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Forensic Science Technician: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path

Career Overview
Interview Questions

What is a Forensic Science Technician?

Forensic Science Technicians are lab professionals who collect and analyse evidence from crime scenes or incidents, using scientific methods and techniques. They play a vital role in helping law enforcement solve cases by conducting tests on weapons, substances, etc., providing scientific findings that could be used in legal proceedings.

How do I become a Forensic Science Technician?

Forensic Science Technicians are lab professionals who collect and analyse evidence from crime scenes or incidents, using scientific methods and techniques. They play a vital role in helping law enforcement solve cases by conducting tests on weapons, substances, etc., providing scientific findings that could be used in legal proceedings.

What would you like to know?

What does it take to become an Forensic Science Technician?

Skills, education, personality, career progression

Job demand for an Forensic Science Technician

Job ads, popular location, season to apply



Skills

  • Attention to detail
  • Analytical thinking
  • Scientific knowledge and understanding
  • Proficiency in laboratory techniques and equipment
  • Ability to follow strict protocols and procedures
  • Strong problem-solving skills
  • Excellent communication and report writing skills
  • Time management and organizational skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Knowledge of forensic software and technology

Qualifications & Education

  • Possession of GCSEs/S grades
  • Possession of an appropriate BTEC/SQA award or a GNVQ/GSVQ
  • Professional qualifications
  • NVQs/SVQs at various levels
  • Apprenticeships (available in some areas of work)
  • Good eyesight
  • Normal colour vision (required in some cases)

Career Path

Forensic Science Technician
Forensic Scientist
Crime Scene Investigator
Forensic Pathologist
Forensic Anthropologist
Forensic Odontologist
Forensic Toxicologist
Forensic Psychologist
Digital Forensics Analyst
Crime Scene Investigator
Police Detective
Crime Scene Investigator
Private Investigator
Crime Scene Investigator
Fingerprint Analyst
Crime Scene Investigator
Firearms Examiner

Frequently Asked Questions

Is forensic science in demand in UK?

Yes, forensic science is in demand in the UK.

What do you do as a forensic technician?

As a forensic science technician in the UK, your main responsibilities include analyzing crime scenes to determine what evidence should be collected and how, taking photographs and making sketches of the crime scene, recording observations and findings, and collecting various types of evidence such as weapons, fingerprints, and bodily fluids.

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