Crime Scene / Forensic Science Technician
Quick Facts
Median Salary$59,372
Most Common EducationBachelor's degree
Projected 10-Year Growth+16.42%
Assessment MatchTake the Assessment
What They Do
A Crime Scene or Forensic Science Technician collects and analyzes physical evidence from crime scenes. Carefully documents a crime scene and catalogues evidence collected. Conducts laboratory analysis of evidence gathered, uses computer databases to identify evidence, and uses findings to reconstruct crime scenes.
Core Tasks:
- Collect evidence from crime scenes, storing it in conditions that preserve its integrity.
- Keep records and prepare reports detailing findings, investigative methods, and laboratory techniques.
- Use photographic or video equipment to document evidence or crime scenes.
- Testify in court about investigative or analytical methods or findings.
- Use chemicals or other substances to examine latent fingerprint evidence and compare developed prints to those of known persons in databases.
- Measure and sketch crime scenes to document evidence.
- Visit morgues, examine scenes of crimes, or contact other sources to obtain evidence or information to be used in investigations.
- Train new technicians or other personnel on forensic science techniques.
- Operate and maintain laboratory equipment and apparatus.
- Collect impressions of dust from surfaces to obtain and identify fingerprints.
- Examine and analyze blood stain patterns at crime scenes.
- Analyze gunshot residue and bullet paths to determine how shootings occurred.
- Confer with ballistics, fingerprinting, handwriting, documents, electronics, medical, chemical, or metallurgical experts concerning evidence and its interpretation.
- Prepare solutions, reagents, or sample formulations needed for laboratory work.
- Examine footwear, tire tracks, or other types of impressions.
What to expect as a Crime Scene / Forensic Science Technician
1Earn a Bachelor's degree
45% of people achieve this level of education.
2Gain skills and experience
See Crime Scene / Forensic Science Technician related courses on Tallo
3Land a job
771 openings for Crime Scene / Forensic Science Technicians
Career Progression
in United States (Nation)
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