How to Hire a Forensic Science Technician

Pay data: BLS OEWS, May 2025 · Outlook: BLS 2025–35 · Checked October 15, 2026

The hiring market for forensic science technicians

There are about 20,100 forensic science technicians employed in the U.S., with roughly 2,800 openings each year. Employment is projected to change +13.3% from 2025–35 (much faster than average). Expect competition for qualified candidates: speed and a strong offer matter.

Pay benchmarks for offers

*Annual ÷ 2,080 hours except median. National BLS data; adjust for your state and metro area. Many states and cities now require pay ranges in job postings.

What to look for

Where to find forensic science technicians

• Community college and university engineering technology and science programs
• Co-op and internship programs
• Professional societies such as ASCE, ASME and IEEE
• Military technical veterans
• Job postings that use common alternate titles: Crime Scene Investigator, Crime Lab Analyst, Evidence Technician, Forensic Scientist

Screening checklist

• Degree, transcript or credential verification (PE, FE, ASCP) where required
• A practical exercise, lab test or CAD drawing review
• Background checks for regulated or secure facilities
• Reference checks focused on accuracy and documentation

Follow federal, state and local rules on background checks, drug testing and fair-chance hiring, and apply screening consistently to all candidates for the role.

Interview questions to ask

Ask every candidate the same questions and score answers on a structured scorecard.

1. “Why forensics?”

What a strong answer includes: Share motivation.

2. “How do you prevent contamination?”

What a strong answer includes: Explain.

3. “How would you handle testimony?”

What a strong answer includes: Show composure.

4. “What lab techniques do you know?”

What a strong answer includes: List.

5. “How do you cope with disturbing scenes?”

What a strong answer includes: Be honest.

Practical skills checks

A short demonstration beats a perfect resume. Ask candidates to talk you through, or perform under supervision, tasks such as:

• Document a Crime Scene (see the steps)
• Maintain Chain of Custody for Lab Evidence (see the steps)
• Testify as an Expert (see the steps)

Red flags

• Can’t describe basic safety practices for the role
• Vague or inconsistent work history with no explanation
• Unfamiliar with core terms such as Chain of custody, Latent print, Trace evidence
• Negative talk about every past employer or coworker

Onboard for retention

The first 90 days decide whether a new hire stays. Use our Forensic Science Technician 30-60-90 day onboarding plan and give every new hire the same foundation with Forensic Science Technician training. Show them the path forward: Evidence Technician → Forensic Scientist → Senior Analyst → Lab Supervisor or Director.

Hiring forensic science technicians: FAQ

How much should I pay a forensic science technician?

The U.S. median wage for forensic science technicians is $72,060 per year ($34.65/hour), according to BLS May 2025 data. Entry-level offers often fall near the 25th percentile ($57,830), while experienced hires command closer to the 75th percentile ($94,520). Adjust for your local market.

What qualifications should a forensic science technician have?

BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education. Look for IAI Crime Scene Certification and ABC Diplomate where relevant, plus skills such as evidence collection, crime scene photography, and chain of custody.

How long does it take to train a new forensic science technician?

Becoming qualified typically takes 4 years + training. After hire, plan for a structured 30-60-90 day onboarding period; BLS classifies on-the-job training for this occupation as “moderate-term on-the-job training.”