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Criminalist
Criminalists analyze, identify, and draw conclusions derived from physical evidence.
A criminalists’ most important duty is to use their skills and experience to objectively examine physical evidence. They identify important evidence and discard evidence with no value. They base these valuations using scientific methods and then identify, sort, and match similar pieces of evidence that could be used in a trial. Making interpretations from the evidence, and performing tests on it, is one of the criminalists’ most important duties because events that occurred at a crime scene can be identified and witnesses’ testimonies can be validated. Criminalists also prepare reports and provide expert testimony.
Where do criminalists work?
Criminalists work at sheriffs’ offices, forensic laboratories, state and regional agencies, universities, medical examiners’ offices, federal agencies, and private companies.
Training and Education
Potential criminalists must earn a bachelor’s degree in one of the physical, biological, or forensic sciences in conjunction with at least 24 hours of chemistry, biology, or math. Classes taken are often more important than the actual degree. Criminalists must also participate in continuing education throughout their careers.
Licensing and certification requirements
No current mandated requirements exist for criminalists, but most criminalists become certified by the American Board of Criminalistics. The American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors or the Laboratory Accreditation Board may provide accreditation to entire forensic labs.
Earnings
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, criminalists can earn between $35,000-50,000 annually. Federal criminalists usually earn higher pay.
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Breakthrough in Forensic Science
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