Crime Lab Technician
Criminal Justice & Protective Services
A program that focuses on the application of clinical and criminal laboratory science, investigative techniques, and criminology to the reconstruction of crimes and the analysis of physical evidence.
What Crime Lab Technicians Do
A program that focuses on the application of clinical and criminal laboratory science, investigative techniques, and criminology to the reconstruction of crimes and the analysis of physical evidence.
Common Tasks
Forensic Science Technicians
- 1Collect evidence from crime scenes, storing it in conditions that preserve its integrity.
- 2Keep records and prepare reports detailing findings, investigative methods, and laboratory techniques.
- 3Use photographic or video equipment to document evidence or crime scenes.
- 4Testify in court about investigative or analytical methods or findings.
- 5Use chemicals or other substances to examine latent fingerprint evidence and compare developed prints to those of known persons in databases.
What You'll Learn
Types of Crime Lab Technicians
Work Environment
Locations
- • Crime laboratories
- • Police departments
- • Medical examiner or coroner offices
- • Courthouses (testimony)
- • Crime scenes and field investigation sites
Schedule
Most work a set schedule, but crime scene and investigative support can require evenings, weekends, or on-call hours with moderate time pressure.
Physical Demands
Work is a mix of standing at benches and sitting for documentation and computer-based analysis, with frequent handling of evidence and lab tools. Field work may involve walking, bending, and working in varied environments while wearing PPE.
Salary & Job Outlook
National Employment: 853,600 jobs
Top Paying States
Why Demand May Grow
Demand may rise as police agencies and labs rely more on DNA, digital, and trace-evidence testing to solve cases and reduce backlogs. Continued investment in public safety and improved forensic technology can also increase the need for trained evidence analysts.
Skills You'll Need
Pros & Cons
Pros
- • Meaningful work supporting justice and public safety
- • Variety between lab analysis, documentation, and occasional fieldwork
- • Strong need for accuracy and specialized skills
- • Opportunities to specialize (DNA, toxicology, fingerprints, digital forensics)
- • Clear career pathways in government agencies
Cons
- • Exposure to disturbing scenes or sensitive evidence
- • Strict protocols and heavy documentation requirements
- • Court testimony can be stressful and highly scrutinized
- • Budget-driven hiring and limited openings in some regions
- • Potential exposure to chemicals and biohazards (with safety controls)
Common Questions About the Crime Lab Technician Trade
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