Forensic Technician Careers Information
Technology is revolutionizing criminal investigation and forensic technicians are leading the charge. From performing DNA analysis to fingerprinting, forensic technicians or crime scene investigators, are at the forefront of criminal investigations from start to finish: scouring crime scenes for even the smallest shred of evidence, they apply high-tech tests in the laboratory, and then testify in court about their findings.
Forensic Technician Careers & Degrees
- Colorado Technical University - Undergraduate: Undergraduate - Online
The dynamic nature of this work by itself makes the forensic technician an attractive career, but it is made even more attractive by the fact that it serves a vital public need. At the end of the day, though, this is a great job for the same reason that we watch so many crime scene shows on TV: this stuff is really, really interesting.
Forensic Technician Careers Path
Although there is no one set path for aspiring crime scene or forensic specialists, many hold a Bachelor’s degree often in a related discipline such as a laboratory science or criminal justice.
Universities are increasingly offering specialized degrees in forensics or crime scene investigation, at levels ranging from the Associate’s Degree all the way through graduate degrees. For many positions, an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree may be enough.
Forensic Technician Careers: Compatible Personality Traits
Meticulous, focused, careful, attentive, curious, problem-solving, midnight oil-burning, resourceful, consistent, observant.
Forensic Scientist Interview
To walk a day in the life of a forensic scientist, Read More from a Professional Forensic Scientist…
Forensic Technician Careers: Salary Expectations
The median hourly wages for a forensic technicians is $23.97. Because many forensic technicians and crime scene investigators work for the local, state, or federal government, benefits and long-term stability are an added bonus.
Forensic Technician Careers: Job Outlook
As new developments in crime scene technology emerge and are adopted by investigators around the country, large numbers of highly skilled technicians will be required. As a result, the outlook for forensic technicians & crime scene investigators is downright rosy, with the Department of Labor predicting job growth of 20% in the field by 2018.
Forensic Technician Associations and Resources
American Academy of Forensic Science
Slightly Off the Footpath
- Law Clerk
- Homeland Security Officer
- Security Guard
- Laboratory Technician
- Police Detective
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition, Psychologists, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos115.htm (visited November 1, 2011).
