Summary
| Quick Facts: Forensic Science Technicians | |
|---|---|
| 2020 Median Pay | $60,590 per year $29.13 per hour |
| Typical Entry-Level Education | Bachelor's degree |
| Work Experience in a Related Occupation | None |
| On-the-job Training | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Number of Jobs, 2020 | 17,200 |
| Job Outlook, 2020-30 | 16% (Much faster than average) |
| Employment Change, 2020-30 | 2,700 |
What Forensic Science Technicians Do
Forensic science technicians aid criminal investigations by collecting and analyzing evidence.
Work Environment
Most laboratory forensic science technicians work during regular business hours. Crime scene investigators may work extended or unusual hours and travel to crime scenes within their jurisdiction.
How to Become a Forensic Science Technician
Forensic science technicians typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in a natural science, such as chemistry or biology, or in forensic science. On-the-job training is generally required for both those who investigate crime scenes and those who work in labs.
Pay
The median annual wage for forensic science technicians was $60,590 in May 2020.
Job Outlook
Employment of forensic science technicians is projected to grow 16 percent from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations.
About 2,500 openings for forensic science technicians are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
State & Area Data
Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for forensic science technicians.
Similar Occupations
Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of forensic science technicians with similar occupations.
More Information, Including Links to O*NET
Learn more about forensic science technicians by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.
