The main responsibility of a forensic science technician is to investigate a crimes by collecting and analyzing physical evidence. This may include performing tests on weapons or substances, such as fiber, glass, hair, tissue or body fluids.
Forensic science technicians also create reports in order to document what they find at a crime scene. They also may provide information and expert opinions to investigators and give testimony when criminal cases go to trial.
Most employers require applicants for forensic science technician jobs to have a bachelor's degree in either forensic science or another natural science. They're also expected to take plenty of on-the-job training and usually must take a background check.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were about 12,800 forensic science technicians throughout the nation during 2008, and that number is expected to grow by 20 percent by 2018.
Employment in Dallas is anticipated to increase from 150 workers during 2006 to 200 workers by 2016, resulting in 50 additional jobs and an overall growth rate of 33.3 percent according to the Texas Workforce Commission.
Throughout Texas, employment should grow from 1,300 workers during 2006 to 1,700 workers by 2016, accounting for 400 additional jobs and an overall increase of 30.8 percent.
The top three industries that employ forensic science technicians in Dallas include:
- Local government, except education - 56.89 percent
- State government, except education - 36.11 percent
- Colleges, universities, and professional schools - 2.85 percent