Forensic Science Technicians
Collect, identify, classify, and analyze physical evidence related to criminal investigations. Perform tests on weapons or substances, such as fiber, hair, and tissue to determine significance to investigation. May testify as expert witnesses on evidence or crime laboratory techniques. May serve as specialists in area of expertise, such as ballistics, fingerprinting, handwriting, or biochemistry.
How to read this profile
BLS projects U.S. employment for Forensic Science Technicians to increase by 13.3% between 2024 and 2034, from 20,100 to 22,800 jobs. Its estimate of 2,800 annual openings includes replacement needs, so it does not represent current vacancies, contract postings, or freelance demand. The wage ($72,060), education (Bachelor's degree), and related experience (None) figures on this profile describe typical U.S. employees. O*NET skills describe the occupation; they do not assess an individual worker's proficiency.
Base employment (2024)
20,100
Projected employment (2034)
22,800
Projected change (2024–2034)
13%
Annual openings (projected average)
2,800
Pay & Preparation
$72,060
Bachelor's degree
None
Moderate-term on-the-job training
Essential Skills
Critical Thinking (4/5) • Speaking (4/5) • Writing (4/5) • Active Listening (4/5) • Reading Comprehension (4/5) • Complex Problem Solving (3.62/5)
O*NET describes occupational requirements; these ratings do not measure current job-posting frequency or an individual worker’s proficiency.
BLS projections are long-term estimates; annual openings include growth and replacement needs and are not current vacancies.
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