SOC 19-4092
Forensic Science Technicians
Risk Score
โ ๏ธ40/100
Moderate
US Employment
๐ฅ19,450
Total workers
Median Wage
๐ฐ$67K
$46K โ $111K
Projected Growth
๐+12.8%
2023-2033 (BLS)
GenAI Exposure
๐ค75/100
High exposure
๐ก Forensic Science Technicians face a risk score of 40/100 โ 4 points below the national average of 44. With 75/100 GenAI exposure, this occupation faces significant pressure from AI tools despite strong projected growth. See our methodology โ
๐ก Workers in this field earn $67K ($21K above the national median). The 3 recommended career transitions all maintain competitive wages while reducing automation exposure. Explore transition paths โ
๐ AI Impact Analysis
With a risk score of 40/100, Forensic Science Technicians faces moderate automation pressure. While tasks like machine learning models replacing manual hypothesis testing are increasingly handled by AI, the role retains significant human elements. The 19,450 workers in this occupation should focus on strengthening skills in interpreting ambiguous results with domain expertise and fieldwork in unstructured natural environments to stay ahead. The role will likely evolve rather than disappear.
Will AI Replace Forensic Science Technicians?
Read our full analysis with verdict, risk factors, safe tasks, and career transition paths โ
โ ๏ธ Top Risk Factors
Machine learning models replacing manual hypothesis testing
Robotic sample preparation and experimentation
AI summarization replacing manual report compilation
๐ก๏ธ Tasks Safe from Automation
Interpreting ambiguous results with domain expertise
Fieldwork in unstructured natural environments
Collaborative scientific discourse and peer review
Designing novel experiments and research methodologies
๐ Task Automation Breakdown
Based on O*NET task analysis and GenAI exposure scoring. Shows the estimated proportion of this occupation's core tasks that are automatable by current AI, augmented by AI tools, or require essential human skills.
๐ O*NET Task Profile
Collect evidence from crime scenes, storing it in conditions that preserve its integrity.
Keep records and prepare reports detailing findings, investigative methods, and laboratory techniques.
Use photographic or video equipment to document evidence or crime scenes.
Testify in court about investigative or analytical methods or findings.
Use chemicals or other substances to examine latent fingerprint evidence and compare developed prints to those of known persons in databases.
๐ป Technology Skills
Graphics or photo imaging software
Data base user interface and query software
Computer aided design CAD software
Office suite software
Analytical or scientific software
๐ Key Knowledge Areas
Law and Government
Public Safety and Security
Education and Training
English Language
Computers and Electronics
๐ vs National Average
National avg: $46K
National avg: 44/100
National avg: 38/100
National avg: 3.7%
๐ Career Transition Paths
| Occupation | Risk | Wage | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Scientists and Related Workers | 21 | $93K | 83% |
| Political Scientists | 25 | $139K | 75% |
| Occupational Health and Safety Specialists and Technicians | 26 | $79K | 73% |