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Ballistics Forensic Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of New York

Forensic Analyst

Bronx, NY · Hybrid

The Forensic Science Unit oversees all cases with forensic science evidence including DNA, fingerprints and ballistics. Additionally, the FSU coordinates cold case homicide and sexual assault ...

City of New York

Forensic Analyst

Bronx, NY · Hybrid

The Forensic Science Unit oversees all cases with forensic science evidence including DNA, fingerprints and ballistics. Additionally, the FSU coordinates cold case homicide and sexual assault ...

City of New York

Forensic Analyst

Bronx, NY · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

The Forensic Science Unit oversees all cases with forensic science evidence including DNA, fingerprints and ballistics. Additionally, the FSU coordinates cold case homicide and sexual assault ...

Stanislaus County

Forensic Pathologist

Modesto, CA · On-site

$175.74 - $263.60/hr

Procedures, techniques, and equipment utilized in forensic medicine, including medico-legal autopsy, forensic toxicology, ballistic/firearms examination, trace evidence, forensic serology, forensic ...

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Ballistics Forensic information

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$43.5K

$128.4K

$325K

How much do ballistics forensic jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for ballistics forensic in the United States is $128,375.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,500.00 and $130,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a ballistics forensic?

A Ballistics Forensic job involves analyzing firearms, ammunition, and gunshot evidence to aid criminal investigations. Experts in this field examine bullet trajectories, firearm mechanics, and gunpowder residue to determine how a shooting occurred. They compare bullets and casings to specific weapons using specialized techniques like ballistic imaging. Their findings help law enforcement link firearms to crimes, identify suspects, and provide expert testimony in court.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a ballistics forensic?

Ballistics Forensic specialists spend their days examining firearms, bullets, cartridge cases, and gunshot residue to help determine how a shooting occurred. They document and analyze evidence using specialized tools, prepare detailed reports, and often work alongside law enforcement officers and attorneys. Regular responsibilities may also include test-firing weapons, maintaining laboratory records, and providing expert testimony in court. Collaboration and clear communication with criminal investigators are frequent and critical parts of the job, making teamwork an integral aspect of this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a ballistics forensic?

A Ballistics Forensic specialist requires a solid background in forensic science, physics, and firearms analysis, often supported by a degree in forensic science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, comparison microscopes, ballistic databases, and certifications such as those from the Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners (AFTE) is essential. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills are invaluable for delivering accurate findings and credible court testimony. Mastery of these competencies ensures precise analyses and supports the integrity of criminal investigations.

How much do forensic ballistics forensic make?

Forensic ballistics specialists typically earn between $45,000 and $75,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced certifications and experience with firearms analysis tools can lead to higher salaries in this field.

How to get into forensic ballistics?

To become a forensic ballistics expert, typically a bachelor's degree in forensic science, criminal justice, or a related field is required. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions in crime labs, along with developing skills in firearm identification, ballistics analysis, and familiarity with laboratory tools, is essential. Certification from professional organizations can also enhance job prospects.
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Ballistics Forensic jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ballistics Forensic job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $128,375 per year, or $61.7 per hour.

Firearms & Ballistics Expert Witness

Dallas, TX • On-site, Remote

Evidence Solutions, Inc.
Legal Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Evidence Solutions, Inc.external

$200 - $275/hr

Contractor

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

This is a remote position.

Evidence Solutions, Inc. is a nationally recognized expert witness and litigation support firm providing consulting across a wide range of civil and criminal matters. Our team partners with attorneys, insurance carriers, municipalities, corporations, and government entities to deliver credible and defensible expert analysis.

We provide our experts with full-service support including marketing/business development, case intake and client support, billing and collections, allowing experts to focus on what they love doing best — working with the evidence.

Job Description:
We are seeking an experienced Firearms & Ballistics Expert Witness to join our team of forensic and litigation support professionals. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in firearms examination, ballistic analysis, shooting incident reconstruction, and the application of forensic science to firearms-related cases. This role is well suited for a Firearms Examiner, Ballistics Analyst, Forensic Scientist, Law Enforcement Firearms Specialist, or Military Weapons Expert who has investigated and analyzed shooting incidents and understands the standards and methodologies governing firearms evidence.

This position provides an opportunity to apply firearms and ballistics expertise to legal matters involving shooting incidents, firearm functionality, trajectory analysis, and weapons-related forensic investigations.

Requirements
Key Responsibilities:

  • Conduct forensic examinations of firearms, ammunition, and ballistic evidence, including bullets, cartridge cases, and gunshot residue.
  • Analyze shooting incidents, including trajectory analysis, distance determination, and reconstruction of events based on physical evidence.
  • Evaluate firearm functionality, safety mechanisms, and potential defects or malfunctions.
  • Review case materials including scene evidence, autopsy reports, police reports, and forensic lab findings to assess firearm-related events.
  • Review and validate evidence of handling procedures including chain of custody, laboratory analysis, and testing protocols.
  • Assess use-of-force scenarios involving firearms, including officer-involved shootings, self-defense claims, and accidental discharges.
  • Consult with legal teams to assess firearms evidence, identify inconsistencies, and support case strategy.
  • Prepare detailed expert reports and professional opinions based on accepted firearms examination methodologies and forensic science principles.
  • Provide expert witness testimony in depositions and trials, translating complex concepts and firearms & ballistics findings into clear and defensible opinions
  • Stay current on developments in firearms technology, ballistic analysis techniques, forensic standards, and legal precedents related to firearms cases.

Qualifications:

  • 15+ years of professional experience in Firearms Examination, Ballistics Analysis, Law Enforcement or Military Firearms Specialist roles, Crime Lab Forensics, or related fields. 
  • Bachelor’s or advanced degree in Forensic Science, Criminal Justice, Ballistics, or a related field preferred.
  • Extensive experience in firearms examination, ballistics analysis, or forensic firearms investigations.
  • Deep understanding of firearms and forensic standards, including toolmark identification, trajectory analysis, gunshot residue testing, and evidence comparison techniques.
  • Experience working with laboratory testing procedures, firearms databases (e.g., NIBIN), and forensic analysis tools.
  • Strong knowledge of firearm safety standards and shooting incident reconstruction.
  • Demonstrated experience analyzing firearms-related evidence and presenting findings in investigative or legal settings.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to explain complex forensic concepts to attorneys, juries, and non-technical audiences.
  • Prior expert witness or courtroom testimony experience is preferred.
  • Relevant certifications or training in firearms examination, forensic science, or ballistics analysis are strongly preferred.



Benefits
Compensation & Structure:
  • 1099 independent contractor arrangement
  • WFH
  • Competitive hourly expert witness compensation
  • Flexible case-based workload
Why Partner with ESI
What We Offer:
  • Dedicated case management and administrative support from initial client intake to billing and collections that allows you to focus on doing what you love, delivering expert insights.
  • Marketing and business development initiatives designed to generate new case opportunities and expand your reach and visibility in the legal industry.
  • Peer review support and access to a multidisciplinary team of experts.
  • Report writing support and professional development opportunities such as deposition coaching, testimony training, and continuing education in emerging human factors research.
  • Flexible engagement structure.
  • A collaborative environment where your expertise is valued, and your contributions directly influence case outcomes.