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Forensic Scientist

Forensic Scientist within CIA’s Directorate of Science and Technology apply deep technical expertise to provide identity-driven analysis and innovative solutions for complex mission requirements.
  • Full-Time
  • Starting salary: $68,405 - $181,216*
  • *Higher starting salary possible depending on experience level
  • Forensic Science, Biology, Chemistry, Crime Scene Investigation
  • Foreign Language Bonus Eligible
  • Opportunities for foreign and domestic travel are possible
Express Interest

Agency-wide Requirements

All applicants must be:

  • U.S. citizens (dual U.S. citizens also eligible)
  • At least 18 years of age
  • Willing to move to the Washington, DC area
  • Able to complete security and medical evaluations
  • Registered for the Selective Service

About the Job

As a Forensic Scientist within CIA’s Directorate of Science and Technology (DS&T), you will apply your deep technical expertise to provide identity-driven analysis and innovative solutions for complex mission requirements.

DS&T Forensic Scientists typically leverage traditional forensic laboratory capabilities to technically identify or support ongoing mission requirements. Successful Forensic Scientists are detail-oriented, self-motivated, creative, collaborative, and results-driven. DS&T Forensic Scientists operate state of the art laboratory equipment while working incoming requests, develop new capabilities, and conduct in-depth, cutting-edge research.

Who You’ll Work With

At the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), we recognize our Nation’s strength comes from the diversity of its people. People from a broad range of backgrounds and viewpoints work at CIA, and our diverse teams are the reason we can keep our country safe.

Read more about diversity and inclusion

What You’ll Get

Our benefits support every aspect of a working professional’s life, including health and wellness, time off, family, finances, and continuing education. Our programs include highly sought-after government health benefits, flexible schedules, sick leave, and childcare. In some cases, we also offer sign-on incentives and cover moving expenses if you relocate.

As a CIA employee, you’ll also get the satisfaction of knowing your work is part of something bigger than yourself. Our work is driven by one mission: to keep our Nation safe. Every day is an opportunity to enhance U.S. national security.

Learn more about working at CIA

Minimum Qualifications

  • A bachelor’s degree in one of the following fields or related studies (or comparable work experience):
    • Anthropology
    • Bioengineering
    • Biotechnology and microbiology
    • Biomedical Engineering
    • Chemical Engineering
    • Chemistry
    • Crime Scene Investigation
    • Criminalistics
    • Forensic Molecular Biology
    • Forensic Science
    • Physical sciences
    • Physics
  • At least a 3.0 GPA on a 4-point scale
  • Ability to meet the minimum requirements for joining CIA, including U.S. citizenship and a background investigation

Desired Qualifications

  • Advanced degree is strongly desired
  • Experience as a forensic professional and technical analyst
  • Formal training in a forensic discipline
  • Experience working in an accredited and recognized forensic laboratory
  • Experience working with forensic databases
  • Familiarity with forensic standards and requirements
  • Current membership in recognized professional organizations within the field
  • Demonstrated interest in applying technology to solve challenging problems
  • Strong verbal presentation skills
  • Demonstrated ability to write clear, concise text
  • Willingness to travel domestically and abroad