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Forensic Firearms Examiner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Anne Arundel County

Firearms Examiner

Annapolis, MD

$70K - $137K/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 ...

Anne Arundel County, MD

Firearms Examiner

MD · On-site

$70K - $137K/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 ...

Harris County

Firearms Examiner

Houston, TX

$85K - $120K/yr

The Mission of the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences is to provide medical examiner and ... Inventories, documents, evaluate and test fires various types of firearms; evaluates and ...

Harris County, TX

Firearms Examiner

Houston, TX · On-site

Institute of Forensic Sciences Division: Firearms Laboratory Opening Date: 05/15/2026 Closing Date ... Conduct Laboratory Examination responsibilities to include, but not limited to: * Evaluation and ...

Harris County

Firearms Examiner

Houston, TX

$85K - $120K/yr

The Mission of the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences is to provide medical examiner and ... Inventories, documents, evaluate and test fires various types of firearms; evaluates and ...

Stanislaus County

Forensic Pathologist

Modesto, CA

$175.74 - $263.60/hr

Procedures, techniques, and equipment utilized in forensic medicine, including medico-legal autopsy, forensic toxicology, ballistic/firearms examination, trace evidence, forensic serology, forensic ...

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Forensic Firearms Examiner information

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$25.5K

$61.2K

$94.5K

How much do forensic firearms examiner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic firearms examiner 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forensic firearms examiner?

To thrive as a Forensic Firearms Examiner, you need a solid background in forensic science, ballistics, and firearms identification, usually supported by a bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline. Familiarity with comparison microscopes, ballistics databases like NIBIN, and relevant certifications from organizations such as AFTE are typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong written and verbal communication skills make someone stand out in this position. These skills are crucial for ensuring accurate evidence analysis, clear reporting, and effective testimony in legal proceedings.

What is the difference between Forensic Firearms Examiner vs Forensic Ballistics Analyst?

AspectForensic Firearms ExaminerForensic Ballistics Analyst
CredentialsCertification in firearm examination, forensic science degreesSimilar certifications, often with a focus on ballistics analysis
Work EnvironmentCrime labs, police departments, forensic laboratoriesCrime labs, forensic units, law enforcement agencies
Industry UsageCommonly used in criminal investigations involving firearmsUsed in ballistic evidence analysis and firearm comparison

Both roles involve firearm and ballistic evidence analysis, often requiring similar certifications and working within forensic laboratories. The main difference lies in scope: Forensic Firearms Examiners focus on firearm identification and comparison, while Forensic Ballistics Analysts may analyze projectile trajectories and ballistic data. Both are essential in criminal investigations involving firearms.

What is a forensic firearms examiner?

Forensic firearms examiners are specialists who analyze firearms, ammunition, and related evidence in criminal investigations. They determine whether a particular firearm was used in a crime by comparing bullets and cartridge cases found at crime scenes with test-fired samples from suspected weapons. Their work can involve using microscopes, chemical analysis, and ballistic comparison databases. They often provide expert testimony in court regarding their findings.

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

Forensic Firearms Examiners often encounter challenges such as degraded or damaged evidence, which can complicate bullet and cartridge case comparisons. Handling a high volume of cases while maintaining accuracy and thorough documentation requires strong attention to detail and organizational skills. Examiners also work closely with law enforcement and may be called to testify as expert witnesses, so effective communication and the ability to clearly explain technical findings in court are crucial for success in this role.
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Forensic Firearms Examiner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Firearms Examiner job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $61,156 per year, or $29.4 per hour.

Firearms Examiner- Entry Level

Houston Forensic Science Center

Houston, TX

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Houston Forensic Science Center, Inc. (HFSC), is an independent organization created by Houston Mayor Annise Parker and the Houston City Council to provide forensic science services formerly delivered by the Houston Police Department.  HFSC has been officially registered as a Texas Local Government Corporation* since June 26, 2012. 

Houston Forensic Science Center are seeking full-time entry level Firearms Examiners.

POSITION SUMMARY

The primary job duties of the Firearms Examiner are to examine and interpret firearms evidence associated with alleged criminal acts. Specific duties of the Firearms Examiner may include, but not be limited to performing the following duties with little or no direct supervision:

  • Examination and test firing of firearms.
  • Comparisons of fired bullets and cartridge cases. HFSC is currently in the process of validating the use of 3D technology/VCM for use in casework.
  • Acting as a second/verifying examiner on cases completed by other examiners.
  • Conducting administrative and technical reviews of case records.
  • Testifying in courts of law regarding analyses performed.
  • Entering specimens into NIBIN and reviewing correlations.
  • Note: HFSC conducts limited serial number restoration cases. HFSC does not do distance determination or toolmark testing.

MINIMUM EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • The position requires a bachelor's or graduate degree in a physical science (Biology, Chemistry, etc.) or Forensic science from an accredited university (transcripts required). 
  • The successful candidate must be able to gain Forensic Analyst licensure from TFSC (Texas Forensic Science Commission) within the first 12 months of employment. 

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

  •  Experience in a Forensic Lab environment is strongly preferred but not required.  Direct working experience in an accredited forensic lab in the firearms discipline (as a NIBIN technician, etc.) may be considered in lieu of the education requirement.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS

Successful candidates will be able to demonstrate:

  • Well-developed oral and written communication skills.
  • Ability to maintain strong professional relationships with customers and internal team members.
  • Intermediate computer literacy and familiarity with common software applications.
  • To be considered, please attach all of the following as your online application:
  • Resume or CV
  • A copy of your undergraduate and/or graduate level transcripts (an unofficial copy may be submitted)
  • A cover letter of at least 500 words indicating your motivation in becoming a Firearms Examiner