Forensics

Description: Forensics experts collect, identify, classify, and analyze physical evidence related to criminal investigations. They perform tests on weapons or substances, such as fiber, hair, and tissue to determine significance to investigation. They may also testify as expert witnesses on evidence or crime laboratory techniques, or serve as specialists in area of expertise, such as ballistics, fingerprinting, handwriting, or biochemistry.

Knowledge Required: English, law and government, public safety and security, chemistry, biology, physics

Skills: Complex problem solving, critical thinking, writing, active listening, reasoning

Career Path: An undergraduate degree in chemistry, biology, pre-med, or related field is required. Continuing to a graduate program will increase your hiring chances.

Best Cities for this job: Metropolitan areas have more jobs and higher wages for forensic science technicians. Los Angeles and Oakland are two of the top paying cities for the job.

Median Annual Income: National: $40,300 CA: $51,500

Future Growth: Employment opportunities over the next decade are expected to increase 20% nationally and 44% in California.