Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Forensic Science Technician
What forensic science technicians actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
Review case requests in the lab. From there, the day usually includes photograph and document crime scenes, collect and preserve evidence, and maintain chain of custody. Lab analysts often work regular hours; crime scene techs work shifts and are on call.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a forensic science technician working full time.
- Review case requests in the lab.
- Process a seized substance for drug identification.
- Run samples on the GC-MS.
- Respond to a burglary scene with detectives.
- Photograph and lift fingerprints.
- Log evidence into the property room.
- Write the scene report.
Where forensic science technicians work
Forensic technicians work in labs and at crime scenes, sometimes in disturbing conditions.
Hours and schedule
Lab analysts often work regular hours; crime scene techs work shifts and are on call.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Photograph and document crime scenes
- Collect and preserve evidence
- Maintain chain of custody
- Analyze evidence in the lab
- Write detailed reports
- Testify in court
- Maintain lab quality standards
Tools you’ll use every day
- Cameras
- Fingerprint kits
- Evidence packaging
- GC-MS and lab instruments
- Microscopes
- Lab information systems
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Much faster-than-average growth
- Help solve crimes
- Science with real impact
- Variety
What’s hard
- Disturbing scenes
- On-call duty
- Court testimony pressure
- Competitive field
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I love science and solving problems
- I can handle disturbing scenes
- I’m objective and detail-oriented
- I can testify in court
- I want to help justice
- I’m willing to earn a degree
Not sure? Take the free Forensic Science Technician fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Wear PPE against biohazards
- Prevent contamination
- Follow chemical safety
- Seek support after traumatic scenes