Careers
Forensic scientist employment opportunities include regional, state, and local forensic laboratories; district attorney's/prosecutor's/state's attorneys' offices; public defender contracts; private firms; colleges and universities; the military; and federal agencies such as the DEA, ATF, Customs, FBI, and Postal Service. Additional opportunities may be found as environmental scientists, fire inspectors, bomb and explosives analysts, pharmacists, biosafety inspectors, and forensic science researchers.
Between 2022 and 2032, employment opportunities for forensic scientists are expected to grow by 13%, with approximately 2600 openings per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics). In 2023 the median pay for an individual in forensic science with a BS degree was $64,940.
Given the potential tight competition for these positions, the successful job candidate might need to relocate to other areas of this region or to other locations across the country or to other countries.
Job postings through the American Academy of Forensic Sciences list starting salaries of $40,000, up through $146,000, depending on the position level and specialty. Positions requiring a medical degree listed for $200,000 and above.*
*Taken from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. To learn more, please visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Careers in Forensic Sciences
All these careers may include evaluating investigative methods or laboratory techniques, interpretation of test results, preparation of reports, interacting with law enforcement and the legal community, and presenting findings in court.
- Forensic DNA Analyst: examine, test, and analyze samples from crime scenes using advanced laboratory protocols.
- Forensic Chemist – analyze drugs, toxins, ballistics, and trace elements using advanced analytical methods.
- Forensic Toxicologist – analyze biological samples for presence of toxins, including alcohol or drugs.
- Forensic Latent PrintExaminer – analyze fingerprints and other friction ridge evidence to identify suspects or victims.
- Crime Scene Analyst - collect and preserve criminal evidence used to solve cases. Crime scene analysts may also reconstruct crime scenes to determine relationships among pieces of evidence.
- Forensic Laboratory Manager – supervise forensic laboratory team, ensure quality control and adherence to accreditation standards.
- Additional Careers may be in scientific industry, the food industry, health care, research and law enforcement.
