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Forensic Science Technician

Forensic Science Technician

  • Unlock mysteries by analyzing crime scene evidence to aid justice.
  • Play a crucial role in solving crimes and ensuring public safety.
  • Expertise in unique fields like ballistics and fingerprinting.
💰 Earn $75K-$119K
📚 Bachelor Degree

Overview

Collect, identify, classify, and analyze physical evidence related to criminal investigations. Perform tests on weapons or substances, such as fiber, hair, and tissue to determine significance to investigation. May testify as expert witnesses on evidence or crime laboratory techniques. May serve as specialists in area of expertise, such as ballistics, fingerprinting, handwriting, or biochemistry.

Scoop

Minimum Education

Bachelor Degree

Career Prospects

Excellent (Increasing by 5% or more)

Training Time

2 to 4 years

Job Openings

2,700 Annually

Median Earnings

$89,610 in California
$64,940 Nationally

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Day-to-Day

  • Keep records and prepare reports detailing findings, investigative methods, and laboratory techniques.
  • Collect evidence from crime scenes, storing it in conditions that preserve its integrity.
  • Testify in court about investigative or analytical methods or findings.
  • Use photographic or video equipment to document evidence or crime scenes.
  • Visit morgues, examine scenes of crimes, or contact other sources to obtain evidence or information to be used in investigations.

Real Talk Reel

Want to see what it's like to be a Forensic Science Technician? We've curated a playlist for you to get a glimpse into a day in the life.

@kellythescientist

Best For You If...

YOU Like 💕

  • Thinking and problem solving
  • Using data or completing tasks
  • Working with my hands

You are skilled in 💫

  • Active Listening
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Service Orientation
  • Social Perceptiveness
  • Speaking
  • Writing

You value 🙏

  • Having support
  • Having freedom
  • Receiving recognition

Deep Dive

Forensic Science Technician

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