Forensic Science Technicians: Career, Salary and Education

Skills Required for Forensic Science Technicians

Legal Process: A complete understanding of the role of forensic science within the law is essential. Technicians need to know how to collect evidence properly to prevent damage. They must also understand state rules to ensure the proper transfer of evidence. Proper handling of paperwork is crucial when giving processed evidence to police detectives or attorneys.

Laboratory Equipment: Technicians use microscopes to examine evidence such as hair, fibers, and bullets. They utilize lab equipment to extract DNA from blood collected at crime scenes. Competency in using computers for data input and database usage to compare DNA, fingerprints, and ballistics data is also required.

Critical Thinking: Forensic science technicians must analyze evidence collected from crime scenes, such as blood splatter, fingerprints, footprints, blood samples, and shell casings. In the lab, they examine each piece of evidence meticulously, synthesizing the data to form a coherent picture of the crime scene. Determining the sequence of events, including the attacker's position and weapon used, is a critical part of their role.

Communication: Effective and clear communication is vital. Technicians need to collaborate with other fields during an active crime scene investigation. For instance, if a poison is detected in a blood sample, consulting with a toxicologist is necessary to understand its effects. They may also serve as witnesses in trials, explaining evidence collection, processing, and implications to judges and juries.

A Day in the Life of a Forensic Science Technician

Duty: Technicians analyze crime scenes to determine which evidence should be collected and how. They take photographs, make sketches, record observations and findings, and collect evidence, including weapons, fingerprints, and bodily fluids. Preserving and cataloging evidence for transfer to crime labs and reconstructing crime scenes are also part of their duties.

In the Lab: They perform chemical, biological, and microscopic analyses on evidence from crime scenes. Exploring possible links between suspects and criminal activities using DNA or other scientific analyses is a key task. Collaboration with experts in specialized fields, such as toxicology, is often required.

Education Requirements

Graduating from high school with high marks in subjects like biology, chemistry, physiology, statistics, and mathematics sets the foundation for a career in forensic science. Volunteering or interning in relevant agencies, such as police departments or medical laboratories, can provide valuable experience. Enrolling in a forensic science program (2-4 years) is essential. Associate degree programs are available for entry-level positions. Admissions typically require a high school diploma and a competitive GPA. Gaining experience in relevant settings (1-3 years) is beneficial. Pursuing a graduate program in forensic science (2-4 years) is an option for mid-career professionals seeking to advance their knowledge and credentials.

Salary Range

In 2016, the average salary for a Forensic Science Technician was $56,750. On the lower end, 25% of technicians earned $42,710, while the top 75% earned more than this amount, with salaries reaching up to $74,220.

Job Prospects

Forensic science technicians have diverse job prospects, including positions as laboratory technicians. Employment statistics show:

• Employed: 70.5%
• Further study: 14.7%
• Unemployed: 7.9%
• Working and studying: 4%
• Other: 2.9%

Types of work include:

• Technicians and other professionals: 23.1%
• Retail catering and bar work: 20.7%
• Secretarial and numerical clerks: 7.5%
• Science professionals: 7%
• Other: 41.7%

A relevant Master’s degree or PhD can enhance employment prospects as competition intensifies. Courses may be challenging to fund and require a high level of academic ability. Transferable skills such as teamwork, independent work, and presentation skills are valuable. Personal qualities like resilience and a flexible approach to unsocial hours are advantageous.

Work Environment

In 2016, forensic science technicians held about 15,400 jobs. The largest employers were:

• Local government: 57%
• State government: 29%
• Medical and laboratories: 3%
• Testing laboratories: 2%
• Federal government: 1%

Technicians may work outdoors in various weather conditions, spend hours in labs or offices, or do a combination of both. Collaboration with specialists and law enforcement is common. Most technicians work in laboratories, while crime scene investigators may travel. They work staggered shifts, including day, evening, or night, and may work overtime. Technicians must be ready to collect data or analyze evidence at any time, often working standard workweeks with the possibility of being called outside standard hours.

References:

• Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2017). Forensic Science Technicians: Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/forensic-science-technicians.htm
• National Institute of Justice. (n.d.). Education and Training in Forensic Science. Retrieved from https://nij.ojp.gov/topics/articles/education-and-training-forensic-science