Forensic-science technician

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October 17, 2008

Forensic-science technician

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Pay: In the Portland-Vancouver-Beaverton area, the closest for which U.S. Labor Department statistics are available, the 2007 median wage was $29.07 an hour or $60,480 a year, with half earning between $50,680 and $68,740.

The job: Forensic-science technicians investigate crimes by collecting and analyzing physical evidence. Often, they specialize in areas such as DNA analysis or firearm examination, performing tests on weapons or on substances such as fiber, glass, hair, tissue and body fluids to determine their significance to the investigation. When criminal cases come to trial, forensic science technicians often testify as expert witnesses.

Need to know: Forensic-science technicians work primarily for state and local governments. Collecting evidence from crime scenes can be distressing and unpleasant, and technicians are exposed to human body fluids and firearms. However, these pose little risk if proper safety procedures are followed.

Demand: Jobs are expected to increase much faster than the average. But during periods of economic recession, science technicians may be laid off.

Training: Forensic-science positions typically require a bachelor's degree, though some people are hired with associate's degrees.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: www.stats.bls.gov/oco