Forensic Science Technicians collect, identify, classify, and analyze physical evidence related to criminal investigations. Their job involves collecting evidence at crime scenes, preserving it properly, conducting tests in a laboratory setting, interpreting results, and documenting their findings for use in legal proceedings. They may specialize in areas like DNA analysis, ballistics, toxicology, or trace evidence analysis. Additionally, they often testify as expert witnesses in court.
This income data is sourced from the May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey. The dataset is updated annually.
Annual Pay Distribution | Salary |
|---|---|
10th percentile | $43,930.00 |
25th percentile | $48,910.00 |
median (50th percentile) | $50,380.00 |
75th percentile | $63,470.00 |
90th percentile | $76,920.00 |
Hourly Pay Distribution | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
10th percentile | $21.12 |
25th percentile | $23.52 |
median (50th percentile) | $24.22 |
75th percentile | $30.52 |
90th percentile | $36.98 |
Forensic Science Technicians typically need a bachelor’s degree in forensic science or a related field, such as biology or chemistry. Courses in mathematics, biological sciences, and chemistry are important in this profession. Some positions may require a master’s degree in forensic science. While a high school diploma is the minimum educational requirement for some entry-level positions, most jobs in this field demand at least a bachelor's degree. Training for Forensic Science Technicians usually includes a period of on-the-job training to learn the specific procedures and techniques used in forensic analysis. This training can last from several weeks to several months and is often conducted under the supervision of experienced technicians or scientists. Additionally, technicians may receive ongoing training to stay current with advances in the field and new technologies.