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Entry Level Forensic Ballistics Expert Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Stanislaus County

Forensic Pathologist

Modesto, CA

$175.74 - $263.60/hr

Provide expert witness testimony and testify in Local, State, and Federal Court proceedings; At the ... toxicology, ballistic/firearms examination, trace evidence, forensic serology, forensic ...

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Entry Level Forensic Ballistics Expert information

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$41K

$87.9K

$137K

How much do entry level forensic ballistics expert jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level forensic ballistics expert in the United States is $87,877.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,500.00 and $111,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level forensic ballistics expert do?

An Entry Level Forensic Ballistics Expert assists in analyzing firearms, ammunition, and related evidence to help solve crimes. They examine bullets, cartridge cases, and gunshot residues to determine details such as the type of weapon used or whether a specific gun fired a particular bullet. These experts often work in crime labs, documenting findings, preparing reports, and sometimes providing testimony in court. Entry-level professionals typically work under the supervision of more experienced analysts while gaining hands-on experience and training.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level forensic ballistics expert?

To thrive as an Entry Level Forensic Ballistics Expert, you need a background in forensic science or criminal justice, strong analytical skills, and attention to detail, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, ballistics databases like NIBIN, and basic firearms identification techniques is typically required. Critical thinking, clear communication, and the ability to work meticulously under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate analysis, effective legal reporting, and contribute to solving firearm-related crimes.

What is the difference between Entry Level Forensic Ballistics Expert vs Entry Level Crime Scene Investigator?

AspectEntry Level Forensic Ballistics ExpertEntry Level Crime Scene Investigator
CredentialsForensic science degree, firearms knowledge, basic certificationCriminal justice or forensic science degree, scene processing training
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, firearms analysis labs, crime labsCrime scenes, outdoor and indoor locations, evidence collection
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, forensic labs, government agenciesLaw enforcement agencies, police departments, crime scene units

Entry Level Forensic Ballistics Experts focus on analyzing firearms, bullets, and ballistic evidence in labs, while Entry Level Crime Scene Investigators gather evidence at crime scenes. Both roles require forensic knowledge and work within law enforcement, but their daily tasks and environments differ significantly.

How much do entry level forensic ballistics experts make?

Entry-level forensic ballistics experts typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on location, education, and certifications. Starting salaries may increase with experience, specialized training, and working in larger forensic laboratories or law enforcement agencies.
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Entry Level Forensic Ballistics Expert jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Forensic Ballistics Expert job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,877 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Firearms & Ballistics Expert Witness

Evidence Solutions, Inc.

Dallas, TX • On-site, Remote

$200 - $275/hr

Contractor

Posted yesterday

New

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.