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This bar graph shows the annual salary for Crime Lab Analysts.
Data sourced from O*NET Online, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
This line chart shows the projected job growth over 10 years for Crime Lab Analysts.
Projected Growth Rate in Job Openings by 2031: 11%
Data sourced from CareerOneStop, provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Collect evidence from crime scenes, storing it in conditions that preserve its integrity.
Keep records and prepare reports detailing findings, investigative methods, and laboratory techniques.
Use photographic or video equipment to document evidence or crime scenes.
Becoming a crime lab analyst involves a combination of education, skill development, and on-the-job experience. If you have an interest in forensic science and a keen eye for detail, this career path may be well-suited for you. Here's what you need to do to break into the field:
Laboratory Work: Take any opportunity to work in a laboratory setting, even if it's not directly related to forensics. This experience is valuable when applying for crime lab positions.
Communication Skills: You'll need to explain your findings to law enforcement officials and possibly testify in court.
Consider obtaining professional certification from organizations such as the American Board of Criminalistics (ABC) or the International Association for Identification (IAI). Certification can enhance your credibility and career prospects.
By following these steps and committing yourself to continuous learning and professional development, you can set yourself on the path to becoming a successful crime lab analyst. Remember that perseverance, a strong educational foundation, and hands-on experience are key components of achieving your goals in this dynamic and rewarding field.
To pursue a career as a crime lab analyst, most employers require at least a bachelor’s degree in a scientific field such as:
Advanced positions may require a master’s degree or higher, particularly in specialized areas of forensic analysis.
In addition to formal education, crime lab analysts typically undergo on-the-job training, which can include:
Some analysts might also pursue professional certification from organizations like the American Board of Criminalistics.
While not always mandatory, certifications can enhance a crime lab analyst’s qualifications. Some of the recognized certifications include:
These certifications often require passing an exam and maintaining ongoing education credits.
Successful crime lab analysts often possess the following skills:
There are several advancement opportunities for crime lab analysts, such as:
Advancement typically requires additional experience, education, or certifications.
The job outlook for crime lab analysts is generally favorable. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of forensic science technicians is projected to grow faster than average due to advances in technology and the increased use of forensic evidence in court cases.
Crime lab analysts can find employment in various settings, including:
Yes, crime lab analysts can specialize in areas such as:
Specialization often requires additional training or education in the specific discipline.
Crime lab analysts usually work full-time with regular business hours. However, some may need to be on call outside of standard hours, especially when urgent casework arises or when working with law enforcement agencies that operate 24/7.
To stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in forensic science, crime lab analysts can:
Ongoing learning is crucial for maintaining expertise and potentially advancing in the career.