Forensic Science Technician
Makaylah Krocza
What does someone in this field do?
Forensic science technicians study physical evidence to solve crimes.
Daily Activities:
- Identify objects, actions, and events
- Document and record information
- Get information needed to do the job
- Communicate with supervisors, peers, or subordinates
- Update and use job-related knowledge
- Make decisions and solve problems
- Process information
- Communicate with people outside the organization
Working Conditions:
Usually work a 40-hour week.
May be required to be on-call to collect evidence at crime scenes. However, most work a set schedule.
Work indoors and outside. They also travel to crime scenes by car, usually once a week.
Are sometimes exposed to disease or other contaminants contained in physical evidence.
Are exposed to hazardous conditions on a weekly basis.
Have a medium to high level of social contact. They often work closely with investigators and other experts.
Are moderately responsible for the health and safety of others.
Yearly Wages
In Missouri they average about $47,360 annually.
Training required:
have a high school diploma or equivalent;
have a bachelor's degree in science or a science-related technology; and
complete moderate-term, on-the-job training.
Abilities and skills:
Use scientific methods to solve problems.
Manage the time of self and others.
Check how well one is learning or doing something.
Be aware of others’ reactions and understand the possible causes.
Use several methods to learn or teach new things.
Identify a pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in distracting material.
Quickly and accurately compare letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns.
Recommended core classes
Helpful electives:
Criminology
Forensic Science