How to Become a Crime Scene Technician?
As a crime scene technician, also known as a forensic science technician, you play a crucial role in the criminal justice system. Your responsibility is to collect, preserve, and analyze evidence at crime scenes to help solve crimes. If you are fascinated by forensic science and eager to make a difference in the justice system, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to become a crime scene technician.
Education and Training
Contents
Education
To become a crime scene technician, you typically need an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a field like forensic science, biology, chemistry, or a related field. A minimum of a two-year associate’s degree is often sufficient to enter the field.
| Degree | Requirements | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Associate’s | Associate of Science (AS) or Associate of Arts (AA) in forensic science or a related field | 2 years |
| Bachelor’s | Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) in forensic science or a related field | 4 years |
Training and Certifications
Familiarize yourself with relevant laws and procedures. Many crime scene technicians also pursue certifications from organizations like the International Association for Identification (IAI) or the American Board of Forensic Science (ABFS). These certifications can enhance your job prospects and demonstrate your expertise in the field.
| Certification | Description | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Forensic Science Technician (CFST) | Demonstrates basic knowledge of forensic science and techniques | Pass an examination |
| Certified latent Print Examiner (CLE) | Verifies expertise in latent fingerprint analysis | Pass an examination and complete continuing education requirements |
Work Experience
Volunteer and Gain Experience
Gaining experience is essential in this field. Volunteer to assist crime scene technicians or participate in crime scene reconstruction exercises to learn from professionals and build your skills. You can also join law enforcement agencies, fire departments, or forensic laboratories as interns or technicians-in-training.
Job Outlook and Salary
Job Outlook
The demand for crime scene technicians is growing due to the increasing use of forensic science in criminal investigations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of forensic science technicians is projected to grow 14% from 2020 to 2030.
Salary
Salaries for crime scene technicians vary based on location, employer, and level of experience. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for forensic science technicians was $61,730 in May 2020.
| Salary | Level of Experience | Employer |
|---|---|---|
| $45,000 – $55,000 | Entry-level | Local law enforcement agency |
| $60,000 – $75,000 | Experienced | Federal law enforcement agency |
| $80,000 – $100,000 | Senior-level | Private forensic laboratory |
Physical and Mental Demands
Physical Demands
As a crime scene technician, you’ll often work at crime scenes, which can be dirty, noisy, and chaotic. You may need to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), lift heavy equipment, and stand for long periods.
Mental Demands
This job can be emotionally demanding, as you’ll often encounter traumatic scenes and evidence. You must be able to cope with the stress and pressure of working in a high-stress environment.
Conclusion
Becoming a crime scene technician requires a combination of education, training, and experience. By following the steps outlined above, you can build a successful career in this exciting and rewarding field. Remember to stay focused, persistent, and committed to your goals, and you’ll be well on your way to a fulfilling career as a crime scene technician.
