Matters to do with a crime are overwhelming a challenge. This issue must to be analyzed in a more detailed manner. In this regard, a forensic science technician is a person of interest. Know more details about Forensic Science Technician Salary and earning potential.
They collect and analyze Pieces of evidence, including fingerprints, blood, hair, photographs, and many more.
Average Forensic Science Technician Salary
The annual average salary of a forensic science technician in the United States is $ 51,063 per year. It is equivalent to earning $ 4,255.25 every month, which is 1,063.81 weekly and 26.59 on an hourly basis.
In the United Kingdom, forensic science technician earns an average salary of £49,193 every year It means that they make £4,099.42 every month, which is £1,024.85 every week, and £25.62 every working hour.
In Canada, on the other hand, a forensic science technician earns $55,512 every year, which means that they earn $ 4,626 every month, which is $ 1,156.5 weekly and 28.91 every hour.
| Country | Per hour | Per year | Update year |
| US | $26.59 | $59,150 | 2022 |
| UK | £25,62 | £49,193 | 2022 |
| Canada | $28.91 | $55,512 | 2022 |
Responsibilities
Forensic scientists are required to perform the following work:
- Collaborate with investigators in the crime scene.
- Handle evidences in the crime scene.
- Organize and classify the evidence.
- Analyzing the evidences.
- Report the findings.
- Document the filing
- Testify in the court.
Forensic science technicians work mostly in laboratories. Investigators of the crime scene and police gather shreds of evidence, which they bring to the forensic science technician to analyze.
Skills and Competences
Besides scientific knowledge and analytical skills, other fundamental skills to a forensic science technician are as follows.
Communication: forensic science technicians must have excellent writing and speaking skills to share information in courts and with colleagues.
Problem solving: forensic science technicians must be able to use scientific methods to solve the problems at hand.
Critical thinking: forensic science technicians must question everything and eliminate other possibilities before concluding.
Attention to details: Evidence examination requires the forensic science technician to notice minute details and subtle differences.
Composure: Crime scenes are a result of violence or destruction. Forensic science technician must maintain their objectivity and professionalism.
Science and math skills: Forensic science technicians must have a solid understanding of natural science and statistics to analyze crime scene evidence.
Working Environment
Forensic science technicians work mostly in labs analyzing evidence that investigators have collected. A good rapport is required between scene investigators and forensic science technicians to execute the mandate correctly. At times forensic science technicians testify as a witness in some criminal cases by explaining the findings.
They also work in morgues or with coroners.
Job Demand
Increase in technology and more reliable forensic evidence will increase the forensic science technician demand. The Labor Bureau of statistics projects a 17% growth of the job by the year 2026. The rate is a reasonable growth rate as compared to other jobs.
Education
Strong science background is vital for a person who wishes to become a forensic science technician. A forensic science degree is preferred as a starting point for this career. Besides, biology and chemistry serve as entry points for a student willing to become a forensic science technician.
A broad classwork range is beneficial training for the job.
Biology: Microbiology, cell biology, and molecular biology knowledge are necessary.
Chemistry: A healthy biochemistry and organic chemistry foundation is necessary to the forensic science technicians.
Forensic pathology: this determines the death course by examining a corpse.
Other relevant courses: other studies such as genetics, calculus, statistics, and criminology courses build a strong foundation for a forensic science technician.
Training
Entry-level forensic science technician receives on-the-job training working under a seasoned investigator. During the training, you learn procedures and methods for collecting as well as documenting the evidence. Training usually takes 10 to 12 months.
The technician must pass the exam of proficiency before performing independent casework. They should also advance with technology and science improving collection and analyzing the evidence.
Certification and Licenses
Certification and licensing are not necessary during the occupation entry. However, credentials vary in states due to different regulations and standards in each state.
Work Schedules
Forensic science technicians have no specific time of the day when they work. At times, they work overtime hours analyzing the evidence on demand. The technician who works in laboratories works a standard workweek, though they work outside of the regular working business hours depending on the emergency.
Work Experience
Forensic science technicians require experience working in laboratories in hospitals or research centers. They need work to arise in the development and biological research. The entry is very competitive, and you might find a contract on a short-term basis or appointments in full time.
Joining the Chartered society of forensic scientists (CSFS) as a member student will keep you updated on the sector’s developments and make valuable contacts. This will boost your skills.
Employers
Commercial companies that provide forensic science services employ forensic science technicians. Employers include critical forensic services, SCOTEC, and cellar mark forensic services.
Professional Developments
The training you receive varies depending on specialization; however, follow the on-job training and development short courses. These skills will boost your laboratory skills and analysis. Due to forensic science changes, it is vital to have up-to-date research and development in your entire career.
The Verdict
The forensic science technician field gives a favorable environment good for humans by ensuring that justice prevails. The correlation increases the need for innovative ideas as well as solutions. In return, it creates opportunities for qualified forensic science technicians.
In addition, the forensic science technicians’ salary ranks among the best. This article helps the candidates pursue the forensic science technician discipline and later build a very successful career in the future.
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