The job market for forensic science technicians in the United States

There are currently an estimated 18,500 forensic science technicians in the United States. The forensic science technician job market is expected to grow by 12.4% between 2022 and 2032.

How employable are forensic science technicians?

CareerExplorer rates forensic science technicians with a C employability rating, meaning this career should provide moderate employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will need 11,600 forensic science technicians. That number is based on 2,300 additional forensic science technicians, and the retirement of 9,300 existing forensic science technicians.

Are forensic science technicians in demand?

Demand and employment growth in the field of forensic science is projected to significantly outpace the average for all occupations tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, because of the small size of this career, the fast growth will result in less than four thousand jobs in the United States over the next decade. Advances in technology will continue to increase the availability, reliability, and usefulness of objective forensic information presented as evidence in trials and other criminal proceedings. Consequently, the value of forensic science technicians will rise. Digital computer forensics and DNA specialties are expected to see the most growth and become the most dominant sectors of forensic science. As is the case with many occupations in which the majority of jobs are with government agencies, the number of available positions will be impacted by federal, state, and local budgets. While larger police departments may hire full-time forensic science technicians, they, too, may face budget constraints. To some extent, job growth is directly related to crime rates and the number of civil action cases. Competition for all openings is expected to be strong, not only because this is a relatively small and very specialized field, but also because of the substantial interest in forensic science and crime scene investigation generated by popular media. Recent graduates will likely face intense competition, as there are generally few entry-level positions in the field. Senior technicians seeking advancement opportunities may become trainers of new crime lab analysts, managers of crime laboratories, criminal investigators, professors of criminal justice, or owners of private consulting businesses. They can expect pronounced competition for highly sought-after jobs with the U.S. Department of Justice.

What’s the supply of forensic science technicians?

The forensic science technician industry is concentrated in California, Florida, Texas

Forensic Science Technician job market by state