxicology extraction procedures of blood and urine specimens and prepares extracts for subsequent analysis. Operates an immunoassay instrument to screen urine specimens for drugs of abuse. Assists laboratory personnel by performing routine laboratory tests and analyses of evidentiary specimens, as directed. Prepares evidence collection kits for distribution (e.g., GSR, sexual assault kit). Provides inventory support functions, including ordering supplies, tracking packages, and stocking. Documents evidence. Prepares evidence for outsourcing. Provides guidance to volunteers who perform crime lab support functions. Performs functions to support and/or ensure equipment is adequately calibrated, records are accurate, and active inventory has not exceeded its expiration date. For more information, please view the classification specification: Criminalistics Laboratory TechnicianREQUIREMENTS TO QUALIFY
Successful completion of 60 semester units or equivalent quarter units (90 quarter units) from an accredited college or university- , including three (3) semester units or equivalent quarter units (4.
LICENSE A
valid California Class C Driver License or the ability to use an alternative method of transportation when needed to carry out job-related essential functions.PHYSICAL CLASS
Physical Class III -Moderate:
This class requires that the incumbent stand or walk most of the time with bending, stooping, squatting, twisting, reaching, working on irregular surfaces, occasional lifting of objects weighing over 25 pounds, and frequent lifting of 10-25 pounds.SPECIAL REQUIREMENT INFORMATION
- To receive credit for the required coursework and any degree, you MUST include a legible copy of the official transcripts AND official degree, or official letter from the accredited institution which shows the completed semester/quarter units of coursework in the areas of specialization at the time of filing, or email to sheriffexamsunit@lasd.
WITHHOLD INFORMATION
No withhold will be allowed. Required education must be fully met at the time of filing.APPLICANTS MUST MEET THE EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS BY THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026, IN ORDER TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS EXAMINATION. SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTIONNAIRE
As part of this application process, applicants will be required to complete a supplemental questionnaire. The questionnaire contains a pre-investigative questionnaire which will be used as part of the background investigation process to ensure applicants meet the standards set forth by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. Applicants who fail the pre-investigative questionnaire will be disqualified and will have to wait three (3) months from the date of the disqualification in order to reapply.DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS
Credit will be given to applicants, who possessDESIRABLE
qualifications and indicate so on their employment application at the time of filing. Being currently enrolled in a Bachelor's degree- program with a specialization in criminalistics, chemistry, biology, biochemistry, or a closely related scientific field at an accredited college or university. A Bachelor's degree
- or Master's Degree
- with a specialization in criminalistics, chemistry, biology, biochemistry, or a closely related scientific field from an accredited college or university. Full-time experience
- working in criminalistics, chemistry, biology, biochemistry, or a closely related scientific field laboratory.
- Full-time work experience is evaluated on the basis of a 40-hour work week.