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.
SOC: 19-4092.00
Common Job Titles
CSI (Crime Scene Investigator)
Crime Scene Technician (Crime Scene Tech)
Criminalist
Forensic Scientist
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeSynthesize emerging forensic science methodologies and technologies through continuous professional development to maintain specialized expertise.
Advanced
Hands-onPerform physical evidence collection and preservation using specialized forensic tools at crime scenes and laboratory settings, following chain-of-custody protocols.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze physical evidence such as fiber, hair, tissue, and ballistic materials using laboratory instrumentation and chemical analysis techniques to determine significance to criminal investigations.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate evidence compliance with forensic standards and legal requirements in preparation for court proceedings and investigative reporting.
Proficient
KnowledgeInterpret laboratory test results and forensic findings for law enforcement agencies and legal professionals, translating technical data into actionable intelligence.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate scientific integrity and objectivity in forensic testimony when serving as an expert witness in criminal proceedings.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate specialized forensic instrumentation including spectrophotometers, microscopes, and biometric identification systems in controlled laboratory environments, ensuring precision and accuracy.
Proficient
KnowledgeApply chemistry, biology, and physics principles to forensic problem-solving when conducting trace evidence analysis and toxicology testing.
Proficient
Hands-onExecute fingerprint identification and classification procedures using automated biometric systems and manual comparison techniques.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess crime scene conditions and evidence preservation requirements working independently or with investigative teams under time-sensitive conditions.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate interdisciplinary collaboration with law enforcement and legal professionals while maintaining professional boundaries and scientific independence.
Proficient
KnowledgePrepare detailed forensic reports and documentation of evidence analysis using laboratory information management systems and following regulatory standards.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Forensic Science Technicians (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
19,450
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $45,560. 25th percentile: U.S. $53,310. 50th percentile: U.S. $67,440. 75th percentile: U.S. $88,710. 90th percentile: U.S. $110,710. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$45,560
10% of workers earn the following or more
$110,710
Workers on average earn
$75,260
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Law and Government4.5/5
Public Safety and Security4.2/5
Education and Training3.7/5
English Language3.6/5
Computers and Electronics3.4/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
