ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Fingerprint Technician Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MyMichigan Health

Patient Care Technician Trainee

Saginaw, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Summary The Patient Care Technician Trainee is a temporary entry-level position. The position ... Fingerprinting Equivalent Experience: Employees who will be taking a position in a behavioral ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLegal JobsInvestigator JobsForensic Investigator JobsFingerprint Technician Trainee Jobs

Fingerprint Technician Trainee information

See salary details

$26.5K

$38K

$57.5K

How much do fingerprint technician trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for fingerprint technician trainee in the United States is $37,968.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30,000.00 and $42,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fingerprint technician trainee?

To thrive as a Fingerprint Technician Trainee, you need attention to detail, manual dexterity, and at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems (AFIS) and basic computer skills are typically required, and some agencies may prefer candidates with certification in fingerprint analysis. Strong organizational skills, accuracy, and the ability to communicate clearly make candidates stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring precise identification, maintaining data integrity, and supporting effective law enforcement operations.

What are some typical challenges faced by a fingerprint technician trainee during the training period?

As a Fingerprint Technician Trainee, one common challenge is mastering the meticulous process of capturing high-quality fingerprint impressions, both manually and electronically. Trainees must also become adept at analyzing and comparing prints, which requires keen attention to detail and patience. Adapting to the use of specialized fingerprinting software and following strict chain-of-custody procedures are also essential parts of the learning curve. Close collaboration with law enforcement personnel and other technicians is typical, and effective communication is important for success in the role.

What is the difference between Fingerprint Technician Trainee vs Fingerprint Technician?

AspectFingerprint Technician TraineeFingerprint Technician
CertificationsOften requires basic background checks; some agencies may require fingerprinting or security clearanceTypically requires certification or specialized training in fingerprint analysis
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised fieldwork, law enforcement agenciesIndependent fingerprint collection, analysis, and reporting in law enforcement or security settings
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with fingerprint collection, learning fingerprinting techniques, supporting fingerprint analysisCollecting, analyzing, and verifying fingerprints for investigations

The main difference is that a Fingerprint Technician Trainee is in training and gaining skills under supervision, while a Fingerprint Technician is fully qualified and performs fingerprint analysis independently. Trainees focus on learning procedures, whereas technicians handle the core responsibilities of fingerprint identification in law enforcement or security contexts.

How do you become a fingerprint technician trainee?

To become a fingerprint technician trainee, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some agencies prefer post-secondary education or training in criminal justice or forensic science. On-the-job training is common, and familiarity with fingerprinting techniques and tools is beneficial; some positions may require passing background checks and obtaining relevant certifications. Entry often involves applying through law enforcement or government agencies that provide training programs for new trainees.

How much do fingerprint technician trainees get paid?

Fingerprint technician trainees typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on location, experience, and the agency or organization. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end of this range, with pay increasing as skills and certifications are gained.
More about Fingerprint Technician Trainee jobs

What cities are hiring for Fingerprint Technician Trainee jobs?

Cities with the most Fingerprint Technician Trainee job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Fingerprint Technician jobs?

The most popular types of Fingerprint Technician jobs are:

What states have the most Fingerprint Technician Trainee jobs?

States with the most job openings for Fingerprint Technician Trainee jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Fingerprint Technician Trainee jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Fingerprint Technician Trainee jobs are:

Fingerprint Technician Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fingerprint Technician Trainee 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, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,968 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

AFIS Fingerprint Technician Specialist Trainee (Sheriff)

Shelby County

Memphis, TN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Position Summary

Works under general direction to train and work in a specialized environment for twenty-four (24) months under the direct review of an assigned supervisor or AFIS FP Tech Specialist to learn the principles and operating functions used in monitoring/restoring AFIS system functions.  Trains to perform system back-ups and encoding and analyzes fingerprints using those on file in AFIS database.  Also, trains to process and identify fingerprints both manual and automated.
 

Pay Grade: 48

Salary Commensurate with Experience and Education
 

Minimum Qualifications

  • Must have successfully completed an authorized fingerprint classification program sponsored by the F.B.I., or similar fingerprint classification program, with at least two (2) years of experience in a properly maintained fingerprint file system.
  • Must have graduated from an accredited high school or possess a GED. 
  • Must provide proof of fingerprint certification.
  • PROOF OF EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND/OR EXPERIENCE IS REQUIRED.
     

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Assists in encoding crime scene prints as efficient as possible to reduce search time and provide a more accurate respondent listing from the database.
  • Facilitates in chemical processing of crime scene evidence.
  • Analyzes latent fingerprints lifted from crime scenes and classifying unknown sets of fingerprints and unsolved latent files.
  • Views respondent images for possible identification and/or match against ten-print fingerprints and unsolved latent files.
  • Monitors AFIS system processes to ensure efficient use of systems for all concerned and takes necessary actions to correct any system errors or failures.
  • Performs system maintenance backups, as established by AFIS Manager and system vendor to ensure system database integrity and efficiency.
  • Aides in monitoring all computer equipment room areas for any environmental problems (i.e., high temperature or humidity) and restores all associated equipment networked to the AFIS.
  • Processes routine reports and statistical data, as required.
  • Assists other agencies in matters relating to latent fingerprints and AFIS operations.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned or directed.
     

KSAs

  • Thorough knowledge of Henry Classification System.
  • Knowledge of National Crime Information coding and procedures.
  • Thorough knowledge of alpha and numeric filing systems.
  • Ability to deal effectively with prisoners, applicants, and the public.
  • Ability to work in a confined or enclosed area.
  • Ability to operate photographic equipment, typewriter, computer terminals, and other equipment necessary to identification training.
  • Thorough knowledge of criminal justice concepts and procedures.
  • Ability to provide expert court of law testimony and precisely explain and defend results.
  • Ability to establish and maintain accurate records.
  • Must possess initiative, sound judgment and a positive approach.
  • Must possess the ability to follow written instructions when dealing with problems situations.
  • Ability to make on the spot decisions and documents properly for review.
     

Special Requirements

  • Must be available for shift work, weekends, and holidays.
  • The Trainee will be required to attend and successfully complete all training sessions, including achieving certification in AFIS Management Training and Latent Fingerprint courses within performance rating periods of 6 months, 12 months, and 24 months.
  • Must successfully complete vendor's training course on system operations and maintenance.


Disclaimer

This position is subject to a background check for any convictions that have a substantial relationship to potential job duties. Only convictions that are substantially related to potential job duties will be considered and will not automatically disqualify the candidate.
 

Shelby County Resident Disclaimer 

All employees hired after September 1, 1986, must be residents of Shelby County and shall continue to reside in the County as a condition of their employment. The residency requirement shallnotapply to certain public safety/civil service employees. This means exemption from this policy is in effect for the following departments and positions: (1) Sheriff Deputy Patrol Officers, Deputy Jailers and Dispatchers, employed by the Sheriff Department, (2) Correction Officers employed by the Division of Corrections, (3) Firefighters, Paramedics and Dispatchers employed by the Shelby County Fire Department. The residency exemption for public safety/civil service employees does not include Appointed positions with Sheriff's Office, Division of Corrections or the Fire Department. 

Apply