FORENSIC

SCIENCE
TECHNICIAN
Presented By: Joshua Jackson

WHAT IS IT?
Help investigate crimes by collecting and analyzing
physical evidence.
Specialize in either crime scene investigation or
laboratory analysis.

WHAT THEY DO
At crime scenes:
Analyze crime scenes
Take photographs of the crime scene and evidence
Make sketches of the crime scene
Record observations and findings
Collect physical evidence
Catalog and preserve evidence

In laboratories:
Perform analysis on evidence taken from crime scenes
Explore possible links between suspects and criminal activity
Consult with experts in related or specialized fields, such as toxicology (the study of poisons and their

effect on the body) and odontology (a branch of forensic medicine that concentrates on teeth)

Reconstruct crime scenes

WHERE THEY WORK

Police departments and offices
Crime laboratories
Morgues
Medical examiner/coroner offices

HOW TO BECOME A
FORENSIC SCIENCE
TECHNICIAN

Typically need at least a bachelors degree in a natural science, such as

chemistry or biology.

On-the-job training is usually required for those who investigate crime

scenes and for those who work in labs

QUALIFICATIONS
A range of licenses and certifications are available to

help credential and aid in the professional

development of many types of forensic science
technicians.

Certifications and licenses are not typically necessary

for entry into the occupation.

TRAINING
Forensic science technicians receive on-the-job training before they are

ready to work on cases independently.

Newly hired crime scene investigators typically assist experienced

investigators.

Forensic science technicians learn laboratory specialties on the job. The

length of this training varies by specialty.

Throughout their careers, forensic science technicians need to keep up with

advances in technology and science that improve the collection or analysis

of evidence.

WHAT THEY EARN

Median annual wage for forensic science
technicians is $52,840

The lowest 10 percent earned less than

$32,200, and the top 10 percent earned more
than $85,210.

ADVANCEMENT

They might take on advanced roles within the crime

lab or move up to managerial positions.

Some progress to teaching roles at college and

universities, training the next generation of forensic

investigators.

JOB OUTLOOK
Projected to grow 6 percent from 2012 to 2022, slower
than the average for all occupations.
The use of forensic evidence in criminal proceedings is
expected to expand.

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