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Forensic science technicians help solve crimes by collecting and interpreting evidence from crime scenes. They use sophisticated technology to analyze fiber, hair, weapons and bodily fluids. Forensic science technicians often specialize in a given area, such as DNA analysis, fingerprinting, ballistics and toxicology.

The majority of forensic science technicians work for local and state government. Much of their time is spent performing analysis in labs and writing reports, but they must also visit crime scenes to collect and properly store evidence. Occasionally, forensic science technicians are asked to testify in court as expert witnesses.

Forensic science technicians should be detail-oriented, dexterous, and strong in math and science. Because they work with others and report their findings in writing, verbal and written communication skills are also important.

Forensic science technician salary

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), forensic science technicians earned a median salary of $51,480 in 2009. Salary for forensic science technicians varies based on location, industry and experience. The BLS reports that the following states had the highest average wages for forensic science technicians in 2009:

• Massachusetts: $81,950
• Wisconsin: $79,080
• Kansas $73,430
• Washington, D.C.: $69,870
• Illinois: $68,350

Of these places, Illinois, Washington, D.C. and Wisconsin employed the most forensic science technicians in 2009. Because the cost of living is relatively low in Kansas, Wisconsin and Illinois, forensic science technicians in these states may see a lower cost of living. The top-paying industries for forensic science technicians in 2009 were the federal government and management, scientific, and technical consulting services.

In 2009, the top ten percent of forensic science technicians earned $84,260 and above. Technicians may reach this earning level through experience and education. Forensic science technicians begin working under the supervision of more experienced technicians and scientists and are gradually given more responsibility. After a few years on the job, they may take on supervisory or management roles. Forensic science technicians can also advance to lead forensic scientist positions by earning a graduate degree. Forensic science technician training online allows technicians to continue their education without sacrificing on-the-job experience.

Forensic science technician training

A bachelor's degree in forensic science or another natural science is usually required to become a forensic science technician. Forensic science bachelor's degree programs include coursework in forensic chemistry, forensic biology, criminal justice, social science and the physical sciences.

Forensic science technicians wishing to advance to a supervisory or forensic scientist role often pursue a master's degree in forensic science. Master's degree programs typically require one to two years of full-time study and allow students to specialize in a given area of forensic science. Online master's degrees in forensic science allow forensic science technicians to advance their education without leaving their job.

Forensic science technician career outlook

Police departments and other government agencies are becoming increasingly reliant on forensic science techniques to solve crimes. According to the BLS, employment of forensic science technicians is expected to increase by 20 percent from 2008 to 2018. This faster-than-average growth should create approximately 2,500 new forensic science technician jobs.

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