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.
According to the US Department of Labor, there are 17,200 people employed as forensic science technicians in the United States. The median annual salary is $60,600. Entry level employees earn approximately $36,630 per year and senior employees earn approximately $100,910 per year.
Estimates do not include other potential benefits such as health insurance, overtime pay, or retirement benefits that may be offered by employers.