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Forensic Fingerprint Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Maricopa

Forensic Scientist

Phoenix, AZ

$36.90 - $45/hr

Bachelor's Degree in Natural Science, Forensic Science, Criminalistics, or related field. OR ... Completion of 40-hour Fingerprint Classification School or a similar program through an accredited ...

Maricopa County

Forensic Scientist

Phoenix, AZ

$36.90 - $45/hr

Bachelor's Degree in Natural Science, Forensic Science, Criminalistics, or related field. OR ... Completion of 40-hour Fingerprint Classification School or a similar program through an accredited ...

Maricopa County

Forensic Scientist

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$36.90 - $45/hr

Bachelor's Degree in Natural Science, Forensic Science, Criminalistics, or related field. OR ... Completion of 40-hour Fingerprint Classification School or a similar program through an accredited ...

City of Torrance

FORENSIC SUPERVISOR

Torrance, CA · On-site

The unit conducts detailed crime scene documentation; collects and preserves physical evidence; performs fingerprint processing and comparison; and utilizes advanced forensic technologies to assist ...

City of Torrance, CA

FORENSIC SUPERVISOR

Torrance, CA · On-site

$8.5K - $10K/mo

The unit conducts detailed crime scene documentation; collects and preserves physical evidence; performs fingerprint processing and comparison; and utilizes advanced forensic technologies to assist ...

U.S. Courts

Forensic Examiner

Saint Louis, MO · On-site +1

$61K - $119K/yr

Conducts forensic examinations of digital related evidence using established policies, procedures ... fingerprint check, as the position involves handling of confidential or highly sensitive ...

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Forensic Fingerprint information

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$25.5K

$61.2K

$94.5K

How much do forensic fingerprint jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic fingerprint 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 forensic fingerprint analysts?

Forensic fingerprint analysts are specialists who examine and compare fingerprints found at crime scenes to those of known individuals. They use various methods, including physical and digital analysis, to identify unique patterns in fingerprints. Their work helps law enforcement agencies match fingerprints to suspects or victims, often playing a crucial role in criminal investigations. In addition to analysis, they may also testify in court as expert witnesses regarding their findings.

How to become a forensic fingerprint examiner?

To become a forensic fingerprint examiner, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field. They often receive specialized training in fingerprint analysis and pattern recognition, and certification from organizations like the International Association for Identification (IAI) can enhance job prospects. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions in forensic laboratories is also common.

How much does a fingerprint analyst make?

A forensic fingerprint analyst typically earns between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced skills, certifications, and working in federal agencies can lead to higher salaries and additional benefits.

What kinds of jobs need to run fingerprinting?

Forensic fingerprint analysts and law enforcement professionals perform fingerprinting jobs to identify individuals, often working in crime labs, police departments, or security agencies. These roles require knowledge of fingerprinting techniques, fingerprint databases, and sometimes certification in fingerprint analysis or criminal justice. Fingerprinting is also used in background checks for employment, licensing, and security clearance processes.

How much does a fingerprint expert get paid?

Fingerprint experts, also known as forensic fingerprint analysts, typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior or specialized professionals with certifications can earn higher salaries, especially when working for government agencies or law enforcement.

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

To thrive as a Forensic Fingerprint Examiner, you need a solid background in forensic science, attention to detail, and coursework or experience in fingerprint analysis, typically supported by a relevant degree or specialized training. Familiarity with Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems (AFIS), crime scene processing tools, and certification from organizations like the International Association for Identification (IAI) are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, meticulousness, and effective communication skills help examiners interpret evidence accurately and present findings clearly. These competencies are critical for ensuring reliable identification, supporting criminal investigations, and upholding the integrity of the justice system.

What are some common challenges faced by forensic fingerprint examiners during casework?

Forensic fingerprint examiners often encounter challenges such as analyzing partial or poor-quality prints, which require careful attention and advanced techniques. They must also balance heavy caseloads and maintain meticulous documentation to ensure the integrity of their findings. Collaboration with law enforcement and legal professionals is essential, as examiners may need to explain technical conclusions in court. Staying current with evolving technology and industry standards is also crucial for accuracy and credibility.

What is the difference between Forensic Fingerprint vs Forensic Scientist?

AspectForensic FingerprintForensic Scientist
Required CredentialsFingerprint analysis certifications, crime scene trainingDegree in forensic science, chemistry, or biology; certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentCrime labs, crime scenes, law enforcement agenciesLaboratories, crime scenes, courtrooms
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, forensic labsForensic labs, law enforcement, research institutions
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While forensic fingerprint specialists focus specifically on analyzing fingerprint evidence, forensic scientists have a broader role, including analyzing various types of evidence and providing expert testimony. Both roles require relevant certifications and often work within law enforcement or forensic laboratories, but forensic scientists typically have a more extensive educational background and handle a wider range of forensic analyses.

More about Forensic Fingerprint jobs
What cities are hiring for Forensic Fingerprint jobs? Cities with the most Forensic Fingerprint job openings:
What states have the most Forensic Fingerprint jobs? States with the most job openings for Forensic Fingerprint jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Fingerprint jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Fingerprint jobs are:
Forensic Fingerprint jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Fingerprint job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,156 per year, or $29.4 per hour.

Physical Scientist (Fingerprint Specialist) - Direct Hire (Open Continuous Announcement)

Forensic Auditors | Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives

Wichita, KS • On-site

$89K/yr

Other

Re-posted just now

Job description

This position is located under the Office of Science and Technology, Forensic Sciences Division, Laboratory Services Branch, Forensic Crime Gun Intelligence Laboratory in Wichita, Kansas. Laboratory work encompasses a broad range of responsibilities critical to ATF's mission of combatting violent crime.
This is an open continuous announcement, open until July 10, 2026. Qualified applicants will be considered and referred as vacancies become available.
Qualifications:

To qualify for the position of Physical Scientist (Fingerprint Specialist), at GS-1301-12, you must meet the basic qualification requirements listed below by the closing date of the announcement.
Basic Requirements

A. Degree: physical science, engineering, or mathematics that included 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science such as mechanics, dynamics, properties of materials, and electronics.

OR
B. Combination of education and experience -- education equivalent to one of the majors shown in A above that included at least 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science, plus appropriate experience or additional education.

AND
To qualify for this position at the GS-12 grade level, candidates must also have at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-11) by the closing date of this announcement.

Specialized experience is demonstrated experience, which has equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills and abilities to perform successfully the duties of this position. Experience must be in the normal line of progression or must be related to the work of the position advertised and must be reflected in resume.
Specialized experience must include all of:

  • Physically examining a wide range of evidence from criminal investigations requiring the development and comparison of latent prints; AND
  • Performing comparative testing of finger/palm print evidence, both visible and latent, to determine if they share a common origin; AND
  • Preparing laboratory reports detailing the conclusions of examinations and comparisons of finger/palm print evidence performed; AND
  • Formal training or experience providing court testimony as an expert witness based on laboratory examinations of finger/palm print evidence.
Experience as a qualified forensic fingerprint specialist in an accredited crime laboratory is preferred.
Your resume must support your responses to the application questionnaire and the qualification requirements. Failure to do so may result in an ineligible rating.See the Required Documents section for important notes about what must be included in your resume.Education:Education must be reviewed and certified by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, in order for it to be creditable towards your qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from accredited institutions.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in a conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying. For special instructions pertaining to foreign education and a list of organizations that can evaluate foreign education, see the Department of Education website. If you are qualifying on foreign education, you MUST submit proof of creditability of education as evaluated by a credentialing agency. Transcripts must be uploaded with your application to verify education. All documentation must be in English or include an English translation.Employment Type: OTHER

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