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O*NET-SOC 19-4092.00

Forensic Science Technicians

Collect, identify, classify, and analyze physical evidence related to criminal investigations. Perform tests on weapons or substances, such as fiber, hair, and tissue to determine significance to investigation. May testify as expert witnesses on evidence or crime laboratory techniques. May serve as specialists in area of expertise, such as ballistics, fingerprinting, handwriting, or biochemistry.

From O*NET 30.3

Tasks

From O*NET 30.3, by importance, as O*NET OnLine lists them

Free · O*NET 30.3
  1. Collect evidence from crime scenes, storing it in conditions that preserve its integrity.Core1577
  2. Keep records and prepare reports detailing findings, investigative methods, and laboratory techniques.Core18478
  3. Use photographic or video equipment to document evidence or crime scenes.Core20399
  4. Testify in court about investigative or analytical methods or findings.Core1571
  5. Use chemicals or other substances to examine latent fingerprint evidence and compare developed prints to those of known persons in databases.Core18479
  6. Measure and sketch crime scenes to document evidence.Core23965
  7. Visit morgues, examine scenes of crimes, or contact other sources to obtain evidence or information to be used in investigations.Core1584
  8. Train new technicians or other personnel on forensic science techniques.Core18481
  9. Operate and maintain laboratory equipment and apparatus.Core1574
  10. Examine physical evidence, such as hair, biological fluids, fiber, wood, or soil residues to obtain information about its source and composition.Supplemental23967
  11. Collect impressions of dust from surfaces to obtain and identify fingerprints.Core1582
  12. Reconstruct crime scenes to determine relationships among pieces of evidence.Supplemental1580
  13. Determine types of bullets and specific weapons used in shootings.Supplemental20401
  14. Review forensic analysts' reports for technical merit.Supplemental20400
  15. Interpret laboratory findings or test results to identify and classify substances, materials, or other evidence collected at crime scenes.Supplemental1573
  16. Examine and analyze blood stain patterns at crime scenes.Core18482
  17. Analyze gunshot residue and bullet paths to determine how shootings occurred.Core1583
  18. Confer with ballistics, fingerprinting, handwriting, documents, electronics, medical, chemical, or metallurgical experts concerning evidence and its interpretation.Core1589
  19. Compare objects, such as tools, with impression marks to determine whether a specific object is responsible for a specific mark.Supplemental1590
  20. Identify and quantify drugs or poisons found in biological fluids or tissues, in foods, or at crime scenes.Supplemental1578
  21. Examine firearms to determine mechanical condition and legal status, performing restoration work on damaged firearms to obtain information, such as serial numbers.Supplemental1587
  22. Analyze data from computers or other digital media sources for evidence related to criminal activity.Supplemental23969
  23. Prepare solutions, reagents, or sample formulations needed for laboratory work.Core1575
  24. Examine footwear, tire tracks, or other types of impressions.Core23966

Technology Skills

From O*NET 30.3, 32 examples in 12 categories, 9 Hot Technology

Free · O*NET 30.3

Graphics or photo imaging software

  • Adobe PhotoshopHot Technology
  • DesignWare 3D EyeWitness
  • Eos Systems PhotoModeler
  • Graphics software
  • Image enhancement software
  • Mideo Systems EZDoc Plus
  • Midwest Information Systems PAX-it
  • SmartDraw Legal
  • The CAD Zone The Crime Zone
  • Trancite Logic Systems ScenePD
  • Visual Statement Vista FX3 CSI

Data base user interface and query software

  • Automated Biometric Identification System ABIS
  • Combined DNA Index System CODIS
  • DataWorks Plus Digital CrimeScene
  • Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System IAFIS
  • Microsoft AccessHot Technology
  • National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database
  • National Integrated Ballistics Information Network NIBIN

Computer aided design CAD software

  • Computer aided design and drafting CADD software

Office suite software

  • Corel WordPerfect Office Suite
  • Microsoft Office softwareHot TechnologyIn Demand

Analytical or scientific software

  • DM2 Bills of Lading
  • Guidance Software EnCase EnterpriseIn Demand
  • Laboratory information management system LIMS

Electronic mail software

  • IBM Notes
  • Microsoft OutlookHot TechnologyIn Demand

Operating system software

  • LinuxHot Technology

Spreadsheet software

  • Microsoft ExcelHot TechnologyIn Demand

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPointHot TechnologyIn Demand

Process mapping and design software

  • Microsoft VisioHot Technology

Word processing software

  • Microsoft WordHot Technology

Internet browser software

  • Web browser software

Detailed Work Activities

From O*NET 30.3, under their work activities; open one for the AI skills Workforce Automation maps to it

Free · O*NET 30.3

Getting Information

  • Collect evidence for legal proceedings.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet
  • Examine crime scenes to obtain evidence.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials

  • Test fluids to identify contamination or other problems.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information

  • Measure distances or dimensions.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Processing Information

  • Verify information or specifications.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet
  • Verify accuracy of data.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Analyzing Data or Information

  • Analyze data to identify trends or relationships among variables.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet
  • Interpret research or operational data.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet
  • Analyze forensic evidence to solve crimes.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet
  • Analyze crime scene evidence.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet
  • Analyze biological samples.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Handling and Moving Objects

  • Prepare compounds or solutions for products or testing.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Controlling Machines and Processes

  • Operate laboratory or field equipment.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment

  • Maintain laboratory or technical equipment.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Documenting/Recording Information

  • Prepare scientific or technical reports or presentations.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet
  • Document events or evidence, using photographic or audiovisual equipment.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet
  • Record research or operational data.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates

  • Collaborate on research activities with scientists or technical specialists.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Communicating with People Outside the Organization

  • Testify at legal or legislative proceedings.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Training and Teaching Others

  • Train personnel in technical or scientific procedures.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Job Zone

From O*NET 30.3

Free · O*NET 30.3

Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed

Workforce Automation analysis, not part of the source

WFA coverage: AI skills for this job

WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

Pilot mapping: these skill links come from our seed list and haven’t been reviewed yet. Expect them to change as each one is checked.

DWAs covered by an AI skill0 of 20
Distinct tools0
Level mix
  • No tools yet

Equivalents

NICE work roles, with their DCWF equivalents

Mapped to this job by the ETO-CSET NICE/O*NET crosswalk (2024); roles from NICE Framework Components v2.2.0, DCWF equivalents from DoD DCWF Tool v5.3 (2026-09-25)

Free · NICE Framework Components v2.2.0 and DoD DCWF Tool v5.3 (2026-09-25)