Forensic Ballistic information
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$25.5K - $31.8K
4% of jobs
$44.3K - $50.6K
5% of jobs
$52.2K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$50.6K - $56.9K
12% of jobs
The median wage is $59.4K / yr.
$56.9K - $63.1K
41% of jobs
$63.5K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$63.1K - $69.4K
5% of jobs
$69.4K - $75.7K
4% of jobs
$88.2K - $94.5K
4% of jobs
How much do forensic ballistic jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic ballistic in the United States is $61,156.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,000.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
Forensic ballistics experts are specialists who analyze firearms, ammunition, and the effects of projectiles to help solve crimes. They examine evidence such as bullets, cartridge cases, and gunshot residue to determine information like the type of weapon used and the distance from which a shot was fired. Their work often involves comparing markings on bullets and casings to match them with specific firearms. Forensic ballistics experts play a crucial role in criminal investigations by providing scientific analysis and expert testimony in court.
To thrive as a Forensic Ballistics Expert, you need a solid background in forensic science, physics, and criminal justice, typically supported by a relevant degree and specialized training in firearms and tool mark identification. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, comparison microscopes, and ballistics databases like NIBIN is essential. Strong analytical thinking, meticulous attention to detail, and clear written and verbal communication skills set outstanding professionals apart. These skills ensure accurate evidence analysis, reliable courtroom testimony, and the integrity of criminal investigations.
Forensic ballistic experts often encounter challenges such as degraded or contaminated evidence, limited sample sizes, and damaged ballistic materials. It can also be difficult to match bullets or cartridge cases to specific firearms if the markings are faint or altered. Additionally, working under tight deadlines to provide timely results for investigations, and effectively communicating complex findings to non-technical audiences, such as law enforcement or in court, are common parts of the job. Collaborating closely with detectives, lab technicians, and legal teams is essential to ensure thorough and accurate analyses.
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