Forensic Scientist Jobs in NJ
Find forensic scientist jobs in New Jersey government. View Forensic Scientist 1–4 and Forensic Chemist positions with salary ranges, requirements, and lab
Category: Science & Health
Forensic scientists in NJ government work in state crime laboratories analyzing physical evidence for law enforcement investigations. Specialties include DNA analysis, toxicology, firearms examination, trace evidence, and digital forensics.
Typical Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, or forensic science
- Advanced degrees preferred for senior positions
- Competitive civil service examination required
- Background investigation and security clearance
Career Progression
- Forensic Scientist Trainee
- → Forensic Scientist 1
- → Forensic Scientist 2
- → Forensic Scientist 3
- → Forensic Scientist 4
- → Forensic Scientist Supervisor
Available Forensic Scientist positions in New Jersey
New Jersey civil service has 21 forensic scientist titles, paying from $48,807 at entry level to $162,870 at the top step.
| Title | Salary range |
|---|---|
| ASSISTANT CHIEF FORENSIC SCIENTIST DEPARTMENT OF LAW AND PUBLIC SAFETY | $110,276 – $162,870 |
| FORENSIC SCIENTIST 3 | $100,498 – $148,187 |
| FORENSIC SCIENTIST 2 | $91,628 – $134,900 |
| FORENSIC SCIENTIST 1 | $79,844 – $117,228 |
| CHIEF FORENSIC SCIENTIST DEPARTMENT OF LAW AND PUBLIC SAFETY | $83,210 – $116,477 |
| FORENSIC ACCOUNTANT | $69,668 – $101,951 |
| ASSISTANT CHIEF FORENSIC SCIENTIST DEPARTMENT OF LAW AND PUBLIC SAFETY | $71,879 – $100,638 |
| SUPERVISOR, FORENSIC PHOTOGRAPHY UNIT | $60,876 – $88,743 |
| PRINCIPAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN, FORENSIC | $58,222 – $84,763 |
| FORENSIC MORGUE SUPERVISOR | $55,691 – $81,008 |
| FORENSIC PHOTOGRAPHER 2 | $53,282 – $77,371 |
| FORENSIC MORGUE TECHNICIAN | $48,807 – $70,641 |
| FORENSIC PHOTOGRAPHER 1 | $48,807 – $70,641 |
| CHIEF FORENSIC CHEMIST | — |
| FORENSIC SCIENTIST 1 | — |
| FORENSIC TOXICOLOGIST | — |
| FORENSIC CHEMIST | — |
| SENIOR FORENSIC CHEMIST | — |
| FORENSIC ANALYST INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY | — |
| FORENSIC ACCOUNTANT 1 - SCI | — |
| FORENSIC ACCOUNTANT 2 STATE COMMISSION INVESTIGATION | — |
Which employers actually hire forensic scientist titles
State payroll records show 239 people in these titles across 2 state agencies, concentrated at Department of Law & Public Safety. This is where the work exists today, not a list of current openings.
- Department of Law & Public Safety — 217 employees
- Department of Health — 22 employees
Local employers file their payroll separately and are not counted here, so county, municipal and school-district jobs in these titles are additional to the figures above.
About NJ Civil Service Employment
Working in NJ civil service means a published salary schedule rather than individual negotiation, state health benefits, PERS or PFRS pension credit, and civil service tenure once you complete probation. Entry is typically through a competitive exam and eligibility list, with promotional exams opening the next step up the ladder.
Positions may be available at state agencies, county governments, municipal governments, or school districts. Local government positions follow the same civil service rules as state positions and use the same job titles and specifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I become a Forensic Scientist in New Jersey?
To work as a forensic scientist in NJ civil service, you typically need to: Bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, or forensic science; Advanced degrees preferred for senior positions; Competitive civil service examination required. Most positions require passing a civil service examination and placement on an eligibility list.
What is the salary range for Forensic Scientist positions?
Forensic Scientist salaries in NJ civil service range from $48,807 at entry level to $162,870 for senior positions. Actual salary depends on the specific title, experience, and step level.
Are Forensic Scientist positions available at state and local level?
Availability varies by position. Use the job listings below to see jurisdiction-specific opportunities.
Search all Forensic Scientist Jobs in NJ specifications | Learn about exams | Browse all specs