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$36.5K

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How much do forensic scientist i firearms jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic scientist i firearms in the United States is $79,408.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,500.00 and $93,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Forensic Scientist I Firearms do?

A Forensic Scientist I Firearms is responsible for examining and analyzing firearms, ammunition, and related evidence in criminal investigations. They perform tasks such as identifying and comparing bullets, cartridge cases, and gunshot residues, as well as conducting test firings and preparing detailed lab reports. Their work helps law enforcement agencies determine if a particular weapon was used in a crime and can provide expert testimony in court. This entry-level position often involves working under the supervision of more experienced forensic scientists while developing specialized skills in firearms analysis.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Forensic Scientist I Firearms?

To thrive as a Forensic Scientist I Firearms, you need a solid background in forensic science, chemistry, or a related field, along with specialized training in firearms identification and analysis. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), comparison microscopes, and ballistics databases is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective written and verbal communication are crucial soft skills for preparing reports and presenting findings in court. These skills and qualities ensure the accuracy and integrity of evidence analysis, supporting the criminal justice system with reliable and objective results.

What are some typical challenges faced by a Forensic Scientist I Firearms, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Forensic Scientist I Firearms often encounter challenges such as managing a high volume of evidence, maintaining meticulous attention to detail during microscopic examinations, and keeping up-to-date with evolving technology and laboratory protocols. New hires can prepare by familiarizing themselves with standard operating procedures, staying organized with case documentation, and seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues. It's also important to develop strong communication skills for presenting findings in reports and occasionally in court.

What is the difference between Forensic Scientist I Firearms vs Forensic Scientist I DNA?

AspectForensic Scientist I FirearmsForensic Scientist I DNA
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, or related field; certification preferredBachelor's degree in biology, genetics, or forensic science; certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentCrime labs, firearms examination units, crime scene investigationsCrime labs, DNA analysis units, crime scene investigations
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement agencies, forensic laboratoriesLaw enforcement agencies, forensic laboratories
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in firearms analysisUnderstanding roles in DNA analysis

While both roles require a background in forensic science and work within law enforcement labs, Forensic Scientist I Firearms specializes in firearm and toolmark examinations, whereas Forensic Scientist I DNA focuses on genetic analysis. Both positions are essential in criminal investigations but differ in their specific expertise and analysis methods.

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Forensic Scientist I Firearms jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Scientist I Firearms job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,408 per year, or $38.2 per hour.

Forensic Scientist - Firearms & Tool Marks Section

Taylorsville, UT • On-site

Utah Division of Human Resource Management
See more jobs at Utah Division of Human Resource Managementexternal

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Utah State Crime Lab
The Utah Bureau of Forensic Services Laboratory System (aka, the State Crime Lab) was created by the Legislature to provide timely and comprehensive criminalistic services to criminal justice entities within the State of Utah. By statute (53-10-104), the laboratory shall analyze evidence from crime scenes and crime-related incidents for criminal prosecution; and provide criminalistics laboratory services to federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, prosecuting attorneys' and agencies, and public defenders..."

 
Firearms and Tool Marks Section
Forensic Scientists in the Firearms and Tool Marks section perform complex forensic examinations of physical evidence submitted to the Bureau of Forensic Services related to firearms and tool mark identification.

 
Principal duties
Perform examinations of firearms, ammunition, ammunition components, tools, tool marks, and other firearms or tool related evidence
Perform examinations on clothing, and other surfaces for the presence of gunshot residues or powder patterns, and muzzle to target distance determinations
Perform chemical restoration of obliterated serial numbers
Perform projectile trajectory determinations, reconstructions and diagramming of shooting events, and provide assistance of a technical nature to investigators
Enter and search data in the National Integrated Ballistics Information Network (NIBIN)
Design and conduct experiments related to specific case issues
Present findings in a technical report and verbally in a court of law through expert witness testimony
Forensic Scientists follow all established protocols and procedures and complete assigned tasks as deemed necessary by the Firearms section manager
Senior forensic scientists may supervise training or other programs, oversee certification-testing programs, and conduct research and planning in support of laboratory projects and goals. Senior forensic scientists must have completed training and be actively working cases in two or more forensic disciplines and pass annual proficiency tests in these disciplines. Senior forensic scientists are recognized as scientific discipline leaders and are expected to make significant technical contributions to the lab, champion new ideas, build strong internal and external networks, and mentor and develop junior staff.

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