1

Forensic Ballistic Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Perform sample acquisitions into the National Integrated Ballistics Information Network (NIBIN ... Maintain proper chain-of-custody for all forensic material under examination. Support activities ...

New

Perform sample acquisitions into the National Integrated Ballistics Information Network (NIBIN ... Maintain proper chain-of-custody for all forensic material under examination. * Support activities ...

New

Project Manager NNTC

Huntsville, AL ยท On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Familiarity with NIBIN, ballistics identification, or forensic support services. Required Security: * Public Trust (final determination subject to government approval) FLSA Class: Exempt #CJ Location:

next page

Showing results 1-20

Forensic Ballistic information

See salary details

$25.5K

$61.2K

$94.5K

How much do forensic ballistic jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 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.

What are some common challenges faced by forensic ballistic experts when analyzing evidence from crime scenes?

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Forensic Ballistics Expert, and why are they important?

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.

What are forensic ballistics experts?

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.
More about Forensic Ballistic jobs
What cities are hiring for Forensic Ballistic jobs? Cities with the most Forensic Ballistic job openings:
What states have the most Forensic Ballistic jobs? States with the most job openings for Forensic Ballistic jobs include:
Infographic showing various Forensic Ballistic job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 1% Internship, 6% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,156 per year, or $29.4 per hour.
Firearm/Toolmark Examiner

Firearm/Toolmark Examiner

CACI International, Inc.

Forest Park, GA โ€ข On-site

$51K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Firearm/Toolmark Examiner
Job Category: Engineering and Technical Support
Time Type: Full time
Minimum Clearance Required to Start: None
Employee Type: Regular
Percentage of Travel Required:
Type of Travel: None
* * *
The Opportunity:
CACI is seeking a Firearm/Toolmaker Examiner to help support exploitation missions both CONUS (Continental United States) and OCONUS (Outside Continental United States) via deployment.
Responsibilities:
  • Examine evidence and forensic materials and render all items safe.
  • Examine evidence items for any signs indicating make, model, modifications, place of origin, manufacturer or maker, and serial numbers.
  • Examine evidence items for unique or indicative tool marks, using magnification, etching, x-ray, and/or photographic techniques to best exploit the evidence items.
  • Use photographic equipment to capture still images of each evidence item and relevant key portions of the evidence item, or other exhibits, to support further analysis, conclusions, and documentation.
  • Utilizing and submitting to national databases.
  • Perform forensic examination of tool marks on a wide variety of weapons and IED related evidence.
  • Produce detailed notes and reports.
  • Perform technical and administrative reviews (AR/TR) of other examiners' casework.
  • Perform quality checks of instruments and reagents.
  • Interact and collaborate with other group/team members and other forensic staff to ensure a high quality and accurate product

Qualifications:
Required
  • Four (4) years of laboratory experience performing firearms and toolmark evidence comparison and analysis.
  • A bachelor's degree in a scientific field from an accredited university but extensive, closely related work experience may be used in lieu of a degree.
  • A master's degree in forensic or physical sciences, or a related field may substitute for one (1) year of experience.
  • Safe firearm handling to include firearm maintenance, gunsmithing, reloading, ballistic performance, bullet casting, shotgun patterning, and firearm manufacturing methods.
  • Techniques to visualize, evaluate and compare firearms, bullets and cartridge cases.
  • Use of microscopes and measuring devices for comparison of ammunition components, firearms, and various toolmarks.
  • Performance of serial number restoration.
  • Experience in technical and administrative case file review.
  • Have 20/20 vision or correctable 20/20 vision with no detected color vision deficiencies.
  • Able to obtain a DoD Secret security clearance. (Please note: US citizenship is required to obtain a US Top Secret security clearance).
  • Must be able to obtain a US passport.
  • Must be able to complete and pass a medical assessment per customer requirements.

Desired
  • Previous experience supporting the Forensic Exploitation Department (FXD) is highly preferred
  • Top Secret Clearance

This position is contingent on funding and may not be filled immediately. However, this position is representative of positions within CACI that are consistently available. Individuals who apply may also be considered for other positions at CACI.
What You Can Expect:
A culture of integrity.
At CACI, we place character and innovation at the center of everything we do. As a valued team member, you'll be part of a high-performing group dedicated to our customer's missions and driven by a higher purpose - to ensure the safety of our nation.
An environment of trust.
CACI values the unique contributions that every employee brings to our company and our customers - every day. You'll have the autonomy to take the time you need through a unique flexible time off benefit and have access to robust learning resources to make your ambitions a reality.
A focus on continuous growth.
Together, we will advance our nation's most critical missions, build on our lengthy track record of business success, and find opportunities to break new ground - in your career and in our legacy.
Pay Range:
There are a host of factors that can influence final salary including, but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education, and certifications. Our employees value the flexibility at CACI that allows them to balance quality work and their personal lives. We offer competitive compensation, benefits and learning and development opportunities. Our broad and competitive mix of benefits options is designed to support and protect employees and their families. At CACI, you will receive comprehensive benefits such as; healthcare, wellness, financial, retirement, family support, continuing education, and time off benefits.
Since this position can be worked in more than one location, the range shown is the national average for the position.
The proposed salary range for this position is:
$51,800-$106,200
CACI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic.