Have you been looking for a criminal justice career that can provide you with a new adventure every day you go to work? If so, you may want to think strongly about becoming a forensic science technician. Forensic science is a branch of criminal justice that combines scientific studies with criminal investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding a crime. Forensic scientists play a vital role in proving who the guilty party is in a crime, and their work is in high demand at the moment. The forensic science technician job description below should give you a rough idea of whether or not this line of work is appropriate for you.
Forensic Science Technician Job Duties
The responsibilities of a forensic science technician will vary based on the area of forensic science he or she works in. Common job duties include:
- Analyzing blood, semen, and other body fluids left at the scene of a crime
- Evaluating chemical samples from a crime scene
- Evaluating fingerprints to figure out who has been at a crime scene
- Extracting DNA samples from suspects and evidence found at crime scenes
- Identifying the presence of poison, drugs, or alcohol in a crime scene or body
- Investigating the psychological aspects of a crime
- Pinpointing the tools and weapons used in a crime scene
- Reviewing documents to determine their dates or authenticity
- Sharing investigative results with attorneys and law enforcement officials
- Testifying in court about evidence and possible events in a crime
The specific duties you may have to go through as a forensic science technician will be based on where you work and the specific job you are hired for, but you can expect a variety of responsibilities no matter where you go. You will always have a new set of evidence to work on, and each set will require a slightly different form of analysis. Forensic science work is highly unpredictable, but that is the aspect of it that most people love more than anything.
The Nature of Work for a Forensic Science Technician
Most forensic science technicians spend their days in crime labs, using scientific equipment to analyze evidence from various crimes in their area. Some forensic scientists will work in standard offices to examine test results or documents that do not require laboratory equipment. Technicians work alongside criminal investigators, attorneys, and police officers to help solve criminal cases and determine the events of a crime. They may also work with other forensic scientists who specialize in different areas of the field.
If you choose to gain employment as a forensic science technician, you will likely work a standard 40 hour week. You may not work from 9-5 like you would for most jobs, but you will still maintain a relatively normal full time schedule. Some forensic scientists work long hours if they are trying to assess evidence for an extensive trial. If you have to travel for a case or do anything out of the ordinary, you may have an extensive work week as well. That should not happen terribly often though, as there will be other forensic science technicians working with you to assess any evidence that comes along.
Job Outlook and Earnings for Forensic Science Technicians
Forensic science technicians are in high demand at the moment, and they are expected to be in high demand for many years in the future. It should only take you about four years to get a degree in forensic science, so you should have plenty of opportunities waiting for you after you graduate. It just depends on where you live and what you want to specialize in.
Your forensic science technician salary will vary based on the industry you work in. Some types of employers simply pay more money than others. Here are some of the top paying industries for forensic scientists at the moment, along with a look at the salary you may make in each of them:
- Public Law Offices: $28,993 – $84,327
- Government Offices: $33,072 – $98,436
- Law Enforcement: $32,288 – $99,091
- Analytical and Laboratory Services: $30,139 – $88,951
- Science and Engineering: $29,694 – $93,196
Keep all of the information above in mind to determine if you are fit to become a forensic science technician. If you think you are, you could start your education right away to work in this field in the future.
