Forensic science technician is a blanket name for a number of professionals who might work in the auspices of forensic science. Crime scene investigators, who gather and document evidence at a crime scene, fall under this forensic science umbrella, as do criminalists, who are scientists who primarily work in a laboratory analyzing the evidence. Professionals in this field can also specialize in forensic entomology, anthropology, engineering and more.

"I got involved in criminalistics because I needed a job," says Ronald L. Singer, technical and administrative director of the Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s Office, located in Fort Worth, Texas. "I was working for a company that moved, so I was laid off. I had a science background, and there was a crime lab opening up in the New Orleans area. I got the job."

In 1972, back when Singer entered the field, forensic science was an unknown term. These days, thanks in part to popular TV shows like "CSI" and "Bones," the term is widely known. And some of the episodes offer more accurate portrayals of the profession than others.

"You’ll know in the first six months whether this is the right field for you," says Singer. "Most crime labs are affiliated with police. It’s very different than working for a chemical company or a research lab because of the nature of what you’re doing."

Continual advances in science and technology have increased the effectiveness and usefulness of forensic evidence. Jobs in this field are largely contingent on the budgets and priorities of governments at the federal, state and local levels. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 12.6% employment growth for forensic science technicians between 2022 and 2032. In that period, an estimated 2,300 jobs should open up.

Because there are an array of positions under the aegis of forensic science technician, it follows that there are a variety of ways to train for them.

To become a crime scene investigator, or CSI, a professional who collects and documents evidence from a crime scene, you may need to graduate from a police academy as a police officer. Although a basic understanding of the life sciences might be helpful for this job, many CSIs receive on-the-job training.

To become a criminalist, a professional who analyzes and evaluates evidence, you’ll need to obtain at least an undergraduate degree in one of the natural sciences, typically chemistry or biology. Some universities also offer a bachelor’s degree in forensic science, but Singer recommends opting for a bachelor’s degree in one of the natural sciences and then going on to get a master’s degree in forensic science. "A bachelor’s will give you a firm foundation in the sciences, while a master’s in forensic science will teach you how to apply that science," he said.

There are a number of licenses and certifications that forensic science technicians can receive, which display aptitude in certain areas of forensic science.