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Firearm Examiner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

It is professional and technical work in the forensic examination areas of firearms, toolmark and fracture identification, serial number restoration, and gunshot residue/distance analysis for the ...

Firearms Examiner

MD · On-site

$69K - $134K/yr

It is professional and technical work in the forensic examination areas of firearms, toolmark and fracture identification, serial number restoration, and gunshot residue/distance analysis for the ...

Conduct Laboratory Examination responsibilities to include, but not limited to: Evaluation and test firing of various types of firearms. Performs moderately complex and complex analysis of submitted ...

Conduct Laboratory Examination responsibilities to include, but not limited to: Evaluation and test firing of various types of firearms. Performs moderately complex and complex analysis of submitted ...

Work within the Firearms Unit in a fully-functioning, accredited laboratory. All work takes place ... Create examination documentation for work performed * Issue forensic laboratory examination reports

Firearms Examiner I

Houston, TX · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

Conduct Laboratory Examination responsibilities to include, but not limited to: * Evaluation and test firing of various types of firearms. * Performs moderately complex and complex analysis of ...

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Firearm Examiner information

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$33.5K

$61.4K

$99K

How much do firearm examiner jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for firearm examiner in the United States is $61,362.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,000.00 and $69,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Firearm Examiner position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Firearm Examiner, you need a strong background in forensic science, criminalistics, and ballistics, often supported by a degree in forensic science or a related field. Expertise with comparison microscopes, ballistic identification systems (such as IBIS), and knowledge of chain-of-custody protocols are commonly required. High attention to detail, analytical thinking, and clear written and verbal communication are vital soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure accurate analyses, reliable evidence handling, and clear testimony in court cases.

What is a Firearm Examiner job?

A Firearm Examiner is a forensic specialist who analyzes firearms, ammunition, and related evidence in criminal investigations. They identify weapons, match bullets to specific guns, and determine firing distances. Examiners often testify in court as expert witnesses and document their findings in detailed reports. Their work helps law enforcement solve crimes involving firearms.

What does a typical day look like for a Firearm Examiner and what are the main responsibilities?

A typical day for a Firearm Examiner involves examining firearms, cartridge cases, bullets, and related evidence to determine their origin or involvement in criminal cases. You will use specialized laboratory equipment, create detailed analytical reports, and may be called upon to testify as an expert witness in court proceedings. Collaboration with law enforcement officers, detectives, and other forensic specialists is common, as is maintaining meticulous records to ensure the integrity of evidence. The role requires balancing laboratory analysis with paperwork, meetings, and sometimes on-site investigations or courtroom appearances.

More about Firearm Examiner jobs
What cities are hiring for Firearm Examiner jobs? Cities with the most Firearm Examiner job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Firearm Examiner jobs? The most popular types of Firearm Examiner jobs are:
What states have the most Firearm Examiner jobs? States with the most job openings for Firearm Examiner jobs include:
Infographic showing various Firearm Examiner job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,362 per year, or $29.5 per hour.
Firearms Examiner

$69K - $134K/yr

Other

Posted 26 days ago


Anne Arundel County rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

539th of 644 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Position Description The Anne Arundel County Police Department is committed to the pursuit of excellence. We uphold the public trust by being honest and maintaining the highest standards of ethical and moral character. This posting will be used to fill a Fulltime, Permanent, Safety Sensitive Firearms Examiner position within the Anne Arundel County Police Department.

It is professional and technical work in the forensic examination areas of firearms, toolmark and fracture identification, serial number restoration, and gunshot residue/distance analysis for the Police Department. The position serves as a court qualified expert witness in the field of firearms and toolmark examination. NATURE AND VARIETY OF WORK An employee in this classification works in a forensic laboratory setting and is responsible for conducting examinations using validated forensic techniques related to firearms and toolmarks, including precise and accurate microscopic comparative examinations; testing of firearms for proper function and safety; classification identification of firearms based on fired projectiles, restoration of obliterated serial numbers; and utilization of a national ballistic evidence data base.

An employee in this classification performs work under general supervision with considerable independence within established policies, regulations, and technical guidelines for firearms examinations. The employees workplace will be located at the new Anne Arundel County Forensic Services Laboratory. Examples of Duties and Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (Note: The duties and responsibilities enumerated in this class specification are for the purpose of determining a common set of minimal qualifications and salary level for this class.

They are not intended to include all of the essential functions of the class.) Conduct forensic examinations in the areas of firearms, toolmarks, serial number restoration, gunshot residue/distance analysis, and fracture identification, to include chemical examination. Work is performed with independence, but within the established policies and procedures set forth by the Maryland Department of Health and ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) ISO 17025 for the Firearms Examiner discipline. Enter and analyze computer data to include the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN)

Conduct forensic image analysis. Testify in court as an expert witness. Assist other forensic units, prosecutors, and allied agencies.

Perform related duties as required. Perform related duties as required. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Considerable knowledge of departmental rules, regulations, general orders, principles and practices governing firearms and tool mark examination.

Considerable knowledge of rules governing the admissibility of firearms evidence in courts. Considerable knowledge of different firearms and ammunition. Considerable knowledge of standard techniques utilized to classify and identify firearms.

Considerable knowledge of standard techniques utilized to conduct microscopic comparisons of firearms and toolmark related evidence. Considerable knowledge and understanding of photographic techniques applicable to firearms, toolmark and fracture identification. Knowledge of proper format for departmental correspondence.

Skilled in the operation laboratory equipment, especially microscopes. Ability to handle firearms in a safe and responsible manner. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

Ability to testify in court as an expert witness. Ability to conduct forensic examinations of firearms and to follow detailed instructions. Ability to communicate effectively and establish and maintain working relationships with county officials, law enforcement officials, employees, contractors, and the public.

Minimum Qualifications A bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in biological or physical science; two (2) or more years of experience in criminal justice; law enforcement or a related field. Completion of a training program providing original certification by the Association of Firearms and Toolmark Examiners (AFTE) as a firearms and toolmark examiner; and a valid non-commercial Class C motor vehicle operator's license. NOTE: The bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in biological or physical science may be substituted with a bachelor's degree with major coursework in criminal justice, law enforcement, or a related field.

NOTES: This is a Safety-Sensitive position and employees in this position are subject to Controlled Dangerous Substance (CDS) and Alcohol testing. The selection process includes a comprehensive background investigation. Supplemental Qualifications Preference will be given to applicants with the following: 1.) Experience providing expert witness testimony in court

2.) Experience working a primary examiner conducting examinations of firearms, cartridge cases, bullets and related evidence in an accredited agency. 3.) Experience using the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network. 4.) Experience utilizing a comparison microscope in examining bullets and fired cartridge cases.