Forensic Science Technicians
Forensic science technicians collect and analyze physical evidence from crime scenes, including weapons, fibers, hair, and tissue samples. They work in crime laboratories and at investigation sites, performing tests to determine whether evidence is significant to criminal cases. Some testify in court as expert witnesses about their findings.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against forensic science technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A forensic science technician might spend time at a crime scene photographing and collecting evidence, then return to the laboratory to analyze samples using specialized equipment. The work involves documenting findings, running tests on materials, comparing results to databases, writing detailed reports, and preparing evidence for court proceedings. Tasks vary based on the type of evidence and the stage of the investigation.
Who this work suits
Holland code IRC. Investigative work is figuring things out: analysis, research, problem-solving. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy investigative work and solving practical problems through careful analysis. You're detail-oriented, methodical, and comfortable working with scientific equipment and procedures. You prefer hands-on work and concrete results over abstract concepts, and you're interested in how evidence connects to real criminal cases.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $79,190 | $124,790 | $129,590 | 370 |
| California | $80,810 | $102,100 | $132,810 | 2,800 |
| Connecticut | $66,150 | $85,910 | $104,800 | 120 |
| Colorado | $71,850 | $84,010 | $105,350 | 510 |
| Montana | $61,630 | $82,200 | $82,200 | 60 |
| Maryland | $65,170 | $82,140 | $105,300 | 460 |
| New York | $64,990 | $81,670 | $100,310 | 1,140 |
| Washington | $70,720 | $81,310 | $97,350 | 390 |
| Nevada | $65,490 | $81,090 | $103,930 | 360 |
| Oregon | $63,880 | $80,950 | $102,160 | 110 |
| Massachusetts | $70,650 | $79,320 | $97,360 | 290 |
| Minnesota | $64,980 | $76,960 | $86,490 | 140 |
All 41 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Forensic Video Technician (CFVT) — Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Video Association
- Certified Forensic Interviewer (CFI) — International Association of Interviewers
- Certified in Financial Forensics (CFF) — Association of International Certified Professional Accountants
- Certified Forensic Claims Consultant (CFCC) — AACE International, Inc.
- GIAC Certified Forensic Examiner (GCFE) — Global Information Assurance Certification
- Forensic Art Certification — International Association for Identification
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against forensic science technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 19-4092.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.