Science · Collect, identify, classify, and analyze physical evidence related to criminal investigations
This profile is intended as career exploration guidance based on federal labor data. Actual job requirements, salaries, and opportunities vary by employer and location.
Entry Salary
$39–47k
First 1–2 years
Peak Salary
$52–61k
10+ years experience
Job Outlook
+12.8% · Much faster than average
Projected growth of 12.8% from 2024 to 2034; about 3 openings projected per year.
Time to Start
2–4 years
College degree typical
Salary data sourced from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2024. Actual compensation varies by location, experience, employer, and specialization.
Research Assistant
Forensic Science Technicians
Experienced Forensic Science Technicians
Senior Forensic Science Technicians
Research Director / Chief Scientist
You prioritize Support
This career is strongly aligned with Support — a core work value that shapes how people approach their career decisions.
You're strong in Active Listening
Active Listening is a top skill for this career, and it plays to what students like you naturally do best.
Good fit for your timeline
This career typically requires some college or a registered apprenticeship, which matches common student preparation goals.
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