Forensic Science Technicians

Forensic Science Technicians typically perform the following tasks: • 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. • Testify in court about investigative or analytical methods or findings. • Use chemicals or other substances to examine latent fingerprint evidence and compare developed prints to those of known persons in databases. • Measure and sketch crime scenes to document evidence. • Visit morgues, examine scenes of crimes, or contact other sources to obtain evidence or information to be used in investigations. • Train new technicians or other personnel on forensic science techniques. • Operate and maintain laboratory equipment and apparatus. • Collect impressions of dust from surfaces to obtain and identify fingerprints. • Examine and analyze blood stain patterns at crime scenes. • Analyze gunshot residue and bullet paths to determine how shootings occurred. • Confer with ballistics, fingerprinting, handwriting, documents, electronics, medical, chemical, or metallurgical experts concerning evidence and its interpretation. • Prepare solutions, reagents, or sample formulations needed for laboratory work. • Examine footwear, tire tracks, or other types of impressions. • Examine physical evidence, such as hair, biological fluids, fiber, wood, or soil residues to obtain information about its source and composition. • Reconstruct crime scenes to determine relationships among pieces of evidence. • Determine types of bullets and specific weapons used in shootings. • Review forensic analysts' reports for technical merit. • Interpret laboratory findings or test results to identify and classify substances, materials, or other evidence collected at crime scenes.