Also called: Ballistics Expert
Matches bullets and shell casings to the guns that fired them.
Firearms examiners test-fire guns into water tanks, then compare the microscopic marks on bullets under comparison microscopes. They also link crime scenes through national ballistic databases.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
Bachelor's degree (4-year), about 4 years after high school. Bachelor's in forensic science, chemistry, or biology, plus on-the-job training and certification. Two years of training typical.
Ways in: 4-year college, Certification, On-the-job training. Training cost: $15k – $60k.
Majors to look at: Forensic Science, Chemistry, Physics, Mechanical Engineering.
Growing much faster than average (about 13% over 10 years). BLS forensic science technicians 2024-34 (13%, much faster than average).
Medium risk for 10 years. 3D imaging and automated casing matching speed links; comparisons under the microscope and testimony stay human.
Classes: Physics, Chemistry, Machine shop CTE.
Official data: O*NET occupation 19-4092.
Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.